Awashima Island

What to know

Awashima (粟島) is a star-shaped island located just 4.5 kilometers off the coast of western Kagawa Prefecture. During the Warring States period (15th–16th centuries), it thrived as a port for the Shiwaku Navy, a skilled group of sailors who controlled this part of the Seto Inland Sea from nearby Honjima Island.

The Shiwaku Navy produced some of the finest sailors of their era. To build on this legacy, the Meiji Government established the National Sailor School on Awashima Island in 1897, just west of Awashima Port (currently closed for renovations). The school operated for 90 years, and many graduates went on to serve on important vessels like the Kanrin Maru, the first Japanese-manned ship to cross the Pacific Ocean.

The school closed in 1987, and the grounds were transformed into the Awashima Marine Memorial Park. The original schoolhouse has been preserved and now houses a naval museum featuring model ships, maritime tools, and relics from the school. Visitors can also explore the classrooms and auditorium.

A small, nostalgic port town surrounds the sailor school at the island's center. Wander through narrow paths weaving among weathered wooden houses. For great views, hike to Jonoyama Viewpoint, a 30-minute walk starting behind a former elementary school.

The closure of the sailor school dealt a heavy blow to the local economy, leaving many abandoned homes and closed schools. In response, the island has embraced contemporary art, joining nearby islands as a venue for the Setouchi Triennale art festival. Several permanent works from past festivals remain on the island and can be viewed year-round.

Takuma Station, the nearest train station to Awashima, is accessible by JR trains from Marugame (20 minutes, 330 yen via frequent local trains), Takamatsu (50 minutes, 980 yen via local/rapid trains), and Okayama (80 minutes, 1,430 yen via local/rapid trains). A transfer may be needed at Sakaide, Tadotsu, or Utazu stations.