Ojika – Experience Island Nature and History

Ojika is an island group where protected landscapes, a distinctive pine-lined avenue, and the history of the “Hidden Christians” come together. This makes it an interesting destination for a trip combining nature and culture. When choosing a vacation rental, one specific question can help: Would you mainly like to explore Ojika Island, or would you also like to include a boat trip to Nozaki Island? These experiences take place on different islands and each shapes your plans in a different way.

Island Group and Getting There

The town of Ojika consists of 17 islands, six of which are inhabited. All the town’s islands are designated as part of Saikai National Park. This protected status covers the entire island group, not just a single viewpoint. From Sasebo, Ojika can be reached by high-speed boat in as little as 90 minutes. Check the schedule and specific travel times before your trip. At the ferry terminal, you can rent a bicycle at the Ojika Island Tourism counter. The counter is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; bicycles are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Pine-Lined Avenue, Volcanic Landscapes, and the Sea

In the center of Ojika Island is Hime no Matsubara, a pine-lined avenue about 400 to 500 meters long. It was selected for both the 100 Most Beautiful Pine Groves in Japan and the New Selection of Japan’s 100 Most Beautiful Tree-Lined Roads. A mooring stone and Shishiki Shrine are also located along the avenue. Together, the trees and distinctive landmarks shape a visit to this scenic spot. Goryodaki offers a different view of the island: this scenic spot was formed when seawater eroded a volcanic crater. It is about a ten-minute drive from the port.

The sea is also part of the range of possible experiences. On a canoe tour, beginners can head out in a stable, beginner-friendly canoe after receiving instruction from an instructor. Along the way, you can spot small fish; bird calls and the wind are also part of the experience. The activity is available seasonally from April to October, and advance booking is required. If you would like to include this tour in your plans, take the season and booking requirement into account before your trip.

Nozaki Island and the History of the “Hidden Christians”

Visitors can reach Nozaki Island from Ojika Island by boat. Check the latest departures before your trip. In the 17th century, Nozaki Island was a refuge for the “Hidden Christians.” The island’s settlement became part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region” in July 2018. Old Nokubi Church was also built in the town of Ojika in 1908. It was the first brick church designed and built by Yosuke Tetsukawa. These places represent different aspects of history: Nozaki Island as a refuge and World Heritage Site, and Old Nokubi Church as an example of the history of brick church construction.

Experiences to Help You Choose Where to Stay

Another activity is making Shibatsuke dumplings. It takes place in private homes and requires a reservation; participants can choose between Ojika Main Island and Ōshima. The experiences therefore differ by theme, island, and requirements: landscapes on Ojika Island, a seasonal canoe tour, history on Nozaki Island, or a reservation-based cooking activity. When looking for a vacation rental in Ojika, it helps to first decide which of these experiences you want to shape your stay. For Nozaki Island, take the boat departures into account; for the canoe tour, consider the seasonal dates and the advance booking requirement.

Discover more destinations: Matsuura, Unzen, Goto, Nagasaki, Sasebo, Shimabara, Hasami, Hirado.

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