Nishinoshima: An Island and a Town

Fact 1: Nishinoshima is the name of the town and the island.

The Oki Islands of Shimane Prefecture are made up of many islands. The four largest islands are inhabited, and Nishinoshima Town is located on Nishinoshima Island, the second largest island of the Oki Islands.

Fact 2: The ferries call at Beppu Port.

Nishinoshima is a small island and does not have an airport; the island can be accessed by ferries operated by the Oki Kisen Ferry Line. The ferries and fast ferry Rainbow Jet call at Beppu Port.

Before getting on any of the ferries operated by Oki Kisen Ferry Line, all passengers are required to fill in a Passenger Boarding Form. The names of the ferries and ports are all printed on the form. Circle the name of the ferry you are taking, and make sure to circle “Beppu” if you are coming to Nishinoshima.

Fact 3: There is also a port called Uragō Port.

In the past, the Oki Kisen ferries also called at Uragō Port, but that was until 2007. Located in Uragō area on the western part of Nishinoshima Island, Uragō Port is now a fishing port, and the sightseeing boat boarding point is also there.

Nishinoshima is also a port of call for cruise ships, and cruise ships always call at Uragō Port. After the cruise ship anchors, tenders are lowered to ferry passengers to shore.

Fact 4: There are horses and cows, but not deer, wild boars or bears!

Horses and cows are kept on the island, andthey are put out to pasture for most of the time, thus creating a peacefulpastoral scene. You might be able to see cows and horses grazing away atMatengai Cliff, Onimai Lookout and other sightseeing spots located insidepastures.

There are no deer, wild boars, bears, nor evenmonkeys on the island, so you won’t have to worry about encountering any whileyou’re out exploring. However, please be careful not to get too close to thecows or horses.

Fact 5: The famous “Oki no Iwagaki” oysters were born here.

Nishinoshima was the first place in Japan where iwagaki oyster farming was carried out successfully. The iwagaki oysters farmed here in Nishinoshima are branded as “Oki no Iwagaki”, and they are renowned for their large size and creamy flavour. “Oki no Iwagaki” are in season from March to May; don’t miss the chance to try them fresh on the island!

Fact 6: There’s a Montbell Corner in Nishinoshima.

In November 2024, Montbell, the Japanese outdoor clothing and equipment brand, has opened its first island shop in Nishinoshima! The Oki Nishinoshima Montbell Corner is located inside the Beppu Port Ferry Terminal. They also have the Nishinoshima-exclusive t-shirt, so make sure to swing by!

There’s still a lot more!

There are still many more interesting facts about Nishinoshima. If you’d like to learn more about our town and island, consider hiring a tour guide when you visit us. The tour guides will help you gain a richer experience on the island!