Ieshima Island is a beautiful, lesser-known destination near Himeji, offering stunning coastal views, serene beaches, and a relaxing atmosphere. The island is part of a small archipelago, and its unspoiled nature makes it ideal for hiking, swimming, and enjoying fresh seafood.
What’s Nice About Ieshima:
Scenic Beauty: Lush greenery, clear waters, and rocky cliffs create a picturesque setting.
Great for Outdoor Activities: Hiking trails (like Mt. Myoken), kayaking, and snorkeling are popular.
Delicious Seafood: Try the local Ieshima squid and freshly caught fish at small seaside restaurants.
Quiet & Relaxing: Unlike crowded tourist spots, Ieshima remains peaceful and authentic.
How to Get There from Himeji:
1. Himeji → Shikama Port: Take a bus or taxi (about 20-30 min) from Himeji Station to Shikama Port.
2. Ferry to Ieshima: From Shikama, take a ferry
Tips:
- Bring cash (limited ATMs on the island).
- Pack snacks/water if staying long, as shops are minimal.
- Visit Shiraishi Island (nearby) if you have extra time.
Visited in June(summer) on an unbearably sunny Wednesday. Feels like a sleepy fishing town with most shops closed or going out of business.
The good: There were some really scenic spots with good views of the islands opposite. Walking along the coast was mostly a treat for the eyes. Locals were friendly. There were cats!
The bad: Getting everywhere on foot got really tiring fast as there was limited shade (except for the forest/park route). Exhaust fumes from bikes and vehicles also got your lungs pretty loaded and bugs and flies were plentiful in June. Industrial waste like rusty propellers, drain covers and half torn fishnets were strewn pretty much across the coastline route. There were many abandoned houses with dusty recycling materials (cans, bottles) stashed aside without much care. There were only 3 convenience stores on the side of the island I was exploring and 2 of them were closed on Wednesdays. Only came across 2 toilets and the public toilet I used near the shrine was ill-maintained with no lights.
It's not a picture perfect place like many described. In terms of infrastructure and environment, more can be done to upkeep the place. Do exercise care when walking along the coastline. If due to your own carelessness you get tetanus from a rusty pipe, you only got yourself to blame, isn't it?
It's a nice change of scene from the rest of Japan but not nice enough to visit twice or even recommend it.
I visited at the end of August. As soon as I arrived, I rented an electric bicycle at Ieshima Port Fureai Plaza. There are many slopes, so I recommend using an electric bicycle as it makes it easier to get around the island.
The peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature allowed me to relax and unwind.
We went to Ieshima Island. I think it was about a 30-minute ferry ride from Himeji Port. The boat trip itself was pleasant and felt like a short getaway.
After arriving on the island, we rented bicycles and cycled around the island, but there were many steeper slopes than we expected, so if you're not confident in your stamina, we recommend an electric bicycle.
The island's scenery and townscape are very peaceful, and just walking or cycling around the island created an atmosphere that helped us to relax and unwind from the fatigue of everyday life. However, on the day we visited, most of the restaurants in town were closed. If you're planning on going on a weekday, it's a good idea to check opening days in advance.
For first-time visitors, I recommend renting a bicycle to explore the shops and shrines.
Souvenirs are sold at the Fureai Plaza.
It's an island you'll want to visit again.
Bicycle rentals: Regular bicycle 600 yen (Takafuku Liner)
Electric-assist bicycles 1000-2500 yen (Ieshima Kanko)
