伊是名島とは？～「なんでもある」便利な観光地とは真逆の「何もない」に魅力を感じる人向けの島～
伊是名島は、沖縄本島の北に位置する小さな離島で、人口約1,200人が暮らしています。周囲約16kmのコンパクトな島で、手つかずの自然と琉球王朝の歴史が色濃く残る特別な場所です。
It takes about one hour by ferry from Unten Port in northern Okinawa Prefecture. Izena Island is a remote island rich in nature, surrounded by blue skies and cobalt blue waters. The white sandy beaches of the coastline are lined with colonies of Ryukyu pine trees, and the red-tiled houses, coral stone walls, and rows of Fukugi trees form a beautiful village landscape.
It is also known as the birthplace of King Sho En, the founder of the second Sho clan of the Ryukyu Dynasty, and has many valuable historical and cultural heritage sites. This island, where rich nature and deep history merge, offers visitors a special healing experience.
Izena Island Data (April 30, 2025)
| surroundings | 16.7km | total size (of land) | 14.1㎢ | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| population | 1,224 | Number of households | 725 | Major Industries |
(Agriculture) Sugarcane and rice (Fishery) Mozuku, Ursa Major, Umi budou （観光）ダイビング、歴史、伝統行事ウンナー、釣りなど |
Differences from the main island of Okinawa and other remote islands
The roots of the Ryukyu Dynasty are here.
Izena Island is known as the birthplace of King Sho En, the founder of the Ryukyu Dynasty. The Ryukyu Kingdom he established shaped the culture and history of Okinawa for more than 400 years. The island is dotted with many historical sites that remind us of the beginning of the dynasty, such as the King Sho En's Garden and King Sho En's Tomb, making it an irresistible attraction for history buffs.
A rich culture of self-sufficiency
伊是名島では、漁業や農業を基盤とした自給自足の文化が現在も息づいています。
観光地化されていない静けさと温かさが共存する島
観光地化が進んだ沖縄本島や人気の離島（石垣島、宮古島など）と異なり、伊是名島は「静かな時間」が流れる場所。観光客の数も控えめで、島民の温かなもてなしをじっくりと感じられるのが魅力です。豪華なリゾートやおしゃれなカフェなど現代の物が便利であふれた世界とは真逆の「何もない」が資源です。
A spot where you can feel spiritual power.
There are many utaki (sacred sites) and sacred places throughout the island, creating a unique atmosphere where nature and faith are deeply intertwined. Just by visiting, you will have a soothing experience.
The One and Only Charm of Izena Island
Izena Island is a rare island where the history of the Ryukyu Dynasty still lives on, while at the same time the islanders continue to preserve their way of life in harmony with nature. Only on Izena Island can one experience a tranquility not found in the tourist destinations of Okinawa's main island, and the scent of the islanders' proud culture and history.