Numashima Onokoro Cruise - A tour around Numashima, said to be the setting of the Japanese myth "The Legend of Onokoro Island" written in the Kojiki! - A private tour to see the mysterious rock formations on a real fishing boat with a veteran guide (Minami Awaji City, Hyogo)

Numashima is a small island located at the southern tip of Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture, within the Seto Inland Sea. Awaji Island itself is situated between Japan's Honshu and Shikoku islands, serving as a crucial transportation hub connecting the two. To reach Numashima, you first need to arrive at Nandan-Tsuchime Port on Awaji Island, and then take a ferry for approximately 10 minutes. From the Honshu region (like Kobe), you can take a highway bus to Sumoto or Fukura on Awaji Island, and then transfer to local transport to Nandan-Tsuchime Port.

The best season to experience the Numashima 'Old Fishermen's Tour' is generally during the pleasant spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is stable, and the sea conditions are calmer, offering a more comfortable boat ride and allowing for clear views of Numashima's mysterious rock formations and natural scenery. Summer (July to August) is also a popular option, but be sure to take precautions against the sun and stay hydrated.

Awaji Island boasts abundant tourist resources. In addition to experiencing the Numashima 'Old Fishermen's Tour', you can visit 'Awaji Yumebutai' to enjoy its unique architecture and garden beauty, or explore 'Awaji Hanasajiki' to admire flowers in bloom throughout the seasons. For outdoor enthusiasts, consider a 'Naruto Whirlpool Cruise' to witness the world-renowned Naruto Whirlpools, or enjoy a farm experience with animals at 'Awaji Island Farm Park'. Furthermore, Awaji Island's onion dishes and fresh seafood are highly acclaimed.

The Numashima 'Old Fishermen's Tour' takes you up close to several mysterious rock formations, most notably the 'Kamidachi-iwa' and 'Shimodachi-iwa' (Upper and Lower Standing Rocks), which are associated with Japanese creation myths. Riding on a genuine fishing boat, still in use today, allows you to experience the local fishermen's life in the most authentic way. Guided by experienced local fishermen, you'll explore these natural wonders from a unique maritime perspective, immersing yourself in the simple charm of a fishing village and the mystique of the island.

Numashima is considered the setting for the 'Legend of Onogashima' recorded in the Japanese creation myths, the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. According to the legend, the deities Izanagi and Izanami, the parents of Japan, gave birth to the Japanese archipelago here. Numashima, particularly its surrounding rock formations, is believed to be a physical manifestation of these mythical scenes, allowing visitors to feel the atmosphere of ancient myths during the tour and imagine the events unfolding.

During the Numashima 'Old Fishermen's Tour,' experienced guides will present in an easy-to-understand manner the island's connection to Japanese creation myths like the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, especially the background story of the 'Legend of Onogashima.' The guides will also share insights into the lifestyle of the island's residents, its fishing culture, and the folklore and geological characteristics behind the various mysterious rock formations. This ensures you not only admire the natural beauty but also gain a deeper understanding of Numashima's rich history and cultural heritage.

Numashima's 'Kamidachi-iwa' (Upper Standing Rock) and 'Shimodachi-iwa' (Lower Standing Rock) are the island's most striking natural landmarks. Kamidachi-iwa is a massive rock, approximately 30 meters high, with a unique shape considered sacred. Legend has it that it was erected by Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto. Shimodachi-iwa is located offshore, presenting various forms that many believe to be the footprints of gods or other relics from mythology. A sea tour allows for a close-up view of their spectacular shapes, evoking the mystical power of myths.

The boats for the Numashima 'Old Fishermen's Tour' typically depart from 'Nandan-Tsuchime Port' on the southern tip of Awaji Island. This port is the main ferry terminal connecting Awaji Island to Numashima. Visitors need to make their way to Nandan-Tsuchime Port and then board the reserved fishing boat at the designated meeting point to begin the island tour. It is recommended to plan your transportation from other locations on Awaji Island to Nandan-Tsuchime Port in advance to ensure a smooth journey.