Volcanic Island Protected by the Gods - Izu Oshima - ①

Volcanic island protected by the gods - Izu Oshima

The Izu Islands floating in Tokyo Bay. Izu Oshima, the largest of these, is an island that belongs to Tokyo, but has cultivated a unique ecosystem and culture that is different from the mainland.

Focusing on Mt. Mihara, an active volcano, visitors will be captivated by the spectacular views of nature, the faith and history of the islanders, as well as the abundant seafood and the bounty of the earth.

This article explores the charm of Izu Oshima in a deeper depth and provides a detailed explanation of its geography, history, culture, nature and connections with the gods.

1. Geographical features of Izu Oshima - Island created by volcanoes

1.1 The leaders of the Izu Islands, their spread and terrain

Izu Oshima boasts an area of ​​approximately 90 square kilometers and is a representative island of the Izu Islands. The topography was largely formed by the activity of Mt. Mihara, an active volcano located in the center. The island is almost circular, with its varied coastline, and it offers a diverse landscape, including cliffs, sandy coasts and rocky areas. The central part of the island is high and has a undulating terrain, centered around Mt. Mihara. Meanwhile, relatively flat land is spread across the coast, creating villages and farmland.

1.2 Access from the Metropolitan Area and Open the Door to the Island

Izu Oshima is located approximately 120km south of Tokyo, approximately 60km from Enoshima in Kanagawa Prefecture, and approximately 30km from the east side of the Izu Peninsula. It is very convenient to access from the metropolitan area, and is popular as a resort area that is easy to visit.

You can arrive in about 1 hour and 45 minutes by using Tokai Kisen's high-speed jet ship from Tokyo (Takeshiba Pier). The boat is comfortable and you can enjoy a voyage while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

You can arrive in just 25 minutes by using a Shinchuo Airlines plane from Chofu Airfield. Recommended for those who want to arrive on the island in a short time.

Depending on the day, the arrival port and ship will arrive at either Okada Port on the north side of the island or Motomachi Port on the south side. We recommend that you check in advance.

Shinagawa Number - Despite being Tokyo, the license plate for cars driving around the island is Shinagawa Number. This also symbolizes that Izu Oshima is part of Tokyo.

1.3 Climate / Calm and mild marine climate

Izu Oshima belongs to a mild marine climate and is relatively comfortable throughout the year. The summer is cool, winter is warm, and there is a lot of rainfall, which gives it a rich greenery.

2. History and culture of Izu Oshima/

Coexistence with volcanoes, depth of faith

2.1 History and reverence of living with volcanoes and the wisdom of disaster prevention

Izu Oshima has a history of walking along with the active volcano Miharayama. It is believed that from about 20,000 years ago to the present, large-scale eruptions have been repeated every 100 to 200 years. Since ancient times, the islanders have been in awe of Mt. Mihara, calling the "Gojinka" and the volcano "Gojinka" and the "Gojinka" are the "Gojinka". The history of the eruption has given the islanders the wisdom of disaster prevention, and has had a major impact on lifestyles and culture.

2.2 The eruption of 1986 and the evacuation of all islands

In 1986, a massive eruption of Mt. Mihara occurred, causing an unprecedented situation in which all the islanders evacuated outside the island. However, the islanders worked together, overcome difficulties and began their journey to reconstruction.

2.3 Miracles and proof of faith at Mihara Shrine

The fact that Mihara Shrine, located on the summit at the peak of the mountain during the 1986 eruption was reminiscent of one of the seven wonders of Oshima, is reminiscent of the seven wonders of Oshima. This is still talked about today as an event that symbolizes the depth of the islanders' faith.

2.4 Motomachi Port Ferry Terminal and entrance to the island, disaster prevention base

The Motomachi Port Ferry Terminal is located in the heart of Oshima Town and is the gateway to the island. The terminal has a wide range of tourist information centers, kiosks and restaurants, making it a convenient facility for tourists. It is also designed to function as an evacuation facility in the event of Mt. Ichimihara eruption, and also serves as a disaster prevention hub.

3. Feel the breath of nature and earth on Izu Oshima

3.1 The dynamism of Mt. Mihara, the world's three major fluid volcanoes

Located in the heart of Izu Oshima, Mt. Mihara is known as one of the world's three major fluid volcanoes. It is an active volcano towering from the seabed, and its eruption activity has had a major impact on the island's topography and ecosystem. The summit features a caldera about 10 square kilometers in diameter, and volcanic activity continues today. The geology is primarily made up of basalt, creating a unique landscape.

3.2 Certified by Japan Geopark - Experience the breath of the earth

Due to its unique topography and geology, Izu Oshima was selected as one of Japan's 100 Geology in 2007, and in 2010 it was first recognized as a Japanese Geopark in the Kanto region. Geopark is a combination of "Earth and Earth (Geo)" and "Park" and means "Parking of the Earth," and refers to a place where you can learn about Earth and enjoy it all. Izu Oshima is highly regarded as a place where you can experience the dynamism of the Earth through its volcanic history and its unique ecosystem.

3.3 A precious cross section of the geological layer and stripes that engrave memories of the earth

One of the most representative landscapes of Izu Oshima is the "important cross section of geological layers." This is a stunning striped strata that lasts for over 600 meters, with beautiful layers that look just like Baumkuchen. This formation is formed by depositing volcanic ash and other eruptions that have been repeated over the past 20,000 years, and traces of approximately 100 eruptions can be seen. Many researchers and tourists visit this precious geological layer that tells the story of the earth.

4. Izu Oshima's specialty products, the bounty of the earth, and the seafood

4.1 Asaba - A vital island vegetable

Izu Oshima is also famous as a production area for Asashiba. Asayo leaves are known for their strong vitality and rich nutritional value, so even if they are picked today, new leaves will grow tomorrow. Izu Oshima, a volcanic island, is warm and rainy all year round, making it the perfect environment for cultivating Asayo leaves. In addition, the soil mixed with volcanic ash from Mt. Mihara has good drainage and is suitable for growing plants. Asukaba is used in a variety of ways, including tea, health foods, and cooking, and is popular as a specialty of the island.

4.2 Tsubaki, the colour of the island, and the source of beauty

There are a total of 3 million camellias growing wild on Izu Oshima. From the second half of January to the second half of March, the entire island is decorated with camellia flowers, and the Camellia Festival is held every year. Camellia flowers are not only beautiful, but camellia oil, which is extracted from the seeds, is also used as a valuable resource. Camellia oil is a popular beauty oil because it is excellent at moisturizing the hair and skin.

4.3 Bekko Sushi/An unique taste of the island

When it comes to Izu Oshima's specialty dish, Bekko Sushi is the place. This is a spicy sushi made from fresh white fish caught in the waters of the Izu Islands, soy sauce, soaked in chili peppers. The name comes from the fact that the pickled white fish shines in a tortoiseshell color. White fish such as sea bream, tuna, bonito and more are used, and the spicy soy sauce of green chili peppers and the sweetness of fresh fish create an exquisite harmony. Be sure to try it when you visit the island.

5. Oshima, the light of faith, the gods protect, and the awe of nature

5.1 Izumi's cutting through and mysterious space created by nature

Izu Oshima has many beautiful landscapes created by the power of nature. One of them is "Izumizu cutting." This is a road created by carving out the bedrock after rainwater and other erosion over the years, creating a space that resembles a tunnel. Surrounded by lush green trees, it has a mysterious atmosphere.

5.2 The history of shrines, faith and nature worship, and the hearts of the islanders

Izu Oshima is an island with Mt. Mihara, an active volcano, and has long been revered for nature, and many shrines have been built. These shrines provide a place for the hearts of those who pray for the island's safety and prosperity.

1. Mihara Shrine - Mihara Shrine, located on the summit of Mt. Mihara, is particularly fond of faith because it was miraculously unharmed during the eruption. It worships the god of fire and prayers are offered to sedate the eruption.
   
2. Other shrines and various shrines that protect each area are scattered throughout the island, allowing you to experience the history and culture of these shrines. These shrines are deeply rooted in the lives of the islanders and play a role in deepening the bonds of the local community through festivals and events.

Summary: Izu Oshima, the unique charm

Izu Oshima is an attractive island that is full of unique terrain shaped by volcanic activity, rich nature, and people's faith.
It is easily accessible from the metropolitan area, making it ideal for day trips and weekend trips.
You can enjoy a variety of ways, such as refreshing yourself in the wilderness, experiencing the island's history and culture, and tasting delicious specialties. Be sure to visit Izu Oshima, a volcanic island protected by the gods, and experience its unique charm.

Shokey Hayashi

Exorcist/Radionics Technique Researcher

Contact

Born in Aomori Prefecture in 1965, he has been suffering from troubles, illnesses and injuries caused by spiritual phenomena since childhood. However, one day, when he was 20 years old, he attended an event, had a mysterious experience at the venue, and was hit by lightning energy from the heavens, as if piercing the spinal cord from his brain, and his psychic abilities blossomed. He then began studying psychology and psychiatry, and now he has combined psychiatry and consciousness engineering. Established "Radionics exorcism" using our own radionics techniques. "It's possible to treat your fortune" beyond exorcism, memorial service, and healing.