Sakushima Island

Sakushima is a remote island in Mikawa Bay, dotted with artworks and attracting much attention.

In the western part of the island, there is the village of Kurokabe, where black walls were painted to protect it from the sea breeze, creating an atmosphere that makes you feel as if you have wandered into a different era.

Visitors can also enjoy fresh seafood and the historical aspects of the island.

The small island, which combines elements of art, history, food, and nature, can be reached by boat from Isshiki Port in about 20 minutes, or by train and boat from Nagoya in about 1.5 hours.

A Treasure Trove of Contemporary Art

Since 1996, the “Benten Kaiminato Sakushima Project” and “Mikawa-Sakushima Art Plan 21” have been conducted, and 22 contemporary artworks are scattered throughout the island.

One of the famous artworks, “Ohirune House,” allows visitors to take a nap in a cube divided into nine rooms.

Also, at the “Seagull Parking Lot,” seagulls line the stone embankment, creating a humorous sight.

Furthermore, the purple sandy beach at “Shintani Beach” has become a topic of conversation and is popular as a place that is rumored to be effective for love.

Nostalgic scenery

In the West District’s Kurokabe Village, houses painted in black coal tar line the narrow, maze-like streets. It is like stepping back in time to a different era.

An island with an ancient history

Sakushima has been inhabited since around 3000 B.C., and as many as 47 ancient burial mounds and ruins from the Yayoi period remain, and many pieces of Jomon and Yayoi style pottery have been excavated.

The name Sakushima first appeared in documents during the Fujiwara-kyo period (694-710), and a wooden letter excavated from the ruins of Heijo-kyo in the Nara period (710-794) records the delivery of marine products from the island to the capital.

During the Edo period (1603-1867), shipping was the main economic activity, while fishing was the main industry in the eastern village and agriculture in the western village.

Konowata was presented to the Edo shogunate and is still a specialty of Sakushima.

Thus, the island can also enjoy its historical aspects.

Seafood from the Fishery

The sea around Saku Island is known for its fresh seafood, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at the island’s restaurants and markets.

Fishing by bottom trawl is thriving, and the rare giant clam, which cannot be found on the market, is a specialty. Other fresh seafood such as octopus, oysters, prawns, and sea cucumbers can also be tasted.

Visitors can enjoy the island’s scenery and food while touring artworks, visit historical heritage sites, and refresh themselves in nature. Relatively convenient access from Nagoya makes this a great spot for a day trip or short excursion.