Engetsu Island

A landmark of the Nanki-Shirahama area, familiar as the subject of paintings, photographs, and postage stamps. The official name is “Takashima” but it’s commonly called “Engetsu-jima” because of the sea cave (hole) near the center of the island.

The water around the island is crystal clear. And it is beautiful when the blue sky is reflected on the surface of the sea during the day, and the island looks like it's floating on a blue canvas. It shows a different appeal during sunset. As the sun sets over the horizon in the direction of Shikoku, the sky is dyed orange, yellow and red. And the scenery and the elegant island create a magnificent harmony. This spectacular view has been highly evaluated by expats and has been selected not only as one of the “100 best sunsets in Wakayama” but also as one of the “100 best sunsets in Japan”

The sunsets through the sea cave can be seen only at some limited times of the year: for about two weeks between March 20 and April 5, and around September 23. It means around the vernal and autumnal equinoxes are the best time to see them. Another thing to check out is that the hidden rough rock surface around the island comes out when the water level drops at low tide.

It used to be allowed to step on the shore and get close to the island, but now entering the island is not permitted due to its severe deterioration. (As of July 2021)