Scenery

The Murakami Kaizoku served as guides for the ships
that braved the intense currents of the island channels.

The headquarters of the Murakami Kaizoku was a dense island chain called the Geiyo Islands. While the surface of the sea seems tranquil there, violent currents mercilessly assault any ship that attempts to traverse the narrow channels between them. It is one of the more difficult sea lanes to navigate, and has caused difficulties for mariners since ancient times. For this reason, the help of the Murakami Kaizoku, who had deep familiarity with these waters, was in demand, and they used their location to their advantage well to become the champions of the Seto Inland Sea.

Must see attractions

The site of Noshima Fort

This was a leading pirate fort.
The island here served as a natural stronghold in a particularly challenging location for sailors with complex swirling currents.

Omishima Island

Omishima is the largest island in the Geiyo Islands.
The Oyamazumi Shrine, home to the Shinto deity of the Murakami Kaizoku,
can be found here.

Yawatayama

Yawatayama is a mountain on Omishima Island with a height of 215 meters.
You can view the entire breadth of the Seto Inland Sea from its peak.

Hashihama

The churning currents in the Kurushima Strait strike against the rocky shores,
providing a spectacular scenic view.

Shishimagahara

The seashore is lined with pine trees at this scenic spot.
It has been selected as one of the
“100 best sites in Japan combining white sand with green pines.”

Hyotanjima (Gourd Island)

The middle of the island is narrowed, forming a shape much like a gourd.
The island is home to a unique myth about the gods. *It is not open to the public. Please observe it from a distance.