Okushiri Island in Hokkaido, Japan is like a serene whisper of stories from nature and history blended into one. Situated in the Sea of Japan, southwest of mainland Hokkaido, this peaceful island has a compelling backdrop that spans both tragic and resilient aspects of human experience. Around 2,800 people call this place home, where the dramatic adventure unfolds about what it's like to thrive amidst stunning landscapes and the ever-present reminder of natural forces. In 1993, Okushiri was hit by a powerful tsunami following an earthquake that forever changed its landscape and pushed human resilience to its limits.
Connecting with nature in Okushiri feels like being immersed in a living, breathing art gallery. The island is a paradise of lush green hills, mesmerizing coastlines, and unique geological formations. As you wander around, the towering cliffs and serene beaches, notably Nabetsuru Rock and the delicate Tango Ridge, offer a spectacular contrast between rugged beauty and tranquility. Life on Okushiri flows gently, much like the small ferries that bring visitors seeking tranquility away from bustling city life. Here, the absence of fast-paced chaos is almost a relief.
The island serves as a canvas for understanding our dynamic relationship with the earth. While many might argue that the remoteness of Okushiri acts as an obstacle, it also provides a space untainted by urban sprawl. Those leaning towards more industrial development might say that islands like Okushiri could benefit from greater connectivity and development for both the economic uplift and attraction of younger generations. Yet, there's something priceless about the quietude, the sound of waves lapping against the shores, the scent of nature that breathes life into our consciousness.
The memories of the past are omnipresent on the island, particularly for those who experienced the natural disaster first-hand. However, this memory doesn't solely dwell on tragedy but stands as an emblem of fortitude and rebirth. Communities on Okushiri have built new homes, lives, and memories above the waves that once nearly obliterated them. Standing on the island can teach us about the deeper layers of sustainability and living in harmony with nature without the constant pressure of proving our dominance over it.
Okushiri also plays host to traditions and culture distinctive to this part of Hokkaido. The island has several Shinto shrines and yearly festivals that lure in both locals and the adventurous outsiders. These gatherings nurture a sense of community and continuity that stretches beyond the island's borders, welcoming differences and embracing them as part of a larger world family. Conversations over shared meals and music showcase an unwritten narrative about living life with empathy and openness.
The island's culinary richness tells a tale of abundance and respect for the environment. Gifts from the sea, such as sea urchins and abalone, become a testament to the sustainable practices that fuel the island. Traditional methods honed over time bring authentic flavors that connect people across generations. In a world on the verge of complex innovations, there's a soft power in holding onto the essence of simpler, sustainable living.
Yet, the ongoing concern of depopulation brings varied opinions into light. Gen Z might find arguments for forging new opportunities in these rural havens to be very appealing. On the flip side, elders might view rural depopulation as an unstoppable wave. They often cherish the memories of what once was, grounded in the nostalgia of community life void of digital complexities. This tug of war between past and future isn't unique to Okushiri but represents broader societal shifts many islands face today. It raises questions on how to balance preservation of culture with embracing change.
Okushiri is a reminder of life's unpredictability but also its persistent beauty. When you experience life on this small island, every step taken is in step with nature—a rhythm rarely found in concrete jungles. It's a feeling of peace, tethered to the understanding that we are part of something greater than ourselves. Okushiri shows us that while life may bring unanticipated challenges, it also grants moments of profound beauty that make every dawn a chance to rewrite a new story. This island is not just a geographic location; it's a heartbeat thriving, healing, and growing stronger with each wave that crashes against its shores.