Understand

Embracing the intriguing title of "dog island," Inujima captivates visitors with its mystique. Legend has it that the island derived its name from a magnificent rock formation, standing at a majestic height of 3.6 meters, resembling a loyal canine. This mystical place holds a tale of salvation, where the esteemed poet Sugawara no Michizane miraculously found refuge after heeding the distant call of a dog. Spanning over 133 acres, this serene island is home to a humble community of less than 50 residents, creating an atmosphere of peaceful seclusion. Inujima's charm extends beyond its tranquility; it has earned a distinguished reputation among the famed "art islands" dotting the region. Prepare to embark on a journey that unveils captivating artistic masterpieces intertwined with the island's natural beauty.

Get in

To travel to Inujima from Okayama, start by taking a train to Saidaiji Station (20 minutes, 240 yen). From there, board a Ryobi Bus heading towards Higashi Hoden and get off at Nishi Hoden (55 minutes, 510 yen). Afterward, hop on a ferry to Inujima, which takes about 10 minutes and costs 300 yen. You can find ferry schedules online [here](http://benesse-artsite.jp/en/uploads/access/hoden_print_en.pdf). Inujima can also be reached by ferry from Naoshima (55 minutes, 1850 yen) and Teshima (25 minutes, 1230 yen). For ferry schedules, check [here](http://www.shikokukisen.com/en/instant/).

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing