2026 Ohko Elementary School Pool: A Full-Day Course

A course centered on 'Ohko Elementary School Pool (Summer Break Public Opening)' (大古小学校プール（夏休み一般開放）) in Etajima City, Hiroshima Prefecture, held from Tuesday, July 21 to Friday, August 7, 2026. During summer break, the elementary school's 25-meter pool and smaller pool are opened to the public — and admission is free. It's a warm system unique to the island, where the whole community shares the school pool. In the morning, visit the Mutsu Memorial Museum (陸奥記念館), a facility displaying items salvaged from the battleship Mutsu, which exploded and sank off Hashira-jima. The genuine main gun barrel and the bow's chrysanthemum crest have an overwhelming presence. Next, head to Shindozan Forest Park (真道山森林公園). From the viewpoint near the summit, you can take in a sweeping view of the Seto Inland Sea's islands and calm waters, with a pleasant breeze passing through. In the afternoon, splash around in the pool at Ohko Elementary School, naturally blending into the everyday life of the island's children. Note that it's closed every Saturday and Sunday and on August 6, with the makeup days on August 10 and 11 — be sure to check the schedule.