Stone Walls of Ishigaki (石垣の里)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A settlement on a steep slope facing the sea near the tip of the Seikaihantou Peninsula, where stone walls stacked to the eaves of buildings cascade down in tiers like a fortress. Each stone wall was painstakingly built by ancestors to protect homes from strong sea breezes and typhoons. Narrow stone-paved lanes run vertically and horizontally, and the deep blue sea suddenly peers through between the stone walls. The "distant windows" carved into the stone walls are said to be small openings through which residents watched for the return of fishing boats, transmitting the wisdom of fishing village life to this day. Selected as one of Japan's "Hundred Choices of Fishing Industry and Fishing Village Historical and Cultural Properties Desired for Future Generations," this is a place where you can encounter Japan's original landscape.

Tips

Park your car at the lot at the settlement entrance and explore on foot. The stone steps have steep grades and slippery sections, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. The settlement is a residential area for the community, so please walk quietly and yield to others in the lanes. The view of the settlement and sea from the high-point viewing platform is a must-see.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. The afternoon light deepens the shadows of the stone walls, creating beautiful contrast with the blue sea.

Access & map

236 Sotomari, Ainan Town, Minami-Uwa District, Ehime Prefecture 798-4208