Journeys in Japan

S09E19 Remote Ojika Island: Portal to the Past

Tiny Ojika, part of the Goto Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture, is located about 1,000 kilometers west of Tokyo and has a population of around 2,500 residents. The island features just two traffic lights and lacks convenience stores or major tourist attractions. Its narrow streets provide a glimpse into traditional Japanese life. Once a bustling fishing hub in the East China Sea with a population exceeding 10,000, Ojika has seen a significant decline over the past 60 years as the fishing industry faltered, prompting many to relocate to the mainland for work. However, a recent trend shows new residents moving back to Ojika, drawn by its natural beauty, rich traditions, strong community ties, and a slower pace of life. In this episode of Journeys in Japan, American translator B.T. visits Ojika Island and explores its charm through connections with the locals.