An Intellectual Experience that Satisfies the Senses
Kikai Island, which has around 150 existing archaeological sites from ancient to medieval times. The history spanning from the Jomon period to the present reveals significant influences from the Ryukyu Kingdom, the Satsuma Domain, and the period of American military governance. Meanwhile, the island's people have vigorously developed their unique culture through arts such as singing and dancing, as well as through local cuisine and brown sugar shochu.
This unique culture of Kikai Island, created by the power of nature and people, offers an intellectual experience that you can see, touch, enjoy, and savor.
Brown Sugar Shochu Woven with History
Brown sugar shochu, a beloved island spirit with a complex history that has transcended time.
The earliest record dates back to the Edo period, mentioning "Tomeshiro Shochu," the precursor to modern brown sugar shochu. The production method identical to today's brown sugar shochu emerged after World War II. Under the U.S. administration, rice was scarce in the Amami Islands, leading to the popularity of shochu made from brown sugar. Even after the reversion to Japan, the production of brown sugar shochu was permitted only in the Amami Islands.
Founded in 1916, Asahi Shuzo has preserved and continued the tradition of brown sugar shochu, walking alongside Kikai Island's history. This closest of all spirits to the islanders has been cherished and passed down through numerous eras. Enjoy the taste woven by the island's history and the sentiments of its people.
An Intellectual Activity Tracing the Island's Journey
Kikai Island is rich in cultural and historical spots, including ruins and historical sites.
For instance, the General Grounds Ruins offer a rare glimpse into the continuous human activity from prehistoric times through Jomon period pottery. The remains of the battle command post, the only one left in Japan, still bear the scars of bombings. Additionally, the "Kankotsu Spring," associated with Minamoto no Tametomo, and the "Jokyu Ruins," which offer a glimpse of exchanges with East Asia, are among the spots where you can feel the depth of history.
Seeing, touching, and feeling, you can ponder the ancient history. This experience that stimulates both the senses and the intellect is a unique intellectual activity of Kikai Island.
With the Sea and Sky,
Along with the Leisurely Flowing Time
Blessed with a warm climate and abundant nature, Kikai Island is perfect for outdoor activities. Sugira Beach, where you can swim from April, offers breathtaking snorkeling with vibrant tropical fish swimming among the corals, and if you're lucky, you might even get the chance to swim with sea turtles. Paragliding from Nanashima Nose provides a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean to the east and Amami Oshima and the East China Sea to the west, giving you the exhilarating feeling of being a bird.
At night, under a sky full of stars, enjoy fresh ingredients and brown sugar shochu while feeling the refreshing night breeze. Immerse yourself in the leisurely flowing time that is unique to Kikai Island.
