Megijima (Ogre Island)

Megijima is a small, hilly island lying just off the coast of Takamatsu in the Seto Inland Sea, and it is popularly identified as the Oni-ga-shima, or 'Ogre Island,' of the beloved Japanese folktale of Momotaro, the Peach Boy. In the legend, the young hero Momotaro sails to a demon-infested island with his companions — a dog, a monkey, and a pheasant — to defeat the ogres who have been terrorizing the mainland, and Megijima has embraced this identity wholeheartedly. The island's easy access, sea views, and mythic charm make it a rewarding half-day escape from the city.

The island's headline attraction is the Oni-ga-shima Cave, a network of tunnels dug into the summit of the island's central hill. Whether the caves are natural, ancient hideouts, or later excavations is debated, but they have been developed into an atmospheric attraction, dimly lit and populated with statues of ogres, treasure chests, and scenes from the Momotaro tale. Walking through the cool, winding passages is fun for families and folklore lovers alike, and the caves lend the island a playful sense of adventure.

Above the cave lies the true reward for many visitors: the mountaintop observation point, or Washigamine, which opens onto a superb 360-degree panorama of the Seto Inland Sea. From here, countless islands dot the calm water, ships thread the channels, the city of Takamatsu spreads along the mainland shore, and on clear days the great Seto Ohashi bridge is visible in the distance. It is one of the finest and most accessible Inland Sea viewpoints near Takamatsu, and the sweeping vista alone justifies the short ferry ride.

Megijima has more to offer at sea level, too. Its port village is fronted by distinctive stone walls called ote, built high to protect the houses from the strong sea winds, and the island has beaches and a relaxed, rural pace. As one of the sites of the acclaimed Setouchi Triennale art festival, Megijima also hosts contemporary art installations, some of which remain in place between festival editions, adding an unexpected creative dimension to the island's traditional character.

Getting there is quick and scenic: ferries run from Takamatsu Port to Megijima in about 20 minutes, often continuing to neighboring Ogijima, so the two art-and-nature islands can be combined in a single outing. On the island, a shuttle bus climbs to the cave and viewpoint, or energetic visitors can walk up, enjoying the coastal and hilltop scenery along the way. The island itself is free to explore, with a modest admission for the ogre cave.

With its blend of folklore, gentle island scenery, contemporary art, and one of the best sea panoramas in the region, Megijima offers a lighthearted and memorable counterpoint to Takamatsu's gardens and temples, and makes an ideal excursion for travelers of all ages seeking the charm of the Seto Inland Sea.