Iki壱岐

Iki is a perfect island for marine sports enthusiasts. Locally produced steak and 'shochu' are specialties that will satisfy any gourmand.

Iki is a 133 square-kilometer island located in the Sea of Genkai about 67 kilometers north of Fukuoka Prefecture. It is surrounded by 20 smaller islands, only three of which are inhabited. Iki-Tsushima Quasi-National Park and neighboring Tsushima are often lumped together; Iki-Tsushima Quasi-National Park and neighboring Tsushima are often lumped together. In historical terms, it has served long together with Tsushima as a connection point for marine transport linking Kyushu with the Korean peninsula. In historical terms, however, it has served long together with Tsushima as a connection point for marine transport linking Kyushu with the Korean peninsula.

You can experience the natural wonder of Iki if you visit its beaches. The beaches are of fine, white sand and the blue water is exceptionally clear. The waves are gentle at the shoals, and beaches such as Tsutsuki-hama, Nishiki-hama and O-hama are perfect for bathing. The area is also a Mecca for marine sports, such as diving. There are camping facilities at Tsutsuki-hama beach and camping grounds at Shoni-koen Park, where you can enjoy bird-watching, playing on the shore, beach seining organized for tourists, or fishing. If you are looking for something more relaxing, you can enjoy the Yunomoto-onsen Hot Springs. You are invited to soak in the hot springs while watching the beautiful island sunset.

There are also all sorts of local dishes. The seafood is of course great, but you should also try locally raised beef, or 'Hikiotoshi,' a dish using locally raised chicken and Somen noodles. The area has been designated a protected production center by the World Trade Organization because it is the birthplace of 'mugi-shochu,' a distilled alcoholic drink made from barley.