Place of worship • 234 Ikenosawa, Minamidaito, Shimajiri District, Okinawa 901-3806, Japan
Located in the Miyako Islands, Minamidaito Island is a captivating destination filled with the allure of beautiful nature and unique culture. The sacred Daito Shrine, enveloped in tropical vegetation, is a tourist spot where numerous surprises and discoveries await.
Walking along the approach to Daito Shrine, one is immediately struck by the sumo culture from the Edo period. The precincts feature a magnificent roofed sumo ring, adorned with the names of past champions. The islanders maintain the tradition of dividing into East and West, wearing different-colored loincloths, and engaging in sumo wrestling. It appears that visitors from outside the island can also participate, providing an opportunity to deepen exchanges with the local community.
Moving along the approach, one encounters the rare sight of tropical plants coexisting with Japanese shrines. Vermilion torii gates peek through the trees like those in a tropical rainforest, and vibrant flowers adorn the altars. The harmonious sanctuary, where nature and artifice, south and north, are in perfect balance, immerses visitors in an extraordinary sense of presence.
On the other hand, the island is also facing challenges from invasive species. The introduction of the cane toad to the island has led to a massive infestation, with their lifeless bodies tragically strewn along the roads due to the absence of natural predators. This serves as a clear example of how human shortsightedness can disrupt ecosystems. Each of us as travelers should be aware of the potentially significant impact we may have on the island's natural environment.
A journey to Minamidaito Island offers moments of encountering the mysteries of nature and surprising culture. However, it should also serve as an opportunity to realize the importance of environmental conservation. It is hoped that before visiting the island, one would learn about its various charms and challenges.
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