Tainoura

Tainoura is a protected marine zone in Uchiura Bay where shallow waters host large schools of red seabream. The site covers a substantial stretch of coastline and provides clear views of fish behavior in their natural setting.

The area gained protected status in 1922 to safeguard its exceptional fish schools. Its elevation to Special Natural Monument status in 1967 reflected growing recognition of the site's national importance as a marine habitat.

The name reflects a local legend about a Buddhist monk who sought refuge in these waters. Fishing communities here have long honored this story, avoiding nets in this area as a mark of respect for the site's spiritual heritage.

Visitors can take regular sightseeing boats to observe the fish schools up close from the water. Morning visits are advisable for better visibility and more frequent boat departures.

The red seabream here display unusual behavior by remaining in shallow waters and swimming in dense groups, rather than solitary deep-water patterns seen elsewhere. This phenomenon makes the site a rare observation point for fish behavior that researchers continue to study.