Hashira Island, Maritime island in Iwakuni, Japan.
Hashira Island is an island in Japan's Inland Sea near Iwakuni, featuring Mt. Kinzō which rises 290 meters above the water. The island covers roughly 3 square kilometers and is home to a small community.
The island served as an anchorage point for the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II, where battleships stopped between repairs. In 1943, the battleship Mutsu exploded and sank in waters near the island.
Residents here still follow traditional ways, fishing in nearby waters and growing vegetables and citrus on the land. These activities shape daily life and remain central to how people use the island.
High-speed ferries connect the island to Iwakuni port Monday through Saturday. It is helpful to check departure times beforehand, as service becomes less frequent approaching weekends.
The slopes of Mt. Kinzō host a rare plant species that grows only in this region and draws local nature enthusiasts. This botanical feature makes the island worth exploring for those interested in local flora.
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