📜 Content
Located in Wakayama, Nanki Shirahama is a famous scenic area often featured in paintings, photographs, and commemorative stamps, with Engetsu Island being its symbol. The official name of Engetsu Island is "Takasima," and it is called "Engetsu Island" because of a circular hole formed in the center of the island due to erosion by the waves.
The water surrounding the island is extremely clear. During the day, the island appears to float on the sea, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds, creating a breathtaking landscape like a painting on a blue canvas. At sunset, the scenery transforms into a dreamy spectacle as time passes. Looking towards Shikoku, the sun slowly descends towards the horizon, gradually dyeing the sky orange, yellow, and red, weaving together a breathtaking view with the elegantly shaped island, resembling a masterpiece created by nature. The sunset seascape of Engetsu Island has not only been selected as one of the "Wakayama Sunset 100" but also as one of the "Japan Sunset 100."
The time during the year when one can view the sunset through the circular sea cave in the center of the island is very brief, approximately only two weeks from around March 20 to April 5, and again around September 23. Generally, the vernal and autumnal equinoxes are the best times for viewing. Additionally, when the tide goes out, the massive rocks hidden around the island emerge from the sea, creating a spectacular sight.
*In the past, visitors could walk on the small island, but now access is prohibited to protect the island's environment (as of July 2021).
