“Iruka,” that’s the Japanese word for dolphin. Before us stands the Iruka no Obuje Sculpture. What secrets does this sculpture hold?
Tokyo’s Dolphin Island lies 200 kilometers south of here. It is known as Mikura-jima. This island paradise hosts over 100 dolphins. Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins make their home here every year. You can swim with them in the clear blue waters from March to October.
The Izu Islands include Mikura-jima. They are a dozen volcanic islands with lush green mountains. These mountains are oases in the open sea. They harbor all manner of life.
Many tourists in Japan have not heard of the Izu Islands. They are not on the main tourist routes. You can get to them by ferry or plane. The journey itself can be an adventure. A ferry trip offers fantastic views. You can see the Tokyo skyline and Rainbow Bridge. The ships are clean and peaceful. They provide food, drinks and sleeping areas.
Miyake-jima is another volcanic island near Mikura-jima. It is larger and has a bigger population. This island has more hotels and businesses.
You can swim with dolphins near Miyake-jima. Dolphin Club Miyakejima offers guided swims. They provide gear based on your needs. A boat takes you to Mikura-jima.
Upon arrival, you circle the island. You look for dolphins and then greet them in the sea. The dolphins are curious and playful. They investigate and get really close. Some even bring their babies.
Dolphins are often deified or demonized in popular culture. They can be compassionate or aggressive. These mammals are highly intelligent. They have their own personalities. It’s important to respect their space because they are still wild animals.
Spinner sharks also live in these waters. They disprove the myth that sharks aren’t around dolphins. Both tend to eat the same food.
Miyake-jima is an active volcano. It has erupted several times. The last eruption was in 2000. It caused the island to be evacuated for five years. Lava fields have scarred the landscape. The beaches have black sand.
The seas around Miyake-jima are bountiful. Marine life thrives here. Divers come to see the wrought-iron butterflyfish. This species can only be found in southern Japan.
These volcanic islands are full of adventure. They offer a unique experience away from the city. Remember the Iruka no Obuje Sculpture as a reminder. The natural beauty is not far from Tokyo.