Honjima Island

Honjima Island (本島), located in the Seto Inland Sea off the coast of Kagawa Prefecture, is a small yet historically significant island with a rich maritime heritage. Part of Marugame City, Honjima covers an area of approximately 6.75 square kilometers and has a population of about 430 residents as of April 2017.

The island played a crucial role in maritime transportation through the Seto Inland Sea for centuries. It was the base of the renowned Shiwaku Navy (Shiwaku Suigun), an organization of highly skilled sailors who controlled the Shiwaku Islands. Their expertise in navigation and shipbuilding was sought after by Japan’s leaders throughout history.

One of the most notable attractions on Honjima is the Kasashima district, which has been designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings. This area showcases about 100 traditional buildings constructed between the early 19th and early 20th centuries, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s prosperous past. Three of these buildings are open to the public, including the Sanagi House, a merchant’s home dating back to the latter half of the Edo period.

The island’s maritime history is further preserved at the Shiwaku Kinbansho (塩飽勤番所), the former government office of the Shiwaku area. Now a museum, it houses important artifacts such as documents bearing the seals of influential Japanese leaders from the late 16th century.

Honjima also offers natural beauty and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Seto Ohashi Bridge from the east side of the island and from the summit of Mt. Tomiyama.

In recent years, Honjima has become a venue for the Setouchi Triennale, an international art festival featuring outdoor art installations. This event adds a contemporary cultural dimension to the island’s historical attractions.

Access to Honjima is primarily by ferry, with services running from Marugame Port on Shikoku and Kojima Port on Honshu. The journey takes about 35 minutes from either port. Once on the island, rental bicycles are available as an convenient way to explore.

Honjima Island offers a unique blend of historical significance, traditional architecture, natural beauty, and contemporary art, making it a compelling destination for those interested in experiencing a lesser-known aspect of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Getting there

From Marugame Port (Shikoku side)

• High-speed boats and car ferries are available
• Travel time: 20 minutes by high-speed boat, 35 minutes by car ferry
• Fare: 560 yen one-way (regardless of boat type)
• Departures every 1-3 hours
• Many high-speed boats stop at Ushijima Island en route

From Kojima Port (Honshu side)

• High-speed boats are available
• Departs from Kojima Port, adjacent to JR Kojima Station
• Travel time: 30 minutes
• Fare: 650 yen one-way
• 4 departures daily (2 in the morning, 2 in the afternoon)

Shiwaku Kinbansho

Hours	9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Closed on Mondays.
Admission	Adults: 200 yen Children: Free
Phone	+81 877-27-3540
Address	〒763-0223 Kagawa, Marugame, Honjimacho, ８１
Resources	https://www.city.marugame.lg.jp/page/1013.html