When we think of Japan, we often imagine the skyscrapers of Tokyo, the temples of Kyoto, or the cherry blossoms along the great avenues. But Japan is also an archipelago of more than 14,300 islands (630 inhabited), some of which are true little corners of paradise... far from the urban frenzy.
So what's going on on these little-known islands? How do the inhabitants of these small Japanese islands live? Spoiler alert: life there is very different from that of the big cities, but just as fascinating.
1. Welcome to the end of the world: What is island life?
Imagine: a tiny island, surrounded by a crystal clear sea, where you come across more stray cats than humans, and where the notion of “salary-man” hardly exists. This is what life is like on some of Japan’s small islands . Here, the pace is slow, almost timeless. Ferries are rare, shops even more so, and 4G can seem like a luxury.
But for the locals, it's paradise! Far from the stress of big cities, the islanders live according to the tides. Fishing, agriculture, and tourism (for the most popular islands) punctuate daily life. It is also where we find the oldest elders in the world who live according to Hobby and the pursuit of ikigai.
You might think it's a dream life...and often it is! But there are also some challenges.
2. Transportation: The ferry is nice… except when it rains!
On these small islands, transportation is a real headache. The ferry is the vital link with the mainland. Need to do some shopping, go to the doctor or visit friends on the neighboring island? You take the ferry! But be careful: it only runs two or three times a day (and that's if the weather is on your side). If it rains or is windy, you may have to stay indoors, watching the waves from your window while waiting for the next departure.
3. Nature: The sea as a garden, volcanoes as neighbors
The great luxury of the small Japanese islands is the omnipresent nature. The sea is a source of life, whether for fishing or simply for swimming. Some islands are also known for their outdoor hot springs (onsen), overlooking the ocean. What could be better than lounging in natural hot water, surrounded by incredible landscapes… it is one of the most relaxing experiences in Japan.
But be careful, some of these islands are volcanic. Living next to an active volcano is like having an unpredictable roommate. At any moment, he can decide to shake the earth or spit out a little smoke, just to remind you that he is still there. This is part of the charm (and danger) of these volcanic islands, like Sakurajima or Aogashima .
4. The community: Everyone knows everyone (and everyone knows everything)
In the small Japanese islands, the expression "small community" takes on its full meaning. With a population sometimes of a few hundred people, everyone knows each other. It's both comforting and... a little intrusive. If you go to an izakaya (Japanese bar) for a drink, there's a good chance you'll end the evening talking to your table neighbors... who probably already know your cat's name and your favorite pajama color.
Solidarity is strong, especially between generations. Young people help the old, fishermen share their catch with their neighbors, and each traditional festival is an opportunity for the whole village to come together. A kind of village life, Japanese island version!
5. Tourism: A blessing… but also a real challenge
Some of these islands live almost exclusively on tourism. Naoshima , for example, is famous for its open-air museum of contemporary art. During the high season, the ferries are packed with tourists from all over the world. This creates jobs and wealth, but it also poses real challenges for infrastructure. The inhabitants must juggle their usual tranquility with the seasonal invasion of visitors.
And then there are the more secret islands, those that are not yet listed in the tourist guides. There, tourism remains a curiosity. If you land on one of these lost islands, do not be surprised if the locals look at you as if you were an exotic creature from another planet.
An island life full of charm (and particularities)
Living on a small Japanese island is a bit like traveling back in time, far from the stress and noise of big cities. That's what's so beautiful about Japan, a country of contrasts with a life as rich as it is exceptional. Between modernity and tradition, between megalopolis and isolated island... there's something for everyone.
