Gakiya
Gakiya Hamlet is believed to have had the home of Yagura Ufusu, the great-grand father of Sho Hashi who unified the Ryukyus and started the first dynasty.

Strolling around unspoiled sceneries of red-tile roofs and coral stone walls.

Local landscape of stone walls.
Gakiya is a hamlet with stone walls that have remained unchanged. The houses are set out neatly in a grid, with some still retaining its traditional architect style. The scenery will bring you back to the good old days of the island.



Adan trees can be spotted everywhere on the island
Adan trees were not only for storm and tide protection; they were used as indispensable material for crafts such as sandals and baskets.



Mt. Koshidake Observatory Deck
An observatory commanding the views of Gakiya, Maedomari and Dana hamlets. Peering through a telescope installed at the deck, one can see Izena, Ie, mainland of Okinawa, Yoron and Okierabu. Iheya Island is situated on the border of Kagoshima and Okinawa, which makes for a unique seascape.



Katakuma Shrine
Yagura Ufusu has been enshrined in Katakuma Shrine. The peculiar architectural style three Torii Shinto-style gates might catch a visitor's eyes. Every year in February, many people enjoy flower viewing of Kanhi Zakura, the taiwan cherry blossom. During summer, shikwasa trees growing nearby entice us with refreshing seasonal taste of citrus.

Gakiya Tug of War
A summer event of tug of war with a rope made of local straws, to express gratitude and hope for good harvest. Conducted at the side of Gakiya community center during the twilight hour of June 25th of the Chinese calendar.
From early morning, people of the community gather to braid straws to make the rope. In the evening hours, they light the torch and start Gaaee, an exciting opening ritual. People then separate into two groups -Kaneku and Uchimura- then start a tug of war.



Ryugu no Kami
Its location is near the entrance to the hamlet, a little off from the sea side area. This had probably been a coastal line before it was landfilled and built into a public road. On March 3rd of the Chinese calendar, three fresh mackerels and a prayer are offered for a rich haul of fish.

Yagurabaka Tombstone
The tombstone of Yagura Ufusu, the great-grandfather of Sho Hashi who established the first dynasty of Ryukyu Kingdom. The tombstone faces the ocean, being built into the cave rock. A must-see for anyone wishing to learn about Iheya's history.


<Ｐ１５～Ｐ１６

Ｐ２１～Ｐ２２>