daiku 
Located on Kurima Island, Kurima Gā is a historic and sacred water source that once sustained the lives of the island’s residents. In the local dialect, “gā” refers to a well. Since Miyako Island and its surrounding islands—formed by uplifted coral reefs—lack rivers and mountains, rainwater filters through the ground and emerges as natural springs, known as gā. These springs were essential for drinking and daily life, forming the foundation of the island’s unique water cycle.
At Kurima Gā, three wells—Ichiban Gā (First Well), Niban Gā (Second Well), and Sanban Gā (Third Well)—are located near the cliffside, each with its own distinct purpose. The first well was used for drinking water, the second for laundry, and the third for washing livestock. The water was used efficiently and without waste, and the flow from the third well eventually reached the sea, allowing residents to live in harmony with nature.
These three wells are connected by a steep stone staircase that runs along a cliff. This path linked the village to the water source, and in the past, islanders would walk up and down more than 40 meters to fetch water. While the daily task was strenuous, it was also full of memories—children racing down the steps, fishermen washing themselves after returning from the sea—making it a cherished part of local life.
Even today, Kurima Gā remains the symbolic origin of Kurima Island. Its importance as a source of life continues to be honored by the local community. Recently, the neighborhood association initiated efforts to restore the natural flow of water to Sanban Gā, which had been blocked by development, once again bringing attention to the value of this sacred site.
Location: Kurima, Shimoji, Miyako City, Okinawa Prefecture
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