daiku 
A historic well site on Irabu Island that offers a glimpse into the island’s past—along with breathtaking views.
Located in the eastern part of Irabu Island, near the Sarahama settlement in Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture, Saba-Oki Well (Saba-Utsugaa) is a historic site that once served as a vital water source for the island’s residents. Before a simplified water supply system was introduced in 1966, the well had been used for about 240 years.
The name “Saba-Utsugaa” is said to originate from the shape of the surrounding land, which resembles a shark’s mouth when viewed from Ikema Island. The well was discovered by two individuals known as Kanaushi of Myagidachi and Matsuuji of Fuzzu, and it became an essential part of daily life for the island’s people.
Fetching water from the well was primarily the responsibility of women, who would climb up and down a steep staircase of 123 steps multiple times a day. The hardship of this daily routine is hard to imagine today. Although the water was not suitable for drinking due to salinity changes caused by tides, it was long used for household needs.
Today, Saba-Utsugaa is preserved as a cultural site, and its surroundings have been reinforced with concrete. Although the spring no longer flows, the site remains a powerful reminder of the island’s history and the resilience of its people.
As you descend the staircase leading to the well, you can enjoy sweeping views of Miyako Island, Ikema Island, and Kurima Island. Visiting this site offers a rare opportunity to reflect on the difficulties of securing fresh water on a coral-limestone island—and to appreciate the determination of those who once relied on this well for survival.
Maezato, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture