daiku 
“A peaceful and healing spot in Miyako Island where you can feel the richness of nature.”
The Shimajiri Mangrove is the largest mangrove forest in Miyako Island and a rare location where all mangrove species native to the island can be observed. Mangroves are plant communities that grow in brackish water areas—where freshwater and seawater mix—typically found near river mouths in tropical and subtropical regions. However, Miyako Island has no rivers flowing into the sea.
So, how did a mangrove forest develop in Shimajiri? The answer lies in the presence of an underground spring near the coast. The freshwater from this spring creates a brackish environment, which allows mangroves to thrive. It is extremely rare for mangroves to grow in areas without rivers, making this location geographically significant in the field of plant ecology.
Due to its rarity and natural beauty, the Shimajiri Mangrove is designated as a Natural Monument by the city of Miyako. It offers visitors a chance to experience a unique natural environment and ecosystem. If you’re visiting Miyako Island, be sure to explore this exceptional mangrove forest and feel the wonders of nature for yourself.
Location: Shimajiri, Hirara, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture