Megijima remains the most popular island for tourists. It features a large cavern said to be where the ogres in the legend of Momotaro lived.

There are many theories behind the origin of its name.
One suggests it’s because a fragment of the folding fan that Nasu-no-Yoichi shot at Yashima drifted here.
Another suggests the name “Megijima” comes from a local dialectic tendency to use the Japanese word “megeru,” with the nuance of “breaking” or “collapsing.”

In any case, Megijima’s time in the limelight came in 1914.
It happened when a Takamatsu elementary school teacher discovered a natural cavern at the top of a mountain.

It covered 4,000 square meters and was 400 meters deep.
They associated it with the legend of Momotaro, leading to Megishima being called “Onigashima,” where ogres once lived.

Meanwhile, another theory says it was once a hideaway for the pirates that used to control these waters.
Still, it was the ogre story that captured people’s imaginations.
One can picture the trepidation at the thought of this island being home to superhuman beings.

Today, this cave is decorated with ogre-themed artifacts and items, and is often visited by tourists.
Explore the cave and emerge at the summit to find a stunning 360-degree view of the Seto Inland Sea.

The island features narrow flatlands and terraced farmland. Locals found a way to live off agriculture as well as fishing.

You can even see women carrying goods on their heads. A rarity elsewhere is an everyday sight in Megishima.

Houses are enclosed in stone walls known as “Ōte.” They are symbols of Megishima, composed of stacked stones to protect homes and towns from the briny sea breeze.

The mountaintop grants a complete view of the Seto sea.
2,000 cherry blossoms paint the summit in spring, their pale pink contrasting with the blue sea.
Moai statues line the beach; the swimming area becomes packed in the summer. The Setouchi Trienniale art festival is held here, drawing more visitors to enjoy the art displays.
Life, legends, and tourism –
Megishima’s small size belies its many faces.

Gaze out your window on it and consider how this “Ogre Island” appears to you.