Nature guide, Yukihiro Ohama
Yukihiro Ohama, who guides snorkeling and cave tours, is one of the few island guides. He started his tour shop, Big Beach, 13 years ago with the desire to "share the charm of the island." This time, he guided us to places that reflect the history of his hometown, Ohama.
A statue of Oyake Akahachi, who led a rebellion in 1500 in defiance of the Ryukyu Kingdom's oppression, stands in Ohama, which is said to have been his base. Yukihiro says that seeing this spirited statue of Akahachi energizes him. Born on Hateruma Island, he says, "I often wonder how he managed to motivate people when he came to another island, and what kind of person he was."
Approximately 3 minutes on foot
The Oyake Akahachi Memorial Monument stands quietly in a corner of Sakihara Park. Next to it are the bones of his wife, Kuitsuba. It was originally located at the Maotoba Utaki in Azaishigaki, but was moved to this location in 2000. "It's romantic that after 500 years, it's now beside Akahachi." A memorial service is held here every year on the third day of the third month of the lunar calendar.
Approximately 4 minutes on foot
Ohama Beach is a popular spot for evening relaxation. In the local dialect of Ohama, it's called Kasunya Beach. The stones facing the sea represent the six sacred sites within the village. Prayers are also offered here during events such as the harvest festival.
About a 2-minute walk
On the right side of Ohama Beach, facing the sea, lies a distinctive sandstone formation. There, you can find footprints, estimated to be those of a red beetle, measuring about 50 cm in length. "I've heard from older residents of Ohama that it came in just three steps from Hateruma Island, or that it slept with Mount Omoto as its pillow (laughs). If that's true, it's amazing!"
Approximately 20 minutes by car
This parlor, run by close friends and classmates, serves fresh fruit juices and light snacks. I often stop by alone, and sometimes I take customers there after tours. "I love this environment surrounded by nature. The fruit juices made from the island's fruits are perfect after a tour."
Fresh juice made with seasonal fruits. On this day, it was a three-layered juice of pineapple, papaya, and tangerine.
While attending Yaeyama High School, I admired people who were into diving and other marine activities, and I went on to study at a resort and sports vocational school in Nagoya.
I returned to the island and started working as a guide for the island's nature. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I also created online tours so that people could enjoy the tours from the comfort of their homes.
We hope to increase the number of tours that convey the history, culture, and lifestyle of the island in the future.