Nature guide Yukihiro Ohama
Ohama Yukihiro, who guides snorkeling and cave tours, is one of the few island guides. He started the tour shop Big Beach 13 years ago with the desire to "share the charm of the island." This time, he was guided mainly to places that give a sense of the history of his hometown Ohama.
The statue of Oyake Akahachi, who rebelled against the oppression of the Ryukyu Kingdom in 1500 and started a rebellion, is located in Ohama, where he was said to have been based. Yukihiro says that looking at this spirited Akahachi statue makes him feel energized. Born on Hateruma Island, he says, "I wonder how he was able to motivate people when he came to another island, and what kind of person he was."
Approximately 3 minutes on foot
The Oyake Akahachi Monument sits quietly in a corner of Sakihara Park. The bones of his wife, Kuitsuba, are interred next to it. It was originally located at Maotouba Utaki in Ishigaki, but was moved to this location in 2000. "It's quite romantic to be here next to Akahachi after 500 years," says one. A memorial service is held here every year on March 3rd of the lunar calendar.
Approximately 4 minutes on foot
Ohama Beach is a popular spot to enjoy the cool evening breeze. In Ohama, it is called Kasun-ya 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.
Approximately 2 minutes on foot
On Ohama Beach, there is a distinctive stretch of sandstone on the right side facing the sea. There are footprints there that are thought to be those of a red wasp, and are about 50cm long. "I once heard from a senior at Ohama that it came from Hateruma Island in three steps, and that it slept with Mt. Omoto as its pillow (laughs). If that's true, that's amazing!"
Approximately 20 minutes by car
A good friend of mine from class runs this parlor where you can enjoy fresh fruit juice and light meals. I drop in on my own, and sometimes I take customers there after a tour. "I love this environment surrounded by nature. A juice made from island fruit is the best after a tour."
Fresh juice made with seasonal fruits. On this day, it was a three-layered drink of pineapple, papaya, and tankan citrus.
While attending Yae High School, he was inspired by the people of the sea, such as scuba divers, and studied at a resort and sports vocational school in Nagoya. He returned to the island and began working as a guide for the island's natural beauty. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he also created online tours that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your own home. He hopes to increase the number of tours that convey the history, culture, and island life in the future.
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