Shikinejima: Japanese-Style Scenic Mountain and Sea Views.

Located near Tokyo, Shikinejima Island seems like a step into a Japanese-style painting of a paradisiacal landscape surrounded by mountains and sea. The first thing that hits you is the fresh scent of sea salt mixed with a hint of savory fragrance, almost like the island's unique body scent. As we follow the cobblestone path, wild grasses and reeds sway gracefully on both sides, with clusters of shy white plum blossoms blooming amongst them, exuding a pure and fragrant aroma. The chirping of birds intermittently fills the air, composing a vibrant natural symphony for this natural scenery. Suddenly, a tranquil bay unfolds before us, with an endless, mirror-like sea, occasionally dotted by fishing boats sailing far off where the sky meets the water. The shore is adorned with a few Japanese-style cottages with red tiles and white walls, nestled among the lush greenery, adding a touch of soft and elegant vitality to this peaceful and serene setting. Thus, we wander through this pristine and vast natural landscape of the island, where our simple and honest longing for life is magnified bit by bit. Being here feels like becoming one with this Japanese-style mountain and sea scenery, finding the purest and most natural state of life, and gaining a new understanding and appreciation for the love of life.