Kuroshima—Former Kenzendo—

Ishigaki Island Tourist Information

◆Ishigaki Island for sightseeingRental car required.Oh my god!!!
Early reservations are recommended as they fill up quickly.

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◆Tuk-tuks and electric trikes are also popular!

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About the Former Kenzendo

The Former Kenjindō is the site where Kenjindō once stood, and it is a sacred shrine dedicated to a prominent Chinese figure. Long ago, the remains of a distinguished Chinese figure washed ashore on Kuroshima. The money that person had been carrying was taken and spent. Afterward, a series of disasters struck the island, so to lift the curse, the remains were buried and enshrined at Kenseido. It is said that the disasters ceased after that.

Directions to the Former Kenzendo

The former Kenseido is located about 51 minutes on foot or about 14 minutes by car. Leave Kuroshima Port and head straight south. Turn left at the end of the road, then turn right at the next intersection. Continue straight along the road, and you’ll see the former Kenseido on your right.

How to Play at the Former Kenzendo

Since the former Kenzendo is located at the southern tip of the island, you can enjoy a view of the beautiful, gradient-like sea. If you head west along the coastline, you’ll come to Nakamoto Beach—the most popular beach on Kuroshima—where you can enjoy snorkeling and swimming.

Details on the Former Kenseido

According to legend, around 1800, the wreck of a Chinese ship washed ashore at Yukira Beach near the Kuroshima Lighthouse. Inside the ship were mummified remains and a large quantity of silk fabrics. It is said that the islanders cast the bodies into the sea. Afterward, those who had handled the bodies died one after another, and rats began to multiply abnormally on the island.
After burying the black stones found on the ship on the shore in place of the bodies and holding a memorial service, the rat infestation subsided. Later, someone desecrated the grave, and the island was once again plagued by a massive rat infestation. Afterward, the islanders moved the shrine from the coast near the lighthouse to the center of the island and held a grand memorial service and prayer ceremony, which brought the massive rat infestation to an end.

Recommended Sightseeing Spots Near the Former Kenseido

Kuroshima Lighthouse

The Kuroshima Lighthouse is located at the southernmost tip of heart-shaped Kuroshima Island and is famous as a power spot for fulfilling romantic wishes.
Since Hateruma Island is the only other island south of Kuroshima, this lighthouse plays a vital role for ships sailing in the area. To reach it, you’ll walk along a path overgrown with vegetation. When the view opens up, the contrast between the crystal-clear sea and the lush greenery against the white lighthouse is truly beautiful.

Pai-Futa-wan

Pai-futa-wan is a sacred site located along the coast from Nakamoto Beach toward the Kuroshima Lighthouse. It is said that long ago, a deity who had descended from Mount Omoto arrived at Iko Beach on Kuroshima, where the deity rested and caught one’s breath—a place known as Nakamori Utaki. Pai-futa-wan Utaki, as the first place where the deity descended, was called Yahana-muto (the origin of the eight shrines) and was revered by the villagers. It is known as a sacred site where people pray for bountiful harvests and safety at sea.

Nakamoto Beach

Nakamoto Beach, located on the southwestern part of Kuroshima, is the island’s most popular beach. It’s a beautiful spot where the emerald-green sea contrasts with the natural beach, and the beach is well-equipped with facilities such as gazebos, restrooms, showers, and a snack bar. The snack bar also offers rental equipment, so you can fully enjoy the various activities available.