This particular island, once the source of cedar shingles for a large proportion of Japan has now two towns with a total island population of ~13k. Industries are the local chopstick factory, fishing, and the now designated World Heritage Nature preserve which is most of the central portion of the island.  Cedar trees thousands of years old. The options for being on the island were to spend a lot of money to take a tour, arrange a private tour (both of which involved at least an hour drive each way) or just walk around and enjoy myself. Duh…

But first –

there were clouds this morning.

We walked from the ship along the road – across the bridge with inset flower panels –

saw an example of cedar at the school entrance

and wandered back and forth for a while before finally locating what might be called a tourist information center but I am thinking it more resembles a library out front

So, finishing up with the free wifi (thank goodness because AT&T apparently does NOT have any partners here that will connect with my iPhone.)

We will wander further and stop at the Turtle Museum.