Awashima Retreat 2025

Awashima is a small island (circumference: 23 km; population: 370) located in the Sea of Japan, off Niigata Prefecture.

It’s known for its “Shiokaze Exchange” program, a domestic study-abroad initiative for elementary and junior high school students. Children from across Japan come to Awashima to care for the horses at the municipally operated Awashima Ranch and live together in the village dormitory.

Before World War II, the island was home to the “Awashima Horse,” a native Japanese breed. These robust horses were used as military steeds, and one even served as the model for the famous equestrian statue of Kusunoki Masashige in front of the Imperial Palace.

This retreat will include coastal trail rides on Awashima Ranch horses, visits to the former habitats of the Awashima Horse, and lectures on native Japanese horses by experts.

Schedule: August 22 (Friday) – August 24 (Sunday), 2025

For inquiries, click here.

Experience stories from past participants:

• Awashima Retreat: A Participant’s Experience

• Journey to Awashima

• A Dream Come True: Awashima Riding Camp

Access to the Island: From Iwafune Port, near JR Uetsu Main Line Murakami Station (about 35 minutes from Niigata), take a ferry to Awashima Port (approximately 1.5 hours).

References:

• Awashima Tourism Association website

• Awashimaura Village website

• UMA Life 2023 Issue 12, Awashima Special Edition.

  For inquiries, click here.

UMA Life 2023 Issue 12, Awashima Special Edition

The municipally operated Awashima Ranch

Shiokaze Trail Rides

The Sea of Japan Sunset

Horses Relaxing by the Sea

For inquiries, click here.