In the Inland Seto Sea in southern Japan, we find Shodo Island, the second largest island in this sea with an area of 170 km2. Due to the island´s location, it enjoys a very similar climate to the Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers, allowing this unique island to specialize in olive cultivation.
The island also contains the famous Kankakee gorges, which shows the wonderful reliefs that the erosion has naturally carved on the rocks. However, what is really unique here is its olive garden. At the beginning of last century, Japan tried to introduce olive growing, but cultivation only adapted and survived on this island, which is why it is sometimes referred to as “Olive Island” Here, there are 32,000 inhabitants who enjoy the 2000 olive trees of the Mission variety, which bloom every spring.
The fact that there are olive trees here has made the island quite popular. Every year there are many visitors who gaze at the stunning views that this beautiful Japanese island offers.
Japan is a country that has been interested in olive growing and olive oil, even though it does not enjoy a climate that is fitting for its proper cultivation. But, time and time again, centenary olive trees with their characteristic large, twisted trunks have found a home in Japan. Coming mainly from the south of Spain, they have been being sent there to occupy parks and urban gardens throughout the entire country.