Shodoshima Olive Park

Shodoshima (小豆島), meaning “Island of Small Beans,” is a picturesque island in the Seto Inland Sea, part of Kagawa Prefecture in Japan. Known for its Mediterranean-like climate, Shodoshima is famously known as the birthplace of olive cultivation in Japan. The island’s climate, similar to that of the Mediterranean, makes it ideal for growing olives. The Shodoshima Olive Park (小豆島オリーブ公園) is one of the most iconic attractions on Shodoshima, and celebrates the islands rich history of olive cultivation. 

One of the park’s most famous landmarks is the Greek-style windmill, a nod to the Mediterranean origins of olive cultivation. Visitors often take pictures here, and it’s a favorite spot for Instagram enthusiasts. The windmill, surrounded by olive trees and with views of the Seto Inland Sea, creates a serene and picturesque setting.

The Shodoshima Olive Park is situated in the very grove where Olive cultivation began in Japan, believed to be in 1908.  The park offers hillside walking paths that provide stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. In the park you can also find the Olive Museum, where you can learn about the history of olive cultivation on Shodoshima and how it became a symbol of the island.