Ikema Wetland
池間湿原24°56′ N 125°15′ EParkGood with kids
Ikema Wetland is a 38 ha freshwater marsh in the middle of Ikema island, the largest wetland in Okinawa Prefecture and part of a national wildlife protection area.
The marsh was once a sea inlet that opened to the south. Reclamation dykes from 1924 to 1934 and the building of Ikema fishing port from 1963 to 1982 cut it off from the sea, and the water turned fresh. Today it covers 38 ha and appears on the Ministry of the Environment's list of 500 important wetlands. The whole island became the national Ikema Wildlife Protection Area on 1 November 2011.
Ducks, herons, coots and purple herons use the marsh, and purple herons breed here; rare strays recorded include bean geese and a Siberian crane. A steel observation tower replaced the old wooden hide in 2009. Plants and silt have been filling the water in, and the Ministry planned a six-year dredging project from August 2019.
Worth knowing
- Bring binoculars and watch from the road and the tower.
- The wetland lies just north of the island's centre, so any Ikema ride can detour past it.
FAQ
Quick answers about Ikema Wetlandよくある質問
How big is Ikema Wetland?
Ikema Wetland covers 38 ha. It is the largest wetland in Okinawa Prefecture.
Can you watch birds at Ikema Wetland?
Yes. A steel viewing tower built in 2009 overlooks the marsh, where herons feed and purple herons breed.
What are the opening hours of Ikema Wetland?
Ikema Wetland is open Open at all hours.
Can you get to Ikema Wetland by bike?
A road and parking space built with the 2009 steel viewing tower lead to the marsh.
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