POPEYE Magazine September 2025 Issue

The ship blew its whistle as it glided into the harbor. The small island that had been smoky on the horizon suddenly towered before me as a massive mass. The trees rustled in the sea breeze. and the sunlit waters dazzled. I decided to spend my first vacation in a long time on an island—maybe it was because I wanted to escape the city heat. or because I read Makoto Shiina's essay—I'm not sure why. But I wanted to spend a relaxing day like that. feeling the lapping waves on my cheeks. dozing on the sand. and gazing blankly up at the endless starry sky. I rolled up the sleeves of my linen shirt and stepped onto the gangway in my flip-flops. Summer has begun again this year.

Featured Article
Summer Boy and a Summer Island.

Summer Days On
Hachijojima Island
Don't forget "Tokyo's Island."
Explore the tropical gourd island where sea turtles swim and ferns and cycads grow thick.

Amami Oshima
A city-style island trip where you can connect with nature through culture.

Shodoshima
The weather. waves. and people are calm. Wander around this sunny island in the Seto Inland Sea.

Fukue Island
Enjoy beautiful sunsets. churches. and wild local cuisine.

Rishiri Island and Rebun Island
What lies at the far north? Explore these two remote islands by ferry.

Iriomote Island
Kayak down the river to a hidden waterfall. Experience nature in its natural beauty.

Yonaguni Island
The Yonaguni horse and the Yonaguni sun. There are many firsts here.

Shimanami Kaido
A bicycle trip around four islands that has recently gained popularity.

The Island Traveler's Handbook
Island Travel Guide
Niijima and Surf Boys / Island Visitors /
Butterfly Hunting / Local Drinks /
Island Travel BGM / Island Books / Island Magazines / Shimadas /
Makoto Shiina / Buying a Deserted Island / A Night at Enoshima /
Island Travel Diary / Travel Goods