Magic Broom Experience in Front of the Greek Windmill at Shodoshima Olive Park

A Magical Broomstick Experience at Shodoshima Olive Park

After stepping onto the Angel Road of Shodoshima, our family headed to the next destination—Shodoshima Olive Park—for a fun photo session, riding a magical broomstick just like in Kiki’s Delivery Service. The park is located on a beautiful island surrounded by the sea, making it a perfect backdrop for pictures.

Before I forget, let me introduce our self-drive itinerary. After disembarking at Tonosho Port, we walked straight to ORIX Rent-A-Car Shodoshima to pick up our reserved Toyota Passo. From there, we drove directly to Angel Road and have now arrived at the Olive Park parking lot. I also took some photos of the car’s interior and dashboard. The car is right-hand drive, with the accelerator, brake, and handbrake positioned accordingly. Interestingly, the handbrake is foot-operated on the far left, just like when we rented a car in Takamatsu. It’s a nice setup since it ensures we won’t forget to release the handbrake before pressing the accelerator.

Inside the Olive Memorial Hall at Shodoshima Olive Park, visitors can borrow a flying broomstick inspired by Kiki’s Delivery Service for free—just grab one, but remember to return it. A warning sign is posted on a nearby pillar, cautioning visitors not to jump off the large rock in front of the Greek windmill, as it is dangerous. We took our broomsticks and walked along a small rural path toward the windmill.

Upon reaching the Greek windmill, we noticed an olive tree planted by Emperor Showa nearby. Many tourists were already taking photos, so we waited for them to clear out before starting our own photo session.

The view from the Greek windmill was absolutely stunning. Every season offers a different experience. Although the grass and crops below weren’t as green this time, the approaching typhoon created a dramatic sky, with mist-covered islands in the distance showcasing nature’s beauty.

After taking pictures, we walked back toward the roadside station of Shodoshima Olive Park. Along the way, we saw an art installation titled OLIVE STORY and the nearby herb craft house, MILOS, which resembles a chapel. We plan to explore it another time.

Looking down from above, the Olive Memorial Hall offered a breathtaking view. Inside, there were many informative displays, including details about the sister island relationship between Japan’s Shodoshima and Greece’s Milos Island. This connection was initiated by Lily E. Venizelos, the founder and representative of the sea turtle conservation organization MEDASSET. She found similarities between Shodoshima’s Greek-style olive temple, the Peace Bell Tower, and sea turtles, and proposed the sister island relationship to the mayor of Nakaumi Town and the governor of Kagawa Prefecture.

Additionally, the Olive Memorial Hall showcases the history of olive cultivation on Shodoshima, offering great insight into the island’s local culture. Visiting this place was truly a meaningful experience.