Hiyama Prefectural Natural Park encompasses the entire island and town.

On July 12, 1993,[2] the Southwest Hokkaido Open Sea earthquake (北海道南西沖地震) of magnitude 7.8[2] in the Sea of Japan off southwest Hokkaido created a devastating tsunami.

The tsunami struck within five minutes of the earthquake, leaving residents absolutely no warning.

The average annual rainfall is 920.1 mm (36.22 in) with August as the wettest month.

Regular ferry services to and from Esashi (2 hours and 20 minutes) and Setana (1 hour and 40 minutes) are provided by Heartland Ferry, and time timetable changes seasonally.