For those of us who are or were in Japan for a longer stretch than your average holiday maker then Shiraishi Island is a little haven of relaxation. I lived in Japan for a year and visited Shiraishi often, each time was better than the last. The pace of life and atmosphere just feels totally different from mainland Japan, what the island might lack in amenities it more than makes up for in character and the locals are very friendly. If you happen to visit during the summer season then pop into the Moooo! bar, a fantastic little beach bar run by two of the most friendly people you could ever hope to meet.