Blessings of the Kuroshio
The Kuroshio (Japan Current) brings warmth from the south to Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park. It is responsible for both the mild climate along the southern coast of Shikoku and the diversity of marine life off the coast, including corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles. Fish that the current brings here from the south include clownfish, brownish-green semicircle angelfish, and several types of butterflyfish. Exotic seeds and shells can also be found washed up on the park’s beaches: coconuts and seeds of the looking-glass mangrove have been spotted here.
Fishing in the Tosashimizu region benefits greatly from the Kuroshio. When the current collides with Cape Muroto and the Kii Peninsula further east, it forms so-called reverse currents. Combined with the distinctive underwater topography just off the coast, they create ideal conditions for a wide variety of fish species, including skipjack and bullet tuna traveling on the current. This abundance provides a livelihood for local fishermen and has made Tosashimizu famous for its fishing culture.