tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47018374505673819532024-02-18T18:37:35.634-08:00Map It! OkinawaWELCOME TO MAP IT! OKINAWA. EXPLORE, CLICK, AND GO.Map It! Okinawahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274356787936251631noreply@blogger.comBlogger208125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-16425853187814325662020-02-12T09:00:00.000-08:002020-02-12T02:38:25.387-08:00The Cosmos Fields of Kin Town<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bzbXlaCZxO4/Vqsdu_cRc_I/AAAAAAAAKFs/oaUEjPgGiRc/s1600/IMGP8694web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bzbXlaCZxO4/Vqsdu_cRc_I/AAAAAAAAKFs/oaUEjPgGiRc/s1600/IMGP8694web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cosmos Fields of Kin (image taken in 2015)</td></tr>
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<tr><td align="center" style="background: url("https://www.gstatic.com/pwa/s/v/lighthousefe_20160113.00_p0/transparent_album_background.gif") no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/CosmosOfKin?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9m_teLWXaic/VqsdZBKdOpE/AAAAAAAAKGQ/h9cfpcW7Elc/s160-c-Ic42/CosmosOfKin.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/CosmosOfKin?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Cosmos of Kin</a></td></tr>
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<b> GPS</b>
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<tbody>
<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 27.506</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 127 52.792</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Cosmos Fields of Kin Town</span><br />
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Every year around late January to mid-February, farmers of Kin Town plant Cosmos in the rice fields of Igei Village. According to a Kin Town resident, it is believed that Cosmos nurture and rejuvenate the soil just prior to the rice fields being utilized<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(i)</span>. The net result; an entire landscape of pink, white, and maroon colored flowers lighting up the scene! Hundreds of visitors come every year to get a glimpse of these delightful flowers. Click on the album link above for more images.</div>
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<b>Season</b>: Late January to Mid-February just prior to rice planting season.<br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>Public Access: Sunday, February 16, 2020</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><b><u>Note</u>: Cosmos Field will be cordoned off until February 16th. Please to do not enter the fields till the cordon rope has been removed on February 16th. Taking Pictures from the roadside areas are welcome.</b></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span>
<b style="color: red; text-align: justify;"><u>Advisory</u>: The Okinawa City Marathon is on February 16th, 2020. Expect Traffic on Highway 329 throughout Okinawa City. Please plan accordingly.</b><br />
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<b>Directions/Parking.</b> Take Highway 329 into Igei of Kin Town. Igei is about 5 minutes south of Camp Hansen and 10 minutes north of Ishikawa by car. The most noticeable landmark in this area will be an ENEOS Gas Station which will be on the east-side of Highway 329. Study the map above. The fields will be on the west-side of Highway 329. Roads will be tight and parking will have to be off to the side where you can find space. <b><span style="color: red;">Caution</span></b>. Drive carefully during this time period as buses and school children often take school trips to this venue.<br />
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<b>Note.</b> i. No scientific resources could be found on the Cosmos plants soil rejuvenation capabilities. However, such techniques are sometimes referred to as 'cover crops'. For more information on 'cover crops' please refer to this link at <a href="http://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/3421/" target="_blank">Dave's Garden</a>.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-31886372830879219392020-01-27T06:38:00.000-08:002020-01-23T05:10:11.089-08:00Nakijin Castle Night Illumination (Cherry Blossom Festival)<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kWsyUFjWEfk/UQIOGY-Nt7I/AAAAAAAAGzM/52V1vxDIQQQ/s1600/IMG_7629web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kWsyUFjWEfk/UQIOGY-Nt7I/AAAAAAAAGzM/52V1vxDIQQQ/s1600/IMG_7629web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nakijin Castle Night Display (Picture taken in 2012)</td></tr>
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<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/NakijinCastleNightDisplayCherryBlossomSeason?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-bvBCxgCZ1hw/UQINbsUWPUE/AAAAAAAAG1Y/Xocyp6zCIIo/s160-c/NakijinCastleNightDisplayCherryBlossomSeason.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/NakijinCastleNightDisplayCherryBlossomSeason?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Nakijin Castle Night Display (Cherry Blossom Season)</a></td></tr>
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<b><br /></b><b> GPS</b>
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<table style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 41.552</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 127 55.677</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nakijin Castle Night Illumination, Cherry Blossom Festival </span>
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Nakijin Castle has one unique feature that separates itself from other UNESCO Castles here on Okinawa. For about two weeks during the cherry blossom season, the evening hours are extended to the public and Nakijin Castle 'lights' up in an <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bmFGwvpiZjY/UQIODCwc10I/AAAAAAAAGzE/c6b-5OVcG00/s600/IMG_7585web.jpg" target="_blank">array of evening glory</a>,...and if the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, you will see these <a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-hOX-D39FO6I/UQINuuh_FmI/AAAAAAAAGyc/RaW2QSLxnvA/s600/IMG_7500web.jpg" target="_blank">pretty flowers</a> like never before. During this special nighttime occasion, Nakijin Castle becomes one of the most romantic places here on Okinawa. </div>
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<b>Basic Information.</b><br />
<i><b>When</b></i>: Normally the last two weeks of January and early February.<b> <span style="color: red;">(2020 February 1 to February 9)</span></b><br />
<i><b>Time</b>:</i> Special hours during cherry blossom season 8am to 9pm (last admission is 830pm)<br />
<i><b>Admission Fee (to enter the castle)</b></i>: As of 2020, 300 yen for children, and 400 yen for adults. (Check website for current information.<br />
<b><i>Website (Festival Information)</i></b>: <a href="http://www.nakijin.jp/" target="_blank">http://www.nakijin.jp</a> (Japanese only). Translator may be required.<br />
<b><i>To go directly to the event information</i></b>: <a href="http://www.nakijinson.jp/event/sakurafestival13/" target="_blank">click here</a>.<br />
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<b>Special Events</b>. Normally there is an opening ceremony to kick off the night display with special events spread out during the next two weeks (normally happening on weekends). You can navigate through the Nakijin Village website (above) if you wish to see current schedule of events.</div>
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<b>What to bring</b>. During this season, it can become very cold and windy. Please dress appropriately. Definitely bring a camera.<br />
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<b>Camera Recommendations</b>. The night display offers great opportunities for photography, but you do have to have a basic understanding of your camera to take full advantage of your 'Kodak' moment. If you are new to photography, it is highly encouraged that you study the shutter speed and ISO settings on your camera first. Understanding these fundamentals will make a world of difference on your nighttime photography. Bringing a tripod is also highly recommended for this type of night time occasion. </div>
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<b>Amenities/Facilities/Parking</b>. Food stands, toilets, indoor shelter facilities, and parking spaces are available on site. <b>Wheel chairs</b>; Unfortunately because of its historical nature, the castle compound is not wheel chair accessible. <b>Baby Strollers</b>; There are many uneven surfaces and stairs inside the castle compound. Bring baby strollers at your own discretion. </div>
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<b>Directions</b>. The most simple route is to take Highway 58 north and turn on Highway 449 going into Motobu. Then take Highway 505 to Highway 115. You will be approaching Nakijin Castle from the north.You will also see plenty of signs directing you to the castle location. An alternate route and more direct is to take Highway 58 north and then Highway 449. From there take Highway 84 east. Shortly after take Highway 115 going north. You will be arriving to Nakijin Castle from the south.<br />
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<b>Other Cherry Blossom Events</b>. <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2015/01/nago-citys-cherry-blossom-festival.html" target="_blank">Nago City Sakura Matsuri</a>, <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2014/01/cherry-blossoms-on-yaedake-mt-yae.html" target="_blank">Yae-dake Sakura Maturi</a>.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-924924285988722172020-01-23T06:48:00.000-08:002020-01-23T05:13:20.626-08:00Nago City's Cherry Blossom Festival<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xwAqvLsdx5w/VLc20o6SahI/AAAAAAAAJno/F37jT4Iwdwo/s1600/IMG_6435web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xwAqvLsdx5w/VLc20o6SahI/AAAAAAAAJno/F37jT4Iwdwo/s1600/IMG_6435web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lanterns at the Cherry Blossom Festival</td></tr>
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<table style="width: 194px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://www.gstatic.com/pwa/s/v/lighthousefe_20150120.00_p0/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/NagoCherryBlossomFestival?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dv3YOHaJRPg/VLc2kbPbrkE/AAAAAAAAJpM/i2b6cgE0JXY/s160-c/NagoCherryBlossomFestival.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/NagoCherryBlossomFestival?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Nago Cherry Blossom Festival</a></td></tr>
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<b><br /></b><b> GPS</b><br />
<table style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 35.245</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 127 58.925</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nago City's Cherry Blossom Festival (Sakura Matsuri, 名護市 桜祭り) </span><br />
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Late January to early February, Nago City hosts the Cherry Blossom Festival at the Nangusuku Castle Site Park across from the Orion Brewery. Thousands of visitors come and take delight in the cherry blossoms as they ascend up the hillside park; and up above you can gaze upon the vast surrounding landscape of Nago City with the East China Sea and the Motobu Peninsula in the backdrop. The festival is a two-day weekend event. See festival information below.</div>
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<b><u>Festival Information</u>.</b><br />
<b>When:</b> Two-day weekend event, typically end of January/early February. <span style="color: red;"><b>(2020 January 25 to January 26)</b></span><br />
<b>Time:</b> 11am - 9pm, Saturday & Sunday<br />
<b>Night Viewing:</b> Typically, the week before the festival starts the <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-HiW7u8wemIk/VLc3GZFU7II/AAAAAAAAJoY/D4K-VfQmZDo/s600/IMG_8624web.jpg" target="_blank">stairway lanterns will be turned on</a> in the evening till the last day of the festival (6pm - 10pm)<span style="color: red;"> (Note: This has not been confirmed for 2019)</span><br />
<b>Admission Fee: </b>Free<br />
<b>Amenities:</b> Food Stands (Yen only)/Restrooms Available (various locations)<br />
<b>Baby Strollers/Wheelchairs:</b> The park has a network of paved roads to help you navigate through the park. However, there will be areas with steps and makeshift stairs. Plan accordingly.<br />
<b>Parking:</b> The main parking area will be at the Nago Fishing Port (near Highway 58). It is about a 10 minute walk to the main festival area. Scroll map to the west to see fishing port.<br />
<b>Website:</b> <a href="https://nagomun.or.jp/event/1606/" target="_blank">https://nagomun.or.jp/event/1606/</a> (Japanese only). Translation may be required.<br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">Note:</span></b> If you have never been to the Nangusuku Castle Site Park, prepare for a lot of walking up the the hillside. Road networks (closed to vehicle traffic during the festival period) traverse up the mountain aiding you to view the entire park on foot; The <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MRM3VzzHdxs/VLc24QBY8HI/AAAAAAAAJnw/gCy3AKzRB-o/s600/IMG_6464web.jpg" target="_blank">long stairway</a> to the hillside shrine is little over a 450 steps. The stairway is optional; a road can also take you near the small shrine as well.<br />
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<b>Directions.</b> (Recommendations) Because this event falls on the weekend, heavy traffic is expected at the <span style="color: red;"><b>merger of Exit 10 (Expressway) and Highway 58</b></span>. <span style="color: red;"><b>Additionally, it will not be uncommon to see traffic backed up on the Expressway from Exit 10</b></span>. <b>Option 1.</b> (If using the Expressway), Recommend departing off Exit 9 (Ginoza Village) and then take Highway 329 north into Nago City. Then proceed north on Highway 58. The Nago Fishing Port (event parking area) will be on your left side (west of Highway 58). <b>Option 2.</b> Take Highway 329 north into Nago City. Then proceed north on Highway 58. The Nago Fishing Port (event parking area) will be on your left side (west of Highway 58).
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<b>Other Cherry Blossom Festivals on Okinawa</b>. <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2014/01/cherry-blossoms-on-yaedake-mt-yae.html" target="_blank">Mt. Yaedake Cherry Blossom Festival</a>, <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2018/01/nakijin-castle-night-illumination.html" target="_blank">Nakijin Castle Night Illumination (Cherry Blossoms)</a>.<br />
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<b>Related Links</b>. <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/11/nangusuku-castle-site-ruins-in-nago.html" target="_blank">The Nangusuku Castle Site Park</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-25399883009659195872020-01-18T03:00:00.000-08:002020-01-23T05:14:43.169-08:00Cherry Blossoms on Yaedake (Mt. Yae)<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdQJRYgvIWw/UslIgOVYClI/AAAAAAAAIco/IkDJYw6un4A/s1600/IMG_2154web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdQJRYgvIWw/UslIgOVYClI/AAAAAAAAIco/IkDJYw6un4A/s1600/IMG_2154web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cherry Blossoms during peek season on Mt. Yae</td></tr>
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=655&num=200&ll=26.635618,127.92575&spn=0.053701,0.072956&z=16&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
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<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://www.gstatic.com/pwa/s/v/lighthousefe_139.04/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/CherryBlossomsOnYaedake?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-B-aRh8wiYns/UslITKIU7uE/AAAAAAAAIdk/MRdarLNh8Co/s160-c/CherryBlossomsOnYaedake.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/CherryBlossomsOnYaedake?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Cherry Blossoms on Yaedake</a></td></tr>
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<b> GPS</b><br />
<table style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 39.414</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 127 54.696</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> *GPS to Mt. Yae Entrance
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cherry Blossoms on Yaedake (Sakura Matsuri, 桜祭り)</span><br />
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Cherry Trees in Okinawa Prefecture are said to bloom before anywhere else in Japan. Mid-January marks Cherry Blossom season and every year, thousands of visitors travel to Yaedake and Nakijin Castle, to see the first blooms. It is claimed that over 7000 Cherry Trees occupy the hillside of Mt. Yae.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(1)</span> The Cherry Trees found here (Prunus campanulata maxim)<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(1)</span> are different than those found in Mainland Japan. They are said to come from Taiwan and southern regions of China.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(1)</span> Every year, the Motobu Town Office sets up a Cherry Blossom Festival or Sakura Matsuri (桜祭り) towards the latter part of January for about two weeks. Below is basic information for the Yaedake Cherry Blossom Festival.</div>
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<b>Festival Information.</b><br />
<b>When:</b> Normally the last two weeks of January and early February. <b><span style="color: red;">(2020 January 18 to February 2)</span></b><br />
<b>Time:</b> There are no opening or closing hours to enter. However, the best time to view the flowers is during the day. <br />
<b>Peak Viewing Time</b>. Typically, last week of January.<br />
<b>Admission Fee:</b> Free (games and other amenities my require a fee)<br />
<b>Amenities:</b> Food Stands/Restrooms Available (various locations)<br />
<b>Parking:</b> Available (various locations). Parking attendants should be available to direct traffic.<br />
<b>Websites:</b> <a href="http://www.town.motobu.okinawa.jp/" target="_blank">Motobu Town Website</a> (Japanese only). To go directly to information site <a href="http://www.town.motobu.okinawa.jp/newslist/42" target="_blank">visit here</a>. Translator may be required.<br />
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<b>Recommendation</b> (<span style="color: red;"><b>Please Read)</b></span>. Expect heavy traffic up the hill on Mt. Yae during the festival period. If you wish to see Cherry Blossoms without the traffic, it is recommended that you see them the week prior (though they may not be in full bloom). There are different access routes to Mt. Yae as you can see on the map above. However, the blue route has Cherry Trees along both sides till you get close to the top <i>(Note. You cannot reach all the way up Yaedake. There is a communications tower that is off limits to non-official personnel). </i><span style="color: red;">The Nakijin Castle Cherry Blossom Festival will be held January 26th to February 11th</span>. Consider going to both during the overlapping dates. The Nakijin Castle Night Illumination during the festival period has the edge over any Cherry Blossom Festival after hours. Please see article, <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2018/01/nakijin-castle-night-illumination.html">Nakijin Castle Illumination</a> (Cherry Blossom Festival). </div>
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<b>References.</b><br />
1. <a href="http://www.okinawastory.jp/en/special/sakura_2012/sakura_index.html" target="_blank">Okinawa Story</a> (Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau (OCVB))<br />
2. <a href="http://www.town.motobu.okinawa.jp/" target="_blank">Motobu Town Office</a>.<br />
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<b>What to Bring.</b> Camera, warm clothing, Cash (Yen)<br />
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<b>Related Articles</b>. <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2018/01/nakijin-castle-night-illumination.html" target="_blank">Nakijin Castle Night Illumination (Cherry Blossom Festival)</a>, <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2015/01/nago-citys-cherry-blossom-festival.html" target="_blank">Nago City Sakura Matsuri</a>.<br />
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<b>Directions.</b> Take Highway 58 into Nago City, then Highway 449 to Motobu Town. You will then want to take Highway 84 heading east. You will see a sign marking the <a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-GDIbJI3Q2ag/UslKL5TzZ4I/AAAAAAAAIds/NXYnXBnvfWA/s600/IMG_5610web.jpg" target="_blank">Mt. Yae Entrance</a> (Pink Thumbtack in the map above).Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-8163090638960118042020-01-08T23:00:00.000-08:002020-01-09T01:44:28.228-08:00The Plum Blossoms of Oshittai, Nago City<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GHco8YzvEmc/VpHqsNK7MnI/AAAAAAAAKDs/HUOuQot4E4E/s1600/IMGP8761web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GHco8YzvEmc/VpHqsNK7MnI/AAAAAAAAKDs/HUOuQot4E4E/s1600/IMGP8761web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Plum Blossoms of Oshittai</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table style="width: 194px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://www.gstatic.com/pwa/s/v/lighthousefe_20160106.00_p0/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/PlumBlossomsOshittaiNagoCity?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yZuE9qwk90Q/VpHqoSEDIFE/AAAAAAAAKEw/KlqYP5M21OI/s160-c-Ic42/PlumBlossomsOshittaiNagoCity.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/PlumBlossomsOshittaiNagoCity?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Plum Blossoms, Oshittai Nago City</a></td></tr>
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<b> GPS</b><br />
<table style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 35.539</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 128 05.822</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Plum Blossoms of Oshittai, Nago City
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rare here on Okinawa are the Plum Blossom Flowers. Much like their cousin flowers from the Cherry Tree, these delicate white flowers bloom during Okinawa's winter season, normally in mid-January. Typically, however, they bloom a week preceding the Cherry Blossom season. Once in full bloom they last for about a week.</div>
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<b>Blooming Season</b>: Mid January<br />
<b>Blooming Period</b>: 5 Days to 1 week<br />
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<b>Directions/Parking.</b> Take Highway 331 north into Nago City (Nago City's east seaside) into the town of Teniya. Study the map carefully. Look for these signs (click <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C2z3qcsYmYM/VpHrFOaf_TI/AAAAAAAAKEU/QygwiE4Wc78/s600-Ic42/IMG_1820web.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>) on the left side of Highway 331. They will be at a Y-intersection. Turn left here. Follow the road for about 4km till you arrive at a T-intersection with these <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAboaHQITYV_G0_-pq9PWL8WFe3KYyWymiTYNdtrJdcFqEI3YQky9R3MCCFy5TfoLKwwLRNMc4FEJOFUpYYbcUhnVT-00SUqfoBhKNpV73xTVR9NwfoDyxVBolaDuEj6CgBcX6Avmnp8Kk/s600-Ic42/IMG_4451web.jpg" target="_blank">signs</a> on the corner. It is here that you arrive at the village of Oshittai. <span style="color: red;"><u>Recommendation</u></span>. It is highly recommended that you park near this T-intersection. The roads are narrow and during blooming season, there will be a line of cars driving through along with many pedestrians. The rows of Plum trees start about 50 meters from the T-intersection.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-67702989154408712332019-02-06T02:59:00.000-08:002020-02-12T03:02:31.935-08:00"Himawari Matsuri (Sunflower Festival), Kitanakagusuku"<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCW0du-ftDEHB7k7HRor-Yt_7fR3NtCRcJUfgFnfpxCFssbuVL2AT6QgMkcQ9diNWZlB-8SFl8vmegosUogFqFAZiR_13ivh6SdDUxgzllcqSf3Eq32yhwgqi0OvZWIJ4tpU_9wLlMydr-/s1600/IMG_2644web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCW0du-ftDEHB7k7HRor-Yt_7fR3NtCRcJUfgFnfpxCFssbuVL2AT6QgMkcQ9diNWZlB-8SFl8vmegosUogFqFAZiR_13ivh6SdDUxgzllcqSf3Eq32yhwgqi0OvZWIJ4tpU_9wLlMydr-/s1600/IMG_2644web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunflowers standing strong</td></tr>
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<table style="width: 194px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/HimawariMatsuriSunflowerFestivalKitanakagusukuVillage?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xk7mXkUCyIg/UQeUWKecnAE/AAAAAAAAG3c/0Rg4Kn7aLFU/s160-c/HimawariMatsuriSunflowerFestivalKitanakagusukuVillage.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/HimawariMatsuriSunflowerFestivalKitanakagusukuVillage?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Himawari Matsuri (Sunflower Festival), Kitanakagusuku Village</a></td></tr>
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<b> GPS</b>
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<table style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 17.843</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 127 48.622</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Himawari Matsuri (Sunflower Festival), Kitanakagusuku </span>
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The start of the new year marks the beginning of a whole host of flower festivals here on Okinawa. Traditionally, it begins with Cherry Blossoms. But in late January to early February starts another special flower occasion,...the Himawari Matsuri, or Sunflower Festival, in Kitanakagusuku Village (北中城村のひまわり祭り). This is relatively a recent installment of flower festivals here on the main island first starting in 2008. About 22,000 square meters of farmland are dedicated to these yellow beauties. Special events during the festival period will vary from year to year. You will also see booths selling arts and crafts, vegetables, and other gifts for your enjoyment.</div>
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<b>Basic Information</b>.<br />
<b><i>When</i></b>: Late February/Early March (varies annually) <span style="color: red;"><b>(Dates for 2020 have not been release. Flowers have not yet bloomed. See their Facebook Page for updates)</b></span><br />
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<b><i>Time:</i></b> 1000 - 1600 (this is a non-gated area, you can come and go as you please)<br />
<b><i>Fee:</i></b> Admission Free<br />
<b><i>Website</i></b>: <a href="http://www.himawaribatake.net/kitanakagusuku.php" target="_blank">himawaribatake.net</a> or visit Facebook Page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HimawariInKitanaka" target="_blank">here</a><br />
<b><i>Phone Number</i></b>: 098 935-2233 (Industrial Promotion Division )<br />
<b><i>YouTube Video</i></b>: Click this <a href="http://youtu.be/obrk6MXVlmk" target="_blank">VIDEO</a> to see a past sunflower festival<br />
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<b>Amenities/Facilities.</b> Normally, portable toilets are dispersed near the parking lot areas. Be prepared to improvise if need be. <b><i>Baby Strollers/Wheel Chairs</i></b>: Around the sunflower fields are paved roads for ease of movement. However, it may be difficult to go inside the flower field itself with any kind of transport. There are areas that are padded down for ease of movement. <span style="color: red;">Expect occasions of rain and muddy areas.</span></div>
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<b>Directions/Parking</b>. The field is in Waniya of Kitanakagusuku Village. Take Highway 329 south into Kitanakagusuku Village. The field is south of the Highway 81/Highway 227/Highway 329 intersection. There will be three (3) landmarks to the west side of Highway 329 to guide you in: <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-er0KzVb8kts/VM86RlTB4qI/AAAAAAAAJsQ/voxfpImG4gw/s600/IMG_4591web.jpg" target="_blank">Building with "Caleb" written on it</a>, <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-x4Tb46NEyOI/VM86PfjQjVI/AAAAAAAAJsI/fUYNjnP1XXo/s600/IMG_4586web.jpg" target="_blank">Family Mart</a>, <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYlUW6Z6_9z127HhP8kZgIs8f0wNM4B06hInjOZQ7uC6z5Z2j5j2mJkfhu4gTW9P_1BIcuwEZsUpXH3MGRvhSsMMKWm3-b2x4eqRmvukleQGVJ0lIE8hog81XY2LbqV3y8qe6AGxV0MhfB/s600/IMG_4584web.jpg" target="_blank">the ESSO Gas Station</a>. At the next <a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-WVcN0rUbYEw/VM86TaNLRsI/AAAAAAAAJsY/ys0tfU7lvlg/s600/IMG_4598web.jpg" target="_blank">traffic light signal</a> south of the ESSO Gas Station turn east (towards the ocean). You will be guided by signs. You will also see a <a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-u48OQS33uXU/VM872_Fth3I/AAAAAAAAJsk/-jYJe0k7GmA/s600/IMG_4597web.jpg" target="_blank">large apartment complex</a>. The sunflower field is walking distance to the west and across from this complex. Parking signs should be posted.<br />
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<b>Source of information</b>. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Okinawa Times (Japanese Only), <a href="http://article.okinawatimes.co.jp/article/2013-01-27_44493" target="_blank">http://article.okinawatimes.co.jp/article/2013-01-27_44493</a>, </div>
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Official Website: (Japanese Only): <a href="http://www.himawaribatake.net/kitanakagusuku.php" target="_blank">https://www.himawaribatake.net/kitanakagusuku.php</a></div>
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Official Facebook Page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HimawariInKitanaka" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/HimawariInKitanaka</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-44036807124725424982018-03-01T01:00:00.000-08:002018-03-01T06:41:58.347-08:00"Tsutsuji Matsuri - The Azalea Festival"<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u7azZ_3K4zA/T1cDKsKsSuI/AAAAAAAADzs/WmDKXhaP_9E/s1600/IMG_1608web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u7azZ_3K4zA/T1cDKsKsSuI/AAAAAAAADzs/WmDKXhaP_9E/s1600/IMG_1608web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Admiring the Azaleas </td></tr>
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<div style="float: left;">
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<table style="width: 194px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/TsutsujiMatsuriTheAzaleaFestival?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-KTHVeTrpG3c/T1cCtSpo35E/AAAAAAAAD1A/FHyVnvaTktw/s160-c/TsutsujiMatsuriTheAzaleaFestival.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/TsutsujiMatsuriTheAzaleaFestival?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Tsutsuji Matsuri (The Azalea Festival)</a></td></tr>
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</b><br />
<b> GPS</b> <br />
<table><tbody>
<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 38.235</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 128 09.413</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tsutsuji Matsuri (Azalea Festival), Higashi Village</span>
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Every March, Higashi Village hosts the Azalea Festival, or better known to the Okinawans as 'Tsutsuji Matsuri'. The Azaleas are part of the genus Rhododendron, with these particular flowers being part of the subgenus 'Tsutsuji' (or 'Tsutsusi'), which are evergreen Azaleas versus their North American counterparts that are deciduous in nature (leaves fall off in the fall). The festival occurs at the Azalea park about 500 meters away from Highway 70. The festival itself last about 3 weeks long with various events and entertainment spread out during this period. However, you can still view the Azaleas for the entire month of March. Please visit the <a href="http://www.vill.higashi.okinawa.jp/" target="_blank">Higashi Village website</a> for more information (Japanese only). They will have a schedule of major events and entertainment during the festival period.</div>
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The park itself is a nice walk on both high and low ground. Down below are <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFdzotD5WN6u5VMcJYX7IktDxZu6k8WGIbVnGavL6O2l7bDfe-uMr6mgtaQPPUAmv990DgaMOZDg81pwkhAQ1haxY82WH9msACEb46KNNqMRB8OsWT7rMM_VMdsHD1D4dE40pELYz54qI-/s640/IMG_1577web.jpg" target="_blank">small nature walk areas</a> where you can see the Higashi greenery and some of the <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dF0Y_5-P1zA/T1cDFwKcwGI/AAAAAAAADzc/N6hzi8mSV-8/s600/IMG_1593web.jpg" target="_blank">streams</a> that flow between the hills. High up on the hills are several areas where you can <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MGPDVWKpbG0/T1cDaa4AMuI/AAAAAAAAD0M/C_jGV_JKVeQ/s600/IMG_1650web.jpg" target="_blank">view down and out toward</a> the Higashi landscape. If you love nature and especially flowers, then this is great place to bring the family.</div>
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<b>Time Frame:</b> Entire Month of March <b><span style="color: red;">(2018 Festival Period March 2-21, Flowering Viewing March 2-25)</span></b><br />
<b>Time:</b> 9am-6pm</div>
<b>Entrance Fee.</b> 300 Yen for High School Students and above, free for Middle School and below, and free admission for people with a disability <br />
(For update and current information please visit website below)<br />
<b>Website.</b> <a href="http://www.vill.higashi.okinawa.jp/" target="_blank">http://www.vill.higashi.okinawa.jp </a><br />
<b>Phone number for festival information.</b> 098 043 2265 <br />
<b>Food stands.</b> Hot foods starnds are available during the festival period<br />
<b>Stroller Friendly.</b> For the most part, the park is baby stroller friendly <br />
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<b>For related articles on the Tsutsuji Matsuri see, </b><a href="http://www.okinawastory.jp/en/special/festivals_hotels/special/f_festivals.html" target="_blank">http://www.okinawastory.jp/en/special/festivals_hotels/special/f_festivals.html </a><br />
<a href="http://www.okinawa-information.com/blog/azela-festivaltsutsuji-matsuri" target="_blank">http://www.okinawa-information.com/blog/azela-festivaltsutsuji-matsuri </a><br />
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<b>For information about Azaleas, please visit, </b><br />
<a href="http://www.pbase.com/azaleasociety/evergreen" target="_blank">http://www.pbase.com/azaleasociety/evergreen</a><br />
<a href="http://www.azaleas.org/" target="_blank">http://www.azaleas.org</a><br />
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<b>Directions</b>. Take Highway 329 into Nago City. Then take Highway 331 going north on the eastern side of Okinawa. From Highway 331 take Highway 70. Look for the road signs off of Highway 70 that point to the Azalea Park. During the festival period you may see numerous <a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5Vxup8ea6lc/T1cDc7EL06I/AAAAAAAAD0U/vusGfhZ7T5A/s512/IMG_1670web.jpg" target="_blank">banner flags</a> along the road side that lead you to the Park. See map for other landmarks of the area.<br />
<br />
<b>Other places of interest nearby:</b> <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/02/sakishima-sappanwood-tree-higashi.html" target="_blank">The Sakishima Sappanwood Tree (Higashi)</a>, <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/02/higashi-museum.html" target="_blank">The Higashi Museum</a>, <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/02/meoto-falls-tachigawa-waterfall.html" target="_blank">Meoto Waterfall</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-17131424409691708642017-06-21T08:40:00.000-07:002017-06-22T23:59:09.625-07:00"A Dawn of a New Day..."<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; height: 487px; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left; width: 597px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2iwBHzFbCM4/UcXA-U-7JtI/AAAAAAAAAP0/GIgwEygBT-w/s600/IMG_9600web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2iwBHzFbCM4/UcXA-U-7JtI/AAAAAAAAAP0/GIgwEygBT-w/s600/IMG_9600web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Peace Pole at Hedo Misaki </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="float: left;">
<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?msid=218434148479089393079.0004c66ae6b412cbc42c1&msa=0&ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=26.872602,128.264072&spn=0.006699,0.00912&z=16&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?msid=218434148479089393079.0004c66ae6b412cbc42c1&msa=0&ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=26.872602,128.264072&spn=0.006699,0.00912&z=16&source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Map It! Okinawa - Okinawa Peace Poles</a> in a larger map</small></div>
<br />
<table style="width: 194px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110123176878684475043/PeacePolesHedo?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Cb1RqGxU6hQ/UcXAtoltKCE/AAAAAAAAAQc/UX26Sni_0fs/s160-c/PeacePolesHedo.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110123176878684475043/PeacePolesHedo?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Peace Poles - Hedo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b> </b><br />
<b> GPS</b><br />
<table style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 52.337</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 128 15.817</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">*GPS is of the Parking Lot
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<span style="font-size: large;">June 23rd - Irei no hi</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Between April 1st and June 22nd of 1945, up to 200,000 lives would perish in what would be dubbed the 'Bloodiest Battle of the Pacific'. Of that number, the Okinawans would pay the heaviest price – men, women, children, estimated to be over a hundred thousand...gone. </div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
And up north on the main island, you will find Hedo Misaki. It is as far as one can get from the once war-torn regions of the south, where much of the carnage had taken place. And there, you will find two Peace Poles firmly wedged into the rugged coral cliffs of Cape Hedo. They are beacons of hope, with each side having a message inscribed in a different language. The message reads, “<i>May Peace Prevail on Earth</i>”. Both objects serve as a simple reminder of peace and of the tragedies of war. On June 23rd, the anniversary of the day after the war ended, many Okinawans will pay tribute to the fallen who passed away during those very dark times. It is their way of spreading this message of peace. It is their way of healing. It is '<i>Irei no hi</i>', Okinawa's Memorial Day. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
And for this special occasion, the picture above taken at Hedo Misaki is symbolic in many ways. Hardly scathed by war, Hedo remains almost as pristine as it did in 1945. Its innocence remains intact. And based on its orientation, Hedo is one of the first places on Okinawa to receive the warmth of the sun's rays, marking the beginning of a brand new day for the Ryukyu Island. And as you glare towards the horizon you are no longer facing the horrible images of the past. And on any given night, as you stare deep into infinity, all that lies between you and the horizon is an abyss of endless darkness, where no hope could possibly shine through. But at that magical moment, a glimmer of life emerges from the clouds, a dawn of a new day..... and a shiny beacon of hope is lit.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-31077462767467181182017-05-02T20:00:00.000-07:002017-05-03T22:34:46.763-07:00"Haneji Dam Koinobori Festival, Nago City"<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nKmp9irWTAc/UX57_L-dIGI/AAAAAAAAHWU/sSNTdB8CKDM/s1600/IMG_6932web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nKmp9irWTAc/UX57_L-dIGI/AAAAAAAAHWU/sSNTdB8CKDM/s1600/IMG_6932web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Koinobori (Carp Streamers) at the Haneji Dam</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="float: left;">
<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&mpa=0&ctz=480&mpf=0&doflg=ptk&ie=UTF8&msa=0&t=h&start=0&geocode=FX7JkQEd4pueBw&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&source=embed&ll=26.608136,128.019733&spn=0.01343,0.018239&z=15&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&mpa=0&ctz=480&mpf=0&doflg=ptk&ie=UTF8&msa=0&t=h&start=0&geocode=FX7JkQEd4pueBw&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&source=embed&ll=26.608136,128.019733&spn=0.01343,0.018239&z=15" style="color: blue; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Map It! Okinawa</a> in a larger map</small></div>
<table style="width: 194px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/HanejiDamKoinoboriFestival?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ib_-tuyR9xw/UX572G6SCIE/AAAAAAAAHWg/tuevG_uc7oY/s160-c/HanejiDamKoinoboriFestival.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/HanejiDamKoinoboriFestival?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Haneji Dam Koinobori Festival</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></b>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> GPS</b><br />
<table style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><tbody>
<tr><td><b> <u>Latitude</u></b></td><td><b><u>Longitude</u></b></td></tr>
<tr><td><b> N 26 36.527</b></td><td><b>E 128 01.195</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Haneji Dam Koinobori Festival, Nago City</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Every year at the Haneji Dam, Nago City host the Koinobori Matsuri (loosely translated as the Festival of the Carp Streamers) in celebration of Japan's National Holiday called 'Kodomo no hi', Children's Day (May 5th). Various activities are spread throughout the two days for family and children to enjoy together. The carps streamers at the Haneji Dam (seen above) were hoisted during Golden Week (about a week prior to the festival) and adds a wonderful touch to the scenery. If you have never been to Haneji Dam then it is worth checking out. It is one of the more scenic dams here on Okinawa. Mark the calendar! It's Nago City's Koinobori Matsuri at the Haneji Dam.</div>
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<b><u>Festival Information.</u></b><br />
<b>Festival Name</b>. Haneji Dam Koinobori Matsuri (羽地 ダム 鯉のぼり 祭り)<br />
<b>Time Period</b>. Normally, last weekend of Golden Week<b> <span style="color: red;">(2017, May 6-7, Sat, Sun, 9:00am-17:30pm)</span></b> – Children's Day May 5th.<br />
<b>Website</b>. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nagokanko/" target="_blank">Nago Events Facebook Page</a> .<br />
<b>Parking</b>. Available on location. Shuttle services also available from a satellite parking area in Nago City. See website above for map of satellite parking location.<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">Recommendations</span></b>. It is recommended you bring your own shade or sun protection. Bring extra clothing/towel in case you or your children plan on getting wet.<br />
<br />
<b>For photos of Haneji Dam during the off season visit</b>: <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/08/haneji-dam-family-picnic-area.html" target="_blank">http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/08/haneji-dam-family-picnic-area.html</a><br />
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<b>For more information about Children's Day visit</b>: <a href="http://japanese.about.com/od/japanesecultur1/a/Childrens-Day-In-Japan-And-Koinobori-Song.htm" target="_blank">http://japanese.about.com/od/japanesecultur1/a/Childrens-Day-In-Japan-And-Koinobori-Song.htm</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Directions</b>. Because the festival occurs during the peak of Golden Week and it also falls on a weekend, using Highway 58 through Nago City during this time may not be your best option if you wish to avoid traffic. Chances are it will be highly congested. Furthermore, if you use the Expressway, getting off on Exit 10 in Kyodo will <i>probably</i> not be any better as well. Chances are this too will be highly congested as you merge onto Highway 58. <b>The following directions is <i>believed</i> to be the quickest and the most scenic way to access the Haneji Dam:</b> Take the Expressway, exit off Exit 9 in Ginoza Village and then take Highway 329 north into Nago City. Once you past the Marine Base, Camp Schwab, you will take Highway 331 as if you are traveling on the east side of the island. About 3-4 km later you will see signs for Highway 18 (annotated by the green line in the map above). This route will take you to the other side of Nago City. Follow this Highway till you see road signs for Haneji Dam. The turn-off to Haniji Dam is marked by the yellow line in the map above. It will be be very noticeable on were the park area of the dam is located. Note: If you continue straight on the green route, you will run into the Orion Brewery. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-6393521813436005512017-04-30T08:06:00.000-07:002017-05-01T23:46:01.871-07:00Tanbo Matsuri - Rice Paddy/Mud Festival, Kin Town<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TWECtrIt-kY/VYUT-KvEeiI/AAAAAAAAJ7Q/JLTTxA8iOFA/s1600/IMG_0095web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TWECtrIt-kY/VYUT-KvEeiI/AAAAAAAAJ7Q/JLTTxA8iOFA/s1600/IMG_0095web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Families at the Rice Paddy Festival</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="float: left;">
<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=546&num=200&ll=26.45899,127.939095&spn=0.006724,0.00912&z=16&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=546&num=200&ll=26.45899,127.939095&spn=0.006724,0.00912&z=16" style="color: blue; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Map It! Okinawa</a> in a larger map</small></div>
<table style="width: 194px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://www.gstatic.com/pwa/s/v/lighthousefe_20150624.00_p1/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/KinTownRiceFieldFestival?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CGfFJfi5E3Y/VYUTqnoQt3E/AAAAAAAAJ9o/eqTUY-b_CRk/s160-c/KinTownRiceFieldFestival.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/KinTownRiceFieldFestival?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Kin Town Rice Field Festival</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b><b> GPS</b><br />
<table style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td> <b> <u>Latitude</u></b></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 27.391</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 127 56.487</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Rice Paddy Festival, Kin Town (たんぼ 祭り, 金武町)</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Update/Be Advised: This year (2017) there will be additional parking with shuttle bus services. The auxiliary parking is located on Highway 104 at the Fire Training lot (about 2 minute drive from Highway 329/104 intersection). Highway 104 intersects with Highway 329 just before the Kin Dam on the southside. It is plotted on the map. It is not certain how far they are going to block off parking near the main event location. </span></b></div>
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<b>Event: Rice Paddy Festival/Tanbo Matsuri (sometimes referred to as the Kin Town Mud Festival)</b><br />
<b>When</b>: <span style="color: red;"><b>Wednesday</b></span><span style="color: red;"><b>, 2017 May 3</b></span><br />
<b>Time</b>: 1000-1700<br />
<b>Entrance Fee</b>: Free, (Playing in the rice paddy is free). There are other kids activities that may cost from 300 ¥ to 1500 ¥ (kayaking, banana boat ride etc.)<br />
<b>Restrooms:</b> On location. <br />
<b>Flyer Information</b>. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Kin.okinawa/posts/1430330330375609" target="_blank">Visit Kin Town Facebook Post</a>.<br />
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<b>Recommendations. </b><br />
1. Swimming attire is recommended when playing in the mud.<br />
2. Families often bring pool accessories, such as <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Sp3dr0CxYagr5TR2Iqe66kIjeNHp_eEyNqxG4NcRsm-zjz_a33_rgxLMMfPyg9LdluuKfSGZiU6zDGz7y0Wv5lXmAgVK0KEZ5WoEjjPphTK6nRc-MQx7xOyLfxV0t8371Ibs13Kd6ERK/s600/IMG_0066web.jpg" target="_blank">floatation devices</a> and swim googles.<br />
3. Bring an extra change of clothes. Bring a large bag to carry dirty/muddy clothes.<br />
4. Consider bringing extra towels or blankets for your car seats. (Normally, there is a line for one <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_lK-IQ4wr3Y/VYUUB9JLWXI/AAAAAAAAJ7Y/DkB7EYZk0jA/s600/IMG_0127web.jpg" target="_blank">giant wash station</a>. It will not, however, clean off all the mud).<br />
5. Try to make all restroom stops before attending the festival. <br />
6. Consider bringing items for shade (hat, umbrella etc.)<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Parking</b>. There is designating parking. However, this can get full rather quick. In the event that it is full. Please observe where others are parking and avoid parking in areas that would cause congestion. This may require a little walking.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Directions</b>. The event is located at the Nature Mirai-kan Recreational Facility in Kin Town. Please view the map for the most direct route. If traveling north on Highway 329, take the first immediate left just before the Kin Bridge (designated by a pink thumbtack). You will travel down a hill and see the Kin Dam shortly after (it will be on your <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTjQcWiNGuhUOKN1fVw6lrLGj6T3kwTg8gcAN8-AF-6V4gm01zdV-ZMpWCin3fJZQObD5wPyuL8EpePeybHc-cri3JwCdcLhJlkaSTLpvQZSCiUDP3oCOLyFg3CVw1Hks6iIg8i9HOHkkU/s600/IMG_1444web.jpg" target="_blank">left</a>). Near the bottom of the hill you will see an improved road that takes you east under the Kin Bridge and then towards the ocean. The Okukubi River will be on your right. The Nature Mirai-kan facility is near the mouth of the river. The rice paddy field will be about 100 meters away from the main facility.
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-48367440525921272712017-04-29T17:30:00.000-07:002017-04-30T19:41:25.265-07:00"Yuri Matsuri - The Lily Festival, Ie Island"<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZZl6m4jJmvI-vUaz2J6v9j-chq7CvgInRwlhfrZjB7u1wb0zDPyy8MJmQFnzxv5HhXmReOihepeGLyQKZUwsdtQRDRQUZkKdd7mNWUPXfKalDKo1PndDk6qSi6u1h01fT7pxa_dGbTM3/s1600/IMG_6191web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZZl6m4jJmvI-vUaz2J6v9j-chq7CvgInRwlhfrZjB7u1wb0zDPyy8MJmQFnzxv5HhXmReOihepeGLyQKZUwsdtQRDRQUZkKdd7mNWUPXfKalDKo1PndDk6qSi6u1h01fT7pxa_dGbTM3/s1600/IMG_6191web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easter Lilies sitting in formation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="float: left;">
<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=523&num=200&ll=26.731583,127.808847&spn=0.02683,0.036478&z=14&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=523&num=200&ll=26.731583,127.808847&spn=0.02683,0.036478&z=14" style="color: blue; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Map It! Okinawa</a> in a larger map</small></div>
<table style="width: 194px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/YuriMatsuri?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-2YgWI8_ufZE/UXJ7Jd3BKBE/AAAAAAAAHR4/T50XkQW79II/s160-c/YuriMatsuri.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/YuriMatsuri?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Yuri Matsuri ( ゆり まつり)</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b><b> GPS</b>
<br />
<table style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 44.309</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 127 48.541</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yuri Matsuri (</span>ゆり まつり)<span style="font-size: large;">, Ie Island</span><br />
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From late April to the first week of May, Ie Island (Ie Jima – sometimes written as Ie Shima) host the Yuri Matsuri (ゆり まつり), also known as the Lily Festival. Here you will see arrays and arrays of white trumpets along an entire field in a small section of Ie Jima's northeastern corner. The area couldn't be any more perfect with the open ocean in the immediate background accompanied by the nice ocean breeze. It is one of the more scenic flower festivals you will find here on Okinawa Prefecture. These flowers (Lilium longiflorum) are better known by their common name, the 'Easter Lily', which are actually native to the Ryukyu Islands. If you are looking for a small off-island adventure to another small island then this will be the perfect trip. Ie Jima has many beautiful areas that can be seen during a one-day-stay such as <a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-TWZG8UY2IF0/UXJ-K2Z0a5I/AAAAAAAAHRE/PB5Xv3BuQQY/s600/IMG_5714web.jpg" target="_blank">Wajee Viewpoint</a>, <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY6g1GAkri4zNmBXoIDblEFcTdyvklmK-h5fKLq9IlEBfj-nnEvWdJqegq0lwo2VC4GVfXbWE54Lkd9s10BQBexmiW-T1G51BNFdwSraavgfyqpp7I4NptuBrtwXSx1PLtKQQWVcKSWj6e/s600/IMG_6255web.jpg" target="_blank">Mt. Gusuku</a>, and the <a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Ri6g1O3K5wo/UXJ-kKyrdwI/AAAAAAAAHRo/0tYs9CG0_jQ/s600/IMG_5598web.jpg" target="_blank">Niyathiya Cave</a>.</div>
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<b><u>Festival Information</u></b>.<br />
<b>Time Period</b>. Late April to 1st Week of May <b><span style="color: red;">(2017, April 22 to May 7)</span></b><br />
<b>Admission Fee</b>. Free<br />
<b>Phone Number (Festival Infomation)</b>. 098 049 2906<br />
<b>Official Festival Blog</b>. <a href="http://lilyboo2009.ti-da.net/" target="_blank">http://lilyboo2009.ti-da.net/</a><br />
<b>Download Flyer (Japanese)</b>. <a href="http://lilyboo2009.ti-da.net/e9423368.html" target="_blank">http://lilyboo2009.ti-da.net/e9423368.html</a><br />
<b>Parking</b>. Available at the Lily Field<br />
<b>Shuttle Transportation (Festival Period only).</b> Shuttle transportation is available from Ie Port to the Lily Field. Shuttle fee (may vary over time). As of 2013, 12 years to Adults, 250 Yen / Children between 5 and 12, 100 Yen. Kids 5 and under are free. Each price is one way.<br />
<b>Bike Rentals</b>. Generally, 1000 Yen rental fee for the entire day. The bike rental facility is at the port. It is an estimated 25-30 minute bike ride to the Lily field from Ie Port.<br />
<b>Bringing Your Own Bicycle</b>. You can bring your own bicyle on the ferry. A surcharge will be added. See website below under Motobu Port/Ferry Transportation Information for pricing.<br />
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<b><u>Motobu Port/Ferry Transportation Information</u>. </b> In order to get to Ie Island you can depart from either Naha or Motobu Port. <i>The following information is for Motobu only</i>.<br />
<b>Motobu Port Directions.</b> To get to Motobu Port take Highway 58 going north towards Nago City and then turn onto Highway 449 going towards the Motobu Peninsula. The port will be just before the Sesoko Bridge. Scroll downward on the map above. There will be a balloon icon designating Motobu Port. GPS coordinates for Motobu Port are <b>N26 38.442, E127 52.803</b><br />
<b>Motobu Port Phone Number.</b> 098 047 3940 (although not fluent in English, staff members are accustom to English speaking travelers)<br />
<b>Ferry Schedule</b>. See website below.<br />
<b>Individual Ticket/Vehicle Prices</b>. See website below.<br />
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<b>Vehicle Reservations.</b> Reservations in advance are required in order to bring your vehicle to and back from Ie Island. Make reservations at the phone number above. See website below for fee prices. You will have to provide your <i>name, make of vehicle and vehicle length in <b>meters</b></i> to the Motobu Port Office.</div>
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<b>Vehicle check-in</b>. When you check in at the ticket office<i> in person,</i> they will give you a ticket stub and instruct you which lane you have to line up your car (the <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi14D61b5GY7LmcuTigSOhPxzyjuFOJW-U8WlSoq_lixg3sCFUwkPy9j8dLnuDoAMNaaz_BwZDBlgR7eloIP2246k9j5_Df7_tDHP8geJ6u2dWp5FFycLO0s4buYeGVPH_axpOgKryLkHl/s600/IMG_5544web.jpg" target="_blank">lane numbers</a> will be visible. They are near the ferry loading ramp). Please check in at the ticket office about 30 to 40 minutes before the ferry departs.</div>
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<b>Vehicle Loading.</b> Only the driver is required to be in the vehicle during loading. All other passengers can walk on the ferry. When ready, a port personnel with a whistle will direct vehicles one by one. Once he directs you, you will have to position your vehicle so as to back it in. Once you have your car in position he will take your ticket stub. Port personnel will direct you all the way in. You are not required to stay in the vehicle during the ferry ride. Just ensure your car is turned off, doors locked, and parking breaks engaged. Just ensure you return back to your car 10 minutes before the ferry arrives at Ie Port. The process is the same on your return trip. Do not lose the other half of your round trip ticket stub. You will need it in order to return to the main island. <span style="color: red;"><b>Caution</b></span>. <span style="color: red;">Once the ferry ramp drops down there is tremendous amount of loading and off-loading activity <b>at an amazing speed</b>. Please watch your children at all times in this area.</span></div>
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<b>Website. </b> <a href="http://www.iejima.org/" target="_blank">http://www.iejima.org</a><br />
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<b>Directions to the Lily Field from Ie Port</b>. You will have to navigate to Highway 225 which is relatively close to Ie Port. Once you are on Highway 225, travel initially in an easterly direction (going in a counter-clockwise direction). You will see tourism signs directing you the way, as well as festival <a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-26baRqOwyJU/UXKOHLfBnII/AAAAAAAAHSA/l3CmqspqULQ/s600/IMG_6125web.jpg" target="_blank">banners</a> that guide you in.</div>
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<b>Travel Tips</b>. 1) <b>Golden Week</b>. The last week of the festival coincides with Golden Week, <b><span style="color: red;">A Major Tourism Period for Japanese Citizens</span></b>. It will be crowded. Consider making vehicle reservations as early as possible. 2) <b>ATM</b>. Bring plenty of Yen to cover your entire stay. The Japanese Post Office on Ie Jima does have an ATM that accepts the Plus© System. You can withdraw Yen there (additional service fees will be applied). </div>
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<b>Easter Lily Information</b>. <a href="http://www.the-genus-lilium.com/longiflorum.htm" style="orphans: 2; widows: 2;" target="_blank">http://www.the-genus-lilium.com/longiflorum.htm</a>, <a href="http://easterlily.org/History.shtm" style="orphans: 2; widows: 2;" target="_blank">http://easterlily.org/History.shtm</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-52107576632163702392016-12-07T21:58:00.000-08:002016-12-08T03:53:28.876-08:00Okinawa Burger Festival, Ginoza Village<div style="text-align: left;">
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<tr><td><b> <u>Latitude</u></b></td><td><b><u>Longitude</u></b></td></tr>
<tr><td><b><span id="lat_gps"> N 26 28.953</span></b></td><td><b><span id="long_gps">E 127 58.321</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Okinawa Burger Festa, Ginoza Village</span><br />
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Vote for the Best Burger in Okinawa! Burger joints from all around the island will be vying for the title for the "Best Burger in Okinawa". The event will be held at the Ginoza Nou-son Park (near the Ginoza baseball field and sports dome). Event Information is below.</div>
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<u><b>Event Information</b></u>.<br />
<b>Date:</b> December 11, 2016 (Sunday).<br />
<b>Time:</b> 10am - 4pm.<br />
<b>Location:</b> Ginoza Nou-son Park (Near the Ginoza Sports Dome & Baseball Field).<br />
<b>Admission Fee</b>: Free.<br />
<b>Participating Burger Shops</b>: See <a href="http://ginozanavi.com/burgerfesta_2016/" target="_blank">Ginoza Village Office Tourism Website</a> for participating stores (12 total).<br />
<b>Purchasing a Burger</b>: <span style="color: red;"><b>Burgers can only be purchased with a voucher</b></span>. Vouchers are sold in booklets of 10 for a total cost of 1000 yen for each booklet(10 x 100 Yen). There should be a ticket booth at the festival where you can purchase these vouchers. (Yen Only). Number of vouchers may vary when purchasing certain burgers.<br />
<b>Voting</b>: After you receive a burger you will receive a voting 'marble'. Take the marble and throw it in one of the 12 burger shop voting boxes at the polling booth. The marbles will be counted at the end of the day. The burger shop with the most 'marbles' will win the Burger Festa Contest! The winner will be announced at 4:30pm.<br />
<b>Official Website</b>: <a href="http://ginozanavi.com/burgerfesta_2016/" target="_blank">Ginoza Village Office Tourism Website</a>.<br />
<b>Amenities</b>: Toilet facilities available.<br />
<b>Parking Available</b>: See Official Website for parking location. Parking has been mapped out on their website.<br />
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<b>Inclement Weather</b>: The event will continue if light rain occurs. If severe rain is expected, the event may be subject to cancellation. Please plan accordingly.<br />
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<u><b>Notes/Recommendations.</b></u><br />
1. Expect <b><span style="color: red;">long lines</span></b> at each burger station (12 stations anticipated). Consider bringing small snacks/drinks to get you through the wait.<br />
2. Make sure you get your ticket vouchers before you stand in line. Burger Booths will not accept Yen.<br />
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<b>Directions</b>. The Ginoza Nou-son Park is located near Highway 329 in Ginoza Village. It is also near Entrance/Exit 9 of the Okinawa Expressway and the <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KFbvftmI4ok/VHamcWnZEEI/AAAAAAAAJgw/nYnM1_UMPAs/s600/image-%25288%2529web.jpg" target="_blank">Ginoza Sports Dome</a>. Visit the Ginoza Office Website for directions and parking.</div>
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<b>Reference</b>. <a href="http://ginozanavi.com/burgerfesta_2016/" target="_blank">Ginoza Village Office Tourism Website</a>. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-5898821253740298022016-01-16T18:11:00.000-08:002016-01-17T22:47:40.173-08:00The Okinawa International Orchid Show<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An Orchid Flower on display at the Okinawa International Orchid Show</td></tr>
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<tr><td><b> <u>Latitude</u></b></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 41.244</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 127 52.567</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Okinawa International Orchid Show - Expo Park</span>
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The beginning of the year marks the flower season here on Okinawa. First there are the Cherry Blossoms, then Sunflowers, and then in February, the annual Okinawa International Orchid Show takes place at Expo Park in Motobu. It is here that orchids from around the world are put on display in an array of beauty to be judged for competition. If you are a flower lover, then this is one event you don't want to miss. According to their website, there are at least 10,000 entries from around the world. </div>
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<b>About the Competition</b>. There are two divisions for competition: the 'Certification Division' and the 'Competition Division'. The Certification Division covers new hybrids species not yet certified by other organizations and the Competition Division is broken into five sub-categories which include: Potted, Cut Flower, Flower Display, Flower Design (small-large arrangement), and International Entrants. First, second, and third cash prizes are awarded per respective Division/category and a then an overall Grand Champion is selected. </div>
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Please go to photo album above, or <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/OkinawaInternationalOrchidShow" target="_blank">click here</a> to see other photos of orchids.<br />
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<b>Show Period</b>. February (normally about 9-10 days)<span style="color: red;"> <b>(2016 January 30 - February 7)</b></span><b>.</b></div>
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<b>Information</b>. For exact dates, times, entrance fees etc., please go to their website (in english): <a href="http://oki-park.jp/" target="_blank">http://oki-park.jp</a></div>
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<b>Directions</b>. The Orchid Show is at Expo Park in Motobu Town off of Highway 114. To get close to the Orchid Show look for the landmark sign, <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6-JGdrvz1oVPKMaEteQ8IRG0jUpEg0nKgSZFWBi2TMDIj936GRaakhETHfz26onAZ7fk0UDf-YFE8ULIcVesraH242UYr2gWbMVgi7gTcaSqrKDosqY1ZpEzn6mF2Sa6eqg01sWl0oU2l/s600/IMG_8370web.jpg" target="_blank">Parking Area 8</a>, (see map above) and several <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5oFNOaD3Sf_GfJantYVBg0ENLy4GtH8yUmSWkPVh7pn2i9Qd4E8KhVv5rYjWzb8bYp6NPT__Agxm76ah8h8ZuUHrp4B5ZKMaYM8TZlYA90QZnOQXj4jHAISI6ZXwdTQ26ZJzuoRA9SVcV/s600/IMG_8117web.jpg" target="_blank">signs</a> for the Okinawa International Orchid Show. You can also use the <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis6Q2MttqRSZFjlDD7NYLvKHfEqbXGAHdVxH2EVcFp5I5DRP-c7PZM46GbdClm1hIYJ1znac8Viwxg4doiofZLFxLZjOfOpQx0Emr4Y8lzFSb6OyxkcTnRI7W51K54uoqTmiXm6QVIBLDQ/s600/IMG_8120web.jpg" target="_blank">swirly tower</a> as a navigating landmark.</div>
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<b>Genus Categories</b>: Some of the genus categories of the orchid family found on display include, but not all: <i>Paphiopedilums, Brassavola, Broughtonia, Cattleya, Epidendrum, Lealia, Encyclia, Phragmipedium, Calanthe, Lycaste, Bulbophyllum, Maxillaria, Zygopetalum, Habenaria, Odontoglossum, Cochlioda, Dendrobium</i>.<br />
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<b>Other places of interest nearby</b>: <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/09/fukugi-trees-of-bise-village.html">Fukugi Trees of Bise Village</a>, <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/09/bise-village-shell-shop.html">Bise Village Shell Shop</a>.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-45076712230604717442015-07-02T19:19:00.003-07:002015-07-02T19:23:57.830-07:00Sagaribana Garden, Nago City<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRyQcWC91QjnXJb-4h4zirTkBaz_yMeI4Zc4NcHOqVBAflltrCDEhxBtJX3V2v1yNi_k-51xQkDvA4wvK9wTEC_dYxrLPjjivrrOAtE6x95tMZ9P3aVWh6s1sy_cl6g_2q-o7F4UcGOd97/s1600/IMG_1631web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRyQcWC91QjnXJb-4h4zirTkBaz_yMeI4Zc4NcHOqVBAflltrCDEhxBtJX3V2v1yNi_k-51xQkDvA4wvK9wTEC_dYxrLPjjivrrOAtE6x95tMZ9P3aVWh6s1sy_cl6g_2q-o7F4UcGOd97/s1600/IMG_1631web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Sagaribana Flower at bloom</td></tr>
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<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://www.gstatic.com/pwa/s/v/lighthousefe_20150630.00_p1/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/SagaribanaGarden?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mpcejElQVvU/VZVKZfDO8jE/AAAAAAAAKAw/0nH3j1FLsvc/s160-c/SagaribanaGarden.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/SagaribanaGarden?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Sagaribana Garden</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b><b> GPS</b><br />
<table style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 37.754</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 128 02.270</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="color: red;"><b>NOTE: It's estimated that the 4th of July, 2015 will be the last day the flowers will bloom</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Sagaribana Garden, Nago City</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
From late June to early July flowers from the tree, <i>Barringtonia racemosa (also </i>referred to as a <i>Powder Puff Tree),</i> bloom long into the night. In Okinawa these flowers (and the tree) are called Sagaribana (サガリバナ) or sometimes, Moukabana (モーカバナ). By the next day, these flowers will be gone as they die off and fall onto the ground in the early morning; these flowers only have a one night lifespan. This particular Sagaribana garden is on private property belonging to a Mr. Kinjo. He opens it up to the public during the season (late June/early July). For more information see below.</div>
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<b>When</b>: Late June/ early July. Early July the best (highly recommend to see before the first typhoon makes landfall during the season).<br />
<b>Time</b>. 1900-1100. Flowers begin to open around 730pm. (It is recommended to arrive between 830pm-9pm. This is when they fully bloom).<br />
<b>Entrance fee</b>: 200 ¥ per adults. Middle-school and below: free. Normally, Mr. Kinjo is on site. Please deposit the fee to him.<br />
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<b>Recommendations</b>. There will be a lot of mosquitoes during this time of the year. Please plan accordingly.<br />
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<b>Parking</b>. There is designated <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fnZOeGQRozA/VZVMf6Zl6hI/AAAAAAAAKA4/_G4_LSG8DHs/s600/IMG_5822web.jpg" target="_blank">parking</a> about 100 meters away from Mr. Kinjo’s property. You may see a <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q2mk5vnq3JA/VZXkNMPv3LI/AAAAAAAAKBU/RCcnteDyMdc/s600/IMG_5820web.jpg" target="_blank">sign</a> in an open field just before you get to his property. You will arrive to the <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fnZOeGQRozA/VZVMf6Zl6hI/AAAAAAAAKA4/_G4_LSG8DHs/s600/IMG_5822web.jpg" target="_blank">parking lot</a> before you arrive to his property. <br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Directions</b>. Take Highway 58 north into Nago City to the Highway 110/Highway 58 intersection. There will be a FamilyMart on the corner. Going left takes you to Kouri Island. Do not go left. Instead take a right (going west). You will reach another traffic light. You will have to cross it. (Do not veer left on the main road). Look for <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wAiYVbWNGBs/VZVMBy-ZTyI/AAAAAAAAKAQ/uDt1mnEFeKw/s600/IMG_5819web.jpg" target="_blank">signs</a> on each corner that have the words “サガリバナ” as posted <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wAiYVbWNGBs/VZVMBy-ZTyI/AAAAAAAAKAQ/uDt1mnEFeKw/s600/IMG_5819web.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>. Continue straight until you reach the <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fnZOeGQRozA/VZVMf6Zl6hI/AAAAAAAAKA4/_G4_LSG8DHs/s600/IMG_5822web.jpg" target="_blank">designated parking lot</a> (a <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q2mk5vnq3JA/VZXkNMPv3LI/AAAAAAAAKBU/RCcnteDyMdc/s600/IMG_5820web.jpg" target="_blank">sign</a> may be posted and you may see other cars there). You will have to continue on foot and walk little further around the corner. You will see the garden lit up at night. Here is a <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipu9w62n0ZflebV7EWQVu8J1EOATJ4qdkECZKbnljF4fCYubh4reByU-GPshCHa6OZM2tyZ0jSdeYXisBvsnbqGjXd_52Gp_00wVVZ47PF3ekKzj8JmQdc1qGjgysYx4RVCwZqL4zcxY_O/s600/IMG_5806web.jpg" target="_blank">picture</a> taken during daylight.</div>
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<b>Reference</b>. <a href="http://www.ntu.edu.tw/oldenglish/spotlight/2014/e140627_1.html" target="_blank">National Taiwan University</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-12215530239177472622015-06-21T22:43:00.003-07:002015-06-23T04:25:50.148-07:00Kouki Beach, Nago City<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pJMnEVaFuW0/VYUKo_6rgCI/AAAAAAAAJ3c/yBdOgApHS2o/s1600/IMGP9712web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pJMnEVaFuW0/VYUKo_6rgCI/AAAAAAAAJ3c/yBdOgApHS2o/s1600/IMGP9712web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kouki Beach, Nago City</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="float: left;">
<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=388&num=200&ll=26.5384952,127.948133&spn=0.026951,0.036478&z=17&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=388&num=200&ll=26.5384952,127.948133&spn=0.026951,0.036478&z=18" style="color: blue; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Map It! Okinawa</a> in a larger map</small></div>
<table style="width: 194px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://www.gstatic.com/pwa/s/v/lighthousefe_20150618.00_p1/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/KoukiBeach?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6eks4_bHaD0/VYUKo-cPyFE/AAAAAAAAJ6I/1hiyORdTRSU/s160-c/KoukiBeach.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/KoukiBeach?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Kouki Beach</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>
<b> GPS</b><br />
<table style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td> <b> <u>Latitude</u></b></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 32.298</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 127 56.848</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Kouki Beach, Nago City (幸喜 ビーチ, 名護市)</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Kouki Beach is on the southern end of Nago City. It’s a nice beach with easily accessible accommoda-tions. This is a resort-free beach with no swim nets and few man-made structures on location. If you prefer the more natural scenery then Kouki Beach is an ideal place for friends and families. Below is park information.</div>
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<b>General Information</b>: See <a href="http://www.okipons.com/mapitokinawa/kouki-beach-info-June-2015.pdf" target="_blank">Kouki Beach Information Flyer</a><br />
<b>Hours, Summer season</b>: 0900-2000 (April 1 – September 30)<br />
<b>Hours, Off-season</b>: 0900-1800 (October 1 – March 31)<br />
<b>Entrance Fee</b>: Free<br />
<b>Parking</b>: Free (<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Pr4FujvgB4Q/VYUK1brQS1I/AAAAAAAAJ4E/R54dj4fL-sI/s600/IMGP9734web.jpg" target="_blank">see image</a>)<br />
<b>Swim nets</b>: not available<br />
<b>Rental Space (Camping lot/Barbecue lot)</b>: 2000 ¥ ~ 2500 ¥ per day / till 11 am the next morning. See <a href="http://www.okipons.com/mapitokinawa/kouki-beach-info-June-2015.pdf" target="_blank">Kouki Beach Flyer</a> (For reservations call number below) or visit the Kouki Beach Office on location. Camping/Barbecue lots are designated by <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYhwiRK_qcwaqs86-2cirvwbdW3wpzhTy9N2Tm1tloKlk8LjOlra2feLfoYj-fVjMtCWzVEFPsgebH70OnQvYhmzJDIuLz0cU5cW9PghbT4DbqtQCQZgak7Viq8PbxnqOZggVPOHdn6wKm/s600/imageweb.jpg" target="_blank">numbered sections</a>.<br />
<b>Camping lot locations</b>: See <a href="http://www.okipons.com/mapitokinawa/kouki-beach-camp-info-June-2015.pdf" target="_blank">Kouki Beach Camping Flyer</a><br />
<b>Kouki Beach Office</b> (<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qUCgWDxlseg/VYUMoy295tI/AAAAAAAAJ4s/g1b-VNlxuFU/s600/IMGP9748web.jpg" target="_blank">On location</a>): 098 054 2567.<br />
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<b>Facility Accommodations: </b><br />
- <b>Wash stations</b> (for feet): Free<br />
- <b>Showers </b>(for body): 100 ¥ / 3 Minutes<br />
- <b>Coin Locker</b>: 200 ¥ / Non-refundable<br />
- <b>Toilet (Available)</b>: <b><span style="color: red;">IMPORTANT!</span></b> <span style="color: red;"><b>Toilet Paper is NOT FREE</b></span>. You have to purchase toilet paper via machine for 100 ¥ / Must purchase before you enter the stall. They are not inside the stalls themselves. (<span style="color: red;"><b>Highly Recommend you bring your own toilet paper</b></span>).<br />
- A <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimg8XlY3tiNEUl5KwxJxw3PKa4_U-7XjELw5UsJab5wK6gvTZu6MmDSeHqcCZE5_06ihJcqKV1yU5JXYIHqPcv0uH6YTnGRcmmU5uBeoLUx9_BmEe6SwTv6WPXnvxL1PUOFxuPGRd5Nt2P/s600/IMGP9749web.jpg" target="_blank">FamilyMart Convenience</a> Store is within walking distance (200 meters)<br />
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<b>General Rules:</b><br />
- Barbecue using gas grills only (no charcoal). Barbecue at designated camping locations. Must reserve and pay daily fee.<br />
- Please do not leave garbage behind, to include cigarette butts (Recommend bring your own garbage bags)<br />
- Dogs and pets must be on the leash at all times. Please clean up their excrements <br />
- Playing golf or riding motor bikes on the beach is not authorized<br />
- Rude behavior and drunkenness towards others is not acceptable<br />
- The staff at Kouki Beach are not responsible for lost or stolen items or damage to personal property. <br />
- Camping Tents/Barbeque activities/fireworks are not permitted on the beach. Camping tents and barbecue activities are permitted on reserved lots (must pay daily fee)<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Recommendations</b>. At Kouki Beach there are no shaded areas on the actual beach. It is recommended that you bring your own equipment for shading. To use several accommodations, bring ample enough of 100 ¥ coins.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Direction/Parking</b>. Kouki Beach is right off of Highway 58. There are no visible road signs pointing you to Kouki Beach. Take Highway 58 north into Nago City. Kouki Beach is about 1 km north of the Busena Resort and 200 meters south of the <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimg8XlY3tiNEUl5KwxJxw3PKa4_U-7XjELw5UsJab5wK6gvTZu6MmDSeHqcCZE5_06ihJcqKV1yU5JXYIHqPcv0uH6YTnGRcmmU5uBeoLUx9_BmEe6SwTv6WPXnvxL1PUOFxuPGRd5Nt2P/s600/IMGP9749web.jpg" target="_blank">AJ Koki Resort</a>. The AJ Koki Resort will have a FamilyMart on the first floor. The FamilyMart will be a noticeable landmark. Parking is free (see <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Pr4FujvgB4Q/VYUK1brQS1I/AAAAAAAAJ4E/R54dj4fL-sI/s600/IMGP9734web.jpg" target="_blank">image</a>).</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-29434780265035557712015-06-03T05:44:00.000-07:002015-06-04T17:02:30.849-07:00"Chasing the Shark's Fin"<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2VFeiiZpyzs/UE8v5na_UWI/AAAAAAAAFvI/fC1fIVmxr6k/s1600/IMG_4414web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2VFeiiZpyzs/UE8v5na_UWI/AAAAAAAAFvI/fC1fIVmxr6k/s1600/IMG_4414web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Shark's Fin of Teniya, Nago City</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="float: left;">
<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=388&num=200&ll=26.555442,128.135905&spn=0.013436,0.018239&z=15&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=388&num=200&ll=26.555442,128.135905&spn=0.013436,0.018239&z=15" style="color: blue; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Map It! Okinawa</a> in a larger map</small></div>
<table style="width: 194px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/ChasingTheSharkSFin?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-nC17vQFG1zw/UE8vVBQ1eHE/AAAAAAAAF1c/2gKpuQVZ6ug/s160-c/ChasingTheSharkSFin.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/ChasingTheSharkSFin?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Chasing the Shark's Fin</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b> GPS</b>
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<table style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 33.016</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 128 06.484</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> *GPS data is to the starting point
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<span style="font-size: large;">Chasing the Shark's Fin (Nago City)</span>
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<div class="fb-like" data-href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/09/chasing-sharks-fin.html" data-layout="button_count" data-send="true" data-show-faces="false" data-width="100" style="margin-left: 15px;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
At different points along Highway 330 off the northeastern shores of Okinawa you may notice several <a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Fb4UzCSle70/UE8xfPZk27I/AAAAAAAAFyE/PFXSBGaAI0g/s600/IMG_4524web.jpg" target="_blank">shark fin-like rocky mounds</a> near the coastline. One in particular stands prominently among them. This is the 'Shark's Fin' of Teniya near the northern border of Nago City. Naturally, some will be curious to know how they can get there for a closer view. To do that...you either have to travel by boat, kayak, charter a small plane, ride a glider, or by the most affordable means – on foot.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
As you get closer to the Shark's Fin you have to scale <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsvKaxjJgqUu9VsVlPdrtOSSOSJsqmuy9Gaalj3odnp858VZyluAj8TO93n0exjY37_1fThD_91cUFSMPFsqOJWVwlTkYoHmkZgXRIYiR00oXPfIBDcGzmbPlzFA3ap6maNKPZwWqMQLp/s600/IMG_4465web.jpg" target="_blank">small rocky cliffs</a> or walk in waist high water to continue on the other side. Waters in these areas are somewhat shallow to a few hundred meters out. However, the closer you get to the Shark's Fin the rougher the water gets. But the Shark's Fin is not the only thing to see along the way, and you don't have to go all the way to have a good time. The <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMkV6ZjG9ZHFC1fVQTq_DAqxYqkhSsQEmueXWZBw2hTco0TKnXVvidTAmtREuaGf0KXurx-eDtoinu2QXnPHx2y7cyd25CRBs8cO5vuBg37Xz80Fht5ZSDKkAU13xI5bhMjz5u4lbi4dQ7/s600/IMG_4459web.jpg" target="_blank">scenery itself is breath taking</a>. </div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Author's note</b>. In fairness, the <b>entire trek was not completed</b>...<b>meaning</b> I did not go the Shark's Fin and then go all the way back where I started. I continued further to see what was on the other side in the next town. After 4 hours of the being in the relentless Okinawan summer heat, dehydrated, and exhausted from the journey, the thought of going all the way back was not exactly greeted with open arms. I was fortunate enough to meet a kind fisherman who would give me ride back. <i>He laughed at the idea that I would walk this far in the first place</i>. </div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Since I did not travel back the same way I came in <span style="color: red;">I cannot give you a first hand account if the change in tides will have an effect on your return trip</span>. As a precaution I would base your travels based on the tide information. The furthest you have to walk in the water is about 50-75 meters at about waist height in relatively calm waters. </div>
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<b>Starting point</b>. Your starting point begins at the beach <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAeoi3ege9qn4rmL-o1hJVNlIt6W8dGqrG5w_qiUqzw-8zFMJH_7M7DPB1t25US1xSgXp3vYRxjLcvQDLdKio2gew8tR8cN5h5BK6oW2VDlMyd-4jVfhm_q-LrJyjSYhnwX-86bswnzA8/s600/IMG_4553web.jpg" target="_blank">parking area in Kayo</a> designated by a Green Thumbtack in the map above. GPS coordinate above is to this area.<br />
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<b>Timeline</b>. Plan on <span style="color: red;">1hr and half to 2 hours getting to the Shark's Fin</span>. Included in this time are your water breaks, photo breaks, bathroom breaks etc. Again you don't have to go all the way to the Shark's Fin to have a good time.<br />
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<b>Places of interest along the way</b>. <br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
-<b>Kayo Beach</b>. If you are not interested in beach trekking, the beach at Kayo is just a nice and relaxing place to visit all together. The <a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9ATOIW_e0C4/UE8vcWlLrQI/AAAAAAAAFuM/1zDjSuDp0Pg/s600/IMG_3865web.jpg" target="_blank">scenery is relaxing and peaceful</a> since the waters here tend to be very, very calm. You will still be able to view the fin from a distance. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
-<b>Bonsai style tree</b>. About 500 meters north from the starting point you will see a large mound with a very beautiful <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-M1-rKjaoibE/UE8vvWx4y8I/AAAAAAAAFuw/HbQCefvFZ6A/s600/IMG_4393web.jpg" target="_blank">bonsai style-like tree</a> on top. The tree from a distance looks like one big tree, but up close you will see that it is actually two large pine(?) trees next to each other. Being so exposed to the elements, it is a wonder how they survived through years and years of severe weather. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
-<b>Small Waterfall</b>. The <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ICEiFKKJO5o/UE8wJmT9TPI/AAAAAAAAFvo/n5hk4-7R1V4/s600/IMG_4425web.jpg" target="_blank">second estuary</a> will lead you to a small waterfall. It is about a 20 minute hike along the stream. This can be a culminating point for your journey should you wish. The <a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ioMlciC5gdc/UE8wW5Dr3HI/AAAAAAAAFwA/RMIwwmPQ9ns/s640/IMG_4449web.jpg" target="_blank">waterfall is small about 15 feet high</a> with low volume of water gushing through it (depending on the season). The pool of water is nice if you just want to sit and cool off and can easily fit 6 people. You will see many spider webs along the way. The waterfall is at <b>GPS N26 33.330 E128 7.466</b> and is marked by a Pink Balloon Icon on the map. <b>Note</b>. <i>The creek bed leading away from the 1st and 3rd estuaries were not investigated. </i></div>
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-<b>Unusual rock formations</b>. Once you reach the Shark's Fin you will notice <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VuUTY1r_SUg/UE8w-yDkziI/AAAAAAAAFxM/DCrIyLYsGV4/s600/IMG_4514web.jpg" target="_blank">unusual rock patterns</a> on the cliff-side. This was the only area along the trek with these unusual rock patterns of this nature (that I could tell) and it may say something of the unique geological history of this particular area. </div>
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-<b>The Shark's Fin</b>. At last, the <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MIYgWxQzLjM/UE8xEvTNgSI/AAAAAAAAFxU/_UL1brHcX1g/s600/IMG_4496web.jpg" target="_blank">Shark's Fin</a>. At this point you have just traveled 3.5 Kilometers (2.12 miles). Congratulations! </div>
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<b>Can you get to the Shark's Fin from the north? </b>The answer is yes, and considerably takes a lot less (maybe 40 minutes) to get to your destination. However, the scenery along the way is not as impressive and there is one place you have no choice but to walk in the water up to middle-chest to shoulder height of water for about 30 meters depending on the tide as you are clinging to the rock side. The waters here are little stronger than the southern starting point. <br />
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<b>Other Photos</b>. <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/ChasingTheSharkSFin?authuser=0&feat=directlink" target="_blank">Click here</a> or the above photo album to see pictures taken up to the Shark's Fin.<br />
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<b>Recommended Guidelines. </b><br />
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<b>Fitness</b>. Getting to the Shark's Fin requires a good level of physical fitness and physical agility. As mentioned above, the closer you get to the Shark's Fin you will have to <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsvKaxjJgqUu9VsVlPdrtOSSOSJsqmuy9Gaalj3odnp858VZyluAj8TO93n0exjY37_1fThD_91cUFSMPFsqOJWVwlTkYoHmkZgXRIYiR00oXPfIBDcGzmbPlzFA3ap6maNKPZwWqMQLp/s600/IMG_4465web.jpg" target="_blank">scale over rocky terrain</a>. Sometimes the safest way is to cling to the side and walk in the water. For the most part it should be knee to waist high water but this may vary depending on the tide. You can pretty much walk 90% of the way on the beach alone. <span style="color: red;">Most of the climbing is manageable, but one slip can lead to a bad day</span>.</div>
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<b>Bring plenty of water</b>. Having plenty of water is a must, even if it is not too hot outside. </div>
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<b>Nourishments</b>. Recommend a small backpack with snacks (waterproofed of course).</div>
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<b>Plan on getting wet</b>. <span style="color: red;">Waterproofing certain valuables is highly highly recommended (i.e. cell phone, camera). </span></div>
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<b>Shade. </b>Cover up with a hat or towel particularly if you are going to be in the hot sun. There are very few areas along the way for shade.</div>
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<b>Slipping.</b> Rocks along the coral cliffs can be very, very slippery. Recommend <span style="color: red;">something other than tennis shoes</span> that have good traction and you don't might getting wet. Recommend hiking gloves. </div>
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<b>Bring a few buddies with you. </b></div>
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<b>Center of gravity.</b> Use three points of contact and keep low center of gravity. Take nothing for granted on these rocks. </div>
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<b>Mapping Points</b>. Other LandMarks you will see during your trek have been posted on the map above. <br />
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<b>Directions</b>. The starting point (Kayo Beach) is right off Highway 330. Look for this <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAeoi3ege9qn4rmL-o1hJVNlIt6W8dGqrG5w_qiUqzw-8zFMJH_7M7DPB1t25US1xSgXp3vYRxjLcvQDLdKio2gew8tR8cN5h5BK6oW2VDlMyd-4jVfhm_q-LrJyjSYhnwX-86bswnzA8/s600/IMG_4553web.jpg" target="_blank">Landmark</a> on the right-hand side as you are traveling north. It will be next to an old school. It is about 30 minutes from the time you leave Highway 329 onto Highway 330.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-161209684344894052015-05-16T02:00:00.000-07:002015-05-17T16:48:21.882-07:00"The Yohena Ajisai (Hydrangea) Gardens"<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yG5QZ10XhfQ/UZ4y0ORXYRI/AAAAAAAAHos/vNy9_NKVfAs/s1600/IMG_7723web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yG5QZ10XhfQ/UZ4y0ORXYRI/AAAAAAAAHos/vNy9_NKVfAs/s1600/IMG_7723web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ajisai or Hydrangea Flowers at the Yohena Ajisai Garden</td></tr>
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<table style="width: 194px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/YohenaAjisaiGardenMotobu?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-guazsirDpnE/UZXZ-x_If0E/AAAAAAAAHpk/KC4SKQbHDVE/s160-c/YohenaAjisaiGardenMotobu.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/YohenaAjisaiGardenMotobu?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Yohena Ajisai Garden, Motobu</a></td></tr>
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<b> GPS</b>
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<tr><td> <b> <u>Latitude</u></b></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 38.831</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 127 56.707</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Yohena Ajisai (Hydrangea) Gardens, Izumi</span><br />
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You can never fall short of seeing beautiful flowers here on Okinawa. Around mid-May to the end of June marks the season for Ajisai's, or better known in English as Hydrangea Flowers. In Izumi of Motobu Town, and elderly woman named Mrs. Uto Yohena, turned her home landscape into beautiful flora display of Hydrangea Flowers. She first opened her garden to the public in 2001 (Mrs. Yohena turns 96 in 2013). Since then she has greeted visitors from all over the island as they come and gaze over her purple beauties. In October of 2010, Mrs. Yohena was formally recognized for her deeds and received the “Regional Contribution Award” by the Okinawa Times Newspaper. She is one of the friendliest 'Oba-chans' you will ever meet. Though Hydrangea Flowers make up most of the scenery (mainly purple), you will see various other flowers of different colors and species. </div>
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<b><u>Visitor Information</u></b>. <br />
<i><b>Time Period</b></i>. Mid-May to end of June <span style="color: red;"><b>(2015, May 17 - 30 June)</b></span><br />
<i><b>Admission Fee</b></i>. Adults: 300 Yen, Children Ages 7 – 18: 100 Yen, Children 6 and Under: Free<br />
<b>Hours</b>. Open Daily during viewing season 9am to 6pm (till June 30)<br />
<b><i>Parking</i></b>. Available and Free.<br />
<b><i>Website (In English)</i></b>. <a href="http://www.geocities.jp/tomotakayo/englishM.htm" target="_blank">http://www.geocities.jp/tomotakayo/englishM.htm</a><br />
<b><i>Website (In Japanese)</i></b>. <a href="http://www.geocities.jp/tomotakayo/" target="_blank">http://www.geocities.jp/tomotakayo/</a><br />
<b><i>Phone Number</i></b>. 098 047 2183<br />
<i><b>Restrooms</b></i>. Available<br />
<b><i>Baby Strollers</i></b>. Though there are some areas that will facilitate the use of baby strollers, there are other areas that can only be accessed by the use of stairs. Plan accordingly. <br />
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<span style="color: red;"><b>Considerations</b></span>. Consider visiting the garden before the first Typhoon hits Okinawa. June marks the beginning of Typhoon season.<br />
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<b>Related Articles</b>. Other photos visit <a href="http://www.ryukyulife.com/2015/05/images-from-sunday-afternoon-in-north.html" target="_blank">www.ryukyulife.com</a><br />
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<b>Directions</b>. From Highway 58, take Highway 84 going towards Motobu. You will see signs for Highway 123. Continue on Highway 84 passing the Highway 123/Highway 84 T-intersection. Shortly after, you will pass an <a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5Go_OTv5qv8/USgo2sxjpMI/AAAAAAAAHD8/FO_cBEDevKg/s600/IMG_3560web.jpg" target="_blank">ENEOS gas station</a> (on the right). As soon as you pass this Gas Station, you will turn left. Look for this <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7sfwwx74ArJ6I66UBD17NMqwmOgA2qWBzCXw3obfNRZ6dOYrxOTEtvIWbHd692cNENM_RKGQhJkCkrW8M3RNDj2KBtkKdWjYfNgTNKjCILZ6rgUcJqaOZxWpY7W9veEXD9OG-MXw7jDbw/s600/IMG_3557web.jpg" target="_blank">Orange-shape structure</a> on the left-hand side. The turn-off will be before this structure. From here look at the Google Map and follow the Blue and Green Route. The Green Route takes you to the Yohena Ajisai Gardens. Look for this <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6nYNcsFxth1IeQsV95njhn-tpY5qjkHP9q1Q4ahANIjQA1AnPIVyCkh4eDYEGd1T35Q97qYx3N4yt-6CPTgwRcsdn3W4Rw68AzSdG79bo1xmCm5v5_5hNOugMISDjLBQXxiSqTX5Ikeki/s600/IMG_7792web.jpg" target="_blank">sign</a> off the main road which directs you to the Yohena Garden parking lot. (<b>Note</b>: The entire Blue Route takes you to the <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2013/02/shizen-sekitei-natural-stone-garden.html" target="_blank">Natural Stone Garden</a>).</div>
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<b>Source of Information</b>. Interview with Mrs. Yohena's daughter, <a href="http://www.geocities.jp/tomotakayo/englishM.htm" target="_blank">Yohena Ajisai Garden Website</a>.<br />
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<b>Other Places of Interest Nearby</b>. <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2013/02/shizen-sekitei-natural-stone-garden.html" target="_blank">Shizen Sekitei (The Natural Stone) Garden</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-71337236352395455282015-05-11T23:45:00.000-07:002015-05-13T05:07:59.892-07:00Minna Jima<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Minna Beach, Minna Jima</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/MinnaJima?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Minna Jima</a></td></tr>
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<b> GPS</b>
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<table style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 39.560</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 127 53.367</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">* GPS is to Toguchi Port
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<span style="font-size: large;">Minna Jima</span><br />
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Off the coast of the Motobu Peninsula sits a small, sparsely populated island called Minna Jima. So small that as of July 2013, there were only 4 students at the Elementary/Junior High School. During the summer season, vacationers flock here in droves,...and for good reason, it has one of prettiest sandy beaches here on Okinawa. Only 15-20 minute ride from the main island, you can easily get away for a one day excursion at a reasonable price. </div>
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<b>Minna Beach</b>. You will find most of your vacationers on Minna Beach which is on the eastern side of the island (it is the beach you see as you enter Minna Port). You will find most of the <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-zu0blLYUZFA/UeC-RB4cm0I/AAAAAAAAH0A/75kPuAeR0JI/s600/IMG_1143web.jpg" target="_blank">beach goers</a> on the north end as most of the <a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SqeUnosC6aQ/UeDBIcJiatI/AAAAAAAAH0o/14LQGPgFv1Y/s600/IMG_1091web.jpg" target="_blank">gear rental stations</a> are on that side as well. If you are looking for more privacy you can head towards the southern end. The beach is just as beautiful. </div>
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<b>The Cove</b>. From an aerial view, the cove on the western side of the island may have the appearance of a beautiful lagoon. However, it can be one of the least attractive areas on Minna Jima, particularly at low tide. More of a <a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tZk7RFVoTFg/UeDFkRPY35I/AAAAAAAAH1o/7Ja6uQYPqN0/s600/IMG_1334web.jpg" target="_blank">marshland</a> than a paradise of tide pools, you will not find too many tourist at this location. The north and south sides of the islands you will find more coral tide pools and jagged coral reefs. Click on the different icons on the map to see photos taken of that particular area. Please also click on the photo album above to see other photos of Minna-jima.</div>
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<b>Minna Jima Boat Schedule / Boat Fare / One-DayTrip Travel Packet.</b></div>
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Please download the following PDF for the Boat Schedule, Boat Ticket Prices, and Other Information for your One-Day Trip. Note. Because there were no official sponsored websites for the Minna-jima boat schedule and ticket prices, the PDF was reproduced for the internet for your convenience. <span style="color: red;"><b>Information is subject to change without notice by the Motobu Port Authority</b></span>. For an updated schedule you can call the Toguchi Port office at 098-047-5179. <a href="http://www.okipons.com/mapitokinawa/one-day-trip-minna-jima-July-11-2013.pdf" target="_blank">>>>>> DOWNLOAD PDF</a>.</div>
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<b>Weather Cancellation <span style="color: red;">(IMPORTANT!)</span></b>. Please be advised that boat trips are subject to cancellation due to severe weather. This includes severe wind conditions. <span style="color: red;"><b>Please call before you go!</b></span> The Toguchi Port Office can be reached at 098-047-5179.<br />
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<b>Directions</b>. The following directions is for Toguchi Port on Motobu. (Note. Please do not confuse Toguchi Port with Motobu Port which is just a little further south). Go north on Highway 58 and then take Highway 449 along the Motobu Peninsula. You will continue and pass the Sesoko Bridge (which will be on your left as you are going north). <i>The following directions is little out of the way, but you will get a better visual sense of where the port is if this is your first time</i>. As you continue on Highway 449 you will cross over on another <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YbnFZ1OWNGA/UeDF6Y95gGI/AAAAAAAAH2A/KGCQ3i8ntCU/s600/IMG_0998web.jpg" target="_blank">major bridge</a> (you will then see a harbor to your right. The <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvWrVVFe_Ygz4qH9zfr7JGea8WThw97UXLCHtsP4EUBxRcB0igyrPNhJrYAdFYe3dtyo5VVl7SbMS5BVKm3V1lyfER3qCkHk5YI3zbCITQ3BL6-ndgZkgsXYCDrgQcQAX0BEXBBRxdgZX/s600/IMG_0982web.jpg" target="_blank">Toguchi Port</a> is on the southern end of this harbor as identified by a balloon icon. You must scroll to the right one map). Once you cross the bridge you will run into the Highway 449/Highway 84 T-Intersection. Left takes you to the Churaumi Aquarium. <b>You will want to go right</b>. You will momentarily travel along side of the north end of the harbor, but you will want to navigate your way to the southern side. The port office is <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvWrVVFe_Ygz4qH9zfr7JGea8WThw97UXLCHtsP4EUBxRcB0igyrPNhJrYAdFYe3dtyo5VVl7SbMS5BVKm3V1lyfER3qCkHk5YI3zbCITQ3BL6-ndgZkgsXYCDrgQcQAX0BEXBBRxdgZX/s600/IMG_0982web.jpg" target="_blank">very recognizable</a>. GPS coordinates above are for Toguchi Port. There are easier ways to get there, but if it's your first time it may seem like traveling through a maze. </div>
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<b>Author's Note</b>. There will be a follow up post for overnight trips on Minna-jima.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-86909066327085265112015-04-12T23:03:00.000-07:002015-04-12T04:55:00.919-07:00"Traveling to Ie Jima"<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pR3GLS7_HgQ/UYs1NShmGHI/AAAAAAAAHcU/qS4MTdG2_dw/s1600/IMG_7239web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pR3GLS7_HgQ/UYs1NShmGHI/AAAAAAAAHcU/qS4MTdG2_dw/s1600/IMG_7239web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ie Jima as seen from Sesoko Island (Mt. Tachu in the background)</td></tr>
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> GPS</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> </span><br />
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<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> </b></span><b>N 26 38.442</b></td><td><b>E 127 52.803</b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> *GPS to Motobu Port
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<span style="font-size: large;">Traveling to Ie Jima (伊江島)</span>
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Maybe one of the most noticeable islands seen from the Okinawa main island is Ie Jima (伊江島) which sits off the coast of the Motobu Peninsula just north of Sesoko Island. Its hallmark feature is a large rock hill that <i>appears</i> to sit dead center on this good size isle. In the modern era, this little mountain is referred to as Mt. Gusuku. However, to many Okinawans of yesteryear, and even today, she is called Mt. Tachu (タチュ). Ie Jima, like others islands of Okinawa witnessed its moments of wartime dread. But today, she is one of the more touristy islands one can travel to during your time here on Okinawa Prefecture. You can spend one day or just a few days depending on what you are looking for. This article is dedicated on getting to Ie Jima and some of the amenities that are provided to make your stay enjoyable. Future articles will cover in more detail on specific areas, with the stories and history behind each location. The Google map above identifies most areas that have historical significance. Your adventure begins at Motobo Port.</div>
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<b><u>Travel Information to Ie Jima</u></b>.<br />
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To get to Ie Jima, you have to use a ferry which is about a 30 minute ride from Motobu Port. Ie Jima also has a tiny airport that is not frequently used, however, small commuter planes travel there from time to time. If you fly, there will be more logistical considerations that must be taken into account once you arrive such as your on-island transportation, and all this will have to be coordinated by you the traveler. There are no accommodations at the airport. The following information is from leaving Motobu Port only.</div>
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<b>Motobu Port Directions</b>. To get to Motobu Port take Highway 58 going north towards Nago City and then turn onto Highway 449 going towards the Motobu Peninsula. The port will be just before the Sesoko Bridge. Scroll downward on the map above. There will be a balloon icon designating Motobu Port. GPS coordinates for Motobu Port are <b>N26 38.442, E127 52.803</b>.<br />
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<b>Motobu Port Phone Number</b>. 098 047 3940 (although not fluent in English, staff members are accustom to English speaking travelers).<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b><b>Website/Ferry Schedule</b>. <a href="http://iekanko.jp/modules/pico/index.php?content_id=15" target="_blank">http://iekanko.jp/modules/pico/index.php?content_id=15</a> (Japanese only) or click here for <a href="http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=ja&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fiekanko.jp%2Fmodules%2Fpico%2Findex.php%3Fcontent_id%3D15" target="_blank">Google Translated Version</a> in English.<br />
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<b>Website/Individual Ticket/Vehicle Prices</b>. <a href="http://iekanko.jp/modules/pico/index.php?content_id=15" target="_blank">http://iekanko.jp/modules/pico/index.php?content_id=15</a> (Japanese only) or click here for <a href="http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=ja&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fiekanko.jp%2Fmodules%2Fpico%2Findex.php%3Fcontent_id%3D15" target="_blank">Google Translated Version</a> in English.<br />
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<b>On-Island Transportation</b>. You have several options when traveling to Ie Island. The most convenient options are to go as yourself, bring a bicycle, or bring some kind of vehicle transportation with you. If you want to see most of the island in one day it is recommended that you have some kind of vehicle transportation with you. They do have bike rentals as well as vehicle rentals at Ie Port (inventory may be limited). </div>
<b><i>Bike Rentals</i></b>. Generally, 1000 Yen rental fee for the entire day. The bike rental facility is at Ie Port. Mitsuba Rental Bicycle 090 9781-3063.<br />
<b><i>Vehicle Rental</i></b>. Tama Rental, 098 049 5208. <br />
<b><i>Bringing Your Own Bicycle</i></b>. You can bring your own bicycle on the ferry, but an added fee will be added when you pay for your ticket at Motobu Port. See website above for prices.<br />
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<b><span style="color: red;"><i>Personal Recommendations</i></span></b>. If you just want to get to the Island and immediately explore, then bringing your own personal transportation is recommended but you will need to make vehicle reservations in advance to ensure that there is space available. <br />
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<b><i>How to Make Reservations</i></b>. Reservations in advance are required in order to bring your vehicle to and back from Ie Island. Make reservations at the Motobu Port Office, phone number (098) 047 3940. See website above for fee information. You will have to provide your <i>name, make of vehicle and vehicle length</i> in <i><span style="color: red;">meters</span></i> to the Motobu Port Office. Generally, the larger the car the more you have to pay.</div>
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<b><i>Vehicle check-in</i></b>. When you check in at the ticket office in person, they will give you a ticket stub and instruct you which lane you have to line up your car (the <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi14D61b5GY7LmcuTigSOhPxzyjuFOJW-U8WlSoq_lixg3sCFUwkPy9j8dLnuDoAMNaaz_BwZDBlgR7eloIP2246k9j5_Df7_tDHP8geJ6u2dWp5FFycLO0s4buYeGVPH_axpOgKryLkHl/s600/IMG_5544web.jpg" target="_blank">lane numbers</a> will be visible. They are near the ferry loading ramp). Please check in at the ticket office about 30 to 40 minutes before the ferry departs.</div>
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<b><i>Vehicle Loading</i></b>. Only the driver is required to be in the vehicle during loading. All other passengers can walk on the ferry. When ready, a port personnel with a whistle will direct vehicles one by one. Once he directs you, you will have to position your vehicle so as to back it in. Once you have your car in position he will take your ticket stub. Port personnel will direct you all the way in. You are not required to stay in the vehicle during the ferry ride. Just ensure your car is turned off, doors locked, and parking breaks engaged. Just ensure you return back to your car 10 minutes before the ferry arrives at Ie Port. The process is the same on your return trip. Do not lose the other half of your round trip ticket stub. You will need it in order to return to the main island. <span style="color: red;"><b>Caution</b></span>. Once the ferry ramp drops down there is tremendous amount of loading and off-loading activity at an amazing speed. Please watch your children at all times in this area.</div>
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<b>English Friendly</b>. If you are concerned about the English/Japanese language barrier, you will find that Ie Jima is one of your more English friendly tourist areas to travel to. <span style="color: red;">Travel Tip</span>: At Motobu Port they have tourist handouts in English as well as in other languages. The travel staff are accustom to English speaking people. You can pick up more English pamphlets at Ie Port, at the Information Office. </div>
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<b>Convenience Stores</b>. Ie Jima has two main convenience stores (Family Mart and Cocos) that are designated by the Green Balloon Icons in the map. They are in the vicinity of the main town area next to the port. You will also see many 'Obaa-san' stores on the island. <br />
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<b>Gas Stations</b>. There are a few gas stations in the vicinity of the main town area near Ie Port. <span style="color: red;">Travel Tip</span>: recommend you fill up gas prior to departing to Ie Island.<br />
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<b>Cash/ATM/Credit</b>. The main medium for payment is done in Yen. Few areas may accept credit card. The Japanese Post Office does offer an ATM service that uses the Plus System which is compatible with some American Banking/Credit Union institutions. ATM hours are based on Post Office hours. <span style="color: red;">Travel Tip</span>: Bring plenty of YEN! The post office is located near the Coco Convenience Store (marked by the Green Balloon Icon). </div>
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<b>Places for Overnight Stay</b>. There are a variety of minshuku's (private host homes/lodging) that you can stay at overnight. The English Tourism Handout at the Motobu Port will have a list of minshuku's available. </div>
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<b><i>YYY Club Resort (English Friendly)</i></b>. If you looking for great hotel accommodations then you may want to look into the YYY Club Resort. Website in English at <a href="http://www.ie-resort.com/english/" target="_blank">http://www.ie-resort.com/english/</a> . Location: southeast of Ie Island. Street Signs in English will be available directing you to the YYY.</div>
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<b><i>Overnight Camping</i></b>. You can also camp at the Ie Village Youth Excursion Village (Generally, 300 Yen and 200 Yen per adult and child, respectively, per night for camping). On the same premises you will see public showers near the public cooking and beach area. Location of the Youth Excursion Village: Southeast of Ie Island (marked by a Pink Balloon Icon). </div>
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<b>Shower Facilities</b>. If you just want to use the shower then you have to enter the Ie Village Youth Excursion Village (Entrance fee only is 100 Yen Adult, 50 Yen Child/The staff <i>may</i> wave you on through if you let them know you just want to use the shower). The shower facility will be near the public cooking area and convenience stores. The cost to use the shower per person is 200 Yen. You have to pay the staff at the convenience store (closest to the shower room). Shower Hours are 0900-1800.</div>
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<b>US Military Compound.</b> There is a US Marine Compound on Ie Jima if Service Members require emergency assistance.<br />
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<b>What to Bring</b>. What you bring is dependent on the type of transportation you bring with you and how long you plan on staying on Ie Island. At a minimum, you may consider bringing proper attire for shade and sun protection, a neck towel, mosquito repellent, water and snacks for nourishment, hiking gloves for protection. You will definitely want to bring a camera. </div>
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<b>Places to See</b>. The following links are major highlights of Ie Jima to see. (All places are marked in the above map). Please click links above for other places to visit. <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-BkM75zarcLE/UYsxdME9aoI/AAAAAAAAHZs/7pltcGbXAOM/s600/IMG_6255web.jpg" target="_blank">Mt Tachu (Mt. Gusuku) (photo)</a>, <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2013/05/niya-thiya-cave-sen-nin-ie-jima-island.html" target="_blank">Niyathiya Cave (Senin Gama)</a>, <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgICYGy9SDXfpVecougl_rrKJF3JOO7RMHXFG-2Qj2SJJOHPePE9jycx7COYKHegeSigdbM4lepcmnF9aARyzmWoJ5FOBRJOL4YFPY38-CXu0D2WZFqrpCj8gVXL5oegoZ8k2S3kSjwGK0L/s600/IMG_5714web.jpg" target="_blank">Wajee View Point (photo)</a>, <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-lg0Xz-HZagU/UYsxGwOKm1I/AAAAAAAAHYs/oeDrMVOpN_s/s600/IMG_5871web.jpg" target="_blank">Ahasha Cave (photo)</a>.
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<b>Related Articles</b>. <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2013/04/yuri-matsuri-ie-island.html" target="_blank">Yuri Matsuri, Lily Festival (ゆり まつり) - Late April to 1st Week in May</a>, <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2013/05/niya-thiya-cave-sen-nin-ie-jima-island.html" target="_blank">Niyathiya Cave (Senin Gama)</a>, <a href="http://blog.mikesryukyugallery.com/2013/05/the-statue-of-hando-on-ie-jima-and-some.html" target="_blank">Statue of Hando (Mike's Ryukyu Gallery)</a>.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-79588543651450017292015-04-05T03:38:00.000-07:002015-04-05T06:15:36.164-07:00"The Purple Iris Fields of Kijoka"<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hr_5CEbsCI8/T3Lh7a7E3yI/AAAAAAAAEAQ/0DO1DtMW53c/s1600/IMG_2748web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hr_5CEbsCI8/T3Lh7a7E3yI/AAAAAAAAEAQ/0DO1DtMW53c/s1600/IMG_2748web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing Watch! A purple iris stands tall</td></tr>
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&num=200&start=294&t=h&source=embed&ll=26.706417,128.14863&spn=0.006709,0.00912&z=16&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="http://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&num=200&start=294&t=h&source=embed&ll=26.706417,128.14863&spn=0.006709,0.00912&z=16" style="color: blue; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Map It! Okinawa</a> in a larger map</small></div>
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<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/ThePurpleIrisFieldsOfKijoka?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-S_C37RoaIYg/T3LhjVwfcDE/AAAAAAAAEA4/-x31r19_pIw/s160-c/ThePurpleIrisFieldsOfKijoka.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/ThePurpleIrisFieldsOfKijoka?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Purple Iris Fields of Kijoka</a></td></tr>
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<b> GPS</b><br />
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<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 42.402</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 128 08.944</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Purple Iris Fields of Kijoka</span>
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Aside from the <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/03/kijoka-falls-ogimi-village.html" target="_blank">Kijoka Falls</a>, the town of Kijoka also hosts a very beautiful green field full of purple irises. The general blooming time for these flowers here in Okinawa is between the late month of March through early to mid-April. Just like the Cherry Blossoms, timing is critical if you want to see these flowers in their best performance. The roughly 1 square km field of lush green iris stems and leaves highlight these purple wonders under the morning sun.</div>
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The exact scientific classification of these simple flowers, however, has proven to be somewhat more complex. Conflicting scientific terms have surfaced. They are part of the Iridaceae Family, but the exact specie type is left to question. Research sources, such as <a href="http://www.socji.org/" target="_blank">The Society for Japanese Irises</a>, <a href="http://wiki.irises.org/bin/view" target="_blank">The Iris Encyclopedia</a>, and <a href="http://www.irises.org/" target="_blank">The American Iris Society</a> were reviewed, but an exact classification could not yet be determined with 100% accuracy (This post will be updated upon new findings).</div>
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One thing is for certain however, is that the Okinawans refer to this particular iris as 'Okurareruka' (written in Katakana as オクラレルカ). There is a species called 'Iris ochroleuca' with the second half of the name mimicking the pronunciation 'Okurareruka' in Japanese. However, conflicting images have surfaced depicting the flower as all white instead of purple. It is quite possible that these purple irises of Kijoka were initially given the classification of 'Iris ochroleuca' and later found to be of a different kind, while the name, 'Okurareruka', had taken root among the Okinawans.</div>
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Kijoka is found in Ogimi Village and they have provided a website link displaying the blooming phases of the Kijoka Iris Fields. Please visit link <a href="http://www.vill.ogimi.okinawa.jp/" target="_blank">http://www.vill.ogimi.okinawa.jp</a> (Japanese).<br />
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<b>Blooming Season</b>. Late March to early to mid-April. Best time to view is 7-10 days after first bloom. </div>
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<b>Related Articles</b>. For other related images of the Kijoka Purple Iris Field, see Mike's Ryukyu Gallery at: <a href="http://blog.mikesryukyugallery.com/2012/03/2012-okinawa-iris-flowers-are-starting.html" target="_blank">http://blog.mikesryukyugallery.com/2012/03/2012-okinawa-iris-flowers-are-starting.html</a>.<br />
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<b>Directions</b>. The directions is the same as if you were going to the Kijoka Falls. If you are going north on Highway 58, look for the '<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aNmWNLbNQEM/T3Ll8S4P7XI/AAAAAAAAEBI/a40FjHTk5UM/s600/IMG_2837web.jpg" target="_blank">Bashofu Weaving Workshop</a>' sign to know where to turn off (start of the blue route in the map above). After the turn make the first right. Follow this road and continue straight. Instead of turning right at the <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-sP4mOYmozn0/T1yRmFdgC3I/AAAAAAAAD3k/D9WGQ4bI15c/s600/IMG_1506web.jpg" target="_blank">LandMark Building</a> that takes you to the Kijoka Falls, continue straight. Once you pass this LandMark, you will want to look to your left and look for the lush green fields. It's not difficult to find. Navigate your way through and park in some of the open areas provided. Avoid parking in areas that might disrupt traffic. </div>
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<b>Other places of interest nearby</b>. <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/03/kijoka-falls-ogimi-village.html" target="_blank">The Kijoka Falls</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-45714669366587956202015-03-05T08:23:00.000-08:002015-03-10T02:25:48.681-07:00The Akainko Shrine<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C5fcR_vh2s4/VPiDrT-bkWI/AAAAAAAAJzI/8wfyc8jcgwQ/s1600/IMG_4643web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C5fcR_vh2s4/VPiDrT-bkWI/AAAAAAAAJzI/8wfyc8jcgwQ/s1600/IMG_4643web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Akainko Shrine</td></tr>
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<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://www.gstatic.com/pwa/s/v/lighthousefe_20150223.00_p0/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/AkainkoShrine?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-to9BHl-osi8/VPhxr3gAACE/AAAAAAAAJy4/FY3h3ql_lS0/s160-c/AkainkoShrine.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/AkainkoShrine?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Akainko Shrine</a></td></tr>
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<b>GPS</b><br />
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<tr><td><b> <u>Latitude</u></b></td><td><b><u>Longitude</u></b></td></tr>
<tr><td><b><span id="lat_gps"> N 26 23.142</span></b></td><td><b><span id="long_gps">E 127 44.432</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Legend of Akainko, the Father of the Sanshin</span><br />
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The story behind the Akainko Shrine is both a sad and happy one. The story dates back to the 15th and 16th century in an area now known as Sobe of Yomitan Village. It deals with hardship of a village life, a tale of love and death, and the triumph of one man’s legacy that would ultimately change Okinawa forever. The following tale is derived from the Yomitan Village Folklore and Legends publication.
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<i>The villagers were clinging to hope, but the drought showed no signs of ending any time soon. Fresh water had become scarce, and the townspeople where in much need of a miracle. It so happened that in the village there was a beautiful young woman by the name of Chira who had a pet dog. The two were always together and the dog was known for his brilliant red hair. One day, the dog disappeared, and when he returned, Chira had noticed something odd; the dog was soaked with water! “How could this be?”, she wondered, for there hasn’t been any rain for such a long time. The dog tugged on her clothes pleading with her. He obviously wanted to show her something; and so she followed him. He led her to a nearby cave and inside, she discovered the reason why the dog was wet. There was a spring inside! Chira ran back and told the villagers, and upon hearing the great news they extolled both Chira and her pet dog.</i><br />
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<i>However, happiness was short-lived for the young woman. Chira had found herself in a vicious love triangle, and the situation was about to escalate; for she had made it known who she wanted, and this did not sit well with the defeated lover. He would eventually murder the man Chira loved, but it would not stop there. This was just the beginning of her troubles.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(ii)</span></i><br />
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<i>Devastated and heartbroken, Chira was now facing another reality: she was pregnant with her now deceased lover’s child. What was she going to do? She wasn’t married; and how was she going to explain this to her parents? Time went on, and it became obvious that she was bearing a child in her womb. Villagers began to question the ordeal and rumors circulated. It turned out, the man who killed Chira’s true love was the one spreading these rumors. To lay one more knife in Chira’s heart, he planted the idea that Chira had done the unthinkable. The father of her baby wasn’t a man. It was her dog.</i><br />
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<i>If her dignity wasn’t destroyed then, it was now hanging by a thread. Humiliated and emotionally isolated, Chira had no choice but to leave the village. She fled to Ikei Island to live out the rest of her days.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(i)</span> There, she gave birth to a son and found some hope of a peaceful life, but that too was short lived. A few years later, her parents had found out where she was staying and decided to go see her. But after learning the news of their arrival, she became stricken with guilt for she had caused them so much pain. Ashamed and unable to face them again, Chira had taken her own life. </i>
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<i>She left behind her parents, broken-hearted, and a son with an uncertain future. </i><br />
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<i>Years later…</i><br />
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<i>He was sitting around when it began to rain. Drops, one-by-one, fell to the earth making a nice thump-like sound. So pleased with the rhythm, the young man wanted to mimic what he had heard. He then took a branch from a Kuba Tree and took three strands from a horse’s tail and put them together to make a banjo-like instrument.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(iii) </span>The young man liked what he had heard and took his new invention and played it wherever he went. </i><br />
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<i>One day, a servant of the king had heard the young man’s music. He was so pleased that he asked him if he would go to Shuri to play for his majesty. The young man agreed and together they set off to see the king. And so the young man played and played to his heart’s content. The king wasn’t just amazed. He was enthralled by its beauty and power; so much that he immediately directed the young man to travel throughout the island to spread his music. And so off he went spreading his love in musical form. <br /><br />
His adventures would eventually take him to China and on his journey back, he brought with him various types of grains and apparel he had found in his travels. The villagers of Yomitan took the grains, cultivated them, and spread them throughout village yielding many, many crops. It was from this day forward that Yomitan would become known as the 'King of Vegetables' throughout the kingdom. </i></blockquote>
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<u><b>Epilogue</b></u>. Every year Yomitan Village celebrates the Akainko Festival typically held around 20 September of the Lunar Calendar to honor the young man’s legacy and the new staples he introduced centuries before. </div>
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<b>Sanshin and Sanshi-no-hi (三線の日)</b>.The banjo-like instrument he created became known as the <i>Sanshin</i>, named for the three strings used to make the beautiful sound; and henceforth the young man became known as the ‘<i>Father of the Sanshin</i>’. Sanshin, in Japanese literally means ‘<i>three strings</i>’. Every year on March 4th, a special musical ceremony (mainly comprised of sanshin players) is performed in front of the Akainko Shrine to honor his musical contribution to Okinawa and to the world. This is no ordinary date. March 4th has become known as the ‘<i>Day of the Sanshin</i>’ or in Japanese, Sanshi-no-hi (三線の日). The reason March 4th was chosen is because numerically the date can be written as 3/4. The special date is based on a Japanese pun, where '<i>san</i>', means 3, and '<i>shi</i>', means 4 – the <i>two syllables</i> found in the word <i>sanshin</i>. It is not uncommon to see students of the sanshin praying at the shrine. It is believed it will help them master the art.</div>
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<b>The Shrine and the Meaning of his Name</b>. The location of the shrine is believed to be where the young man ascended into heaven.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(2)</span> His true name given at the time of his birth remains to be a mystery however. It appears that any knowledge of that went to his mother’s grave all those years ago on Ikei Island. So he decided to take on another name. In the Okinawan language he called himself Akanukuu (アカヌクー). In Japanese this translate to Akainko (赤犬子).<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(iv)</span> If one where to analyze its kanji form, the meaning becomes clear. Put together it means <i>'Child of the Red Dog</i>'.</div>
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<b>Author’s Notes.</b> <br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">i. The above account was derived from Yomitan’s Folklore and Legends Publication, dated 2005. An older source mentions that Chira fled to Katsuren and lived inside a cave near the ocean. It made no mention of Ikei Island. The source was from a 1990 version of Yomitan’s History Chronicles #11, beginning on pg 220. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">ii. Other sources describe a more chilling version of the love triangle that occurred between Chira and the two men involved. This is pending further research and investigation as this version was not mentioned in either of the above sources.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">iii. The Kuba Tree is the Okinawan name for the Chinese Fan Palm, (Livistona chinensis). For images, visit <a href="http://www.floridata.com/ref/L/livi_chi.cfm" target="_blank">Floridata.com.</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">iv. The first kanji (赤) means red (Aka); the second kanji (犬) means dog (Inu); and last kanji (子) means child (Ko). When the kanji’s are put together the ‘<i>u</i>’ is subtracted from <i>inu</i>.</span><br />
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<b>Reference.</b> <br />
1. <i>The Akainko Story</i>, The Yomitan Folklore and Legends Publication, dated 2005, pg 39<br />
2. <i>Akainko's ascension</i>, Okinawa Prefectural Board of Education. <a href="http://rca.open.ed.jp/web_e/history/map/index2.html" target="_blank">Website</a>.<br />
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<b>Directions/Parking.</b> The Akainko Shrine is about 250 meters in front of the US Army Base Torii Station main gate. It is the turn-off immediate west of the Family Mart. Take Highway 58 into Yomitan and then take Highway 6 going west towards Torii Station. Torii Station will be on your left, the Family Mart to your right. Parking is very confined. Please do not block any gates belonging to any residential areas. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-12652716004027952382015-02-15T07:41:00.001-08:002015-02-15T08:02:46.934-08:00Zatsungawa River (ザツンガワ / 座津武川)<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGq4AP0RBN_SpemjNHUavz9jYzdlLWfaunhxLYWUuPIJXsONAnVBSgParZb0SzS64K0kxL8QvkYvKWng8LavVZDHppMnScvo-qzPBUmfSsMYfr5onqIewLNh9TWY9xvtieckm6_CgCQW4V/s1600/IMG_4314web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGq4AP0RBN_SpemjNHUavz9jYzdlLWfaunhxLYWUuPIJXsONAnVBSgParZb0SzS64K0kxL8QvkYvKWng8LavVZDHppMnScvo-qzPBUmfSsMYfr5onqIewLNh9TWY9xvtieckm6_CgCQW4V/s1600/IMG_4314web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Zatsungawa River (ザツンガワ / 座津武川)</td></tr>
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=435&num=200&ll=26.8240000,128.2470000&spn=0.006733,0.00912&z=16&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=435&num=200&ll=26.8240000,128.2470000&spn=0.006733,0.00912&z=16" style="color: blue; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Map It! Okinawa</a> in a larger map</small>
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<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://www.gstatic.com/pwa/s/v/lighthousefe_20150204.00_p4/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/Zatsungawa?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ybcu7_3AgIM/VN7CmUDSZQE/AAAAAAAAJvY/sk7D5FynkqI/s160-c/Zatsungawa.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/Zatsungawa?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Zatsungawa</a></td></tr>
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<b>GPS</b><br />
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<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 49.434</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 128 14.784</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*GPS to starting point</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Zatsungawa River, ザツンガワ / 座津武川</span><br />
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The Zatsungawa River of Uka, Kunigami Village is one of many beautiful rivers in the northern part of Okinawa. For the outdoor enthusiast, this offers an escape into the wild and a good taste of nature. See Trekking Data below. There are some <span style="color: red;"><b>moderate to </b></span><b><span style="color: red;">high risk areas</span></b> so please read the recommended guidelines below.</div>
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<b><u>Trekking Data & Information</u></b><br />
<b>River Name</b>. Zatsungawa (ザツンガワ / 座津武川)<br />
<b>River Location</b>. Uka, Kunigami Village (宇嘉, 国頭村)<br />
<b>Trek Starting Point</b>. GPS N26 49.434 E128 14.784<br />
<b>Recommended Emergency Rally Point (For Emergency Vehicles)</b>. GPS N26 49.468 E128 14.632<br />
<b>1st Stopping Point</b>. GPS N26 49.386 E128 14.906 (<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_ilwMIgn_BI/VN7CtT6zayI/AAAAAAAAJtI/oPwJsGzctcw/s600/IMG_4188web.jpg" target="_blank">image</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzVnrRprs7g" target="_blank">video</a>)<br />
<b>2nd Stopping Point</b>. GPS N26 49.384 E128 14.955 (<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-imJRmE6vllA/VN7C6On-99I/AAAAAAAAJtg/_GpM5NUdOjA/s600/IMG_4206web.jpg" target="_blank">image</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGUHwcuF7Q4" target="_blank">video</a>)<br />
<b>3rd Stopping Point</b>. GPS N26 49.249 E128 15.037 (<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-c48thZJB4qI/VN7DsNiCo0I/AAAAAAAAJuQ/Dmk5IdQZiZE/s600/IMG_4273web.jpg" target="_blank">image</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ari5mUdX5PU" target="_blank">video</a>)<br />
<b>Turn-Around Point</b>. GPS N26 49.246 E128 15.130 (<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaE3yb9_6wWVUIvftEzHRljmWmolGkneVquwMCQMLqpdMtEqsJwYu7vYGnjBvAWD3NBIkcE-b56Hr4Mz-dbEoccYEIMHJahgfCdDLtI3-214q5SswcgctjXihjC4SdP9C6lFBmSbCoWTax/s600/IMG_4301web.jpg" target="_blank">image</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJQx6mipP6g" target="_blank">video</a>)<br />
<b>Trek Time from Starting Point to Turn-Around Point</b>. Approx 3 hrs<br />
<b>Total Time</b>. 7 hrs<br />
<b>Video Overview</b>. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20h5b7_Uo1Q" target="_blank">Map It! Okinawa Video Short, Zatsungawa River</a>.<br />
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<b>Tip</b>. Start your trek near the <a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-RSWEGu5x_DI/VN7KIXlyppI/AAAAAAAAJvg/jqhdqSfPQIw/s600/IMG_4176web.jpg" target="_blank">water station</a>. Look for a <a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-L8P6d_QJv1k/VN7KLnArn2I/AAAAAAAAJvo/hJonPVIII98/s600/IMG_4177web.jpg" target="_blank">metallic ladder</a> taking you down to the river. Climb down and cross to the other side. You will see a trail and it will take you to a launch point on your trek.</div>
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<b>Note.</b> At the time of this river trek, the turn-around-point could not be surpassed due to the semi steep outer-terrain and the depth of water. Under warmer conditions this may be feasible. It is not recommended to submerge into water above the waist during the colder months. Please read below. The post will be updated after future attempts have been completed.</div>
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<b>Recommended Guidelines </b><span style="color: red;"><b>(MUST READ!)</b></span><br />
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<b>1.</b> <b><span style="color: red;">VERY IMPORTANT!</span></b> This particular river trek is recommended only for those who have fairly good physical agility, coordination skills, and upper body strength. Negotiating steep inclines may be required. Recommended only for young adults and above. Though most of the trek is manageable, it does have some moderate to high risk areas.</div>
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<b>2.</b> <b><span style="color: red;">VERY IMPORTANT!</span></b> Plan on getting wet up to your knees. It is sometimes safer to walk in the river, rather than hopping and balancing yourself on the rocks just to keep dry. On a normal good weather day, the river current at most areas is not enough to push you off balance. Though this rule may seem trivial, it is a very important thing to remember. The biggest risk to this trek is falling and slipping on the rocks.</div>
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<b>3.</b> <span style="color: red;"><b>VERY IMPORTANT!</b></span> In the <u>colder months</u> you do not want to get wet above your waist. You will run the risk of hypothermia if you continue further. Your upper body will not provide you enough heat for you to keep warm. Ideally, try to keep the water below the knees.</div>
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<b>4.</b> <b><span style="color: red;">VERY IMPORTANT!</span></b> It is recommended that you do not trek during the rain or after a recent rain shower. The ideal time is on an average good weather day (no rain or drizzle). During good weather the rocks above the river will be dry. This is important for grip. There are some high risk areas that will require good surface grip (feet, hands, and body) to get from point A to point B. <u>This rule is unique to this river</u>. Surface grip will be required to negotiate difficult terrain.</div>
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<b>5. <span style="color: red;">DO NOT WEAR TENNIS SHOES!!!</span></b> Tennis shoes offer no traction and will slip on these rocks. Wear something that has hard soles and has great traction on these kinds of surfaces. If you do not have hard soles you will 'feel' every step you take. And since you will be getting wet, thick heavy boots will only get heavier when soaked. You should wear something that is lighter, has good traction, but still gives you flexibility of movement. </div>
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<b>6.</b> <b><span style="color: red;">GUIDE STICK.</span></b> Having a guide stick is recommended. Sometimes it will be safer to skirt the terrain just to avoid danger areas. If at some point it seems impossible to continue, look for red or yellow tape markers around the trees. Trekkers have left guide marks to assist with negotiating terrain (though on this particular river, it has not always been helpful). You will need a guide stick to probe these areas for snakes and to knock down spider webs. When you are negotiating boulders however, you will have to set your guide stick aside to free your hands for climbing. This is very important. When it comes to negotiating boulders and rocky terrain, <u>your hands will be your best assets</u>. This is for safety.</div>
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<b>7.</b> Never go alone. Have a buddy. For this particular river trek, the 'ideal' number is to have at least three (3) hiking buddies, but optimally try to have more than 3 due to the level of difficulty. If one gets hurt, then you have the option of leaving at least one with the injured while the other(s) go retrieve help. Cell phone reception is very difficult, if not non-existent in these areas. If you are a US Service Member, your nearest US Military Facility will be the Okuma Recreational Facility. It is recommended that everyone should have the number to this location should an emergency arise.</div>
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<b>8.</b> Tell someone (or few others), where you will be river trekking to and leave them at a minimum: the GPS coordinate of the starting point, the name of the river, and this website URL (see Trek Data Information above).</div>
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<b>9.</b> Wear a light long-sleeve top (depending on the weather) for protection against the elements and bugs. Whether you trek on the river or skirt the landscape, you will hit spider web after spider web (summer or winter).</div>
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<b>10.</b> Wear a hat or beanie to keep warm and to protect yourself against the elements and bugs. You may run into many spider webs along the way (Do a 'spider check' with your buddy every now and then). A beanie does offer some bit of <u>head protection</u> in the event of a fall.</div>
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<b>11.</b> <b><span style="color: red;">VERY IMPORTANT!</span></b> Bring some light hiking gloves for grip and protection. You may be required to grab roots, tree limbs, trees, rocks, dirt, etc. in order to negotiate terrain.</div>
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<b>12.</b> <b><span style="color: red;">DO NOT WEAR SHORTS!</span></b> Find something that you don't mind getting wet in and that offers protection against the elements. There 'will' be a few times you will be on your knees or on your rear end as you negotiate some of the terrain. Also you need to protect your legs from critters and abrasions. You may want to bring some shorts if you want to take a dip in the water. There are some areas that are over 7 feet deep. Swimming <u>not recommend</u> in the colder months.</div>
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<b>13. <span style="color: red;">VERY IMPORTANT!</span></b> Apply the '3-Points of Contact Rule' when going over difficult terrain.</div>
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<b>14.</b> <b><span style="color: red;">VERY IMPORTANT! </span></b>Maintain a low center of gravity when going over difficult terrain.</div>
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<b>15.</b> If something looks unsafe, then avoid. Find another way to negotiate the terrain or <span style="color: red;"><b>SIMPLY, DON'T DO IT</b></span>. <u>Don't try to be brave</u>. You do not have to travel far to enjoy the natural scenery. </div>
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<b>16.</b> Give yourself plenty of time <b><span style="color: red;">AND TAKE YOUR TIME. NO NEED TO RUSH</span></b>. But remember you have to add time to get back (before dark!). Recommend you leave early morning time frame. The rule of thumb is travel far enough so that have the same amount of time to get back. However, add an extra hour as a buffer on your return trip. (For example, if you travel 3 hours, ensure you have 4 hours of sunlight left to get back). <b><span style="color: red;">Note.</span></b> From experience, it is more dangerous on your return trip. There are two reasons; on your return trip your are more fatigued and therefore less alert; and second, gravity and descending elevation. It is usually a lot easier to climb up then it is to climb down.</div>
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<b>17. </b>Bring a light backpack for food, water, toilet paper, <u>flash light</u>, survival kit, first aid kit, light rain coat, <u>warming layers</u>, etc. and water proof them as needed.</div>
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<b>18.</b> <b><span style="color: red;">USE THE BATHROOM BEFORE YOU GO!</span></b> Making natural deposits of certain kind in the wild may not be fun for some.</div>
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<b>19.</b> You will get dirty. Bring a towel, extra socks, extra pair of shoes, shirt, pants, and warming layers (Can leave in the car). </div>
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<b>20.</b> Tuck in your shoe laces to prevent tripping.</div>
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<b>21.</b> Protect & secure items such as your wallet and cell phone from moisture and from getting soaked.</div>
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<b>22.</b> <u>Don't try to be brave</u>. Respect your limits and respect nature. </div>
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<b>23.</b> You do not have to go all the way to any of the stopping points or to the Turn-Around Point. You don't have to go far to enjoy some of the beauty along the river. Never feel pressured to continue on if you are fatigued or if it becomes too hazardous.</div>
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<b>Directions/Parking.</b> Take Highway 58 into Kunigami Village (to the town of Uka, 宇嘉). You will have to navigate by Landmarks annotated in the map. The turn-off point is just a few hundred meters south of the <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-u6zW_U2g9wM/VN7KSezFs6I/AAAAAAAAJv4/xaaifbGyj7w/s600/IMG_4391web.jpg" target="_blank">Uka Tunnel</a> (click <a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zWGd2qxixtg/VN7KPE5hJTI/AAAAAAAAJvw/LgaaWidD9o4/s600/IMG_4385web.jpg" target="_blank">here</a> for Japanese writing above the tunnel). Additionally, the Uka Tunnel is a newer tunnel. The older tunnel is fenced off to the side. It is the old Zatsun Tunnel. If you wish to park near the <a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-RSWEGu5x_DI/VN7KIXlyppI/AAAAAAAAJvg/jqhdqSfPQIw/s600/IMG_4176web.jpg" target="_blank">water station</a>, please do not block the entrance gate as maintenance crews utilize this station.</div>
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<b>Other Rivers in Okinawa</b>. <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/05/river-trekking-takazato-river.html" target="_blank">Takazato River</a>, <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/02/river-trekking-to-nameless-waterfall.html" target="_blank">Fukugawa II</a>, <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/01/taa-falls.html" target="_blank">Taa Water.</a> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-46060716529438403322014-12-28T23:07:00.000-08:002014-12-30T04:37:12.327-08:00The Yabu Temple, Ryounin<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPHHteAB4Bukf6XWhUlbhyphenhyphenKTGLSWIinsKStOQpZb7RRQhhyphenhyphen4nLjv1Ua12F5l1VXR_nwjXiqykp4CxzkyKq79me0SZsexuIT4W4CEywC_V4wbqSjiqrY4tFQshOWRWfCKcA9dA2Vsq_d8V/s1600/IMG_7825web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPHHteAB4Bukf6XWhUlbhyphenhyphenKTGLSWIinsKStOQpZb7RRQhhyphenhyphen4nLjv1Ua12F5l1VXR_nwjXiqykp4CxzkyKq79me0SZsexuIT4W4CEywC_V4wbqSjiqrY4tFQshOWRWfCKcA9dA2Vsq_d8V/s1600/IMG_7825web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Yabu Temple, Nago City</td></tr>
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<b> GPS</b><br />
<table style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td><b> <u>Latitude</u></b></td><td><b><u>Longitude</u></b></td></tr>
<tr><td><b><span id="lat_gps"> N 26 36.342</span></b></td><td><b><span id="long_gps">E 127 57.127</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Yabu Temple, Ryounin - Nago City</span><br />
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The Yabu Temple (屋部寺) is a small Buddhist temple believed to originated some time in the 17th century. The temple resides in the town of Yabu of Nago City bordering the coastline along Highway 449 on the Motubu Peninsula. Formally, the temple is named Ryōun'in (凌雲院). The original temple was destroyed during the Okinawan War.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(1)(2)(i)</span> It was later rebuilt in 1956.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(1)(2)(ii)</span></div>
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Though the temple is quite small, it was officially recognized by the Old Ryukyu government along with three of its local legends.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(2)(3)</span> The temple, and its legends, were recorded in an official document known as the <i>Kyuu-you</i> (or Kyuyo).(3)<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(iii)</span> It is an historical account of the Ryukyu islands that was completed in 1745. James Robinson author of the book, <i>Okinawa: A People and their Gods</i>, published in 1969, also writes of one legend that have similarities to those in the official record. It's not certain if his account was derived from local villagers or from official documents belonging to the Ryukyu government. The following is a breakdown of those legends.</div>
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<b>Legends derived from the Kyuyo</b><br />
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<u><b><i>Legend One</i></b></u>.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(3)</span> In the year 1692, drought had plagued the village of Yabu. Around the same time, sporadic fires too had wreaked havoc on the village. In an act of desperation, a Buddhist monk by the name of <i>Ryun Washo</i> was asked to bring prosperity to Yabu. The monk granted their request and prayed for seven days on a large stone at the base of the hill. On the seventh day rain had finally come saving the village from despair. The once problematic fires too ceased their torment on the townspeople. In his honor and to show their gratitude the villagers erected the small temple. The rock that Ryun Washo had meditated on still sits behind the temple untouched and unmarked. It sits inconspicuously in its natural environment. A documented photograph can be found on page 51 of the Yabu Historical Chronicles.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(2)</span> An photograph taken in December 2014 is shown <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXIUrbUAMqXyCL191d-t9VxbNsz6K0_HkgaO_XImIdhTrspwimjfWzt7i-37mabQ6o6JyDt2qWF8nNNvCJdi7gQgX6pBWNDJm4VQbqPbRHOamA7jGENrGpLBlahjVgsZYz-sKY4QAdnVa/s600/IMG_4088web.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<u><i><b>Legend Two</b></i></u>.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(3)</span> Behind temple lived a very large snake up in the hills. It was said that this snake could blow fire from its mouth. The people frantically requested help from a Chuzan kingdom lord. The lord agreed and dispatched a man by the name of Kinjo-san from the Tenkai Temple <b>[Note</b>. It wasn't clear by the translation if Kinjo-san was a monk and it is not certain by the author where the Tenkai Temple is located]. Kinjo-san prayed fervently and the snake was defeated. Later, Kinjo-san had placed a large statue of Buddha inside the temple to mark the occasion. [<b>Note</b>. The statue is believed by the author to be the one in the middle seen in this <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipVf7FTX-b5JQHdDPSl1VNh06r4fAskaKMeboy4M4latwq2PBRQy_O_izErQP4PRPx6muA9_K385srPdVkITlSumAyV9RBTYL29ZFjdOgGDKb3GhzDyAMVukqM8xsXGZY-fdGqIitYnmIc/s600/IMG_4030web.jpg" target="_blank">picture</a>]. </div>
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<u><i><b>Legend Three</b></i></u>.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(3)</span> One day a Buddhist monk from Shuri had visited the temple. He had said that the large hill behind the temple showed great promise [perhaps indicating its spiritual value, author assertion]. However, he said that there was a split within the hills that resembled a snake's mouth. He declared that this was a bad omen under the concept of <i>Feng Shui</i> (<i>Fu Sui</i> in Japanese).<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(iv)(v)</span> However, to offset this premonition the monk then placed seven statues of Buddha inside the temple to thwart off any misfortune.[<b>Note</b>: those statues can be seen <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipVf7FTX-b5JQHdDPSl1VNh06r4fAskaKMeboy4M4latwq2PBRQy_O_izErQP4PRPx6muA9_K385srPdVkITlSumAyV9RBTYL29ZFjdOgGDKb3GhzDyAMVukqM8xsXGZY-fdGqIitYnmIc/s600/IMG_4030web.jpg" target="_blank">here</a> inside the temple].</div>
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After his work was completed, the monk decided to return to Shuri. A man from Yabu was sent with him to assist with his belongings. When they arrived back to Shuri, the monk had made a prophetic comment to the Yabu villager. He said, “tomorrow will be my death, so today please eat from the <i> ufurunme</i> [a type of hospitality dish?] on my behalf before you return to Yabu".<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(vi)</span> As foretold, the monk passed away the very next day. </div>
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<b>Legend from James Robinson's Research</b>.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(1)</span> James Robinson, in his 1969 book, writes “there was a spirit named 'Akamata' which had the power to transform himself into a handsome young man”. However, Robinson does not add much in his book about the spirit's sinister deeds other than trying to lure a farmer's daughter. Interesting however, he does explain that an Enkakuji Temple monk by the name of <i>Ryun Washo</i> (same person from Legend One above) came from Shuri and defeated the spirit 'Akamata' by use of incantations. The Yabu Temple was then built in honor of Buddha. [<b>Note</b>. It is important to note that the word 'akamata' is a type of snake found in the Okinawan islands. A picture can be seen <a href="http://yourshot.nationalgeographic.com/photos/1639215/" target="_blank">here</a>, photographed by <a href="http://okinawanaturephotography.com/" target="_blank"><i>Shawn Miller</i></a>. It's not uncommon to find snakes in Okinawan legends. See Related Links below for other snake legends of Okinawa.]</div>
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<b>Local Ceremonies</b>. On October 15th of the old calendar (kyureki/lunar calendar) some of Yabu's elderly and prominent townspeople preside over prayer ceremonies within the district. Ceremonies are held at 10 different places in sequential order. It is to give thanks and to pray for the the town's prosperity. The Yabu Temple is third in the order of ceremonies.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(2)</span> The ceremonies are typically lead by a kaminchu, a term meaning spiritual leader in the Okinawa language. </div>
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<b>The Yabu Temple during New Years (Jan 1 - 3) </b><br />
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Local Villagers, as well as some from the nearby area, come to the Yabu Temple to celebrate New Years Day. A small ceremony starts around 2345 (1145pm) on December 31st. For those who wish to attend the Yabu Temple during New Years, below is the general sequence of events to help you through the process.</div>
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<b>General Sequence of Events</b>. Please note, the Yabu Temple<i> is not</i> a Shinto Shrine. However, there are similarities to attending both temples and shrines during New Years. The Yabu Temple is small so the process is typically is more simplified. </div>
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1. <u>Entering the Premise</u>. There is a small <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZDAQ6xfS4ZJ6-ImmPwmGuwzAU7eISDTlZSSKP-W75Pv-f6f4zNhRg-sc26UO7IXtQ4cgThym-qGOwgHh3fMqh8hs1f8czHp2HlejiT3VvvQ1MZpurU1pAus92SyZI-gKctuVDjoWvdkq/s600/IMG_4012web.jpg" target="_blank">gate entrance</a>. This is not a torii gate. However, the gate does alert visitors they are entering a sacred area.</div>
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2. <u>Purification Fountain</u>. There are <b>no</b> purification fountains at the Yabu Temple. Typically, these kinds of fountains are found at major Shinto Shrines. </div>
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3. <u>Omikuji (optional)</u>. People who attend the temple have the option of receiving their fortune for the New Year. This fortune is called an <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ID9PCj8Rq7k/VJ4-Jc3PFiI/AAAAAAAAJj0/CQ9wUJoZt6I/s600/IMG_1228web.jpg" target="_blank"><i>omikuji</i></a> and can be purchased for about 100 Yen. [<b>Note</b>. Because of the low expected volume of foreign visitors to the temple, the omikuji here at the Yabu Temple is typically written in Japanese]. You can either take the fortune with you or tie it to a <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNRpDRdNZ37Kqw1Z-QuVsH_XngxlodsQvX857BNX-jKg8h3eE2W-fPFCoB2RYGsJ7O31DpaAJtLhG2D3YfGuP5yBoPHzxI2nwme-NExokwyInlYJX-bT4e-cM793yZamiWSVxIouzEqSL3/s600/IMG_1884web.jpg" target="_blank">tree branch</a> or <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ID9PCj8Rq7k/VJ4-Jc3PFiI/AAAAAAAAJj0/CQ9wUJoZt6I/s600/IMG_1228web.jpg" target="_blank">place provided</a>. Depending on whether your fortune is great or not, it is believed that by leaving it at the shrine or temple grounds, your fortune will either multiply in prosperity or bad luck will be diverted.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(5) </span></div>
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4. <u>Approaching the Temple</u>. Typically there will be <a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Z363l2uixQQ/VJ496jKHuEI/AAAAAAAAJjc/hSafykEio8k/s600/IMG_7744web.jpg" target="_blank">a line</a> to approach the temple. As you approach the temple you will notice a <i>saisen</i>, a box where you deposit monetary offerings, anywhere from 5¥ to 100¥. </div>
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5. <u>Prayer</u>. Normally, you pray after you make your monetary offering. Most people bow and clap twice and say a small prayer in silence. Some may just fold there hands. </div>
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6. <u>Ringing of the Temple Bell (optional)</u>. After you have said your prayers, individuals, couples, or family members are welcome to <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WgWWUoGHMTY/VJ49_mk2gxI/AAAAAAAAJjk/bK6ESca_JlI/s600/IMG_7778web.jpg" target="_blank">ring the temple bell</a>. For proper etiquette, this is just done once as an entity. </div>
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<b>Reference. </b><br />
1. Book, <i>Okinawa: A People and their Gods</i>, 1969, James Robinson, Tuttle Publishing Company, pg 59, <a href="https://books.google.co.jp/books?id=h0rRAgAAQBAJ&pg=PT56&lpg=PT56&dq=yabu+temple&source=bl&ots=5l1jIqzAly&sig=tO30Db8NTrp9O1qzkCkYvYTVmYw&hl=en&sa=X&ei=BUieVK7bOqO2mwXEy4DADQ&ved=0CD8Q6AEwCQ#v=onepage&q=yabu%20temple&f=false" target="_blank">Link</a><br />
2. Book, <i>Yabu Historical Chronicles</i>, 2002 October 27 (Japanese), published by the Town of Yabu, pg 52<br />
3. Information Handout, <i>Ryounin - The Yabu Temple</i>, Published by the Town of Yabu, <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ujx9gDYoHqyluQ8wYbAV7OcnbonpLaTXLlvYjZYNPPdqkoH7FV9mfH1mfRRTxTvK_W-FUKSZS-Jhzk5jqFd2Eoc8z4IlHNa8_pWhvI65T2G2LOjP32vabzljptrnm4MnOtt2bX4iGy2x/s640/image-2web.jpg" target="_blank">Image Link</a><br />
4. Website, <i>Compilation of Official Histories and Establishment of the Legal System</i>, Okinawa Prefectural Board of Education, <a href="http://rca.open.ed.jp/web_e/history/story/epoch3/sangyou_5.html" target="_blank">Link</a><br />
5. Website, <i>Shinto Shrines</i>, Japan Guide, <a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2059.html" target="_blank">Link</a><br />
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<b>Author's Notes.</b></div>
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i. The references stated that the original temple was destroyed during the Okinawan War but it did not specify details as to who or what caused its destruction. </div>
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ii. In James Robison's research he states that the temple was rebuilt in 1957. However, the <i>Yabu Historical Chronicles</i>, a more recent publication, states it was rebuilt in 1956. </div>
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iii. The <i>Kyuyo</i> is a compilation of historical events that took place in the Old Kingdom. It was completed in 1745. It also contains legends found throughout the Old Kingdom.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(4)</span></div>
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iv. In essence, Feng Shui deals with the balance of nature. More can be read about it here at <a href="http://fengshui.about.com/od/thebasics/qt/fengshui.htm" target="_blank">About.com</a></div>
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v. It's not certain where this split or "snakes mouth" is in relation to the temple. There is a split (now a road) that goes between two hills next to the Yabu Temple. See picture <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-D0itudPTUvs/VJ4-Wgu0MmI/AAAAAAAAJkM/3YAY8gbgMn0/s600/IMG_4061web.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
vi. The term <i>ufurunme</i> could not be found in any official resource. But interviews with Okinawan people have lead us to believe it is an Okinawan word meaning some kind of <i> hospitality food</i>. The latter suffix -me can mean food in the Okinawan language. Additionally, during some Okinawa funerals, family members of the deceased eat from a specially prepared meal called <i>usande</i> (ウサンデー) . It is not certain if the two terms have identical meaning in this context. It was theorized during this research that <i>ufurunme</i> could possibly be dialect from an aristocratic society, such as that found at Shuri during the Old Kingdom. As stated, there are no official references as of yet to support any of this. </div>
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<b>Parking/Amenities</b>. <u>Parking</u>. You will have to park somewhere off to the side of the road near the temple grounds. There is a parking field across the from the temple but it is own by the nursery school and gated. It may be open for the New Years. <u>Amenities</u>. There is a <a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xHQki1GlzLw/VJ4-S9twyYI/AAAAAAAAJkE/sYUyEBPCBqI/s600/IMG_4024web.jpg" target="_blank">walk ramp</a> leading up to the temple for baby strollers and those using a wheel chair.</div>
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<b>Directions</b>. Take Highway 58 into Nago City. Then take Highway 449 (coastline) going towards Motubu. Please study the map carefully. You will pass the Yabu Post Office (on the right) before you reach the <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qM5qNuDL1_0/VJ4-1sjORMI/AAAAAAAAJkw/65VdR5uZi2Q/s600/IMG_4070web.jpg" target="_blank">turn-off</a> (on the right), about 400 meters later. The turn-off is not easily recognizable. <u><span style="color: red;"><b>Warning</b></span></u>. You are more likely to pass the turn-off the first time around. Be careful of making sudden stops as you see the turn-off. It will sneak up on you. See picture of turn-off <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qM5qNuDL1_0/VJ4-1sjORMI/AAAAAAAAJkw/65VdR5uZi2Q/s600/IMG_4070web.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>. <b><span style="color: red;">In the interest of safety</span></b>, if you pass it just turn around later. <span style="color: red;"><b>Avoid making sudden stops</b></span>. There typically is a high volume of traffic on the main route. From the turn-off, follow the Blue Vehicle route designated in the map above. LandMarks (yellow diamond icons) have been placed to help you reach the temple. </div>
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<b>Related Articles (Snake Legends of Okinawa)</b>. <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/12/the-matsuda-caves-mega-gama-ruins.html" target="_blank">The Matsuda Cave & Mega Gama Ruins</a>, <a href="http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2013/03/legend-of-yara-muruchi-kadena.html" target="_blank">Legend of Yara Muruchi</a>. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-91628334423950011052014-12-27T03:36:00.000-08:002014-12-28T23:39:54.982-08:00Hatsumode, New Years at the Naminoue Shrine<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hatsumode, New Years at Naminoue Shrine</td></tr>
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<b><br /></b><b> GPS</b><br />
<table style="width: 100%px;">
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<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 13.142</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 127 40.134</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> *GPS to Pink Thumbtack Icon</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hatsumode, Naminoue Shrine</span><br />
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It is a Japanese tradition to start off the New Year with a visit to a Shinto Shrine. In Japanese this is called <i>hatsumode</i> (<i>hatsumōde</i>, はつもうで, 初詣) which literally means “first visit to a shrine”. Typically, families try to go on the very first day of the New Year. Others, because of their work schedule for example, may attend on the second or third day. Usually, people visit Shinto Shrines for hatsumode, but they can also visit Buddhist temples with the same aspirations. Some Japanese or Okinawan people choose to go to a certain shrine (or shrines) based on personal or local beliefs. This could depend on the person's zodiac sign and/or the upcoming zodiac year. </div>
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The Naminoue Shrine is without question the most popular Shinto Shrine in the Ryukyu Islands. Many people visit here on New Year's Day. Below is the general sequence of events on visiting the shrine on this occasion. With a few minor exceptions, it is no different than visiting any other Shinto Shrine on any given day. If you feel uncomfortable going alone, ask a Japanese friend to accompany you. Staff members at Naminoue are accustom to foreigners attending this shrine. You need not fear, just go with a little humility and patience. </div>
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<b>Date</b>: January 1st starting at midnight usually to January 3rd or longer.<br />
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<b>General Sequence of Events.</b><br />
1. <u>Entering the Premises</u>. Enter the Naminoue Shrine through the <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-E7qv_1c2uWk/Ur_v6_nKpAI/AAAAAAAAIZY/X8TJrc8Sgvo/s600/IMG_4621web.jpg" target="_blank">torii gate</a>. The torii gate lets travelers know they are about to enter a sacred area. It is considered proper etiquette to stop and bow just before you enter.<br />
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2. <u>The Purification Fountain/Cleansing of the Body</u>. <span style="color: red;">The following is based on questions and interviews with various Japanese and Okinawan people. No official guide can be referenced on this process and not everyone may follow these steps exactly. Some may even skip it all together. But the below guidelines are the most complete. It is recommended that you observe others during this process first.</span> The fountain at Naminoue will be on your left if you are facing the <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-up9uQVE7-eQ/Ur_wAulpIsI/AAAAAAAAIZo/vTKzn6XbxuI/s600/IMG_4624web.jpg" target="_blank">Main Prayer Hall</a> (<i>haiden</i>, 拝殿).
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<i>Step 1</i>. Approach the trough and with your right hand, pick up the ladle and scoop the "pure water" from the basin or fountain.</div>
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<i>Step 2</i>. Pour the water to clean your left hand. <span style="color: red;">NOTE: When you are washing your hand do not let the water fall back into the <i>pure water basin </i>after cleansing. Let the water rinse off on the outside of the basin onto the ground. This prevents the now "soiled water" from falling back into the <i>pure water basin</i>. </span></div>
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<i>Step 3</i>. Next, take the ladle with the left hand and pour the water over your right hand using guidelines in Step 2.</div>
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<i>Step 4</i>. (Optional) Next, you are to clean the body by taking the ladle with the right hand and making a cup with your left hand. Pour water into your left hand and then pour it into your mouth. <span style="color: red;">DO NOT SWALLOW IT or GARGLE LOUD</span>. Just rinse it quietly in your mouth for a few seconds and quietly spit it out onto the ground. Try to do this in a very respectful manner. </div>
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<i>Step 5</i>. Finally, you will take the ladle with your right hand again, pour some water into it and tip the ladle up so that the water pours down the ladle. You are now cleansing the ladle.</div>
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3. <u>Standing in Line/Approaching the Main Prayer Hall (<i>haiden</i>, 拝殿)</u>. On New Years there will be a <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbga0ymxdkQ8ygeDzIoG5_am8Xa1eBGEh5sUBlqLSgGSfNScwBiNXGRFGm46gRv8O5-GiPvdrGMXqypn-AoLX5ZQy_-OFyPV8wAmhUXrfHg-UvjYqAKcCQUX23ra1bN-bob3-ugcMGfpY8/s600/IMG_4630web.jpg" target="_blank">long line in front of the Main Prayer Hall (haiden)</a>, but it moves rather quickly. As you approach the haiden, normally you would find a <i>saisen</i> box where you would deposit your monetary offering (saisen). In the case of Naminoue during New Years this box may not be present. Because of the expected large crowds, coins are thrown in an open lot instead. Most people deposit somewhere between 5¥ to 100¥.</div>
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4. <u>Prayer</u>. After you make your monetary offering, bow and clap twice and say a <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vhAzDWM8ORk/Ur_wD7cAJPI/AAAAAAAAIZw/CUCOdOOBh-k/s600/IMG_4647web.jpg" target="_blank">small prayer in silence</a>. You will either exit to the left or right as people behind you step forward.</div>
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<b>Omikuji/Omamori</b>. After you have made your offerings and prayers, a common custom is to then obtain your fortune for that year. This is called an <i>Omikuji</i>. It will be a <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-OftcLv5iSY4/Ur_wNGBFVMI/AAAAAAAAIaI/ryA_rM4Xjw0/s600/IMG_4684web.jpg" target="_blank">little folded-up paper</a> with your fortune on it. Typically you pay a small sum, such as 100¥ and then you randomly pick it from a box. At Naminoue, you can ask for an English version. It is traditional to then tie your fortune on a <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Go9_X-GmR6w/Ur_wKsYhW-I/AAAAAAAAIaA/kZSKSbn2fZM/s600/IMG_4674web.jpg" target="_blank">place provided</a>. You can also purchase an <i><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FH6KHj_Y6r8/Ur_wP59Q6_I/AAAAAAAAIaQ/dTV-vvP20a8/s512/IMG_4687web.jpg" target="_blank">Omamori</a></i>, which is essentially a good luck charm. There are varieties to choose from and some serve specific purposes. For example, you can purchase an omamori for exam testing or driver safety. Most people tend to get one for general health and prosperity. </div>
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<b>Parking.</b> On New Years Day parking will be problematic. Fortunately, most people do not stay very long and thus there will be a continuous flow of people leaving. Additionally, near the shrine you will find parking attendants moving the traffic along. People also park at a distance and then walk to the shrine. The Green Thumbtack icon in the map above is the <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2AVAAmC91TOakQSChrbwPSI3eGvYAvoBQi82C_V7aROb90NdnDKxceM8OmUCi_rHnlUKmudOGOSnsvIwD9gHMZ0vZ3JEQ8pAbDnR16RtGoovYQ-_t9NkH4_KLwgRG7rXhrVEtlWemfFp2/s600/IMG_4709web.jpg" target="_blank">parking lot closest to the shrine</a> and closest to the main road. Other parking attendants may direct you to other parking locations. You will most likely see a <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3IGx3bw-Tmo/Ur_x0BKx-MI/AAAAAAAAIbY/RJrKWrFKDs8/s600/IMG_4715web.jpg" target="_blank">steady flow of cars lined up</a>. Expect to wait anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes. This could vary based on the time of day. You will have to pay to park, typically around 500<span style="text-align: justify;">¥</span>. Other parking locations may vary.</div>
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<b>Directions</b>. Because of the lack of Highway signs, written instructions will be more complicated. Please study the map carefully. The Blue Route is the easiest to follow from Highway 58. The Green Route however may be easier to access the parking area but little harder to navigate to.</div>
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<b>What to Bring</b>. Plan for cold weather and rain no matter what the forecast. Bring an umbrella, warm coat, Yen/change, and a camera.<br />
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<b>References</b>.<br />
1. Japan Guide, <a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2057.html" target="_blank">Visiting Temples and Shrines</a><br />
2. Japan National Tourism Organization, <a href="http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/indepth/exotic/JapanesQue/1112/newyear.html" target="_blank">New Year in Japan</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4701837450567381953.post-7565483569242667052014-11-21T22:21:00.003-08:002015-02-01T07:08:53.661-08:00The Heart Rock, Kouri Jima<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D-W1TMxxt9c/VF9Q7Eeth0I/AAAAAAAAJcw/yuJmbfFBHHU/s1600/IMG_3563web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D-W1TMxxt9c/VF9Q7Eeth0I/AAAAAAAAJcw/yuJmbfFBHHU/s1600/IMG_3563web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Heart Rock, Kouri Jima</td></tr>
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<div style="float: left;">
<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=388&num=200&ll=26.713421,128.014647&spn=0.026951,0.036478&z=18&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&t=h&source=embed&msa=0&msid=218434148479089393079.0004ac4d606e9faf61d93&start=388&num=200&ll=26.713421,128.014647&spn=0.026951,0.036478&z=18" style="color: blue; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Map It! Okinawa</a> in a larger map</small></div>
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<tr><td align="center" style="background: url(https://www.gstatic.com/pwa/s/v/lighthousefe_20141118.00_p1/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat left; height: 194px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/TheHeartRock?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" target="_blank"><img height="160" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-cu4Vq9jCpj8/VF9Q60pz8WE/AAAAAAAAJeo/8oNnlky7p7k/s160-c/TheHeartRock.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/TheHeartRock?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite" style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Heart Rock</a></td></tr>
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<b> GPS</b><br />
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<tr><td> <u><b>Latitude</b></u></td><td><u><b>Longitude</b></u></td></tr>
<tr><td><span id="lat_gps"><b> N 26 42.774</b></span></td><td><span id="long_gps"><b>E 128 00.919</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> *GPS to Parking Lot
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Heart Rock, Kouri Jima</span><br />
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On the northern shores of Kouri Jima is a small natural wonder known as the <i>Heart Rock</i>.
Recently, this has become a popular tourist attraction as hundreds visit daily to get a glimpse of this inspirational phenomenon. Many Japanese may call this specific area a 'power spot' (pronounced phonetically by the Japanese as such). It is a term often used to describe a place that's a source of positive spiritual energy. </div>
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There are actually two protruding coral rocks. Together they may look like a <a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-EbUO3yX3vvI/VF9RCESaNmI/AAAAAAAAJdA/T5x-QqlRCe0/s600/IMG_3599web.jpg" target="_blank">pair of whale tails</a> flipping in the ocean. It is the rock on the left that is known as the Heart Rock. Please view the photo album above or <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/110929613066818205932/TheHeartRock?authuser=0&feat=directlink" target="_blank">click here</a> for more images.</div>
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<b>Entrance Fee</b>. Cash/Yen Only. Individual: 300 Yen. Groups: For groups with 2 or more people, you only need pay 300 Yen for the entire group. Parking and Entrance Gate is located on the map above.<br />
<b>Amenities/Parking</b>. Toilet facility is available near the entrance. <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-frvfAfyvTfs/VF9RRHKLELI/AAAAAAAAJdg/NUQRporLKNw/s600/IMG_3542web.jpg" target="_blank">Parking available</a>. <br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>Caution</b></span>. Use caution when taking the trail to the Heart Rock. Some areas are uneven and can cause to lose balance. Not accessible by wheel chair or baby strollers.<br />
<b>Video</b>. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5FKSQW6vtI" target="_blank">Map It! Okinawa Video Short, "The Heart Rock"</a><br />
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<b>Directions</b>. Take Highway 58 North into Nago City. Then take Highway 110. You will have to cross Yagaji Island before you get to the Kouri Island Bridge. There will be signs posted on Yagaji Island directing you to Kouri Jima. Once you cross the Kouri Island Bridge navigate around the island in a clockwise direction on the main road. There will be small makeshift signs with the Japanese word, <i>ハート ロック</i>, which means Heart Rock directing you to the parking lot location. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11763801236968588173noreply@blogger.com0