Ascending Mt. Oishi on Mushima Island allows you to overlook the area of the Seto Inland Sea through which much Japanese shipping still] flows. The view from the lighthouse is particularly awe-inspiring. You can see with the sweep of your eyes how Mushima was once connected with many distant areas through the "Sea Road" of the Seto Inland Sea, where large and small vessels once plied the waters.

Mt. Shingyo is a holy place with a connection to Kobo Daishi ("The Grand Master who Propagated the Dharma in Japan"). It provides a magnificent view of the Seto Inland Sea. There are many large and strangely-shaped boulders scattered over the mountain. The great stone at the mountain's summit has long been worshiped as an object of faith. Granite produced from the stone quarries of Mt. Shingyo is famil…

After the Early-modern Times Era (1603 to 1867) ended, many of the descendants of the Shiwaku Navy left their home region to work as sailors on merchant ships or as carpenters in various parts of the country. They were thus able to take full advantage of the skills they had accumulated through their many years in the merchant marine. The Chitose-za Theater, located in the Tomari area of Honjima Island, was built by …

Mt. Shingyo is a holy place with a connection to Kobo Daishi ("The Grand Master who Propagated the Dharma in Japan"). It provides a magnificent view of the Seto Inland Sea. There are many large and strangely-shaped boulders scattered over the mountain. The great stone at the mountain's summit has long been worshiped as an object of faith. Granite produced from the stone quarries of Mt. Shingyo is famil…

After the Early-modern Times Era (1603 to 1867) ended, many of the descendants of the Shiwaku Navy left their home region to work as sailors on merchant ships or as carpenters in various parts of the country. They were thus able to take full advantage of the skills they had accumulated through their many years in the merchant marine. The Chitose-za Theater, located in the Tomari area of Honjima Island, was built by …

Tofuishi Quarry Site(Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of more…

After the Early-modern Times Era (1603 to 1867) ended, many of the descendants of the Shiwaku Navy left their home region to work as sailors on merchant ships or as carpenters in various parts of the country. They were thus able to take full advantage of the skills they had accumulated through their many years in the merchant marine. The Chitose-za Theater, located in the Tomari area of Honjima Island, was built by …

Tofuishi Quarry Site(Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of more…

There are many places in the mountainous landscape of Shodoshima that are traditionally held sacred. The Shodoshima sacred site pilgrimage route, with a total length of about 150 kilometers, links 88 sites, many of them in caves along stone bluffs. The spiritual life of Shodoshima was closely tied to stone.

Tofuishi Quarry Site(Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of more…

There are many places in the mountainous landscape of Shodoshima that are traditionally held sacred. The Shodoshima sacred site pilgrimage route, with a total length of about 150 kilometers, links 88 sites, many of them in caves along stone bluffs. The spiritual life of Shodoshima was closely tied to stone.

Facing the Seto Inland Sea, this grandstand makes the most of the natural terrain. Standing 80 meters long and 18 meters high, it was built for viewing the annual Autumn Festival performance. While the date of completion is unknown, the groundstand is painted in a drawing of the festival that was donated to a shrine in 1812.

There are many places in the mountainous landscape of Shodoshima that are traditionally held sacred. The Shodoshima sacred site pilgrimage route, with a total length of about 150 kilometers, links 88 sites, many of them in caves along stone bluffs. The spiritual life of Shodoshima was closely tied to stone.

Facing the Seto Inland Sea, this grandstand makes the most of the natural terrain. Standing 80 meters long and 18 meters high, it was built for viewing the annual Autumn Festival performance. While the date of completion is unknown, the groundstand is painted in a drawing of the festival that was donated to a shrine in 1812.

About 400 years ago, quarries were opened in various places on Shodoshima to supply stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle, and there are many leftover finished stones from that time, especially in the Iwagatani district. The guardhouse is evidence that after the business ended, the Kuroda clan who owned the quarry were concerned with maintaining the quantity and quality of the leftover stone. It is also a place fo…

Facing the Seto Inland Sea, this grandstand makes the most of the natural terrain. Standing 80 meters long and 18 meters high, it was built for viewing the annual Autumn Festival performance. While the date of completion is unknown, the groundstand is painted in a drawing of the festival that was donated to a shrine in 1812.

About 400 years ago, quarries were opened in various places on Shodoshima to supply stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle, and there are many leftover finished stones from that time, especially in the Iwagatani district. The guardhouse is evidence that after the business ended, the Kuroda clan who owned the quarry were concerned with maintaining the quantity and quality of the leftover stone. It is also a place fo…

The shogunate ordered the drawing of pictorial maps of all Japan during the Keicho period (1596-1615) and the Shoho period (1644-1648). This Shodoshima map is dated 1605, and as one of only a few surviving maps from the Keicho series, it is a very important historical document. The map was drawn with the use of the advanced survey techniques known to the Inland Sea mariners who transported stone from the island.

About 400 years ago, quarries were opened in various places on Shodoshima to supply stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle, and there are many leftover finished stones from that time, especially in the Iwagatani district. The guardhouse is evidence that after the business ended, the Kuroda clan who owned the quarry were concerned with maintaining the quantity and quality of the leftover stone. It is also a place fo…

The shogunate ordered the drawing of pictorial maps of all Japan during the Keicho period (1596-1615) and the Shoho period (1644-1648). This Shodoshima map is dated 1605, and as one of only a few surviving maps from the Keicho series, it is a very important historical document. The map was drawn with the use of the advanced survey techniques known to the Inland Sea mariners who transported stone from the island.

There are many places in the mountainous landscape of Shodoshima that are traditionally held sacred. The Shodoshima sacred site pilgrimage route, with a total length of about 150 kilometers, links 88 sites, many of them in caves along stone bluffs. The spiritual life of Shodoshima was closely tied to stone.

The shogunate ordered the drawing of pictorial maps of all Japan during the Keicho period (1596-1615) and the Shoho period (1644-1648). This Shodoshima map is dated 1605, and as one of only a few surviving maps from the Keicho series, it is a very important historical document. The map was drawn with the use of the advanced survey techniques known to the Inland Sea mariners who transported stone from the island.

There are many places in the mountainous landscape of Shodoshima that are traditionally held sacred. The Shodoshima sacred site pilgrimage route, with a total length of about 150 kilometers, links 88 sites, many of them in caves along stone bluffs. The spiritual life of Shodoshima was closely tied to stone.

There are many places in the mountainous landscape of Shodoshima that are traditionally held sacred. The Shodoshima sacred site pilgrimage route, with a total length of about 150 kilometers, links 88 sites, many of them in caves along stone bluffs. The spiritual life of Shodoshima was closely tied to stone.

There are many places in the mountainous landscape of Shodoshima that are traditionally held sacred. The Shodoshima sacred site pilgrimage route, with a total length of about 150 kilometers, links 88 sites, many of them in caves along stone bluffs. The spiritual life of Shodoshima was closely tied to stone.

There are many places in the mountainous landscape of Shodoshima that are traditionally held sacred. The Shodoshima sacred site pilgrimage route, with a total length of about 150 kilometers, links 88 sites, many of them in caves along stone bluffs. The spiritual life of Shodoshima was closely tied to stone.

The Omi district was virtually encircled by three quarries operated by the Hosokawa clan to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. The quarry sites are still scattered with flat stones and stone scraps.

There are many places in the mountainous landscape of Shodoshima that are traditionally held sacred. The Shodoshima sacred site pilgrimage route, with a total length of about 150 kilometers, links 88 sites, many of them in caves along stone bluffs. The spiritual life of Shodoshima was closely tied to stone.

The Omi district was virtually encircled by three quarries operated by the Hosokawa clan to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. The quarry sites are still scattered with flat stones and stone scraps.

The Omi district was virtually encircled by three quarries operated by the Hosokawa clan to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. The quarry sites are still scattered with flat stones and stone scraps.

The Omi district was virtually encircled by three quarries operated by the Hosokawa clan to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. The quarry sites are still scattered with flat stones and stone scraps.

The Omi district was virtually encircled by three quarries operated by the Hosokawa clan to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. The quarry sites are still scattered with flat stones and stone scraps.

The Omi district was virtually encircled by three quarries operated by the Hosokawa clan to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. The quarry sites are still scattered with flat stones and stone scraps.

The Omi district was virtually encircled by three quarries operated by the Hosokawa clan to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. The quarry sites are still scattered with flat stones and stone scraps.

The Omi district was virtually encircled by three quarries operated by the Hosokawa clan to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. The quarry sites are still scattered with flat stones and stone scraps.

The quarries were operated by the Kato daimyos of the Higo domain and Kumamoto Castle, to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. There are stone pieces engraved with the Kato family crest, a pair of concentric circles (snake eye). A sword and other items passed down from the Kato clan are kept in a building that was the village headman’s home at the time.

The Omi district was virtually encircled by three quarries operated by the Hosokawa clan to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. The quarry sites are still scattered with flat stones and stone scraps.

The quarries were operated by the Kato daimyos of the Higo domain and Kumamoto Castle, to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. There are stone pieces engraved with the Kato family crest, a pair of concentric circles (snake eye). A sword and other items passed down from the Kato clan are kept in a building that was the village headman’s home at the time.

The quarries were operated by the Kato daimyos of the Higo domain and Kumamoto Castle, to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. There are stone pieces engraved with the Kato family crest, a pair of concentric circles (snake eye). A sword and other items passed down from the Kato clan are kept in a building that was the village headman’s home at the time.

The quarries were operated by the Kato daimyos of the Higo domain and Kumamoto Castle, to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. There are stone pieces engraved with the Kato family crest, a pair of concentric circles (snake eye). A sword and other items passed down from the Kato clan are kept in a building that was the village headman’s home at the time.

The quarries were operated by the Kato daimyos of the Higo domain and Kumamoto Castle, to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. There are stone pieces engraved with the Kato family crest, a pair of concentric circles (snake eye). A sword and other items passed down from the Kato clan are kept in a building that was the village headman’s home at the time.

Nishinotani Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Remains in Fukuda) Old village records show that Todo Takatora (1556-1630), the famous designer and builder of many Japanese castles, operated four quarries in the Fukuda district of Shodoshima, the Higashidani, Nishinotani, Tochimenji and Taiajiro quarries.

The quarries were operated by the Kato daimyos of the Higo domain and Kumamoto Castle, to produce stone for the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. There are stone pieces engraved with the Kato family crest, a pair of concentric circles (snake eye). A sword and other items passed down from the Kato clan are kept in a building that was the village headman’s home at the time.

Nishinotani Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Remains in Fukuda) Old village records show that Todo Takatora (1556-1630), the famous designer and builder of many Japanese castles, operated four quarries in the Fukuda district of Shodoshima, the Higashidani, Nishinotani, Tochimenji and Taiajiro quarries.

Higashidani Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Remains in Fukuda) Old village records show that Todo Takatora (1556-1630), the famous designer and builder of many Japanese castles, operated four quarries in the Fukuda district of Shodoshima, the Higashidani, Nishinotani, Tochimenji and Taiajiro quarries.

Nishinotani Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Remains in Fukuda) Old village records show that Todo Takatora (1556-1630), the famous designer and builder of many Japanese castles, operated four quarries in the Fukuda district of Shodoshima, the Higashidani, Nishinotani, Tochimenji and Taiajiro quarries.

Higashidani Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Remains in Fukuda) Old village records show that Todo Takatora (1556-1630), the famous designer and builder of many Japanese castles, operated four quarries in the Fukuda district of Shodoshima, the Higashidani, Nishinotani, Tochimenji and Taiajiro quarries.

Kamesaki Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of mor…

Higashidani Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Remains in Fukuda) Old village records show that Todo Takatora (1556-1630), the famous designer and builder of many Japanese castles, operated four quarries in the Fukuda district of Shodoshima, the Higashidani, Nishinotani, Tochimenji and Taiajiro quarries.

Kamesaki Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of mor…

Hachinin-ishi Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total o…

Kamesaki Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of mor…

Hachinin-ishi Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total o…

Minamitani Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of m…

Hachinin-ishi Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total o…

Minamitani Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of m…

Tenguiwa-iso Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of…

Minamitani Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of m…

Tenguiwa-iso Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of…

Tenguiwa Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of mor…

Tenguiwa-iso Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of…

Tenguiwa Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of mor…

In the late 16th century, leaders of the Shiwaku Navy were named as the official headmen of different districts, and the positions were inherited by their descendants. The first headmen were from the Irie, Miyamoto, Yoshida and Maki families, and the graves of some of those families still stand on Honjima. The earliest is from 1626, during the time when Osaka Castle was built, and in later years graves more than thre…

Tenguiwa Quarry Site (Osaka Castle Wall Stone Quarry Remains) Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatani district. With a total of mor…

In the late 16th century, leaders of the Shiwaku Navy were named as the official headmen of different districts, and the positions were inherited by their descendants. The first headmen were from the Irie, Miyamoto, Yoshida and Maki families, and the graves of some of those families still stand on Honjima. The earliest is from 1626, during the time when Osaka Castle was built, and in later years graves more than thre…

In the late 16th century, leaders of the Shiwaku Navy were named as the official headmen of different districts, and the positions were inherited by their descendants. The first headmen were from the Irie, Miyamoto, Yoshida and Maki families, and the graves of some of those families still stand on Honjima. The earliest is from 1626, during the time when Osaka Castle was built, and in later years graves more than thre…

In the late 16th century, leaders of the Shiwaku Navy were named as the official headmen of different districts, and the positions were inherited by their descendants. The first headmen were from the Irie, Miyamoto, Yoshida and Maki families, and the graves of some of those families still stand on Honjima. The earliest is from 1626, during the time when Osaka Castle was built, and in later years graves more than thre…

In the late 16th century, leaders of the Shiwaku Navy were named as the official headmen of different districts, and the positions were inherited by their descendants. The first headmen were from the Irie, Miyamoto, Yoshida and Maki families, and the graves of some of those families still stand on Honjima. The earliest is from 1626, during the time when Osaka Castle was built, and in later years graves more than thre…

In the late 16th century, leaders of the Shiwaku Navy were named as the official headmen of different districts, and the positions were inherited by their descendants. The first headmen were from the Irie, Miyamoto, Yoshida and Maki families, and the graves of some of those families still stand on Honjima. The earliest is from 1626, during the time when Osaka Castle was built, and in later years graves more than thre…

In the late 16th century, leaders of the Shiwaku Navy were named as the official headmen of different districts, and the positions were inherited by their descendants. The first headmen were from the Irie, Miyamoto, Yoshida and Maki families, and the graves of some of those families still stand on Honjima. The earliest is from 1626, during the time when Osaka Castle was built, and in later years graves more than thre…

In the late 16th century, leaders of the Shiwaku Navy were named as the official headmen of different districts, and the positions were inherited by their descendants. The first headmen were from the Irie, Miyamoto, Yoshida and Maki families, and the graves of some of those families still stand on Honjima. The earliest is from 1626, during the time when Osaka Castle was built, and in later years graves more than thre…

hishigaki-Stone Wall to Protect Crops from Boars and Deers A stone wall erected to protect fields from wild boar, deer and other animals. A government document from 1790 records that a stone game wall with a total length of about 120 kilometers was erected around the interior of Shodoshima. Other records show that all villagers were engaged in the building and maintenance of their sections of the wall, indicating…

In the late 16th century, leaders of the Shiwaku Navy were named as the official headmen of different districts, and the positions were inherited by their descendants. The first headmen were from the Irie, Miyamoto, Yoshida and Maki families, and the graves of some of those families still stand on Honjima. The earliest is from 1626, during the time when Osaka Castle was built, and in later years graves more than thre…

hishigaki-Stone Wall to Protect Crops from Boars and Deers A stone wall erected to protect fields from wild boar, deer and other animals. A government document from 1790 records that a stone game wall with a total length of about 120 kilometers was erected around the interior of Shodoshima. Other records show that all villagers were engaged in the building and maintenance of their sections of the wall, indicating…

The stonecutters of Shodoshima developed their own work song which was passed down through the generations. The rhythm of the words evokes the manual striking work of the masons. Today the song is performed on festive occasions with the addition of instruments and dance.

hishigaki-Stone Wall to Protect Crops from Boars and Deers A stone wall erected to protect fields from wild boar, deer and other animals. A government document from 1790 records that a stone game wall with a total length of about 120 kilometers was erected around the interior of Shodoshima. Other records show that all villagers were engaged in the building and maintenance of their sections of the wall, indicating…

The stonecutters of Shodoshima developed their own work song which was passed down through the generations. The rhythm of the words evokes the manual striking work of the masons. Today the song is performed on festive occasions with the addition of instruments and dance.

This pair of stacked (kasane) granite boulders which look like they are about to fall were the super-hard core of a much larger granite deposit that decomposed over time and fell away. The awesome megalith became an object of spiritual veneration and the center of the Kose Ishizuchi Shrine.

The stonecutters of Shodoshima developed their own work song which was passed down through the generations. The rhythm of the words evokes the manual striking work of the masons. Today the song is performed on festive occasions with the addition of instruments and dance.

This pair of stacked (kasane) granite boulders which look like they are about to fall were the super-hard core of a much larger granite deposit that decomposed over time and fell away. The awesome megalith became an object of spiritual veneration and the center of the Kose Ishizuchi Shrine.

The wharf was for loading locally quarried stones for shipment to Osaka Castle. There was a quarry nearby that was owned by Nakagawa Hisamori, daimyo of the Bungo Takeda domain. It is known that even after the completion of Osaka Castle, Matsudaira Naomasa, daimyo of the Izume Matsue domain, kept the quarry in operation under a license from the shogunate.

This pair of stacked (kasane) granite boulders which look like they are about to fall were the super-hard core of a much larger granite deposit that decomposed over time and fell away. The awesome megalith became an object of spiritual veneration and the center of the Kose Ishizuchi Shrine.

The wharf was for loading locally quarried stones for shipment to Osaka Castle. There was a quarry nearby that was owned by Nakagawa Hisamori, daimyo of the Bungo Takeda domain. It is known that even after the completion of Osaka Castle, Matsudaira Naomasa, daimyo of the Izume Matsue domain, kept the quarry in operation under a license from the shogunate.

This quarry was operated by Tanaka daimyos of the Chikugo domain, and was adjacent to a busy shipping wharf. Worked stones that were left at the site long ago are engraved with a Tanaka Chikugo mark, similar to marks found on stones in the walls of Osaka Castle.

The wharf was for loading locally quarried stones for shipment to Osaka Castle. There was a quarry nearby that was owned by Nakagawa Hisamori, daimyo of the Bungo Takeda domain. It is known that even after the completion of Osaka Castle, Matsudaira Naomasa, daimyo of the Izume Matsue domain, kept the quarry in operation under a license from the shogunate.

This quarry was operated by Tanaka daimyos of the Chikugo domain, and was adjacent to a busy shipping wharf. Worked stones that were left at the site long ago are engraved with a Tanaka Chikugo mark, similar to marks found on stones in the walls of Osaka Castle.

This ancient festival is a prayer for skillfulness and safety. Local residents continue to hold the festival each year on January 9 at Oyamazumi Shrine, near the Nishinotani quarry that was operated by the famous castle builder Todo Takatora. The festival is an important part of the area’s heritage which depended on the masonry profession and seagoing ships.

This quarry was operated by Tanaka daimyos of the Chikugo domain, and was adjacent to a busy shipping wharf. Worked stones that were left at the site long ago are engraved with a Tanaka Chikugo mark, similar to marks found on stones in the walls of Osaka Castle.

This ancient festival is a prayer for skillfulness and safety. Local residents continue to hold the festival each year on January 9 at Oyamazumi Shrine, near the Nishinotani quarry that was operated by the famous castle builder Todo Takatora. The festival is an important part of the area’s heritage which depended on the masonry profession and seagoing ships.

From the Meiji era, this quarry was in important part of the stone industry in the Fukuda district. There are records of stone being shipped from this quarry for use in the bridge to the gate of the Imperial Palace, and in the tomb of Emperor Meiji at Fushimi Momoyama. What remains today of that prosperous quarry site are only the tool marks on the rock faces and the rainwater lake that has filled the pit

This ancient festival is a prayer for skillfulness and safety. Local residents continue to hold the festival each year on January 9 at Oyamazumi Shrine, near the Nishinotani quarry that was operated by the famous castle builder Todo Takatora. The festival is an important part of the area’s heritage which depended on the masonry profession and seagoing ships.

From the Meiji era, this quarry was in important part of the stone industry in the Fukuda district. There are records of stone being shipped from this quarry for use in the bridge to the gate of the Imperial Palace, and in the tomb of Emperor Meiji at Fushimi Momoyama. What remains today of that prosperous quarry site are only the tool marks on the rock faces and the rainwater lake that has filled the pit

The Tenguiwa, Tenguiwa-iso, Minamitani, Tofuishi, Kamesaki, and Hachinin-ishi quarry sites. Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatan…

From the Meiji era, this quarry was in important part of the stone industry in the Fukuda district. There are records of stone being shipped from this quarry for use in the bridge to the gate of the Imperial Palace, and in the tomb of Emperor Meiji at Fushimi Momoyama. What remains today of that prosperous quarry site are only the tool marks on the rock faces and the rainwater lake that has filled the pit

The Tenguiwa, Tenguiwa-iso, Minamitani, Tofuishi, Kamesaki, and Hachinin-ishi quarry sites. Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatan…

Built to store oil for the beacon light on the Habushi-iwa reef. The contrasting finishes on the granite exterior give the structure its own beauty. Both the beacon and the storehouse were completed in 1895.

The Tenguiwa, Tenguiwa-iso, Minamitani, Tofuishi, Kamesaki, and Hachinin-ishi quarry sites. Four hundred years ago, when the Tokugawa shogunate was rebuilding Osaka Castle, the daimyos of several domains opened quarries in the Bisan Islands to deliver huge stones to construct magnificent castle walls. The flavor of that time is still strongly in evidence at the quarries opened by the Kuroda daimyo in the Iwagatan…

Built to store oil for the beacon light on the Habushi-iwa reef. The contrasting finishes on the granite exterior give the structure its own beauty. Both the beacon and the storehouse were completed in 1895.

The light stands on the Habushi-iwa reef, which has a diameter of about 50 meters, one kilometer south of Hiroshima. It is 13 meters high and built of granite blocks.

Built to store oil for the beacon light on the Habushi-iwa reef. The contrasting finishes on the granite exterior give the structure its own beauty. Both the beacon and the storehouse were completed in 1895.

The light stands on the Habushi-iwa reef, which has a diameter of about 50 meters, one kilometer south of Hiroshima. It is 13 meters high and built of granite blocks.

On the island of Hiroshima, part of the former Nishi Elementary School is a history museum with displays of tools and documents relating to the island’s well-known Aoki granite, and utensils from daily life in the pre-mechanization era. Hiroshima was long one of the Shiwaku Islands with a strong culture centered onstone production.

The light stands on the Habushi-iwa reef, which has a diameter of about 50 meters, one kilometer south of Hiroshima. It is 13 meters high and built of granite blocks.

On the island of Hiroshima, part of the former Nishi Elementary School is a history museum with displays of tools and documents relating to the island’s well-known Aoki granite, and utensils from daily life in the pre-mechanization era. Hiroshima was long one of the Shiwaku Islands with a strong culture centered onstone production.

The main gate of Kogarasu Shrine. The gate is in the classic myojin torii form with two lintels and curving ends on the top lintel. It was built in 1627 by a famous mason from Satsuma named Kinokahei, about whom there are stories in connection with the contemporary building of Osaka Castle, and a local mason named Kurobei.

On the island of Hiroshima, part of the former Nishi Elementary School is a history museum with displays of tools and documents relating to the island’s well-known Aoki granite, and utensils from daily life in the pre-mechanization era. Hiroshima was long one of the Shiwaku Islands with a strong culture centered onstone production.

The main gate of Kogarasu Shrine. The gate is in the classic myojin torii form with two lintels and curving ends on the top lintel. It was built in 1627 by a famous mason from Satsuma named Kinokahei, about whom there are stories in connection with the contemporary building of Osaka Castle, and a local mason named Kurobei.

This site is on the island of Honjima, which was the home base of the long standing Shiwaku Navy, a corps of master mariners. The quarry was operated by the Hosokawa clan during the time Osaka Castle was being built, and the family records state that in a period of a little less than nine months, from March to November 1623, a total of 149,228 work days were logged by four different work teams. This quarry provided 1…

The main gate of Kogarasu Shrine. The gate is in the classic myojin torii form with two lintels and curving ends on the top lintel. It was built in 1627 by a famous mason from Satsuma named Kinokahei, about whom there are stories in connection with the contemporary building of Osaka Castle, and a local mason named Kurobei.

This site is on the island of Honjima, which was the home base of the long standing Shiwaku Navy, a corps of master mariners. The quarry was operated by the Hosokawa clan during the time Osaka Castle was being built, and the family records state that in a period of a little less than nine months, from March to November 1623, a total of 149,228 work days were logged by four different work teams. This quarry provided 1…

The ancient site is on the grounds of the former Hishima Elementary School. Prayer rituals for the safety of ships and sailors were held here during the Nara and Heian periods (8th to 12th centuries). In 1962, a buried trove of bronze mirrors, copper bells and earthenware was discovered by chance on the school grounds. It included items typically used in religious rituals, such as a small Nara-sansai tricolor c…

This site is on the island of Honjima, which was the home base of the long standing Shiwaku Navy, a corps of master mariners. The quarry was operated by the Hosokawa clan during the time Osaka Castle was being built, and the family records state that in a period of a little less than nine months, from March to November 1623, a total of 149,228 work days were logged by four different work teams. This quarry provided 1…

The ancient site is on the grounds of the former Hishima Elementary School. Prayer rituals for the safety of ships and sailors were held here during the Nara and Heian periods (8th to 12th centuries). In 1962, a buried trove of bronze mirrors, copper bells and earthenware was discovered by chance on the school grounds. It included items typically used in religious rituals, such as a small Nara-sansai tricolor c…

The residential compound of the island’s long-established Manabe family contains fine examples of the local style of traditional architecture. The house was built in 1870, and the other structures are a post office, storehouses, the gate, and a shed.

The ancient site is on the grounds of the former Hishima Elementary School. Prayer rituals for the safety of ships and sailors were held here during the Nara and Heian periods (8th to 12th centuries). In 1962, a buried trove of bronze mirrors, copper bells and earthenware was discovered by chance on the school grounds. It included items typically used in religious rituals, such as a small Nara-sansai tricolor c…

The residential compound of the island’s long-established Manabe family contains fine examples of the local style of traditional architecture. The house was built in 1870, and the other structures are a post office, storehouses, the gate, and a shed.

In medieval times the island of Manabeshima was home to a corps of master mariners called the Manabe Navy. The community they founded is a symbol of the heritage of the Bisan Islands as a maritime traffic center. The village is a maze of narrow lanes without regular intersections or cross streets, a defensive design typical of the Warring States period.

The residential compound of the island’s long-established Manabe family contains fine examples of the local style of traditional architecture. The house was built in 1870, and the other structures are a post office, storehouses, the gate, and a shed.

In medieval times the island of Manabeshima was home to a corps of master mariners called the Manabe Navy. The community they founded is a symbol of the heritage of the Bisan Islands as a maritime traffic center. The village is a maze of narrow lanes without regular intersections or cross streets, a defensive design typical of the Warring States period.

In the days when stone was cut by hand, the workers sang as they performed the hard work of removing stone from the earth and breaking and shaping it. The singing helped them wield their chisels with a steady rhythm to make the work efficient. This local song includes the lyrics: “The fixtures of Osaka, even the castle, are held by stone brought from Kitagi.” The singing stopped when the work was mechanized, and …

In medieval times the island of Manabeshima was home to a corps of master mariners called the Manabe Navy. The community they founded is a symbol of the heritage of the Bisan Islands as a maritime traffic center. The village is a maze of narrow lanes without regular intersections or cross streets, a defensive design typical of the Warring States period.

In the days when stone was cut by hand, the workers sang as they performed the hard work of removing stone from the earth and breaking and shaping it. The singing helped them wield their chisels with a steady rhythm to make the work efficient. This local song includes the lyrics: “The fixtures of Osaka, even the castle, are held by stone brought from Kitagi.” The singing stopped when the work was mechanized, and …

Stone Quarrying and Processing Tools in Kitagishima Tools that were used for quarrying and processing Kitagi granite are on permanent display in the Kitagi Granite Commemoration Room at the Kitagi Middle School. There are quarrying tools for taking stone from the earth, processing tools for finishing stone blocks, and blacksmithing tools for tool maintenance. Among the quarrying tools are wedges for b…

In the days when stone was cut by hand, the workers sang as they performed the hard work of removing stone from the earth and breaking and shaping it. The singing helped them wield their chisels with a steady rhythm to make the work efficient. This local song includes the lyrics: “The fixtures of Osaka, even the castle, are held by stone brought from Kitagi.” The singing stopped when the work was mechanized, and …

Stone Quarrying and Processing Tools in Kitagishima Tools that were used for quarrying and processing Kitagi granite are on permanent display in the Kitagi Granite Commemoration Room at the Kitagi Middle School. There are quarrying tools for taking stone from the earth, processing tools for finishing stone blocks, and blacksmithing tools for tool maintenance. Among the quarrying tools are wedges for b…

The Chinohama shoreline is supported by a long wall made of waste rock pieces from the nearby Kitagi granite quarries. The skillful masonry work combining large and small stones, many with visible chisel marks, is a display unique to this home of the quarrying industry. The port at Chinohama was a shipping point for small stone products.

Stone Quarrying and Processing Tools in Kitagishima Tools that were used for quarrying and processing Kitagi granite are on permanent display in the Kitagi Granite Commemoration Room at the Kitagi Middle School. There are quarrying tools for taking stone from the earth, processing tools for finishing stone blocks, and blacksmithing tools for tool maintenance. Among the quarrying tools are wedges for b…

The Chinohama shoreline is supported by a long wall made of waste rock pieces from the nearby Kitagi granite quarries. The skillful masonry work combining large and small stones, many with visible chisel marks, is a display unique to this home of the quarrying industry. The port at Chinohama was a shipping point for small stone products.

At abandoned quarry sites on Kitagishima, rainwater filled the quarry pits to make lake-like scenes called “worksite lakes.” The lake in the Chinohama district is especially beautiful, like a landscape painting. This is also a heritage site that shows the history of the quarrying industry. An old tool shed is still standing.

The Chinohama shoreline is supported by a long wall made of waste rock pieces from the nearby Kitagi granite quarries. The skillful masonry work combining large and small stones, many with visible chisel marks, is a display unique to this home of the quarrying industry. The port at Chinohama was a shipping point for small stone products.

At abandoned quarry sites on Kitagishima, rainwater filled the quarry pits to make lake-like scenes called “worksite lakes.” The lake in the Chinohama district is especially beautiful, like a landscape painting. This is also a heritage site that shows the history of the quarrying industry. An old tool shed is still standing.

Near the entrance to the Teshima Ieura Hachiman Shrine, this imposing gate is made of tuff breccia, which is commonly called Teshima stone. The posts are 39 centimeters in diameter. Engraved on the left post is a date corresponding to the year 1474, and on the right post is the name and title of an official construction inspector.

At abandoned quarry sites on Kitagishima, rainwater filled the quarry pits to make lake-like scenes called “worksite lakes.” The lake in the Chinohama district is especially beautiful, like a landscape painting. This is also a heritage site that shows the history of the quarrying industry. An old tool shed is still standing.

Near the entrance to the Teshima Ieura Hachiman Shrine, this imposing gate is made of tuff breccia, which is commonly called Teshima stone. The posts are 39 centimeters in diameter. Engraved on the left post is a date corresponding to the year 1474, and on the right post is the name and title of an official construction inspector.

Shodoshima Farm-Village Kabuki, Stages and Viewing Area in Hitoyama Each year on May 3rd a kabuki performance is presented as a sacred offering at the Rikyu Hachiman Shrine in the Hitoyama district. Stone was used to turn the gentle slope in front of the stage into a twelve-tier viewing area which the audience fills each year.

Near the entrance to the Teshima Ieura Hachiman Shrine, this imposing gate is made of tuff breccia, which is commonly called Teshima stone. The posts are 39 centimeters in diameter. Engraved on the left post is a date corresponding to the year 1474, and on the right post is the name and title of an official construction inspector.

Shodoshima Farm-Village Kabuki, Stages and Viewing Area in Hitoyama Each year on May 3rd a kabuki performance is presented as a sacred offering at the Rikyu Hachiman Shrine in the Hitoyama district. Stone was used to turn the gentle slope in front of the stage into a twelve-tier viewing area which the audience fills each year.

At the foot of Mt. Danyama in the Karatooka district of Teshima, the stone cisterns were constructed in 1929 to provide clean water for area residents. Above them is a tiered masonry wall of granite blocks in even rows. Spring water from the mountain flows from an upper reservoir into three small cisterns and one large cistern, each providing water for different purposes. This facility is an example of the important …

Shodoshima Farm-Village Kabuki, Stages and Viewing Area in Hitoyama Each year on May 3rd a kabuki performance is presented as a sacred offering at the Rikyu Hachiman Shrine in the Hitoyama district. Stone was used to turn the gentle slope in front of the stage into a twelve-tier viewing area which the audience fills each year.

At the foot of Mt. Danyama in the Karatooka district of Teshima, the stone cisterns were constructed in 1929 to provide clean water for area residents. Above them is a tiered masonry wall of granite blocks in even rows. Spring water from the mountain flows from an upper reservoir into three small cisterns and one large cistern, each providing water for different purposes. This facility is an example of the important …

On the hill at the northwest edge of the Tomioka Hachiman Shrine is a set of seating platforms built up with masonry. These stands, built at the latter part of the Edo period (1603-1867) and extended gradually since then for viewers of the annual Autumn Festival, are still used each year.

At the foot of Mt. Danyama in the Karatooka district of Teshima, the stone cisterns were constructed in 1929 to provide clean water for area residents. Above them is a tiered masonry wall of granite blocks in even rows. Spring water from the mountain flows from an upper reservoir into three small cisterns and one large cistern, each providing water for different purposes. This facility is an example of the important …

On the hill at the northwest edge of the Tomioka Hachiman Shrine is a set of seating platforms built up with masonry. These stands, built at the latter part of the Edo period (1603-1867) and extended gradually since then for viewers of the annual Autumn Festival, are still used each year.

Mt. Oto occupies half of Hiroshima Island. Near the summit is the Oto Desert, a dry aerial garden of sand-like decomposed granite soil, dotted with granite boulders.Tradition says that there was once a splendid temple in this area.However, all the buildings were lost by fire and there is nothing left at present.

On the hill at the northwest edge of the Tomioka Hachiman Shrine is a set of seating platforms built up with masonry. These stands, built at the latter part of the Edo period (1603-1867) and extended gradually since then for viewers of the annual Autumn Festival, are still used each year.

Mt. Oto occupies half of Hiroshima Island. Near the summit is the Oto Desert, a dry aerial garden of sand-like decomposed granite soil, dotted with granite boulders.Tradition says that there was once a splendid temple in this area.However, all the buildings were lost by fire and there is nothing left at present.

The Onoe family prospered in shipping, with records showing their junks transported stone lanterns and other stone products as far as Aomori in northern Japan. Surrounded by castle-like high stone walls, the magnificent mansion is a testament to the shipping industry of the Edo period (1603 -1867), and has many details showing the skills of the famed Shiwaku carpentry tradition. It was built about 200 years ago, with…

Mt. Oto occupies half of Hiroshima Island. Near the summit is the Oto Desert, a dry aerial garden of sand-like decomposed granite soil, dotted with granite boulders.Tradition says that there was once a splendid temple in this area.However, all the buildings were lost by fire and there is nothing left at present.

The Onoe family prospered in shipping, with records showing their junks transported stone lanterns and other stone products as far as Aomori in northern Japan. Surrounded by castle-like high stone walls, the magnificent mansion is a testament to the shipping industry of the Edo period (1603 -1867), and has many details showing the skills of the famed Shiwaku carpentry tradition. It was built about 200 years ago, with…

A National Important Preservation District of Historic Buildings, the Kasashima District flourished as the base of the Shiwaku naval forces and merchant shippers during the Edo period (1603-1867). Enclosed by mountains on three sides and a fine natural harbor to the north, the district is crisscrossed by narrow alleys and two wider streets, Toshoji running north-south and Machodori running east-west along the harbor.…

The Onoe family prospered in shipping, with records showing their junks transported stone lanterns and other stone products as far as Aomori in northern Japan. Surrounded by castle-like high stone walls, the magnificent mansion is a testament to the shipping industry of the Edo period (1603 -1867), and has many details showing the skills of the famed Shiwaku carpentry tradition. It was built about 200 years ago, with…

A National Important Preservation District of Historic Buildings, the Kasashima District flourished as the base of the Shiwaku naval forces and merchant shippers during the Edo period (1603-1867). Enclosed by mountains on three sides and a fine natural harbor to the north, the district is crisscrossed by narrow alleys and two wider streets, Toshoji running north-south and Machodori running east-west along the harbor.…

Control of the Shiwaku Islands was granted to 650 master mariners from the islands in return for their service to the Toyotomi clan during the wars for unification of Japan in the late 16th century. Government administration under the shogunate was handled at first by four representatives, called toshiyori (elders), who took turns keeping the official seals in their homes. As a result of government reforms, an admini…

A National Important Preservation District of Historic Buildings, the Kasashima District flourished as the base of the Shiwaku naval forces and merchant shippers during the Edo period (1603-1867). Enclosed by mountains on three sides and a fine natural harbor to the north, the district is crisscrossed by narrow alleys and two wider streets, Toshoji running north-south and Machodori running east-west along the harbor.…

Control of the Shiwaku Islands was granted to 650 master mariners from the islands in return for their service to the Toyotomi clan during the wars for unification of Japan in the late 16th century. Government administration under the shogunate was handled at first by four representatives, called toshiyori (elders), who took turns keeping the official seals in their homes. As a result of government reforms, an admini…

Farm-Village Kabuki, Stages, and Grandstand of Shodoshima In Nakayama, located in the upland district of Shodoshima between the mountains and the sea, there is a long tradition of farm-village kabuki theater. It is performed on a permanent stage with a grandstand made of stonework. The Nakayama area is known for its terraced rice fields called Senmaida (“Thousand Rice Terraces”), which were built up with stone…

Control of the Shiwaku Islands was granted to 650 master mariners from the islands in return for their service to the Toyotomi clan during the wars for unification of Japan in the late 16th century. Government administration under the shogunate was handled at first by four representatives, called toshiyori (elders), who took turns keeping the official seals in their homes. As a result of government reforms, an admini…

Farm-Village Kabuki, Stages, and Grandstand of Shodoshima In Nakayama, located in the upland district of Shodoshima between the mountains and the sea, there is a long tradition of farm-village kabuki theater. It is performed on a permanent stage with a grandstand made of stonework. The Nakayama area is known for its terraced rice fields called Senmaida (“Thousand Rice Terraces”), which were built up with stone…

The Kankakei Gorge was carved by weathering and erosion of rock that was formed about 14 million years ago by volcanic activity. It is recognized as one of the three most beautiful gorges in Japan. The gorge area, approximately four kilometers long and eight kilometers wide, contains many unique rock formations. The surrounding mountains have been regarded as sacred ground since ancient times.

Farm-Village Kabuki, Stages, and Grandstand of Shodoshima In Nakayama, located in the upland district of Shodoshima between the mountains and the sea, there is a long tradition of farm-village kabuki theater. It is performed on a permanent stage with a grandstand made of stonework. The Nakayama area is known for its terraced rice fields called Senmaida (“Thousand Rice Terraces”), which were built up with stone…

The Kankakei Gorge was carved by weathering and erosion of rock that was formed about 14 million years ago by volcanic activity. It is recognized as one of the three most beautiful gorges in Japan. The gorge area, approximately four kilometers long and eight kilometers wide, contains many unique rock formations. The surrounding mountains have been regarded as sacred ground since ancient times.

Hishio-no-Sato (“Soy Sauce Village”) is a neighborhood of old soy sauce factories. Heavy stones that were used for crushing soy beans are lined up and blend into the townscape. For centuries, these commonly used large stones were indispensable tools in the production of soy sauce, or shoyu in Japanese. The culture of shoyu reached the island of Shodoshima from the Kansai area approximately 400 years ago, as a res…

The Kankakei Gorge was carved by weathering and erosion of rock that was formed about 14 million years ago by volcanic activity. It is recognized as one of the three most beautiful gorges in Japan. The gorge area, approximately four kilometers long and eight kilometers wide, contains many unique rock formations. The surrounding mountains have been regarded as sacred ground since ancient times.

Hishio-no-Sato (“Soy Sauce Village”) is a neighborhood of old soy sauce factories. Heavy stones that were used for crushing soy beans are lined up and blend into the townscape. For centuries, these commonly used large stones were indispensable tools in the production of soy sauce, or shoyu in Japanese. The culture of shoyu reached the island of Shodoshima from the Kansai area approximately 400 years ago, as a res…

When the Kitagi granite industry was at its peak, the tiny island of Kitagishima had four movie theaters. The Hikari Cinema operated from the early 1950s until 1967. The projector and other equipment remain in place, and the screen and chairs are still set up as if on a stage, providing an authentic retro atmosphere. The theater was unused for a long time after the closing, but island residents have come together to…

Hishio-no-Sato (“Soy Sauce Village”) is a neighborhood of old soy sauce factories. Heavy stones that were used for crushing soy beans are lined up and blend into the townscape. For centuries, these commonly used large stones were indispensable tools in the production of soy sauce, or shoyu in Japanese. The culture of shoyu reached the island of Shodoshima from the Kansai area approximately 400 years ago, as a res…

When the Kitagi granite industry was at its peak, the tiny island of Kitagishima had four movie theaters. The Hikari Cinema operated from the early 1950s until 1967. The projector and other equipment remain in place, and the screen and chairs are still set up as if on a stage, providing an authentic retro atmosphere. The theater was unused for a long time after the closing, but island residents have come together to…

This quarry produces a specialty granite that is named for its location on the island of Kitagishima. The quarry was opened in 1892, and Kitagi granite has been used in buildings that are designated as Important Cultural Properties including the Meiji Seimei Kan and Tokyo Station. Digging deep into the earth in search of the best-quality stone has left a towering rock wall. There is a magnificent view from the obser…

When the Kitagi granite industry was at its peak, the tiny island of Kitagishima had four movie theaters. The Hikari Cinema operated from the early 1950s until 1967. The projector and other equipment remain in place, and the screen and chairs are still set up as if on a stage, providing an authentic retro atmosphere. The theater was unused for a long time after the closing, but island residents have come together to…

This quarry produces a specialty granite that is named for its location on the island of Kitagishima. The quarry was opened in 1892, and Kitagi granite has been used in buildings that are designated as Important Cultural Properties including the Meiji Seimei Kan and Tokyo Station. Digging deep into the earth in search of the best-quality stone has left a towering rock wall. There is a magnificent view from the obser…

Officially named Kobo san Kairyuji, the temple was founded in 806 by the high priest Kobo Daishi. The Taishido hall is set beneath a gigantic rock at the spot where Kobo Daishi is said to have performed practices during his stay. A temple was built on the site to commemorate the dead from the Genpei War naval battle at nearby Mizushima in 1183, and in 1625 Mizuno Katsunari, the lord of Fukuyama Castle, rebuilt it as …

This quarry produces a specialty granite that is named for its location on the island of Kitagishima. The quarry was opened in 1892, and Kitagi granite has been used in buildings that are designated as Important Cultural Properties including the Meiji Seimei Kan and Tokyo Station. Digging deep into the earth in search of the best-quality stone has left a towering rock wall. There is a magnificent view from the obser…

Officially named Kobo san Kairyuji, the temple was founded in 806 by the high priest Kobo Daishi. The Taishido hall is set beneath a gigantic rock at the spot where Kobo Daishi is said to have performed practices during his stay. A temple was built on the site to commemorate the dead from the Genpei War naval battle at nearby Mizushima in 1183, and in 1625 Mizuno Katsunari, the lord of Fukuyama Castle, rebuilt it as …

All of Mt. Kamiura is a designated National Place of Scenic Beauty, with fine views of the Seto Inland Sea. Tradition holds that this island is the site mentioned in two histories written more than a thousand years ago, the “Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters)” and “Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan)”, which record the establishment of an "Angu" (temporary imperial palace) in Takashima by Emperor Ji…

Officially named Kobo san Kairyuji, the temple was founded in 806 by the high priest Kobo Daishi. The Taishido hall is set beneath a gigantic rock at the spot where Kobo Daishi is said to have performed practices during his stay. A temple was built on the site to commemorate the dead from the Genpei War naval battle at nearby Mizushima in 1183, and in 1625 Mizuno Katsunari, the lord of Fukuyama Castle, rebuilt it as …

All of Mt. Kamiura is a designated National Place of Scenic Beauty, with fine views of the Seto Inland Sea. Tradition holds that this island is the site mentioned in two histories written more than a thousand years ago, the “Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters)” and “Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan)”, which record the establishment of an "Angu" (temporary imperial palace) in Takashima by Emperor Ji…

Tobikoshi Quarry Site and Omi Remnants (Osaka Castle Stone Remnants Park) From the quarry that operated here, the Hosokawa clan shipped stones that would be used in the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. There are two large blocks from the time, engraved with a code number and the quarry’s triangle mark. In the Meiji era the remnant stones were placed along the Omi wharf. Most of them were moved to this park when…

All of Mt. Kamiura is a designated National Place of Scenic Beauty, with fine views of the Seto Inland Sea. Tradition holds that this island is the site mentioned in two histories written more than a thousand years ago, the “Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters)” and “Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan)”, which record the establishment of an "Angu" (temporary imperial palace) in Takashima by Emperor Ji…

Tobikoshi Quarry Site and Omi Remnants (Osaka Castle Stone Remnants Park) From the quarry that operated here, the Hosokawa clan shipped stones that would be used in the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. There are two large blocks from the time, engraved with a code number and the quarry’s triangle mark. In the Meiji era the remnant stones were placed along the Omi wharf. Most of them were moved to this park when…

Tonosho Honmachi is a neighborhood with an intricate network of narrow lanes where it is easy for an outsider to lose their way. It is a fine example of the defensive “maze town” layout of the old towns of the Bisan Islands. Standing out in the middle of the neighborhood is the red-painted three-story pagoda at the Saikoji Temple. It is a symbol of the neighborhood, a landmark for the visitor, and the place to ge…

Tobikoshi Quarry Site and Omi Remnants (Osaka Castle Stone Remnants Park) From the quarry that operated here, the Hosokawa clan shipped stones that would be used in the rebuilding of Osaka Castle. There are two large blocks from the time, engraved with a code number and the quarry’s triangle mark. In the Meiji era the remnant stones were placed along the Omi wharf. Most of them were moved to this park when…

Tonosho Honmachi is a neighborhood with an intricate network of narrow lanes where it is easy for an outsider to lose their way. It is a fine example of the defensive “maze town” layout of the old towns of the Bisan Islands. Standing out in the middle of the neighborhood is the red-painted three-story pagoda at the Saikoji Temple. It is a symbol of the neighborhood, a landmark for the visitor, and the place to ge…

Ascending Mt. Oishi on Mushima Island allows you to overlook the area of the Seto Inland Sea through which much Japanese shipping still] flows. The view from the lighthouse is particularly awe-inspiring. You can see with the sweep of your eyes how Mushima was once connected with many distant areas through the "Sea Road" of the Seto Inland Sea, where large and small vessels once plied the waters.