Went to Takeshima

Long time no update. I went to Takeshima.

Liancourt Rocks is on the border between Japan and South Korea.
They are called Takeshima in Japan and Dokdo in Korea. South Korea claims it as Korean territory. Japan also claims.

The sea located the islands is called Nihonkai(日本海) in Japan and Donghae(東海) in South Korea.

Takeshima where I went has entirely nothing to do with Liancourt Rocks. Why did you talk about? Because there are some common points. Takeshima is located at 東海 region. It's
Tokai. Of course this Takeshima has no territorial dispute.
The fact is, there are some 竹島s in Japan and there is 竹島 in Korea, too. 竹島 (Takeshima) means literally Bamboo Island.

How to get
Takeshima is at Aichi prefecture, Central Japan. Getting by railroad is the most convenient. From Nagoya, get in JR Tokaido line for Toyohashi. Rapid is better.
From Tokyo, get in JR Tokaido Shinkansen for Nagoya, Osaka, or Hakata.
Any trains are OK, Hikari and Nozomi may pass through Toyohashi.
If you get in them, get out at Nagoya and change local line.

If you arrive at Gamagori station, go out south and then you get in bus or walk. It takes
about 10 minute by walk. Go straight, Over Apita(general merchandise store)and turn right.

Gamagori station south side

About Takeshima
A festival held when I visit here. Probably because we had the consequtive holidays.
On the one hand Takeshima's vegetation is mainly broad-leaved trees. On the other hand, Japanese black pines grow on the opposit shore, which is mainland. The whole island is a natural monument for the different vegetation.

The entrance of Takeshima


A distant view of Takeshima


Another view


Food stands


View from Takeshima to mainland

I crossed a bridge to the island. Shrines are built on the top of the island. But first I walked arownd. I climbed from the back. The main shrine is named Yaotomi and called Yaotomi Jinja(jinja=shrine).

Simple Shinto worship manner:
1) Wash your hands using scoop.
2) Go front the building.
3) Ring suspended bell shaking hanged rope.
3) Clap your hands twice.
4) Pray your wish.
5) Toss coin(s) to an offertory box.
Of course if you have other religion, you have not to worship.
They are worth looking as historical and artistic buildings.



The shrine entrance steps


Washing spring water


Shrine building


Preparing festival

More information: See http://www.kankou.city.gamagori.aichi.jp/navi/
(English, Korean, Traditional Chinese and Japanese are available)