Side Quest: Takashima Shrine In Gamagori

It’s finally time to visit the nearby city of Gamagori. Located by the sea, the town is known for hot spring resorts and oranges. Today however, we visit Takashima Island, a tiny bulb of dry land in the bay. An assortment of shrines call the island home and a pedestrian bridge provides access from the mainland.

20130815-DSC02544

After catching brief glimpses of the sea walking from the station, a seawall blocks the view from the street near the beach.

20130815-DSC02548

Following the street along the seawall eventually leads back to the main road. There sits a classic Volkswagen Bus to give off a beach-town vibe.

20130815-DSC02564

After arriving in a well-kept park, Takashima Island comes into view. Even though it was a humid summer day, the sea breeze coming in from the bay muted the heat a little.

20130815-DSC02580

20130815-DSC02583

A kid plays down by the water where a lot of green algae washed ashore.

20130815-DSC02573

At the start of the bridge, one point perspective reveals itself.

20130815-DSC02608

20130815-DSC02605

Passing under a Torii gate at the other end of the bridge, a stone lantern sits to the left while people wander on the beach to the right.

20130815-DSC02651

20130815-DSC02654

20130815-DSC02635

Climb the steps up to the top of the island to visit the shrine. Even if it is officially closed for the day, there is no problem with exploring the grounds.

20130815-DSC02665

20130815-DSC02674

Following a path to the back of the shrine will lead to the back of the island. The sea has beaten the back of the island into a rocky cliff: a good place to catch great views of the sea. Continuing down the path leads you to the rocky shore.

20130815-DSC02684

Someone decided to modify their snorkeling equipment. The abandoned invention probably did not work as intended.

20130815-DSC02627

20130815-DSC02691

A concrete path leads back around to the front of the island. Crabs and lizards make appearances along the rocky shore.

20130815-DSC02711

20130815-DSC02724

After heading back to the mainland for some dinner, we cross the bridge once again at night. The Torii gate and lanterns along the shore light up the island.