Nushima　沼島- tiny, spiritual island off Awaji-shima淡路島

Nushima, said to be where the ancient gods started making Japan

Nushima is a small island off the Eastern coast of Awaji-shima, located between Kobe and Tokushima.  It is part of the Setouchi National Park.  It is said that the ancient gods of Izanami and Izanagi first built this island, which later became the foothold of making the other islands of Japan.

For a small island with about 500 inhabitants only, this island has many shrines.

http://nushima-yoshijin.jp/

Benzaiten Shrine　弁財天神社

Few minutes from the port, this shrine has an impressive pine tree, overlooking the stairs.

Kamitate Gamiiwa 上立神岩

About 10 minutes walk from the port, a must see spritual rock (KamitateGamiiwa 上立神岩, which translates to upper standing rock of the gods)where the two ancient gods of Izanagi and Izamaki are said to have performed the wedding ceremony.

In the middle of the rock, there appears a heart like shape.  Many people come here to wish for happiness and love.  The quiet walking path to the rock is well marked and surrounded by beautiful flowers and trees.

Can you spot the heart in the middle of the rock?  Amazing art by nature!

Nushima Hachiman shrine　沼島八幡神社

Built to honor the  gods of the sea, this shrine has impressive views of the sea from above.  Enjoy the view!  The trees are said to be 200 years old.  The ceiling of the main hall is colorful with many panels of art depicting historical scenes.

How to get to Nushima?

There is a small port where the shuttle ship leaves once every hour or so.  It only takes 10 minutes one way.  Buy the round ticket Y900/adult and Y460/child.  Make sure to check the time schedule for both ways.

http://nushima-yoshijin.jp/go_kisen

Enjoy!

Any questions or comments?

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