First Leg South

Miyajima on Itsukishima Island is renowned for the O-Torii (Grand Gate), which stands in the sea (except at low tide) just offshore from Itsukishima Shrine.  The Shrine, built in 1168, is on stilts and also stands in the sea.  We had hoped to spend a night or two at this island but for various reasons decided to go to Okinoshima Island on the first leg of our southbound journey.  We made a detour this morning to sail past the O-Torii and get these pics.  But wouldn't you know it - after a cloud-free start to the morning, a large dark bank of cloud came over the top, reducing visibility and light.  The gate which is made of wood, just sits on the sand and at low tide people can walk around it.

 

Unable to get very close as it is in shallow water, we took a few pictures anyway and then turned around to continue on to Okinoshima. 

 Above you can see the mist and cloud making it a very dull day and the O-Torii to the right

There are numerous oyster farms in this area - we have to keep a look-out for the corner markers to keep clear of them.  Leaving Okinoshima we had called them FADs - Fish Attracting Devices - but they are actually oyster farms which also act as FADs.  There are small tugs moving about the area towing them from place to place and, here, a couple of unmanned fishing boats hitch a ride as well.


A bit further along and suddenly a submarine appeared speeding along at a fine rate and passing behind us.  Apparently there is a submarine base and naval training college not far from here.

The day has been quite changeable with cloud clearing, and then the wind coming up - yes, another near-gale warning has been issued.