Fun Facts about Nishinoshima, Shimane – Part 2 –

• Table of Contents
• Fact 7: Our mikoshi chant is “Cho-yassa!”
• Fact 8: The fireworks display is held in July during odd-numbered years
• Fact 9: Nothing says summer like sazae turban shells
• Fact 10: The island is home to a canal
• Fact 11: The “Candle by the Sea” – a truly seasonal sight
• There’s still a lot more!

Fact 7: Our mikoshi chant is “Cho-yassa!”

Every two years, a mikoshi parade is held during the grand festivals of Takada Shrine, Yurahime Shrine and Kai Shrine. Mikoshi bearers carry the portable shrines on their shoulders, and parade through the areas near each shrine. During the event, their spirited chant – “Cho-yassa!” – echoes through the streets, adding energy and tradition to the celebration.

Fact 8: The fireworks display is held in July during odd-numbered years

The fireworks display in Uragō area is held in odd-numbered years, coinciding with Yurahime Shrine Grand Festival. It takes place on the festival’s first night, lighting up the night sky of Uragō from 8 p.m.

In even-numbered years, the fireworks display is held in September, on the same night as Mikado Matsuri in Beppu area.

Fact 9: Nothing says summer like sazae turban shells

The sea surrounding Nishinoshima is rich in nutrients, providing the island with delicious seafood. In addition to iwagaki oysters, sazae turban shells are another must-try local delicacy. During the summer months, you can enjoy a variety of dishes prepared with sazae. Popular options include rice bowls topped with sazae, sazae curry and grilled sazae.

Canned sazae turban shells and the new bite-sized cakes baked with sazae tails also make great souvenirs for friends and family back home!

Fact 10: The island is home to a canal

The Funabiki Canal, located in Funakoshi
area, was built between 1914 and 1915. Before the canal was built, boats had to
be hauled onto land to travel between the inner sea and the open sea. This is
also the origin of the area’s name, “Funakoshi”.

Todays, sightseeing boats pass through the canal,
taking their passengers to the stunningly beautiful Kuniga Coast.

Fact 11: The “Candle by the Sea” – a truly seasonal sight

At Kuniga Coast, there’s a long, narrow
columnar rock known as “Kannon-iwa Rock”. When the setting sun aligns with the
tip of the rock, it transforms into a glowing candle. Lit by the setting sun,
this phenomenon is the reason the rock is nicknamed “Candle Rock”.

This magical sight is a truly seasonal view,
visible only when the sun sets at a particular angle, perfectly aligning with
the rock’s tip. It can only be seen during a brief period in spring and autumn.
The weather plays a crucial role as well. This “Candle by the Sea” can be seen
from land. If you’re fortunate enough to witness this sight, consider yourself
lucky – it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime view bestowed by nature.

There’s still a lot more!

There are still many more interesting facts about Nishinoshima. If you’d like to learn more about our town and island, consider hiring a tour guide when you visit us. The tour guides will help you gain a richer experience on the island!