On the far side of Enoshima is the Iwaya Caves and Tide Pools.
From Cathy T on Trip Adviser:
"The caves themselves are interesting if
you know the folklore and history of the island. Monks once worshipped
here and the whole island of Enoshima was considered a holy site. Shogun
and samurai came to pay respects. There is even a legend that the caves
go all the way to Mount Fuji. The sound of the waves and air entering
the caves can sound like a dragon's roar during storms. The Island was
said to have been created by the goddess Benzaiten to protect villagers
from a dragon. The dragon fell in love with her and stopped causing
havoc. You will see dragons all over the island and in the caves as
well."
There are two connecting caves, both quite small, costing around 500 yen for both. I got the Eno-pass at the beginning of our Enoshima adventure at the visitors center which cost 1,000 yen for everything on the island, including the caves.
On the way to the caves.
As you get deeper in the cave you're handed a paper lantern with tea candle to light your way. It creates a really nice affect and feel, adding to the ominousness of the caves, adding to the lore.
As we slowly inched our way towards the dragon, not really knowing what was at the end of this cave, there was the loud thumping of a drum echoing through the caves, like the ticking of a slow clock.
We each took our turn, banging the drum, seeing if there would be two flashes of light, indicating our dreams would come true.
The tide pools, full of crabs and other curiosities.
On the boat, which cost 400 yen, heading back to the mainland.
Enoshima, it was fun. We'll definitely come back.
A true highlight of our trip.
No comments:
Post a Comment