🗺️ Beimu Island Rock Art (Möbius Ring, Beimu Guilin, Beimu Venice)北木島 石アート（メビウスの輪、北木の桂林、北木のベニス）

Kitagushima has prospered since ancient times due to its production and processing of stone, earning it the nickname "Island of Stones." During the Edo period, high-quality Kitagaki stone was used to construct Osaka Castle, and by the Meiji era, it was employed in many famous modern buildings, such as the Bank of Japan headquarters and Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi. The high-quality stone mined on the island is known as "Kitagaki's Mikage Stone," and it is one of the most commonly used building materials. In 2019, the Kasaoka Islands, including Kitagushima, were designated as a Japanese Heritage site as the "Island of Stones." The "Rock Art" tour is a highly recommended itinerary on Kitagushima. Visitors are first greeted by the modern stone art piece "Möbius Strip" located at the entrance of Kitagushima, at Toyoura Port. The island also features many sculptures created from unique natural rock formations. You can enjoy a leisurely walk while admiring the island's scenery and exploring the scattered rock art pieces throughout the area. One of the signature attractions of the Island of Stones is the magnificent and spectacular quarry ruins. The dynamic landscape known as "Kitagaki Guilin" is particularly impressive; the lakes formed in the old quarries from years of accumulated rainwater resemble the picturesque scenery of Guilin, hence the name. There is also a pier constructed from waste materials generated during the quarrying process. This stone-built coastline, along with the emerald waters, evokes the beautiful scenery of the water city of Venice, which is why it is referred to as "Kitagaki Venice." With stone statues scattered across Kitagushima, the breathtaking views of the quarries, and various artistic creations made from stone, many art enthusiasts visit this Island of Stones each year.

Since ancient times, the island, known as the "Island of Stones," has thrived on the production of high-quality stone. Numerous "rock modern art pieces" created from stone are scattered throughout the island. There are many spots with artistic beauty akin to paintings, such as the ruins of quarries.