🗺️ Hashikui-iwa (Hashikui Rock)橋杭岩

Hashikui-iwa is a unique scenic spot along the eastern coast of Kushimoto. About 40 stone pillars of varying sizes stand side by side, rising above the sea and stretching approximately 850 meters from south to west. These columnar rocks were formed by volcanic activity and seawater erosion around 15 million years ago. Hashikui-iwa looks like a series of bridge piers lined up on the surface of the sea, which is how it got its name. This mysterious landscape is a masterpiece of nature and one of the most distinctive attractions in Wakayama, now designated as a national natural monument. Visitors can enjoy the view from a distance, and during low tide, they can walk close to the rocks for a closer look. In the center of the neatly arranged rocks stands Benten Island Shrine, covered in trees, which enshrines Ebisu Daimeijin. In front of the shrine is a striking red torii gate, making it a famous energy spot in Wakayama. In addition to its charming landscape, Hashikui-iwa is also rich in folklore. One of the most interesting stories is about the monk Kōbō Daishi Kūkai competing with a tengu to build a bridge. The master used his magical powers to construct the piers overnight, but due to the tengu's trickery, he left without completing the bridge, leaving only the piers behind. Near the parking lot of Hashikui-iwa, there is a shop called "Michi no Eki Kushimoto Hashikui-iwa," where visitors can purchase various local specialties.

40 sea pillars of varying sizes formed by erosion are truly a breathtaking sight. As masterpieces created by nature, they have been designated as national natural monuments. There are folk tales about Kōbō Daishi Kūkai associated with them.