I took the train to the Yokosuka-chuo Station, then walked about 15 minutes to Mikasa Pier. Sarushima is an uninhabited island and the only way to get there is by ferry. The cost for the ferry and entrance to the island is 2000 yen. The ferry runs once an hour, depending on the weather.
Sarushima means monkey island, but, there are no monkeys! The name comes from a legend, which says a monk sailing to Enoshima became lost in a storm was saved by a white monkey that led him to this island.
After getting off the ferry, visitors are free to explore the island. There are many steps and inclines. I did not see any warnings ahead of time and there were parents with young children in strollers and tour groups of elderly people who were not able to get around the island. I would have been disappointed to arrive on the island and not be able to get around and see the sights. There were many interesting things to see. The island served as a defensive outpost protecting the capital. It was heavily fortified from the Tokugawa Shogunate (1603-1867) through WWII. The island ruins include excavated tunnels, barracks, and gun batteries.
I walked all around the island and enjoyed all the interesting sights. The were plenty of signs to give directions as well as tell you where you were.
2 comments:
I didn't know of this place either. It's very interesting and educational. I have learned about Flemish bond. I knew bond to be a kind of glue, and of course, the relationship that holds people together, but I now know that the patterns used for brick building are called bonds. I guessed, though, that Fremish was misspelt and should be Flemish.
The island looks a bit ferocious but lovely. I like that they have steps and paved or boarded paths but yes, I can see where it would be very hard for the mobility impaired.
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