Tatami-ishi, Natural monument in Kumejima, Japan
The Tatami-ishi formation spans 250 meters along Oujima's south coast, featuring 1,000 pentagonal and hexagonal rocks measuring 1 to 1.5 meters in diameter.
The geological structure formed during the Miocene period when andesitic lava cooled and contracted, creating distinct columnar joints across the coastal area.
The Japanese government designated Tatami-ishi as a Natural Monument in 1967, recognizing its connection to traditional floor coverings used in Japanese architecture.
Visitors need to check tide schedules before planning their visit, as these geological formations become visible only during low tide periods.
The rocks display mathematical precision in their natural geometry, with each stone maintaining consistent pentagonal or hexagonal shapes across the entire formation.
Location: Kumejima
Part of: Top 100 Geological Sites in Japan
GPS coordinates: 26.33603,126.82405
Latest update: March 10, 2025 01:34
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