Mitsuishi, Skerry formation in Manazuru, Japan
Mitsuishi is a group of three rocks rising from Sagami Bay near the Manazuru Peninsula in Japan. The rocks sit close together along the shore and their visible shape changes depending on the tide level.
The rocks were formed by ancient volcanic activity, as lava cooled and hardened to shape the coastline of the Manazuru Peninsula. This geological past explains why the shore around them looks so rough and uneven today.
Local fishermen have used these rocks as reference points on the water for generations, mentioning them when they discuss their fishing grounds.
The coastal path from Manazuru Station on the JR Tokaido Line leads directly toward the shore where the rocks can be seen. Visiting at low tide gives the best view of the formations and lets you get closer to the water's edge.
The name Mitsuishi means simply "three stones" in Japanese, which describes the rocks exactly as they appear from the shore. At very low tide, small pools form at their base and shelter sea anemones, crabs, and other small creatures that are otherwise hidden under water.
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