Oya Rare-shaped Rock, Natural rock formation in Utsunomiya, Japan
Oya Rare-shaped Rock consists of green tuff formations that rise dramatically from farmland near Oya Temple in Tochigi Prefecture. The rocks display unusual and varied shapes that stand out against the flat agricultural surroundings.
These formations originated from underwater volcanic deposits approximately 24 million years ago, when geological processes shaped the region. The rocks have remained a distinctive part of the landscape ever since.
Local people have long valued these rocks as a symbol of the region, featuring them in art and poetry that express connections to the land. The formations remain important to how residents understand their natural surroundings.
The rocks can be viewed from several vantage points, some accessible by walking paths and viewing platforms. Clear weather provides the best conditions for observing the formations and their distinct shapes.
During spring rice planting season, water fills the surrounding paddies and creates reflections that make the rocks appear to float or rise from a mirrored surface. This seasonal transformation gives the formations a completely different appearance than in other months.
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