As promised we are going adventures. We visited both the Sea Wall and Toguchi Beach also known as the Elephant Cave. First up, a glorious Sunset on the Sea wall. The Seawall is a glorious stretch of walking trail (most are several miles) next to the water that somehow is devoid at least in the area “fishy” smell. How? There is not an answer yet. Toguchi Beach is a dreamlike place that is wild and free. Both of these places were photographically easy on the eyes.
Sea Wall
Okinawa has multiple seawalls. It is an island. But the surprise for us was how friendly it was to walk, to explore, and the purposeful ability to be outside. Did you know even their aquariums are outside? I’ve not been yet, but I’ve been told its a must. So it’s on the list. Something to look forward to. Back to the seawalls. In certain areas particularly along main streets there are painted barriers of words and pretty art of spray paint. There are arbors in certain areas with look outs lending a very calm, peaceful and idyllic walks suited perfectly for walks and talks. In American Village every Saturday night there are fireworks over the sea and you can stand on the seawall looking out. If you love the sea, this would be one to take the time for walks. You can’t miss it, really. Where ever the edge of water is its seems like there is also the seawall. I’ve heard you can even go snorkeling, but it can be dangerous so not recommended unless you or someone who is with you knows the area.
This particular evening, we saw a golden sunset with multiple splendor of rays touching the sea. From many different vantage points the glorious painting like sky radiented its beauty. No one who was on the sea wall or surrounding areas could miss it. Lost in amazement along with locals some had packed food while enjoying the scenery while others meandered and walked the paved path.
Toguchi Beach
The Sea wall and Toguchi Beach can be seen from each other. Although, from Toguchi Beach it is harder to see the walls though not impossible. Toguchi beach is the perfect place to go for viewing the sunsets. We haven’t been for sunrises, but in one particular spot facing the east it would be beautiful. Toguchi Beach isn’t without perils though. In the summer, we would have to be aware of venomous snakes. Not to worry, it wasn’t the season. There’s also need for common knowledge of the tides as part of the Elephant Cave can quickly become flooded and when the sun goes down it becomes hard to traverse on the rocky shell beach. But it is not so dangerous that there is no enjoyment. A little bit of risk now and then keeps life interesting.
Toguchi Beach is while well known is also a well kept pleasure. It takes a little bit of being adventurous and willingness to venture out. This place is a photographer dream, well anyone with an adventurous spirit really. We had to walk a little bit, go under a fence (don’t worry we didn’t break any laws), and voila we were all of sudden under a natural sea cave. Light streaming through nooks and crannies of rock, and two wide openings out to sea. If we had a boat, it would happy ride out to the ocean. It is a place for family, special occasions photography sessions. In fact while we were there we saw a senior getting her photos done, it was a happy sight complete with wholesome laughter.
It’s perfect if you can pack light to enjoy several hours enjoying being there. Its natural state is well respect by Okinawa and those who visit it. If you bring something, you take with you. A rule that is unspoken, but easily understood by those who are willing to respect culture and land. But they love it when admiration of the sea happens and on occasions we will hobble together english and japanese greetings.
Photographs of the Elephant Cave is coming in the special gallery. This is part of the Toguchi Beach that not part of the cave.
More than Seawall and Toguchi Beach
Seawalls aren’t just beautiful and great to walk on. They’re also to help keep the sea at bay. A deterrent for safety. On Okinawa it is a literal wall, a boundary so to speak in keeping at bay what could be detrimental to lives on the Island. It is somehow a beautiful way of acknowledging the purpose and using it to better lives. The same with the beaches, yes they are beautiful and pictrise. Beaches are a main source of livelihood, where business and food are the main purpose.
Until next time,