tsunami stone

Ofunato City

Coast

Sightseeing Spots Earthquake Related History and Heritage Facilities

A large stone, ``Tsunami Stone,'' about 3 meters wide and 2 meters high, was found buried underground near Yoshihama Beach in Sanriku-cho, Ofunato City, where the tsunami hit during the Great East Japan Earthquake. This stone was brought from the sea during a past major tsunami and placed as a memorial, and the words ``Tsunami Memorial Stone'' are engraved on its surface.

"Tsunami memorial stone, approximately 200 meters in front, near the mouth of the Yoshihama River, a glaring stone that was struck on the edge of the tsunami on March 3, 1930, weighing 8,000 kan."

Location: Yoshihama, Sanriku-cho, Ofunato City
Inquiries: (One company) Ofunato City Tourism and Products Association
Phone number 0192-21-1922
FAX number 0192-47-3416
Website: http://www.sanriku-ofunato.or.jp/

Back to List

View More

Camellia in Ofunato City

Camellia, the flower of Ofunato City. It is known as the northern limit for harvesting ``Yabutsubaki'' along the Pacific coast, and grows wild throughout the city.

Ofunato City

Coast

Nature / Scenery

Ayari Daigongen

The dancing Daigongen created in 1996 by the Ayari Daigongen Preservation Society is the largest in Japan with a lion's head measuring 2 meters square and weighing 200 kg, and has been passed down as a traditional dance in the region. It is a symbol of Gongenmai. The giant lion's head is operated by two people using an excavator, and its dynamic movements captivate the audience. It is held once every five years in the Ayari area, and is demonstrated at the five-year festival and New Year's Day.

Ofunato City

Coast

History / Culture

Tarajigane

In a custom similar to Akita's ``Namahage,'' ``Tarajigane,'' wearing rice bags or straw hats, and wearing frightening masks, go from house to house. This New Year's event is filled with parents' desire to raise strong and obedient children. [Date] January 15th every year

Ofunato City

Coast

History / Culture