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East and West Octopus Monuments (Gasshi and Nisshi)
Humorous octopus statues welcome visitors at the port where high-speed boats arrive and depart.
Himakajima, floating in Mikawa Bay, is an easy-to-reach remote island resort, Approx. 1 hour from Nagoya by high-speed boat. The entire island is part of Mikawa Bay Quasi-National Park, and it still retains the laid-back charm of a fishing town. Famous for its octopus and pufferfish, it is also known as the "Island of Happiness (Tako), Island of Good Fortune (Fugu)."
The island, with a circumference of Approx. 5.5 km, has ports on both the west and east sides where regular ferries arrive and depart. Greeting visitors there with a touch of humor are the octopus monuments "Gasshi" and "Nisshi." "Gasshi," standing at the East Port, is known for raising its left hand, while "Nisshi," at the West Port, raises its right hand. Both are popular photo spots, and "Gasshi" is said to be best photographed together with the island's only traffic light. A small heart mark is hidden somewhere on each statue, so be sure to look for it.
The island also has beaches and cycling courses, with sightseeing spots scattered around. A walk while feeling the sea breeze is also recommended.
Highlights
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Octopus monuments that welcome visitors at the port.
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Popular photo spots.
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Looking for the hidden heart mark on the body is part of the fun.
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Sightseeing spots are scattered around the area.
Photos
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"Gasshi" raising its left hand
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"Nisshi" standing at West Port
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Is there free Wi-Fi available in the area?
It is available inside Nishi Port Himapo.
Q
Are there any sightseeing spots nearby?
Near Gasshi is Himaka Shrine. Near Nisshi is Sunset Beach.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 東西タコのモニュメント(がっしー・にっしー)
- Postal Code
- 470-3504
- Address
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Kodochi, Himakajima, Minamichita-cho, Chita-gun, Aichi (Gasshi)
21 Nishihama, Himakajima, Minamichita-cho, Chita-gun, Aichi (Nisshi) - Phone
- 0569-68-2388 (Himakajima Tourism Association)
- Access
- Take a high-speed boat from Kowa Port, Morozaki Port, or Irago Port and get off at Himakajima East Port, then walk a short distance (Gasshi), or get off at Himakajima West Port, then walk a short distance
- Official website
- Official website (Japanese)