Sarushima Island AKA Monkey Island

On Bern's day off, we decided to take a short 10 minute ferry ride from Yokosuka (Mikasa Park) to Sarushima Island otherwise known as Monkey Island. The story behind the name goes back to the early 13th century when a Buddhist priest was lost at sea during a heavy storm. Supposedly a white monkey appeared out of nowhere and guided the priest to the island...but there are no actual monkeys living on the island. It is the only natural island in Tokyo Bay though.

 

 

We were hoping to make a whole day out of the trip and just relax but the beach is only open during the summer months. Regardless, we still hiked around the entire island which only took us about an hour or so. This used to be an old Japanese military fort so there were plenty of left over remnants from that era. Bern and I were in awe to see how the buildings were incorporated into the natural surroundings of the island.

 

 

 

On the other side of Sarushima Island there is a tide pool area which really reminded me of the Cabrillo tide pools in Point Loma. I decided to explore and noticed that there were a number of Japanese fishermen/women looking around for clams I think.   

 

 

 

After our hike, we arrived back at the main entrance and ate lunch. Good thing we decided to pick up something from 7-11 before coming to the island because the restaurant was closed as well. I guess the best time to go to Sarushima Island is during July-August when everything is opened (beach, restaurant, & rental shop) but it'll probably be super busy too. As we were finishing up lunch, I discovered a new vending machine I have not seen in town yet...stocked with beer?! There's no better way to end a fun day-trip than with a pretty lady in one hand and a nice cold one in the other. haha Kanpai!