Uploads from Okinawa Soba, tagged village

UNDER CONSTRUCTION -- A Fresh-Water Hazard on the Sedake Children's Golf Course in Okinawa

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Tue, 15 May 2012 22:20:31 -0700

Oooooo....is that a Jungle Swimming Hole ?

I supposed the sight of a well manicured golf link in the middle of a Jungle is a beautiful sight for many. Man conquers nature for his pleasure, and brings the brighter shades of his landscaping art with him. Yes, some might say, a golf course is like a beautiful public park....preserving open spaces for future generations.

As an example, observe this natural-looking pond that just shouts "we are one with nature !".

Hazards like this are also used as a water supply for irrigation of the surrounding tees, fairways, greens and collars. This will be another "long hole" on a huge course that is still under construction, and will not be opened for full play until next year.

That's right, this course is still not on the maps, and there are no signs to the Club House...yet.

MANS PROGRESS AND DOMINION OVER NATURE

Only two years ago, this was all rainforest and jungle. Then, a company called MARINE FOREST RESORT decided that this would be an even better FOREST RESORT if they could somehow get in there and mow down the trees with bulldozers and chainsaws --- making room for 18 tees, fairways, greens, a bunch of sand traps, and a club house !!!

Ingenious ! After all, what good is a "FOREST RESORT" unless it's missing most of its trees !

Although there are almost 40 (forty) full-size golf courses in Okinawa Prefecture, why not one more ? And, so preservationists won't complain, let's say, "It's for the sake of our children !".

Therefor, this soon-to-be-opened, professional-size-and-length course will be ONLY FOR CHILDREN !

That's right --- only for kids. It is Okinawa's first pro-course-for-juveniles who aim to be the FUTURE WINNERS AND IDOLS in the world of professional golf.

Those families who have already paid in their membership fees in advance are allowed to practice and play on designated holes where the turf has sufficiently "taken", and are cleared for a minimum amount of play.

Of course, adults will still be able to play --- as long as they bring along one-or-more of their kids, and "teach them how to play golf" while they tag along with their own set of clubs.

Ingenious !

Oh...and two more things :

(1) JAPANESE GANGSTERS AND YAKUZA TYPES --- KEEP OUT !!!

(2) FUNGICIDES, PESTICIDES, HERBICIDES, FERTILIZERS, SURFACTANTS --- WELCOME !!!

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

UNDER CONSTRUCTION -- A Sloping Green on the Sedake Children's Golf Course in Okinawa

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Tue, 15 May 2012 22:20:32 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

The surroundings have a bit of catching up to do.

I supposed the sight of a well manicured golf link in the middle of a Jungle is a beautiful sight for many. Man conquers nature for his pleasure, and brings the brighter shades of his landscaping art with him. Yes, some might say, a golf course is like a beautiful public park....preserving open spaces for future generations.

As an example, here we have a finished green with a fairway and approach that is still being worked on. Behind it up on the hill (through the trees) you can see a huge pile of dirt that will be seeded (or more likely "sodded") in the weeks ahead --- all part of this huge course that is still under construction, and will not be opened for full play until next year.

That's right, this course is still not on the maps, and there are no signs to the Club House...yet.

MANS PROGRESS AND DOMINION OVER NATURE

Only two years ago, this was all rainforest and jungle. Then, a company called MARINE FOREST RESORT decided that this would be an even better FOREST RESORT if they could somehow get in there and mow down the trees with bulldozers and chainsaws --- making room for 18 tees, fairways, greens, a bunch of sand traps, and a club house !!!

Ingenious ! After all, what good is a "FOREST RESORT" unless it's missing most of its trees !

Although there are almost 40 (forty) full-size golf courses in Okinawa Prefecture, why not one more ? And, so preservationists won't complain, let's say, "It's for the sake of our children !".

Therefor, this soon-to-be-opened, professional-size-and-length course will be ONLY FOR CHILDREN !

That's right --- only for kids. It is Okinawa's first pro-course-for-juveniles who aim to be the FUTURE WINNERS AND IDOLS in the world of professional golf.

Those families who have already paid in their membership fees in advance are allowed to practice and play on designated holes where the turf has sufficiently "taken", and are cleared for a minimum amount of play.

Of course, adults will still be able to play --- as long as they bring along one-or-more of their kids, and "teach them how to play golf" while they tag along with their own set of clubs.

Ingenious !

Oh...and two more things :

(1) JAPANESE GANGSTERS AND YAKUZA TYPES --- KEEP OUT !!!

(2) FUNGICIDES, PESTICIDES, HERBICIDES, FERTILIZERS, SURFACTANTS --- WELCOME !!!

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

UNDER CONSTRUCTION -- A Pretty Golf Link on the Sedake Children's Golf Course -- Carved out of a Once-Lush Jungle in Okinawa

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Tue, 15 May 2012 22:20:33 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

I supposed the sight of a well manicured golf link in the middle of a Jungle is a beautiful sight for many. Man conquers nature for his pleasure, and brings the brighter shades of his landscaping art with him. Yes, some might say, a golf course is like a beautiful public park.... preserving open spaces for future generations.

As an example, just look at this finished link. It's a thing of beauty ! The undulating trough of obstacles laid out in a once-shallow jungle ravine, washing the eyes with various hues of pleasant, vibrant greens....juxtaposed against the surrounding evil darkness of the treacherous, snake-and-spider-filled jungle !

Yes... Jungle BAD, Golf Course GOOD !

Oh my ! Who cannot say that a lover of the game of golf would not feel an urge to play through on this one !

But not yet. This huge course is still under construction, and will not be opened for full play until next year. That's right.... you wont find it on the maps, and you can't see it on Google Earth. And, there are no signs leading to the Club House...yet.

MANS PROGRESS AND DOMINION OVER NATURE

Only two years ago, this was all rainforest and jungle. Then, a company called MARINE FOREST RESORT decided that this would be an even better FOREST RESORT if they could somehow get in there and mow down the trees with bulldozers and chainsaws --- making room for 18 tees, fairways, greens, a bunch of sand traps, and a club house !!!

Ingenious ! After all, what good is a "FOREST RESORT" unless it's missing most of its trees !

Although there are almost 40 (forty) full-size golf courses in Okinawa Prefecture, why not one more ? And, so preservationists won't complain, let's say, "It's for the sake of our children !".

Therefor, this soon-to-be-opened, professional-size-and-length course will be ONLY FOR CHILDREN !

That's right --- only for kids. It is Okinawa's first pro-course-for-juveniles who aim to be the FUTURE WINNERS AND IDOLS in the world of professional golf.

Those families who have already paid in their membership fees in advance are allowed to practice and play on designated holes where the turf has sufficiently "taken", and are cleared for a minimum amount of play.

Of course, adults will still be able to play --- as long as they bring along one-or-more of their kids, and "teach them how to play golf" while they tag along with their own set of clubs.

Ingenious !

Oh...and two more things :

(1) JAPANESE GANGSTERS AND YAKUZA TYPES --- KEEP OUT !!!

(2) FUNGICIDES, PESTICIDES, HERBICIDES, FERTILIZERS, SURFACTANTS --- WELCOME !!!

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BUSINESS LAUNDRY :

MAINLAND JAPANESE ENTITIES WORK THROUGH DELAWARE, FLORIDA, AND HAWAII DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONS IN AMERICA IN ORDER TO MOW DOWN THE JUNGLE IN OKINAWA FOR THE ECO-FRIENDLY FUTURE OF OUR ISLAND CHILDREN

QUICK LOOK :

Marine Forest presently operates two restaurants and a convenience store in the Okinawa Airport. In addition, it has undertaken a resort project and has obtained government approvals in 1995 for construction of a hotel and 18 hole golf course. The project is at the very earliest stages with the beginning of the construction of the entry road and mass grading of the property for future construction of the hotel. The site is located in Sedaka of Nago City [pictured here on these Flickr posts] which is about one hour drive (sic) from Okinawa International Airport.
business.globe24h.com/sec/001/02/026000/0000026752.shtml

OTHER DETAILS SHOWING THE COMPLEXITY OF LAND MANIPULATIONS IN JAPAN VIA THE USA :

In October 1998, Yoshihiro Kamon acquired 90% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company from a shareholder in exchange for $150,000. Thereafter in September, 1999, the Company entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization, with SURETY KOHALA, a Hawaii corporation ("Surety Kohala"), whereby Surety Kohala would be merged into a subsidiary of SURETY HOLDINGS CORP., and become a subsidiary of Surety. The Company issued two million shares of its common stock, $.001 par value, to Mahukona Holdings Corp.., the shareholder of Surety Kohala, as and for the consideration for this acquisition.

YOSHIHIRO KAMON. Mr. Kamon holds a B.A. degree in economics from Konan University. In addition to being the President and sole Director of the Company, Mr. Kamon has served, from 1996 to 1999, as the Executive Senior Vice President of Chalon International Co. and Executive Director of Chalon Corporation, in which positions he was responsible for general business administration, finance planning, budgeting, negotiations with commercial banks and property management. From 1988 to 1996, he was a director of Chalon Corporation and Special Assistant to Shoichi Kamon, Chairman and President of Chalon Corporation. From 1988 to1999, Mr. Kamon was the President of Chalon International of Hawaii, Inc., responsible for management of Chalon Hawaii's property on the Island of Hawaii. He was also the Director of the Shanghai International Airport Hotel and restaurant and a Director of Chalon Hong Kong from 1986 to 1996.

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY :

The Articles of Merger were filed with the Secretary of State of Hawaii on December 29, 1999. Yoshihiro Kamon, President and Chairman of the Company, is a 12% shareholder of Chalon Corp. [Chalon International of Hawaii, is the successor to all the Kohala Sugar Holdings] .and owns 50% of Kamon Corp. which owns 66% of Chalon Corp. Mr. Kamon was President of Surety Kohala from 1988 to 1999, and was Executive Director and Vice President of Chalon Corp. from 1988 to 1999. Masahiro Kume, Chairman of Surety Kohala, is Mr. Kamon's brother-in law.

During 2001 and 2000, the Company's President advanced the Company $217,000 and $230,000, respectively, pursuant to one-year, 5% promissory notes. During 2001, the Company repaid the President $93,000. Related interest expense for 2001 and 2000 is approximately $18,000 and $3,000 respectively.

CONFLICTS

Certain Officers, directors and shareholders of Surety Holdings Corp. and Surety Kohala Corporation may also be officers directors and shareholders of other companies with which Surety does business or that engage in the same business as Surety. Moreover, other companies may have entered into contracts, agreements, arrangements or otherwise do business with Surety which would benefit certain of Surety's officers, directors and/or shareholders.

Yoshihiro Kamon and his immediate family directly and indirectly own 40% of MARINE FOREST RESORT, INC. Although individuals and/or entities which are related to Surety own directly or indirectly 40% of Marine Forest Resort, Inc., the balance of Marine Forest i.e., 60% is owned by non-related parties.

Pursuant to uncollateralized promissory notes, the Company advanced Marine Forest Resort, Inc. ("Marine Forest"), a related Japanese corporation that owns approximately 400 acres of land in Okinawa, Japan, $9.75 million. The notes bear interest at the U.S. prime rate at date of issuance, plus one percent. Under their original terms, the notes were due six months after date of issuance. However, all notes were extended an additional six months and subsequently extended to December 31, 2002, as a concession to Marine Forest to advance Marine Forest's development projects.

THE GOLF COURSE IN THE JUNGLE.... THESE THINGS TAKE TIME !

Marine Forest presently operates two restaurants and a convenience store in the Okinawa Airport. In addition, it has undertaken a resort project and has obtained government approvals in 1995 for construction of a hotel and 18 hole golf course. The project is at the very earliest stages with the beginning of the construction of the entry road and mass grading of the property for future construction of the hotel. The site is located in Sedaka of Nago City which is about one hour drive from Okinawa International Airport. [ business.globe24h.com/sec/001/02/026000/0000026752.shtml ]

In connection therewith, the Company continues to discuss the possibility of a strategic arrangement with Marine Forest, including the Company acquiring Marine Forest. However, the parties are waiting the completion of the revised Mahukona development plan (expected in the second quarter of 2002) to further its discussion in this regard. Related interest income for 2001 and 2000 is approximately $1,054,000 and $210,000, respectively.

Through December 31, 2001, no interest has been paid, however, management anticipates that all accrued interest receivable will be reclassified to principal and settled in connection with the parties' contemplated strategic arrangements.

At December 31, 2001, in light of the speculative nature of Marine Forest's contemplated development projects among other reasons and in accordance with its compliance with the requirements of SFAS No. 114, the Company recorded an impairment charge of approximately $7.2 million.

THE ABOVE IS ON-LINE PUBLIC INFORMATION.

business.globe24h.com/sec/001/02/026000/0000026752.shtml

sec.edgar-online.com/surety-holdings-corp/10ksb-annual-re...

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

UNDER CONSTRUCTION -- The Sedake Children's Golf Course in Okinawa -- NO SMOKING ON THE COURSE OR IN THE CARTS

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Tue, 15 May 2012 22:20:33 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

This Elementary School boy (whose Mother didn't want his face to be shown) is enjoying a few holes of golf with his Dad and his Sister on a huge golf course that is still under construction, and will not be opened for full play until next year.

That's right, this course is still not on the maps, and there are no signs to the Club House...yet.

MANS PROGRESS AND DOMINION OVER NATURE

Only two years ago, this was all rainforest and jungle. Then, a company called MARINE FOREST RESORT decided that this would be an even better FOREST RESORT if they could somehow get in there and mow down the trees with bulldozers and chainsaws --- making room for 18 tees, fairways, greens, a bunch of sand traps, and a club house !!!

Ingenious ! After all, what good is a "FOREST RESORT" unless it's missing most of its trees !

Although there are almost 40 (forty) full-size golf courses in Okinawa Prefecture, why not one more ? And, so preservationists won't complain, let's say, "It's for the sake of our children !".

Therefor, this soon-to-be-opened, professional-size-and-length course will be ONLY FOR CHILDREN !

That's right --- only for kids. It is Okinawa's first pro-course-for-juveniles who aim to be the FUTURE WINNERS AND IDOLS in the world of professional golf.

Those families who have already paid in their membership fees in advance are allowed to practice and play on designated holes where the turf has sufficiently "taken", and are cleared for a minimum amount of play.

Of course, adults will still be able to play --- as long as they bring along one-or-more of their kids, and teach them how to play golf while they tag along with their own set of clubs !

Again, Ingenious !

Oh...and two more things :

(1) JAPANESE GANGSTERS AND YAKUZA TYPES --- KEEP OUT !!!

(2) FUNGICIDES, PESTICIDES, HERBICIDES, FERTILIZERS, SURFACTANTS --- WELCOME !!!

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BUSINESS LAUNDRY :

MAINLAND JAPANESE ENTITIES WORK THROUGH DELAWARE, FLORIDA, AND HAWAII DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONS IN AMERICA IN ORDER TO MOW DOWN THE JUNGLE IN OKINAWA FOR THE "ECO-FRIENDLY" FUTURE OF OUR ISLAND CHILDREN

QUICK LOOK :

Marine Forest presently operates two restaurants and a convenience store in the Okinawa Airport. In addition, it has undertaken a resort project and has obtained government approvals in 1995 for construction of a hotel and 18 hole golf course. The project is at the very earliest stages with the beginning of the construction of the entry road and mass grading of the property for future construction of the hotel. The site is located in Sedaka of Nago City [pictured here on these Flickr posts] which is about one hour drive (sic) from Okinawa International Airport.
business.globe24h.com/sec/001/02/026000/0000026752.shtml

OTHER DETAILS SHOWING THE COMPLEXITY OF LAND MANIPULATIONS IN JAPAN via the USA :

In October 1998, Yoshihiro Kamon acquired 90% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company from a shareholder in exchange for $150,000. Thereafter in September, 1999, the Company entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization, with SURETY KOHALA, a Hawaii corporation ("Surety Kohala"), whereby Surety Kohala would be merged into a subsidiary of SURETY HOLDINGS CORP., and become a subsidiary of Surety. The Company issued two million shares of its common stock, $.001 par value, to Mahukona Holdings Corp.., the shareholder of Surety Kohala, as and for the consideration for this acquisition.

YOSHIHIRO KAMON. Mr. Kamon holds a B.A. degree in economics from Konan University. In addition to being the President and sole Director of the Company, Mr. Kamon has served, from 1996 to 1999, as the Executive Senior Vice President of Chalon International Co. and Executive Director of Chalon Corporation, in which positions he was responsible for general business administration, finance planning, budgeting, negotiations with commercial banks and property management. From 1988 to 1996, he was a director of Chalon Corporation and Special Assistant to Shoichi Kamon, Chairman and President of Chalon Corporation. From 1988 to1999, Mr. Kamon was the President of Chalon International of Hawaii, Inc., responsible for management of Chalon Hawaii's property on the Island of Hawaii. He was also the Director of the Shanghai International Airport Hotel and restaurant and a Director of Chalon Hong Kong from 1986 to 1996.

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY :

The Articles of Merger were filed with the Secretary of State of Hawaii on December 29, 1999. Yoshihiro Kamon, President and Chairman of the Company, is a 12% shareholder of Chalon Corp. [Chalon International of Hawaii, is the successor to all the Kohala Sugar Holdings] .and owns 50% of Kamon Corp. which owns 66% of Chalon Corp. Mr. Kamon was President of Surety Kohala from 1988 to 1999, and was Executive Director and Vice President of Chalon Corp. from 1988 to 1999. Masahiro Kume, Chairman of Surety Kohala, is Mr. Kamon's brother-in law.

During 2001 and 2000, the Company's President advanced the Company $217,000 and $230,000, respectively, pursuant to one-year, 5% promissory notes. During 2001, the Company repaid the President $93,000. Related interest expense for 2001 and 2000 is approximately $18,000 and $3,000 respectively.

CONFLICTS

Certain Officers, directors and shareholders of Surety Holdings Corp. and Surety Kohala Corporation may also be officers directors and shareholders of other companies with which Surety does business or that engage in the same business as Surety. Moreover, other companies may have entered into contracts, agreements, arrangements or otherwise do business with Surety which would benefit certain of Surety's officers, directors and/or shareholders.

Yoshihiro Kamon and his immediate family directly and indirectly own 40% of MARINE FOREST RESORT, INC. Although individuals and/or entities which are related to Surety own directly or indirectly 40% of Marine Forest Resort, Inc., the balance of Marine Forest i.e., 60% is owned by non-related parties.

Pursuant to uncollateralized promissory notes, the Company advanced Marine Forest Resort, Inc. ("Marine Forest"), a related Japanese corporation that owns approximately 400 acres of land in Okinawa, Japan, $9.75 million. The notes bear interest at the U.S. prime rate at date of issuance, plus one percent. Under their original terms, the notes were due six months after date of issuance. However, all notes were extended an additional six months and subsequently extended to December 31, 2002, as a concession to Marine Forest to advance Marine Forest's development projects.

THE GOLF COURSE IN THE JUNGLE.... THESE THINGS TAKE TIME !

Marine Forest presently operates two restaurants and a convenience store in the Okinawa Airport. In addition, it has undertaken a resort project and has obtained government approvals in 1995 for construction of a hotel and 18 hole golf course. The project is at the very earliest stages with the beginning of the construction of the entry road and mass grading of the property for future construction of the hotel. The site is located in Sedaka of Nago City which is about one hour drive from Okinawa International Airport. [ business.globe24h.com/sec/001/02/026000/0000026752.shtml ]

In connection therewith, the Company continues to discuss the possibility of a strategic arrangement with Marine Forest, including the Company acquiring Marine Forest. However, the parties are waiting the completion of the revised Mahukona development plan (expected in the second quarter of 2002) to further its discussion in this regard. Related interest income for 2001 and 2000 is approximately $1,054,000 and $210,000, respectively.

Through December 31, 2001, no interest has been paid, however, management anticipates that all accrued interest receivable will be reclassified to principal and settled in connection with the parties' contemplated strategic arrangements.

At December 31, 2001, in light of the speculative nature of Marine Forest's contemplated development projects among other reasons and in accordance with its compliance with the requirements of SFAS No. 114, the Company recorded an impairment charge of approximately $7.2 million.

THE ABOVE IS ON-LINE PUBLIC INFORMATION.

business.globe24h.com/sec/001/02/026000/0000026752.shtml

sec.edgar-online.com/surety-holdings-corp/10ksb-annual-re...

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

TODOROKI FALLS -- The Movie

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 07:59:36 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a video:

A ten-second video snippet...shot in the rain. It's amazing how a wide angle lens can make a 90-foot waterfall seem so small.

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Okinawa has plenty of waterfalls to visit and enjoy. The practical aim of most folks --- including me when I'm hauling kids around --- is (1) to have some "adventure" while trekking from your car up to falls of your choice, and (2) hopefully getting in some "swimming hole" antics while picnicking and doing the "Photo Op" thing with family and friends.

However, when it comes to looking for a cascade just to gaze at in the context of its natural surroundings, the TODOROKI FALLS just south of Nago is one of the best.

It also offers some of the greatest challenges to "Nature Photographers" bent on getting all the angles, nuances, and possibilities that one location can offer along these lines.

After a good rain, the falls here equal or exceed some of those in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, or the Poconos of Pennsylvania.

For starters, this waterfall --- at 28 meters / over 90 feet high --- makes the more well-known Hiji Falls look like a whimp....but only after a few days of good rain.

The view of the Falls from the rustic, pleasurable surroundings changes quickly as you walk across the old river bridge below the cascade.

And while you have to drive farther, pay admission, and walk a long path to get to HIJI FALLS up by OKUMA, the one you see here is FREE, and only a 90 SECOND flat walk from the parking lot ~ !

GEOLOGICAL BONUS

It is also the only falls in Okinawa that is lorded over by a basaltic-like rock dome on one side, and and unusual scree at its base --- the highly-weathered remains of crystallized rock columns formed in the same volcanic manner as DEVIL'S TOWER, Wyoming, DEVIL'S POST-PILE in California, GIANT'S CAUSEWAY in Ireland and Scotland, and the TATAMI ROCK FORMATION out on Okinawa Prefecture's Kume Island.

In the above photo, you can see some of the flat faces of the large, crystallized igneous rock.

As I have never seen this written about elsewhere, I hope my mention of it here will help visitors to Okinawa understand that the island is not "just one big piece of coral", but, to the contrary, has a greater variety of geological underpinnings and interesting formations than there are colors in the rainbow.

ANOTHER NICE BLOG ABOUT THE FALLS, WITH DIRECTIONS ON HOW TO GET THERE :

www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/10/todoroki-waterfall-in-nago-c...

轟の滝沖縄沖縄県名護市数久田

THE FALLS AFTER A LONG STRETCH WITH NO RAIN : www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eb4iZIz4Ots

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

ANOTHER CLOUDY DAY AT MAEDA FLATS

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 07:48:47 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

It seems like every time I walk down to this hide-away beach, I have to take a photo...rain or shine, morning or evening.

I spent an hour here alone, walking two beaches and two coves, as well as doing some 3-D photography from a narrow headland above the beaches.

Not another soul showed up the whole time, and the sounds of the wind and the sea belonged only to me for a while.

Just two weeks ago, probably 50-to-100 people came down this path during the day --- mostly SCUBA divers, and families with kids.

www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/7071358355/

www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/6925281114/

www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/sets/72157629801910233...

On most weekdays, though, it's all yours.

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

THE OLD TRAIL TO THE BEACH

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 07:48:51 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

It seems like every time I walk down to this hide-away beach, I have to take a photo...rain or shine, morning or evening.

I spent an hour here alone, walking two beaches and two coves, as well as doing 3-D photograph from a narrow headland above the beaches.

Not another soul showed up the whole time, and the sounds of the wind and the sea belonged only to me for a while.

Only two weeks ago, probably 50-to-100 people came down this path during the day --- mostly SCUBA divers, and families with kids.

www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/7071358355/

On most weekdays, though, it's all yours.

www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/6925281114/

www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/sets/72157629801910233...

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

LAKE AHA and the UPPER AHA FALLS in NORTHERN OKINAWA

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Sun, 03 Jun 2012 02:44:00 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

This is the very first Okinawa Swimming Hole I dove into after arriving on the island back in 1973. Except for the means of getting down to it from the road above, little has changed since then.

WELCOME TO USMC CAMP GONSALVES

Every map you look at tells a different story about who "owns" these Falls --- the Okinawans, or the US Military. One thing that all do agree on is that everything from the parking lot down to the water (at least) is part of the US Marine Corps' CAMP GONSALVES --- also known as the Jungle Warfare Training Center (JWTC), or the Northern Training Area (NTA).

But what part of the water ? Are the falls split right down the middle ? Or, does the Military have the Falls, and the Okinawans have the Lake ? The parking lot and trail are on U.S. Military property ? Huh ?

With all of this confusion, please allow me to do you the service of settling the issue by showing you --- within a few feet either way --- where the lines are actually drawn on this beautiful piece of Okinawan real estate :

♥ www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/7554188804/in/photostream

Due to the lack of signs, fences, and barbed wire, most visitors who come here to swim, picnic, explore, and take photos are NOT AWARE that they are parking on a Military Base, and entering these beautiful falls and their surroundings by hiking the short trail just that much deeper into the 17,500-acre CAMP GONSALVES !

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camp_Gonsalves

WHY DON'T THE U.S. MARINES PUT UP A FENCE AND KICK PEOPLE OUT ??? :

FOR A NUMBER OF REASONS, the US Marines will not capture you, detain you, or kick you out of here. These reasons, all taken together, include the following :

(1) Although the Lake is just inside their unmarked perimeter off public-road Route 70, it is far away from the more "sensitive" facilities within the expansive Marine Base,

(2) Only a FOOL --- or a U.S. MARINE --- would actually head into the miles of rugged terrain and dense jungles filled with booby traps, cliffs, near-impenetrable ravines, biting insects that BUG SPRAY has no effect against, and is seriously infested with three varieties of pit vipers, including the aggressive HABU that can hang invisibly in the trees, and will bite you on the head and torso as you go by.

Between a FOOL and a U.S. MARINE, only a Marine would make it out alive !!!

(3) This section of the River, Lake, and Falls is admittedly such a nice place for all to visit and use, there would be a public outcry if the Marines decided to keep it all to themselves.

(4) With that in mind, the US Marines have decided NOT to put up a "KEEP OUT" sign, or otherwise scare you away with overt tokens of their legal jurisdiction over the property. But Instead….

(5) While maintaining strict control over access to other parts of the Base, concerning this spot, they have always implemented a look-the-other-way, don't-ask-don't-tell policy toward those wanting to walk in and enjoy this protected area, and have been doing so for as long as the Base has been here !

(6) The Marines probably enjoy tourists and looky-loos telling everyone, "Oh my God, I just spent 5 hours swimming and picnicking in the Northern Training Area, and didn't even have a Base Pass !" ;-)

For this I say,

(7) GOD BLESS THE MARINES !

♦ ♦ ♦ CHECK OUT ONE MARINE'S GREAT SET OF PHOTOS FROM THIS SPOT : www.flickr.com/search/?w=all&q=TanagaaGumui&m=tags

WATCH OUT FOR SNAKES ? In spite of what I said in #4 above, I have been to these falls over 100 times during my almost 40 years on the island, and NEVER ONCE saw a poisonous snake here. However, that's just me. Flickr member NateVenture has a different experience to tell :

".......The only place I've seen a habu coiled up ready to bite was at Aha. I was on my way out the last time I was there before they built the new path down. I dropped something and when I reached down to get it I saw the snake sitting right there......."

So, whether you see a snake or not might just be the luck of the draw. And who's to say that they are not watching you even if you don't see them !

On the other hand I have also been to the HIJI, TAA, AZAKA, NANA, TACHIGAA, FUKUCHI, and TODOROKI Falls, and other known and lesser-known river and waterfall spots on Okinawa many times over, and have never seen any of the poisonous pit vipers that Okinawa is famous for. Although I must admit, after reading NateVenture's comment, I now wonder if I have been attacked numerous times by snakes that just missed me when they struck out with their poisonous fangs, or I have been stepping on their heads (before they could get me) with my sneakers as I traipse through the jungle trails and mountain paths of Okinawa.

If I ever DO get nailed by a Habu, you will see the results here on Flickr....if I live to tell about it !

In the meantime, I would NOT go off the trails, nor delve any deeper into the Marine Corps' NTA area in the uncharted Jungles above the Falls. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camp_Gonsalves

ABOUT LAKE AHA

The 20-foot falls, though not high, are stout and powerful. They cut a highly dimensional cascade through the rock, sluicing through old pot-holes and crevasses that have broken through and worn down over time.

At the foot of the Falls, the fine lake of pollutant-free fresh water is over 30 feet deep (10 m) out in the middle, and covers an area roughly 400 tsubo in size (1,300 sq/m, or 14,000 sq/ft, or about 1/3 acre). Again, it's the largest mountain lake in Okinawa, and free for all to visit and enjoy.

The camera standpoint for the above photo is a great place to sit in a reclining beach chair and stare into a living postcard, as friends and strangers frolic in the water. And a little bug spray might enhance things !

IS IT WORTH GOING ALL THE WAY UP THERE ON A NICE DAY ?

Thousands of people do just that every year, including families and children, with many having such a great time they end up returning again and again.

Besides picnicking in the shady foreground area you see here, or on the nearby rocks at the edge of the pond (out of frame on the left, sorry), you can also do something ELSE if your adventuresome spirit is alive and well :

Cross the rocky shallows across the lake's exit stream, and follow a path to the top of the rocks you see on the LEFT side of the Falls.

www.flickr.com/photos/razortm/3226372859/in/photostream/

Once there, with a little care and common sense, you can......

(1) picnic on top of the falls,

(2) haul up a light deck chair to sit and read or nap while lording over your domain,

(3) jump from some of the side rocks by the Falls USING EXTREME CARE, WITH PRIOR KNOWLEDGE OF WHERE THE UNDERWATER BOULDERS ARE, AND HOW FAR YOU HAVE TO LEAP OUT TO AVOID HITTING THE EDGE ROCKS ABOVE THE SURFACE --- THIS "SAFETY ZONE" AWARENESS COMING FROM YOUR PERSONAL SWIMMING AND VISUALLY "SOUNDING" OF THE AREA UNDER THE CLIFF-ROCKS BY THE FALLS.

(4) examine the best waterfall pot-hole and rock-sluice erosion features on Okinawa,

www.flickr.com/photos/razortm/3226373731/

www.flickr.com/photos/razortm/3227227290/

(5) explore the upper river while swimming and wading through its many nice pools, and

(6) get some great photos and video of the biggest swimming hole on Okinawa.

www.flickr.com/photos/razortm/3226373583/in/photostream/

If you don't want to make the short hike to the top of the Falls, that's FINE ! There is also.....

(7) a long ROPE SWING waiting for you just off-frame to the RIGHT, where you can launch yourself out into the lake like a cannon ball --- assuming the local officials haven't come and cut the rope down, which they actually do on occasion (whereupon the local Marines put one right back up !)

Just downstream from this lake is another series of falls and pools through beautifully eroded channels in the rock. EXERCISE CAUTION WHEN GETTING NEAR THE EDGES OF ANY OF THE FALLS ALONG THIS RIVER --- you don't want to slip and fall into one of the chutes, as you will probably not get out alive.

I should also mention that there are always a couple of people who die here every year --- for some reason, most of those whose lives have ended here are JAPANESE, while FOREIGNERS, who always made up the bulk of the visitors I saw when going for a dip, never had a problem. Injuries or broken bones were also a very rare thing, and only happened to the careless.

That being said, it's great for a family visit if you can keep your kids in check. Bring inner-tubes and air-mattresses if you want to float around the pools and play in a smaller "feeder falls" on the side. And, if you want to take a real (but safe) pounding, you can carefully stand on underwater rocks at the base of the falls and immerse yourself in the cascade.

OFF THE RECORD

Beside the countless daytime visits with family and friends, I came here ALONE on two occasions to do something that struck fear and awe into the locals who heard about it.

It was no big deal.

I simply came down here AFTER DARK to SKINNY DIP the night away...under a FULL MOON !

Yes, I did it twice.....and lived to tell about it.

♥ ♥ ♥ HOW DO I GET TO THIS PLACE ?

Take Highway 58 north to Route 2......Take Route 2 over to Route 70....Take Route 70 South (right) about 2 km (?) till you see the sign over the road for the AHA PLANT COMMUNITY....TANAGAGUMUI (or some such thing) and pull in there. Park by the SIREN BUILDING, and head down the trail by the stone marker !

SEE THIS PHOTO : www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/7556169836/

".....I HEARD THAT THE TRAIL DOWN TO THE FALLS IS A REAL KILLER !!!...."

Yes, it WAS...and it got WORSE over the years. However, TODAY (2012), getting in is much easier than it used to be, thanks to a totally NEW and transformed trail. The once-treacherous, near-vertical climb down from the road and parking lot --- accomplished by gripping tree-roots and various ropes while navigating your path down the washed-out mountain gully --- has been replaced by a series of relatively easy switch-backs.

I am now an old and decrepit geezer, and the last time I went in, I made it down in only 5 minutes --- and even more surprising, back to the top in only 3 1/2 minutes !

If you are an old geezer like me, a walking stick is recommended, but not necessary. Just keep your eye on the trail, and watch for the odd root or wooden stake [used to hold "sand bag steps" in place in a few critical spots] which might stick up here and there. Otherwise, it's a good trail, and a breath of fresh air compared to what it used to be.

If you are stationed on Okinawa, and want a break from the ocean views, beaches, and congestion around the bases, this is a day trip that will toss you into a totally different world.

Those already familiar with Hiji Falls and Taa Falls will find this location to be "different" enough from those places to put the experience in a whole 'nother category.

FINAL NOTE : If you hear loud sirens going off, pack up and leave !!! The sirens are a warning the that FUNGAWA DAM --- about 2km upstream --- is about to release a wall of water that will literally bury this place. You do NOT want to be here when that happens.

Oh, and one more thing. Please pack your trash out with you when you go. Thanks !

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PLACE NAMES AND RECENT HISTORY :

WHAT DOES * TANAGAA GUMUI * MEAN ???

The Okinawan Language name for LAKE AHA is Tanangaa Gumui / タナガーグムイ

Tanagaa means "Long-armed Prawn", a local type of Freshwater Prawn --- which is a kind of Shrimp. The lake used to be teeming with them !

Gumui means a forest Lake, or Pond.

For the Okinawans, the focus was always on the lake, and not the falls that accompany it.

So, it was simply an obvious, almost generic thing for the folks down in Aha Village to refer to this place as Tanagaa Gumui --- "The Prawn Pond."

These days, the once abundant prawns are are now largely (or completely) gone.

WHAT HAPPENED ?

When I first came here in 1973, the lake was filled with the freshwater prawns that gave it its name. You could see them all around the edges of the pool, especially in the shallows where light grasses and vegetation overhung the water along the earthen banks. These days, I never see them. It has become a Gumui without the Tanagaa !

"Progress" called for a big dam to be built upstream back in the early 1980s, and the occasional water releases form huge, forceful floods that seems to have washed out the pond so many times that the poor little Tanagaa have never recovered. I hope that humans will eventually re-stock the pond from other nearby streams where they still survive. Until then, LAKE AHA is a more honest name for the place than TANAGAA GUMUI.

From THE PRAWN POND to LAKE AHA to AHA FALLS.

The American Military --- especially the Marines --- who have been coming here to swim and relax for well over 50 years, simply called it LAKE AHA, after Aha Village which sits at the mouth of the river only one kilometer away. Nobody called it "AHA FALLS".

At some point in time during the last 20 years, when HIJI FALLS and TAA FALLS started getting more media attention as a place to climb, swim, and play, and the idea of Okinawan Waterfalls being a destination activity even for the Okinawans and Tourists (which it never was prior to those years) saw LAKE AHA get listed in the "FALLS" category, rather than the "SWIMMING HOLE" or "LAKE" category.

HOWEVER....as of 2012, due to the number of accidents befalling the Okinawan and Japanese tourists, the tourism department of Kunigami Township has stopped promoting Tanagaa Gumui, and has already dropped the location completely from some of its tourist maps !.

They realize that word-of-mouth will keep the U.S. Military and their families coming there as they always have, and that it is mostly on U.S. Military property to begin with. At the same time, they hope that the numbers of accident-prone Japanese showing up there will drop to the point where they become as rare as the long-armed "shrimp" for which the fine little Lake is named.

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♥ FULL PHOTO SET and MAIN CAPTION HERE : www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/sets/72157630539746956...

The river that forms these falls and lake is called FUNGAWA [foon-gah-wah], or FUNGAA [foon-gaah] in the local language, and the National Dam (2 km upstream from it) is called the FUNGAWA DAM.

Japanese tourists from the mainland might read the Chinese characters as FUKU GAWA.

THE PRAWNS

In Japanese, the Tanagaa "Prawns" are called Tenaga-ebi. TAKE A LOOK : www.yamakaku.jp/gallery/prawn.html

JAPANESE DESCRIPTION with PHOTOS : www.hainumikaze.com/kunigami/tanagaagumui.html

タナガーグムイの植物群落国頭村国頭滝沖縄県沖縄安波滝安波 Lake Aha / Aha Falls

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/sets/

STAGE ONE OF PUTTING IN A MOUNTAIN ROAD for FUTURE JUNGLE CLEARING and THE BUILDING OF A NEW DAM ABOVE TODOROKI FALLS

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 12:15:09 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

The clover is beautiful as I stand in the rain. However, it, and the concrete below, are just the beginning of "Progress" --- Clearing the jungle rain forest to make way for another new dam on Okinawa.

Farmers want the jungles cleared for farms. Towns and villages must expand. Everyone, including he US Military has to shower (or soak in an tub), and millions of Japanese tourists in their hotels all want their "o-furo" bath just like like back home.

All of this means dams, and more dams. Both large and small, dam construction has continued since WW2, and increased even more since the Japanese took over in 1972.

The new OKUKUBI DAM near US Marine Corps Base CAMP HANSEN is now finished (December 2012), and Okinawa's second largest dam --- TAIHO DAM --- was finished and filled in 2011.

I am posting this set of six photos as reality check, and balance to the six photos preceding these on my photostream.

That is to say, the TODOROKI FALLS will soon have a big dam built just above it, and the government claims that once all is finished, and the river flow controlled, the falls will look just as they do now, with none of the construction in the line of sight of visitors below.

I hope so.

TODOROKI FALLS : www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/sets/72157629526294244...

PHOTO NOTE : I'd like to get several people all in spread-eagle positions, pointed in different directions on the clover...and shoot the abstract in real time. At least I did it elsewhere with one willing model :

www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/6981243171/

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

LOOKING DOWN ON THE VILLAGE OF SUKUTA FROM THE NEW DAM CONSTRUCTION ROAD ABOVE TODOROKI FALLS

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 12:15:03 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

I am standing in the rain about 300 yards away from TODOROKI FALLS --- far below me in a river gorge off to my right.

In the distance on the hilside you can see the new road under construction that will eventually provide access to all manner of vehicles necessary for the construction of the new dam above the Falls.

Although portions of the road are finished, there are still major gaps. It won't be done until Spring of 2013, at which time major work on the dam will begin.

TODOROKI FALLS : www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/sets/72157629526294244

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

NEW ACCESS ROAD FOR DAM CONSTRUCTION ABOVE TODOROKI FALLS -- A NAGO CITY

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 12:15:07 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

The roads seen in this Flickr group of six photos are not yet on any maps or atlases of Okinawa.

I am about 350 feet above sea level, standing in the rain only 200 yards away from TODOROKI FALLS --- far below me in a river gorge off to my right.

Straight ahead is a new road [still under construction] that runs down the mountain to Highway 58. It will take on the 350 foot drop by clinging to a half-mile grade carved out of the once-forested hillside on the south side of the Nago City "suburb" village of SUKUTA.

It will eventually provide access to all manner of vehicles necessary for the construction of the new dam above the waterfall.

Although portions of the road are finished, there are still major gaps. It won't be done until Spring of 2013, at which time major work on the dam will begin.

TODOROKI FALLS : www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/sets/72157629526294244...

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

CONSTRUCTION ROAD FOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT and BEGINNINGS OF JUNGLE CLEARANCE for the NEW DAM ABOVE TODOROKI FALLS

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 12:15:00 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

Ahhhh.....there's nothing like the smell of fresh jungle asphalt in the afternoon.....

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

RAIN FOREST ABOVE TODOROKI FALLS -- The River Valley Soon to be Stripped of Trees to Make Way for a New Dam

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 12:14:56 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

I am standing in the rain on the edge of the future dam construction site. To get here, I had to walk in, passing several NO ADMITTANCE, KEEP OUT, AND NO TRESPASSING signs.

However, one of the local crew on his way home told me to go in and take as many photos as I wanted.

Thunder started to rumble and the rains came down harder as I finished up, and headed home.

Someday, I will stand on this same spot, and take a photo that will look very different, I'm sure.

TODOROKI FALLS : www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/sets/72157629526294244...

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

PICTURESQUE ROCKS AT THE BASE OF TODOROKI FALLS

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 08:06:00 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

See the GEOLOGICAL BONUS comments at the bottom of this caption. You might be surprised to find out what these old, weathered boulders really are !

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Okinawa has plenty of waterfalls to visit and enjoy. The practical aim of most folks --- including me when I'm hauling kids around --- is (1) to have some "adventure" while trekking from your car up to falls of your choice, and (2) hopefully getting in some "swimming hole" antics while picnicking and doing the "Photo Op" thing with family and friends.

However, when it comes to looking for a cascade just to gaze at in the context of its natural surroundings, the TODOROKI FALLS just south of Nago City is one of the best.

Even back in the days of the old Ryukyu Kingdom, it's roaring splendor was so well known that one of the early Kings made the long trek up here to see it, and be impressed. (Well, ok...he was probably carried all the way in a Royal Yama Kago, or rode a hardy Ryukyuan Pony).

This spot also offers some of the greatest challenges to "Nature Photographers" bent on getting all the angles, nuances, and possibilities that one location can offer along these lines.

After a good rain, the falls here equal or exceed some of those in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, or the Poconos of Pennsylvania.

For starters, this waterfall --- at 28 meters / over 90 feet high --- makes the more well-known 17-meter HIJI FALLS look like a wimp....but only after a few days of good rain.

♥ DURING / AFTER A TYPHOON OR HEAVY RAINS : www.flickr.com/photos/34244326@N02/4655271250/

The view of the Falls from the rustic, pleasurable surroundings changes quickly as you walk across the old river bridge below the cascade.

And while you have to drive farther, pay admission, and walk a long path to get to HIJI FALLS up by OKUMA, the one you see here is FREE, and only a 90 SECOND flat walk from the parking lot ~ !

GEOLOGICAL BONUS

This is the only waterfall on Okinawa that is lorded over by a basaltic-like rock dome on one side, and unusual scree at its base --- the highly-weathered remains of now-fallen, crystallized rock columns formed in the same volcanic manner as DEVIL'S TOWER, Wyoming, DEVIL'S POST-PILE in California, GIANT'S CAUSEWAY in Ireland and Scotland, and the TATAMI ROCK FORMATION out on Okinawa Prefecture's Kume Island.

In the above photo, you can see some of the flat faces of the large, crystallized igneous rock.

As I have never seen this written about elsewhere, I hope my mention of it here will help visitors to Okinawa understand that the island is not "just one big piece of coral", but, to the contrary, has a greater variety of geological underpinnings and interesting formations than there are colors in the rainbow.

ANOTHER NICE BLOG ABOUT THE FALLS, WITH DIRECTIONS ON HOW TO GET THERE :

www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/10/todoroki-waterfall-in-nago-c...

轟の滝沖縄沖縄県名護市数久田

THE FALLS AFTER A LONG STRETCH WITH NO RAIN : www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eb4iZIz4Ots

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

TODOROKI FALLS -- Okinawa's Oldest Waterfall Attraction

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 08:05:31 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

Okinawa has plenty of waterfalls to visit and enjoy. The practical aim of most folks --- including me when I'm hauling kids around --- is (1) to have some "adventure" while trekking from your car up to falls of your choice, and (2) hopefully getting in some "swimming hole" antics while picnicking and doing the "Photo Op" thing with family and friends.

However, when it comes to looking for a cascade just to gaze at in the context of its natural surroundings, the TODOROKI FALLS just south of Nago is one of the best.

Even back in the days of the old Ryukyu Kingdom, it's roaring splendor was so well known that one of the early Kings made the long trek up here to see it, and be impressed. (Well, ok...he was probably carried all the way in a Royal Yama Kago, or rode a hardy Ryukyuan Pony).

This spot also offers some of the greatest challenges to "Nature Photographers" bent on getting all the angles, nuances, and possibilities that one location can offer along these lines.

After a good rain, the falls here equal or exceed some of those in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, or the Poconos of Pennsylvania.

For starters, this waterfall --- at 28 meters / over 90 feet high --- makes the more well-known 17-meter HIJI FALLS look like a wimp....but only after a few days of good rain.

♥ DURING / AFTER A TYPHOON OR HEAVY RAINS : www.flickr.com/photos/34244326@N02/4655271250/

The view of the Falls from the rustic, pleasurable surroundings changes quickly as you walk across the old river bridge below the cascade.

And while you have to drive farther, pay admission, and walk a long path to get to HIJI FALLS up by OKUMA, the one you see here is FREE, and only a 90 SECOND flat walk from the parking lot ~ !

GEOLOGICAL BONUS

This is the only waterfall on Okinawa that is lorded over by a basaltic-like rock dome on one side, and unusual scree at its base --- the highly-weathered remains of now-fallen, crystallized rock columns formed in the same volcanic manner as DEVIL'S TOWER, Wyoming, DEVIL'S POST-PILE in California, GIANT'S CAUSEWAY in Ireland and Scotland, and the TATAMI ROCK FORMATION out on Okinawa Prefecture's Kume Island.

In the above photo, you can see some of the flat faces of the large, crystallized igneous rock.

As I have never seen this written about elsewhere, I hope my mention of it here will help visitors to Okinawa understand that the island is not "just one big piece of coral", but, to the contrary, has a greater variety of geological underpinnings and interesting formations than there are colors in the rainbow.

ANOTHER NICE BLOG ABOUT THE FALLS, WITH DIRECTIONS ON HOW TO GET THERE :

www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/10/todoroki-waterfall-in-nago-c...

轟の滝沖縄沖縄県名護市数久田

THE FALLS AFTER A LONG STRETCH WITH NO RAIN : www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eb4iZIz4Ots

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

THE OLD BRIDGE OVER TODOROKI RIVER JUST BELOW THE FALLS

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 08:05:45 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

From this standpoint, the falls are on the LEFT. The river then runs under this bridge, and down through the Village of SUKUTA and Highway 58 just south of Nago City.

It's nice to just stand on the bridge for a few moments, and take in the surroundings.

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Okinawa has plenty of waterfalls to visit and enjoy. The practical aim of most folks --- including me when I'm hauling kids around --- is (1) to have some "adventure" while trekking from your car up to falls of your choice, and (2) hopefully getting in some "swimming hole" antics while picnicking and doing the "Photo Op" thing with family and friends.

However, when it comes to looking for a cascade just to gaze at in the context of its natural surroundings, the TODOROKI FALLS just south of Nago is one of the best.

It also offers some of the greatest challenges to "Nature Photographers" bent on getting all the angles, nuances, and possibilities that one location can offer along these lines.

After a good rain, the falls here equal or exceed some of those in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, or the Poconos of Pennsylvania.

For starters, this waterfall --- at 28 meters / over 90 feet high --- makes the more well-known Hiji Falls look like a whimp....but only after a few days of good rain.

The view of the Falls from the rustic, pleasurable surroundings changes quickly as you walk across the old river bridge below the cascade.

And while you have to drive farther, pay admission, and walk a long path to get to HIJI FALLS up by OKUMA, the one you see here is FREE, and only a 90 SECOND flat walk from the parking lot ~ !

GEOLOGICAL BONUS

It is also the only falls in Okinawa that is lorded over by a basaltic-like rock dome on one side, and and unusual scree at its base --- the highly-weathered remains of crystallized rock columns formed in the same volcanic manner as DEVIL'S TOWER, Wyoming, DEVIL'S POST-PILE in California, GIANT'S CAUSEWAY in Ireland and Scotland, and the TATAMI ROCK FORMATION out on Okinawa Prefecture's Kume Island.

In the above photo, you can see some of the flat faces of the large, crystallized igneous rock.

As I have never seen this written about elsewhere, I hope my mention of it here will help visitors to Okinawa understand that the island is not "just one big piece of coral", but, to the contrary, has a greater variety of geological underpinnings and interesting formations than there are colors in the rainbow.

ANOTHER NICE BLOG ABOUT THE FALLS, WITH DIRECTIONS ON HOW TO GET THERE :

www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/10/todoroki-waterfall-in-nago-c...

轟の滝沖縄沖縄県名護市数久田

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

TODOROKI FALLS -- Lower Run by the Old River Bridge

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 07:01:09 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

This is an optional view from the road to the falls --- 90 seconds from the parking lot. 60 seconds if you hop, skip, and jump.

Through the trees, you can catch your first glimpse of the bottom of the 28 meter / 90 foot falls.

As you walk across the bridge, the full falls come into view.

After crossing the bridge, you walk over to the boulders at the base, where the roar of the cascade drowns out all of your stress.

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Okinawa has plenty of waterfalls to visit and enjoy. The practical aim of most folks --- including me when I'm hauling kids around --- is (1) to have some "adventure" while trekking from your car up to falls of your choice, and (2) hopefully getting in some "swimming hole" antics while picnicking and doing the "Photo Op" thing with family and friends.

However, when it comes to looking for a cascade just to gaze at in the context of its natural surroundings, the TODOROKI FALLS just south of Nago is one of the best.

It also offers some of the greatest challenges to "Nature Photographers" bent on getting all the angles, nuances, and possibilities that one location can offer along these lines.

After a good rain, the falls here equal or exceed some of those in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, or the Poconos of Pennsylvania.

For starters, this waterfall --- at 28 meters / over 90 feet high --- makes the more well-known Hiji Falls look like a whimp....but only after a few days of good rain.

The view of the Falls from the rustic, pleasurable surroundings changes quickly as you walk across the old river bridge below the cascade.

And while you have to drive farther, pay admission, and walk a long path to get to HIJI FALLS up by OKUMA, the one you see here is FREE, and only a 90 SECOND flat walk from the parking lot ~ !

GEOLOGICAL BONUS

It is also the only falls in Okinawa that is lorded over by a basaltic-like rock dome on one side, and and unusual scree at its base --- the highly-weathered remains of crystallized rock columns formed in the same volcanic manner as DEVIL'S TOWER, Wyoming, DEVIL'S POST-PILE in California, GIANT'S CAUSEWAY in Ireland and Scotland, and the TATAMI ROCK FORMATION out on Okinawa Prefecture's Kume Island.

In the above photo, you can see some of the flat faces of the large, crystallized igneous rock.

As I have never seen this written about elsewhere, I hope my mention of it here will help visitors to Okinawa understand that the island is not "just one big piece of coral", but, to the contrary, has a greater variety of geological underpinnings and interesting formations than there are colors in the rainbow.

ANOTHER NICE BLOG ABOUT THE FALLS, WITH DIRECTIONS ON HOW TO GET THERE :

www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/10/todoroki-waterfall-in-nago-c...

轟の滝沖縄沖縄県名護市数久田

THE FALLS AFTER A LONG STRETCH WITH NO RAIN : www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eb4iZIz4Ots

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

LARGE BOULDERS ON THE FINAL APPROACH TO TODOROKI FALLS

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 07:01:53 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

The boulders are the large, ancient remains of crystallized igneous rock pillars similar to those of DEVIL'S TOWER, Wyoming, and a few other places on the earth rare enough to have them.

WATCH YOUR STEP !!! SLIPPERY WHEN WET !!!

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Okinawa has plenty of waterfalls to visit and enjoy. The practical aim of most folks --- including me when I'm hauling kids around --- is (1) to have some "adventure" while trekking from your car up to falls of your choice, and (2) hopefully getting in some "swimming hole" antics while picnicking and doing the "Photo Op" thing with family and friends.

However, when it comes to looking for a cascade just to gaze at in the context of its natural surroundings, the TODOROKI FALLS just south of Nago is one of the best.

It also offers some of the greatest challenges to "Nature Photographers" bent on getting all the angles, nuances, and possibilities that one location can offer along these lines.

After a good rain, the falls here equal or exceed some of those in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, or the Poconos of Pennsylvania.

For starters, this waterfall --- at 28 meters / over 90 feet high --- makes the more well-known Hiji Falls look like a whimp....but only after a few days of good rain.

The view of the Falls from the rustic, pleasurable surroundings changes quickly as you walk across the old river bridge below the cascade.

And while you have to drive farther, pay admission, and walk a long path to get to HIJI FALLS up by OKUMA, the one you see here is FREE, and only a 90 SECOND flat walk from the parking lot ~ !

GEOLOGICAL BONUS

It is also the only falls in Okinawa that is lorded over by a basaltic-like rock dome on one side, and and unusual scree at its base --- the highly-weathered remains of crystallized rock columns formed in the same volcanic manner as DEVIL'S TOWER, Wyoming, DEVIL'S POST-PILE in California, GIANT'S CAUSEWAY in Ireland and Scotland, and the TATAMI ROCK FORMATION out on Okinawa Prefecture's Kume Island.

In the above photo, you can see some of the flat faces of the large, crystallized igneous rock.

As I have never seen this written about elsewhere, I hope my mention of it here will help visitors to Okinawa understand that the island is not "just one big piece of coral", but, to the contrary, has a greater variety of geological underpinnings and interesting formations than there are colors in the rainbow.

ANOTHER NICE BLOG ABOUT THE FALLS, WITH DIRECTIONS ON HOW TO GET THERE :

www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/10/todoroki-waterfall-in-nago-c...

轟の滝沖縄沖縄県名護市数久田

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

ANPANMAN FOUND BEATEN AND BLOODY BY THE SIDE OF THE ROAD in OKINAWA -- Police Are Still Investigating

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 07:49:13 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anpanman

Soreike! Anpanman それいけ! アンパンマン

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/

A LION-DOG TOTEM POLE in OKINAWA

nobody@flickr.com (Okinawa Soba) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 07:49:03 -0700

Okinawa Soba posted a photo:

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shisa

The little (and sometimes big) Shii-Saa, or Lion Dogs, have a ubiquitous presence on Okinawa --- far more than in China, Korea, and Japan.

Is nothing sacred ? Heck no ! At least not when it comes to these little buggers.

Originally said to ward off evil spirits, true belief in that superstition is long dead, and their place as a decorative item of cultural "folk art" is now the thing.

From their perches on house roofs, to desk-top paperweights....from look-out posts and gate pillars .... from cartoons to event characters...the Shii-saa has today become a caricature of even itself, and can be found in any odd, crazy, and goofy pose imaginable.

For the most part, they are a complete animal. This totem pole of "Heads Only" is not your standard presentation, and thus I post it as just another odd-ball use of the inescapable Shii-Saa.

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RANDOM SOBA : www.flickriver.com/photos/24443965@N08/random/