87 days: Guardians of the Shore

Today I visited Aoshima Island, a tranquil spot just off the coast of Miyazaki. The trip began with a walk across the bridge, the sea shimmering faintly in the soft, diffused light. The island itself is small and almost otherworldly, with its "Devil's Washboard" rock formations encircling the coast like giant parallel ridges. I was struck by how meticulously nature carves its own patterns - repeating lines of basalt extending far into the sea, each wave unique yet part of a continuous whole.

I spent some time walking along the shore, listening to the rhythm of the waves hitting the rocks. There was a peacefulness here, with the occasional call of seabirds breaking the silence. I noticed small shrines tucked away along the path, simple but well maintained, quietly blending into the surroundings. Every step felt like part of a meditative journey.

As I crossed the bridge again in the late afternoon, the tide had shifted and partially covered the formations I had seen earlier. It felt like a reminder that everything, even the seemingly permanent, is always changing. It was a contemplative walk, and I left the island feeling refreshed, yet thoughtful.