Returning the Seaweed to the Sea--an art exhibit on Shiraishi Island

The seaweed boat being brought to the beach by locals and tourists

Here are some photos to go with my article in the Japan Times about artist Tanotaiga and his seaweed boat art project. The article is called Returning the Seaweed to the Sea which talks about the history of the seaweed trade on Shiraishi Island. Tanotaiga made his boat out of Shiraishi nori (seaweed) and launched it over Obon.

On the beach, lowering the seaweed boat into the water. The artist, Tanotaiga is in front.

Tanotaiga in his boat! Where is the wind?!

Nonetheless, the boat is a success! He was able to take some children onboard as well.

Beware of island mosquitoes...

If you're coming out to Shiraishi Island, you may want to read about our terrorist mosquitoes who tend to hang out at the bottom of stairways and at the ferry terminal. More here in the Japan Times.

On Rock Worship and the Shinto Gods (on Shiraishi Island)

A mountain side cave on Shiraishi Island, and designated "antenna" for the Shinto Gods

If you're planning on coming out to Shiraishi Island, you might want to read my article about rock worship and the Shinto Gods on Shiraishi Island in The Japan Times.