Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Regardless of which name is used, it's an abrupt solid stone peak rising straight up from
the surrounding fields, close to town. It is not a volcano, just an unusual thrust of rock. Its
officially recorded height is 565 feet (172.2 meters) and you can experience every one of
those feet/meters while climbing to the top. There's a staircase, thoughtfully provided, mostly
carved into the rock all the way up. There are handrails along the way as well and these are
most useful. You'll find people of all ages and degrees of fitness grasping the rails, huffing and
puffing and gasping all the way to the peak's topmost point. The best that can be said, which
is always said of such places, is that you'll be rewarded with a wonderful view when you get
there—if you don't die of a heart attack first.
Iejima Castle/Fortress Mountain ( 伊江島城山 )
One of Okinawa's nicest close-in islands, Ie is easily reached by muliple daily ferries. Rising almost
575 feet (175 meters) from the center of one side of the island, Gusukuyama (“Castle Mountain” or
Mt Gusuku), is Ie's best-known natural landmark. It's a great climb, with steep, handrailed stairs all
the way. At the summit there's a 360-degree panorama over Iejima and the surrounding islands. With
a sacred shrine at its base to pray for safe navigaion, Mt Gusuku is known as Ie's guardian angel.
The Monument of Hokon is dedicated to Ie Island's casualties in the Battle of Okinawa.
For military visitors or students of World War II or journalism, Ie's most noteworthy sight
will be the understated but moving memorial to Ernie Pyle. This renowned and courageous
war reporter was struck down just days after the beginning of the Battle of Okinawa. The
 
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