Shiranui Returns to the Yatsushiro Sea
For centuries, the Yatsushiro Sea has been associated with a mysterious phenomenon known as Shiranui, a mirage that appears as a stretched light source over the water. This elusive spectacle, mentioned in ancient texts and folklore, had not been officially documented for decades. However, a dedicated group of high school students from Uto High School's Earth Science Group, along with the help of local fishermen, have successfully captured Shiranui on camera, marking a significant milestone in understanding this rare atmospheric phenomenon.
The students' journey began with curiosity and a desire to unravel the mystery behind Shiranui's disappearance. For six years, they patiently waited at the Eino-o Tsurugijinja shrine, a renowned observation spot for the mirage. While they initially observed a different type of mirage, their indoor experiment shed light on the conditions necessary for Shiranui's emergence.
Through their research, the students discovered that Shiranui is most likely to appear when the sea is at its shallowest, specifically on the day of Hassaku, which fell on September 3rd this year. Collaborating with the Yatsushiro fisheries cooperative association, they positioned fishing boats equipped with powerful LED lights at strategic locations near river mouths.
Their efforts were rewarded when they observed a light source near the mouth of the Ozayagawa river appearing stretched horizontally, a telltale sign of Shiranui. This marked the first documented sighting of the mirage in over three decades.
The students' success not only revived interest in this fascinating phenomenon but also provided valuable insights into its formation. Their research highlights the importance of collaboration and perseverance in scientific exploration, offering hope for further understanding and appreciation of this unique natural wonder.