Sunrise at Meoto Iwa, aka the Wedded Rocks (please view larger)

Meoto Iwa aka the Wedded Rocks, are a couple of rocky stacks in the

sea off Futami near Ise, Japan. They are joined by a heavy rope and

are considered sacred. According to Shinto traditions, the rocks

celebrate the union in marriage of man and woman. Apparently, the

rope, which weighs over a ton is replaced several times a year. The

larger rock, said to be male, has a small torii at its peak. The best

time to see the rocks is at dawn during the summer, when the sun

appears to rise between them. On rare occasions (certainly not on

this!) a silhouette of Mount Fuji is also visible in the distance.