Barrel boats - Sado Island

[Manfred M]

The taraibune or Barrel Boats on Sado Island have got to be some of the strangest forms of boat I have ever seen. Made by Japanese coopers, these strange little boats were really quite barrel like in shape and construction. These were primarily used by the women on the island to gather shellfish close to shore.

They are now used to ferry tourists around part of the harbour by women dressed in traditional fishing costumes.



Sado Island lies off the western coast of Japan, at least a 90 minute trip by fast ferry. It is still very much a place where fishing and agriculture are a way of life.

[Shadowman]

Nicely captured.

[bnnrcn]

Very interesting form of transportation , thanks for sharing

[gregj1763]

Great image Manfred, really enjoying the photo's from your trip

[RBSinTo]

Manfred,
Very interesting boats.
I'd suggest cropping out the dock at the top as it distracts and adds nothing to the photo.
Robert

[Manfred M]

Manfred,
Very interesting boats.
I'd suggest cropping out the dock at the top as it distracts and adds nothing to the photo.
Robert

Tried that and didn't like it as there is no context as to where the boats are.

[IzzieK]

No...I like better in the original...nice shot and the explanation that came with it, Manfred...really enjoying your trip images...

[thegman]

Excellent shot Manfred, great colours and interesting narative.

[rpcrowe]

Nice image... Are these boats for hire as a tourist event?

[Manfred M]

Nice image... Are these boats for hire as a tourist event?

Yes, although these were traditionally used by women to gather shellfish close to shore.

[NorthernFocus]

Those are pretty crazy. Nicely captured.

[Mike Buckley]

Never heard of anything like this. I wonder what the shape of the boat provides that the typical shape doesn't. Perhaps more stability when leaning over the side?

[Manfred M]

Never heard of anything like this. I wonder what the shape of the boat provides that the typical shape doesn't. Perhaps more stability when leaning over the side?

The boats were made by the local coopers, so that explains the shape. They were used close to shore only, so I suspect that stability was not a prime consideration.

[DEAN01]

Very interesting mode of transport. Nicely done, Manfred.