• Journal of the Korean earth science society
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• v.39 no.6
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• pp.575-592
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• 2018

This study investigates the formation mechanism of columnar joints at the Sanin Kaigan Geopark in Japan based on its morphology, rock type and igneous structure. Columnar joints distribute to five areas of three prefectures. That is, Kyogasaki, Byobuiwa, Tateiwa and Kyugenkado in Kyotango area of Kyoto prefecture; Genbudo and Kinumaki Shrine in Toyooka City of Hyogo prefecture; Yoroinosode, Takanosushima, Mini-Yoroinosode in Kamicho Town of Hyogo prefecture; Miooshima and Nagasakihana, Shitaara Domon, Kuzakuishi, Moroyose dyke in Shinonsencho Town of Hyogo prefecture; Shirawara dyke in Iwamicho Town in Tottori prefecture. Igneous structures are divided into three types: lava flow, sill and dyke. Lithologies are divided into five types including basalt, andesite, dacite, rhyolite, and quartz porphyry. Lava flow shows colonnade and entablature. However, entablature is not seen in the sills and dykes in the area. Although the polygons of columnar joint vary from tetragon to octagon, hexagon is most frequently found. The width of colonnades ranges from 10cm to 1m, but their size does not correlate with its $SiO_2$ contents. Meanwhile, their size and morphology at single site are comparatively uniform.