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What a Spectacular! — Feel the Power of Nature at Kuniga Coast, Nishinoshima Island
Speaking of Nishinoshima, this scenery springs to mind. Here, we’re going to introduce the scenic spots on Kuniga Coast.
Kuniga Coast
Kuniga Coast —one of the scenic spots representing
the Oki Islands UNESCO Global Geopark— is the home of Matengai Cliff and
Tsutenkyo Arch.
It is a creation of the combination of volcanic
activity occurred 6.3 – 5.3 million years ago and the continuing erosion caused
by the strong winds and high waves of the Sea of Japan.
Kuniga Coast lies on the northwestern shore of Nishinoshima Island and
continues for about 10km.
Matengai Cliff
Towering 257m above sea level, Matengai Cliff
is one of the highest sea cliffs in Japan.
The view from the clifftop will turn your legs
to jelly…
Horses grazing leisurely on Matengai Cliff
Kuniga Coast is utilized as a pasture for
cattle and horses.
Not only will you find them roaming the vast
pasture, but you can also admire the gentle creatures grazing away leisurely on
Matengai Cliff.
On the way to Matengai Cliff
If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to meet a few
of the animal residents of Matengai Cliff!
You might find them standing in the middle of
the road, but please be patient! They’ll make way for you.
Don’t forget to enjoy the panoramic view from
your car window!
Tsutenkyo Arch
There are a few caves —caused by coastal
erosion— along Kuniga Coast.
Tsutenyko Arch used to be one of the sea caves,
too, but erosion caused the collapse of the cave and only the arch is left
behind.
Strangely-shaped rockface near Tsutenkyo Arch
Near the arch, you can find holes in rocks
caused by wind erosion—one of the characteristics of windy shores.
Don’t forget to check them out, too!
Akao Lookout
From Akao Lookout, you can take in the stunning
beauty of Matengai Cliff and Tsutenkyo Arch.
Nishinoshima is the second largest island of the Oki Islands. Located in the Sea of Japan, Nishinoshima is approximately 65km off the coast of Shimane Peninsula in Shimane Prefecture. Nishinoshima is one of the four inhabited islands in Oki, and the town on Nishinoshima Island is called Nishinoshima Town. Formed by volcanic activity about 5.5 million years ago, Nishinoshima is the home to Oki’s must-see sightseeing spots, Matengai Cliff and Tsutenkyo Arch, fresh seafood such as Oki rock oysters, traditional cultures such as Kagura Shinto dance and Dengaku dance. Nishinoshima is a charming island filled with nature, culture, rich food and warmth of people.
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