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A Treasure Trove of Spectacular Views: 9 Must-Experience Captivating Charms of Matengai Cliff, Oki Islands

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A Treasure Trove of Spectacular Views: 9 Must-Experience Captivating Charms of Matengai Cliff, Oki Islands

Located on Nishinoshima Island of the Oki Islands, Matengai Cliff is one of the most popular spots along Kuniga Coast. Here you can enjoy a pastoral vista, landscape created by volcanic activity and erosion, blanket of stars and observe endemic species.

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Nishinoshima Town, Shimane Prefecture

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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.

Introduction

Matengai Cliff is a part of Kuniga Coast, which is approximately 7km long. The coastline lies on the northwestern part of Nishinoshima Island, and here you can see beautiful natural wonders. The striking vista from the 257m-high cliff top makes this location a great place for you to enjoy the beauty of the Oki Islands. 

1. Stunning vista with cows and horses grazing leisurely

The view from the top of Matengai Cliff is simply breathtaking. This landscape has been shaped by wind and waves over thousands of years. In addition, cows and horses graze on Matengai Cliff. The pastoral scene adds colour to the marvellous view.

A Treasure Trove of Spectacular Views: 9 Must-Experience Captivating Charms of Matengai Cliff, Oki Islands

2. The contrast between the outer sea and inner sea weaved by the Dōzen Caldera

A Treasure Trove of Spectacular Views: 9 Must-Experience Captivating Charms of Matengai Cliff, Oki Islands

3. Mt. Takuhi, the symbol of Nishinoshima Island, and Mt. Takasaki

Takuhi Shrine<br>
Takuhi Shrine

4. Experience the horizon and the roundness of the earth

On Matengai Cliff, you can enjoy a nearly 180-degree panoramic view of the sea in clean, crisp air. Come and enjoy this spectacular view, and experience the roundness of the Earth!

A Treasure Trove of Spectacular Views: 9 Must-Experience Captivating Charms of Matengai Cliff, Oki Islands

5. Sunset at Kuniga Coast, one of the 100 most beautiful sunset places in Japan

Kuniga Coast was chosen as one of the “Japan Sunset Best 100” locations because of the alluring beauty of the sunset there. Amongst many of the sunset spots dotted along Kuniga Coast, Matengai Cliff is the perfect location for those who would like to enjoy the magical moment silently. If time allows, stay a bit longer after the sunset for the “magic hour” and enjoy the dramatic changes in light and colour. Just gazing at it will bring you a special moment of calmness.

A Treasure Trove of Spectacular Views: 9 Must-Experience Captivating Charms of Matengai Cliff, Oki Islands
A Treasure Trove of Spectacular Views: 9 Must-Experience Captivating Charms of Matengai Cliff, Oki Islands

6. Blanket of stars and fishing lights dotting the night sea

A Treasure Trove of Spectacular Views: 9 Must-Experience Captivating Charms of Matengai Cliff, Oki Islands

7. A great spot to catch a glimpse of Dōgo Island and Honshu

A part of Dōgo Island, the largest island of the Oki Islands, can be seen from Matengai Cliff. And on a fair day, Honshu Island can also be seen. On an exceptionally clear day, you might be able to see Mt. Daisen, the highest mountain in the Chūgoku region, too!

The black shadow in the center is Mt. Oyama.<br>
The black shadow in the center is Mt. Oyama.

8. A place to convey war memory and “Fragments of the Last Will”

Near the top of Matengai Cliff lies the remains of a guard post, which is believed to have been used by the Imperial Japanese Army during the war. A monument honouring the famous local, Hatao Yamamoto, stands at Matengai Cliff car park.

Yamamoto, born and raised on Nishinoshima Island, was a linguist, and he was known for supporting his comrades under the harsh conditions of detention in Siberia after Japan’s defeat in World War II. His life was depicted in the film, Fragments of the Last Will (a.k.a. From Siberia with Love), which was released in December 2022, and many were touched by the story.

A Treasure Trove of Spectacular Views: 9 Must-Experience Captivating Charms of Matengai Cliff, Oki Islands

9. Seasonal plants and animals unique to the Oki Islands

Milk thistle<br>
Milk thistle
Oki no Usagi<br>
Oki no Usagi

Finally

Matengai Cliff is full of things to see! It is a special place where you can experience the magnificent nature, beautiful scenery, and the culture and history of Oki. When you come and visit Nishinoshima Island, we hope you can create an unforgettable experience on Matengai Cliff!

Nishinoshima Town, Shimane Prefecture

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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