Tour Overview
Uradome Coast is one of the most scenic areas of the San’in Kaigan UNESCO Global Geopark. This guided walking tour connects dramatic rias coastline, crystal-clear emerald waters, and traditional fishing villages along a scenic coastal trail.
With insights from a local expert guide, discover both the geological beauty of the coastline and the stories of the communities that have lived alongside the sea for generations.
[Japan Heritage] Walking the San’in Kaigan Geopark Trail: Connecting the Sea and Fishing Villages
A 3.5-Hour Journey Along a World-Class Rias Coastline, Linking Spectacular Seascapes with Nostalgic Fishing Villages
ABOUT
ROUTE AT A GLANCE
Tour
San’in Kaigan Geopark Trail – Connecting Japan Heritage Fishing Villages
Area
Iwami Town, Tottori Prefecture – Uradome Coast
Duration
Approx. 3.5 hours (approx. 3 hours walking)
Distance
4.2 km
Elevation Difference
80 m – suitable for beginner to intermediate hikers
Meeting Point
08:30 / JR Iwami Station
End Point
12:00 / Uradome Coast Island Cruise Terminal
Main Highlights
Tajiri Fishing Port ➔ Shirawara Coast ➔ Kamogaiso Coast & Shuen Sea Cave ➔ Tsubakidani Columnar Joints ➔ Mizushiri Sea Cave & Valley ➔ Ajirosaki Lighthouse ➔ Oshiroi Cliffs & Ajiro Viewpoint ➔ Sengan Matsushima ➔ Ajiro Fishing Port
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
1. Crystal-Clear Emerald Waters of Shirawara Coast
Admire some of Japan’s clearest coastal waters, with spectacular views of the Nanatane Goto islands and surrounding rock formations.
2. Sparkling Quartz Sand & Rock Formations at Kamogaiso Coast
Explore a beautiful series of three small coves—Ōkamogaiso, Tsubakidani and Kokamogaiso—where large grains of quartz sparkle like crystals along the shore.
3. Panoramic Views from Ajirosaki Lighthouse
Reach the highest point of the Uradome Coast trail and its historic lighthouse, first lit in 1949. Enjoy sweeping views across the intricate rias coastline.
4. Fishing Village Culture in Tajiri and Ajiro
Wander through nostalgic fishing villages filled with narrow lanes and stairways. Discover everyday coastal traditions, including distinctive local methods of drying squid.
Detailed Itinerary
08:30 | Meet at JR Iwami Station
Meet your guide for a short orientation before departure.
08:40 | Local Bus from Iwami Station
Travel by local bus to the starting point of the trail.
08:52 | Arrive at Tajiri Fishing Port & Begin the Trek
Start your coastal journey from Tajiri, a traditional fishing village characterised by narrow lanes, stairways and harbour scenery.
09:00–11:40 | Walk the Uradome Coast Geo Trail
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Shirawara Coast: Admire the contrast between emerald-green waters and dramatic rock formations.
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Kamogaiso Coast: Discover sparkling quartz sand and secluded coastal coves.
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Shuen Sea Cave, Tsubakidani Columnar Joints & Mizushiri Sea Cave: Experience remarkable geological formations sculpted by nature.
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Ajirosaki Lighthouse: Take in panoramic views from the trail’s highest point.
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Oshiroi Cliffs & Sengan Matsushima: Discover dramatic cliffs and one of the coastline’s most distinctive rock formations.
12:00 | Arrive at Ajiro & Uradome Coast Island Cruise Terminal – Tour Ends
Finish your walk at the cruise terminal. After the tour, guests may continue exploring with an optional island cruise or enjoy a seafood lunch nearby.
Local Story
“You Can Tell the Fishing Village by the Way the Squid Is Dried”
Along the coast, you may notice squid drying naturally in the sun. Each fishing village has its own way of skewering and hanging the squid. Locals even say they can identify which harbour it comes from simply by looking at how it is dried. Keep an eye out for these subtle differences along the trail.
BOOKING & CONTACT
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Organised by: Japan Heritage Promotion Council / Iwami Town Tourism Association
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Please Note:
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Wear comfortable clothing and suitable hiking shoes.
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Bring drinking water, rain gear and sun protection such as a hat.
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The itinerary may be adjusted due to changes in local bus schedules.