Explore the charm of Hiyoriyama Coast in Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture! Dive into the land of the Urashima Taro Ryugu legend, Kinosaki Marine World, and the San’in Kaigan Geopark, including transportation tips.
Introduction
Have you heard the famous Japanese folktale of “Urashima Taro”? It’s the legend of a kind fisherman who was taken by a sea turtle to the magnificent underwater palace, Ryugu-jo. In the real world, there’s a coast along the Sea of Japan whose unique rock formations and atmosphere can’t help but remind you of that mysterious palace – this is Hiyoriyama Coast in Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture. This stretch of coastline, part of the “San’in Kaigan Geopark,” boasts not only oddly shaped rocks carved by the waves and a magnificent seascape but is also home to the renowned aquarium, “Kinosaki Marine World.” Visiting here feels like stepping into a fantastical scene where legend and reality intertwine. This article will take you on a journey to explore the charm of Hiyoriyama Coast, from its connection to the Urashima Taro legend, its unique geological landscape, the exciting Kinosaki Marine World, to practical transportation methods and travel advice, allowing you to fully plan a coastal trip filled with stories and entertainment.
Stage of the Ryugu Legend? The Mystical Landscape of Hiyoriyama Coast
One of the most captivating charms of Hiyoriyama Coast is its connection to the ancient Japanese legend of “Urashima Taro” and its natural beauty as part of a geopark.
Imagining Urashima Taro’s Ryugu-jo
Although there are various locations in Japan associated with the Urashima Taro legend, Hiyoriyama Coast, due to its coastal location and the strange rock formations created by sea erosion (some areas are even nicknamed “Ryugu-jo”), is often linked by travelers to the legendary underwater palace. Standing on the shore and gazing out at the layered rocks and crashing waves, it’s easy to ignite the imagination about that mysterious Ryugu where Princess Otohime lived and where time flowed differently. It is said that a nearby island called “Nochigashima” is where, according to local legend, Urashima Taro opened the tamatebako (treasure box), adding to the area’s legendary allure.
Treasure of the San’in Kaigan Geopark
Hiyoriyama Coast is part of the vast “San’in Kaigan Geopark,” which was recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2010.
- Geological Features: The landscape here was primarily shaped by volcanic activity and subsequent sea erosion and weathering during the formation of the Sea of Japan. You can observe various volcanic rocks and a rich variety of coastal landforms such as sea cliffs, sea caves, and strangely shaped rocks carved by the waves.
- Dynamic Coastline: Facing the Sea of Japan, you can personally feel the power of the waves at Hiyoriyama Coast. The rough waves constantly beat against and shape the rocky shore, showcasing the dynamic beauty of nature’s ceaseless activity.
More Than Just a Coast! The Charm of Kinosaki Marine World
When visiting Hiyoriyama Coast, a major attraction you absolutely cannot miss is “Kinosaki Marine World,” located right here. This aquarium is known for its experiential facilities that go beyond traditional aquariums.
Diverse Experiences Beyond the Aquarium
Kinosaki Marine World is not just a place to observe marine life; it also offers many unique interactive experiences.
- Fishing Experience & Aji Bar: There’s a fishing pond inside the facility where visitors can personally catch horse mackerel (aji). The freshly caught fish can then be immediately handed over to the adjacent “Aji Bar,” where they are prepared into tempura for you to enjoy on the spot. This “catch and eat” experience is very popular.
- Dive Adventure: Through a special submarine-shaped facility, you can simulate the experience of diving into the sea to observe marine life.
- Exciting Animal Shows: Animal stars like dolphins, sea lions, and walruses perform exciting shows, demonstrating their intelligence and adorable antics. The penguin walk is also a popular activity.
Close Encounters with Marine Life
- Japan’s Deepest Main Tank: The facility boasts a massive main tank with a depth of 12 meters, allowing you to observe a rich variety of marine creatures swimming leisurely within it. The interaction between the divers cleaning the tank and the visitors is also interesting.
- Sea Zoo: This area allows you to observe sea lions, seals, and other creatures living in a near-natural environment at close range.
- Tube: A unique tube-shaped tank where you can see animals like sea lions swiftly moving through it.
- Other Exhibition Areas: There are also various themed exhibition areas showcasing jellyfish, deep-sea creatures, local Sea of Japan fish, and more.
Kinosaki Marine World combines observation, learning, and experience, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.
Exploring Hiyoriyama Coast: Transportation, Best Timing, and Notes
Hiyoriyama Coast is located in a relatively remote mountainous area and is famous for its “water mirror,” so the timing and preparation for your visit are very important.
How to Get to Hiyoriyama Coast?
- Main Method: Bus: The most recommended and almost sole method of transportation to Hiyoriyama Coast is by bus.
- Using the Bus: From the bus stop in front of JR San’in Main Line “Kinosaki Onsen Station,” take the Zentan Bus (bound for “Hiyoriyama”) and get off at the final stop “Hiyoriyama” to reach the entrance of Kinosaki Marine World (approx. 10-minute ride). Buses run relatively frequently.
- Taxi: It takes about 10 minutes by taxi from Kinosaki Onsen Station.
- By Car: After exiting the Kita-Kinki Toyooka Expressway at “Hidaka Kannabe Kogen IC” or “Yoka Hyonosen IC,” head towards Kinosaki Onsen via national routes. Kinosaki Marine World has a paid parking lot.
Best Time to Visit
- Suitable Year-Round: Kinosaki Marine World is open year-round and is suitable for visiting in any season. The coastal scenery changes with the weather.
- Weather Considerations: As it faces the Sea of Japan, winds and waves can be strong in winter, and it can be quite cold. In summer, you can enjoy the sea breeze. Clear days offer the best views.
- Avoiding Crowds: It’s recommended to avoid long holiday periods in Japan such as Golden Week and summer vacation; visiting on weekdays will likely mean fewer crowds.
Notes for Visiting
- Clothing: The area around the coast is a natural trail, and some areas may be muddy, so it is recommended to wear comfortable, non-slip shoes.
- Safety:
- Natural Environment: There may be wild animals in the coastal area and surroundings, so please be aware of your environment.
- Maintain Quiet: This is a very peaceful natural environment. Please refrain from making loud noises.
- Facilities: There are limited facilities in the coastal area. Please prepare what you need in advance.
- Environmental Protection: Please be sure to take your trash with you and protect this beautiful natural area.
Conclusion
Hiyoriyama Coast, this beautiful coastline located in Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture, close to Kinosaki Onsen, is a travel destination with multiple charms, possessing not only the evocative legend of Urashima Taro’s Ryugu but also the magnificent scenery of the Sea of Japan, unique geological landscape (San’in Kaigan Geopark), and the fun-filled, experiential Kinosaki Marine World. Here, you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of ancient legends, admire the wonders of nature’s handiwork, and even interact closely with a diverse array of marine life, or even try your hand at fishing and taste freshly fried tempura. Whether you are a family with children, a couple on a date, or a traveler looking to add different elements to your onsen trip, Hiyoriyama Coast, with its unique combination, will surely provide you with an unforgettable journey.
Are you more interested in the Urashima Taro legend of Hiyoriyama Coast, or do you want to experience fishing for horse mackerel at Kinosaki Marine World? If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with friends who are planning to visit Kinosaki Onsen or northern Hyogo!
