Full article about this spot
Map & Access
Basic Information
- Location (Island)Shimojishima
- AddressAza Sawada, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa
- Hours / Opening time24 hours (always open, as it is outdoor coastal terrain)
- ClosedNone (always open)
- FeeFree
- ParkingNo dedicated car park. It is common to use the adjacent Toriike Pond free car park (dozens of cars) and view from the promenade and along the perimeter road.
- ContactMiyakojima City Board of Education, Lifelong Learning Promotion Division (Cultural Properties) 0980-72-3764
Visiting tips & what to bring
The shoreline is rough Ryukyu-limestone rocks, with surfaces that are sharp and slippery in places. It is safe to view the scenery from the promenade and along the perimeter road; do not force your way to the edge of the reef or the sea edge. On days with high waves or strong wind there is a danger of spray and falling, so do not approach. There are also dolines, depressions and cracks of the karst terrain, so always check your footing, and non-slip sports shoes or trekking shoes are recommended. There is almost no shade, so in summer beware of strong sun and heatstroke and take a hat, drinking water and sun protection. As insects can appear in the area, insect repellent gives peace of mind. For public toilets, use those at the Toriike Pond car park, and always take your rubbish home. If staying after sunset for sunset viewing, the footing darkens, so carry a torch and return to a safe place while it is light.For families with small children
Just viewing the scenery from the promenade and along the perimeter road can be enjoyed by families, but the coast itself is natural rocks without railings, with dolines (depressions), cracks and sea-edge steps, so care is needed with small children aged 0 to 6. Do not enter the rocks, and always hold hands and act within the promenade. A pushchair cannot be used on the rocks, and for toilets use those at the Toriike Pond car park. While sunset viewing is beautiful, it darkens after sundown, so for families with small children, viewing while it is light is recommended...FAQ
Q.Is there an admission fee or opening hours?
A.It is outdoor coastal terrain, free of charge, viewable 24 hours. There is no gate or reception. The sunset is beautiful so an evening visit is also recommended, but the footing darkens after sundown, so carry a torch.
Q.Are there parking and toilets?
A.There is no dedicated car park. The adjacent Toriike Pond has a free car park and toilets, so it is convenient to park there and view from along the promenade.
Q.Can you go down and walk along the rocky coast?
A.The maintained promenade sections can be walked safely, but beyond that is natural Ryukyu-limestone rocks. They are sharp and slippery with dolines and cracks, so avoid forced entry and do not approach the sea edge.
Q.What are the highlights?
A.The rock facies of the uplifted coral reef, the dolines of the karst terrain, and Toriike Pond, a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument, are representative. In autumn it is a place to observe the flight of the migratory grey-faced buzzard, and it is also known as a spectacular sunset spot over the horizon.
Q.Is it okay with children?
A.Viewing from the promenade and along the road can be enjoyed, but as there are railing-less rocks and depressions, hold small children's hands and act within the promenade. A pushchair cannot be used on the rocks.