Kushimoto Travel Guide: Hashikui-iwa, Cape Shionomisaki & Kii-Oshima — A Sea Journey to Honshu's Southernmost Tip

Walking the forested paths of the Kumano Kodo is wonderful, but another place well worth visiting alongside it is Kushimoto, at the southern tip of the Kii Peninsula. Here you'll find a rugged coastline washed by the Kuroshio Current and a horizon that stretches on forever. In contrast to the "moist, lush" air of the mountains, Kushimoto greets you with the "bright, breezy" air of the sea. In this article, we introduce the must-see spots for your first visit to Kushimoto and some tips for planning your route.

Classic Sightseeing Spots in Kushimoto

Hashikui-iwa | A Line of Rock Pillars Marching Into the Sea

Hashikui-iwa is arguably the face of Kushimoto. A series of large and small rock pillars line up in a straight row from the shore out to sea, looking like the piers of a giant bridge. Legend has it that the pillars are the remains of a bridge-building contest between the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi and a mischievous demon.

The silhouettes of the rocks are especially striking in the morning light. At low tide you may be able to walk close to the rocks, but wave and footing conditions vary from day to day. Don't push yourself—always put safety first.

Cape Shionomisaki | Standing at Honshu's Southernmost Point

Known as the southernmost point of Honshu, Cape Shionomisaki is a large headland jutting out into the sea. Standing on the grassy plateau, most of your view is filled with sky and water—a landscape that makes you feel the curvature of the Earth.

The views are spectacular on clear days, but the wild, windswept sea on blustery days is also quintessential Kushimoto. If you plan to walk around, be prepared for the wind—securing your hat is a good idea.

Kii-Oshima Island | Tracing History and Lighthouses

Kii-Oshima, which you can reach by bridge, is home to the history of the Ottoman frigate Ertuğrul, which was wrecked here in the Meiji era. The local people's rescue efforts sparked a friendship between Kushimoto and Turkey that is still carefully nurtured today. More than just a scenic viewpoint, this island invites you to touch the memory of the land.

Near the tip of the island there is also a lighthouse, perfect for a stroll with sweeping sea views.

Enjoying the Sea Itself in Kushimoto

Kushimoto is also known for the clarity of its waters and the richness of its marine life, making it a popular area for diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and other sights unique to warm seas. Even if you don't swim, simply spending time gazing at the sea makes the trip more rewarding. Ocean activities are easily affected by the weather, so build some flexibility into your schedule.

Tips for Planning Your Route

• Plan for half a day to a full day: Hashikui-iwa, Cape Shionomisaki, and Kii-Oshima are all in the same Kushimoto area and are easy to combine.
• Decide first whether to go by car or public transport: The sights are spread out, so your mode of transport will affect how many you can visit. Check the latest schedules in advance for peace of mind.
• Connect it with the Kumano area: Combining Kushimoto with the Nachi-Katsuura area makes for a trip that offers both "ancient mountain paths" and "spectacular sea views." The Kushimoto area was also once part of the Ohechi route of the Kumano pilgrimage trails, so you can imagine yourself as one of the travelers who moved along this coast long ago.
• Prepare for wind and sun: There is little shade along the coast, so sun protection and a windbreaker will make your visit more comfortable.

Summary

Kushimoto is a town that shows many faces in even a short stay—strange rocks, a dramatic cape, history, and an underwater world. Add it to the end of a Kumano trip or as an extra night's extension, and your journey's impressions will broaden considerably. When planning Kushimoto sightseeing, keep in mind the light of morning and evening and the mood of the sea, and allow yourself a relaxed pace to enjoy it all.

*Please note that opening hours, fees, and transport schedules may change. Be sure to check official information before you go.

Image: 和歌山フォトライブラリー (via 和歌山フォトライブラリー)