Shishi-iwa (Lion Rock) Kumano | A Half-Day Stroll with Onigajo and Hana-no-Iwaya

What is Shishi-iwa? A Lion Rock Roaring Toward the Kumano Sea

When you search for 'Shishi-iwa Kumano,' you'll find this large rock standing along the coast of Kumano City in Mie Prefecture. As its name suggests, when viewed from the side, it looks like a lion (shishi) opening its mouth toward the sea.

When people hear 'Kumano,' they often think of the Kumano Kodo and Kumano Sanzan on the Wakayama side. But southern Mie Prefecture, including Kumano City, was historically part of the same Kumano region. Pilgrims who walked the Iseji route toward Kumano would have gazed upon this same coastal scenery.

Shishi-iwa, together with the adjacent scenic spot Onigajo, is designated as a National Natural Monument. It's a formation unique to the Kumano Sea, carved over countless years by waves and wind.

Highlights of Shishi-iwa

Find the Angle Where It Looks Like a 'Lion'

The rock's expression changes depending on where you view it from. From a near-frontal position it just looks like a big chunk of stone, but step back and view it from the side, and the head, mouth, and curve of the back emerge. Pointing out 'Where are the ears?' with your travel companions is part of the fun.

Morning and Evening Light Transform Its Look

Since the rock faces the Kumano Sea, morning light from the ocean brings out its outline sharply. As the sun sets, shadows form across its surface, making the lion look even more powerful. Photography lovers may want to visit twice at different times.

Enjoy the Sound of Waves and Scent of the Sea

The sea stretching before you is where the great swells of the Kumano Sea roll in. The sound of waves crashing on rugged rocks and the salty sea air are also part of Shishi-iwa's charm.

A Half-Day Stroll Starting from Shishi-iwa

Shishi-iwa alone can be enjoyed quickly, but combining it with nearby attractions makes for a memorable half-day of true Kumano scenery.

Walk the Cliffs and Sea Caves at Onigajo

Close to Shishi-iwa, Onigajo is a scenic area of wave-carved cliffs and sea caves. After viewing Shishi-iwa from afar, walking up close at Onigajo lets you feel the continuity of landscapes shaped by the power of the sea.

Experience the Kumano Kodo Iseji at Matsumoto Pass

From the Onigajo area, a path leads to Matsumoto Pass on the Kumano Kodo Iseji route. The stone-paved old road offers a dramatic shift from coastal scenery to a quiet forest path. If you plan to walk it, bring proper shoes and water, and check the weather.

Shichiri Mihama Beach and Hana-no-Iwaya Shrine

Stretching along the Kumano Sea, Shichiri Mihama is a distinctive beach of rounded pebbles that continues for miles. Venture a little further, and you'll reach Hana-no-Iwaya Shrine, said to preserve one of Japan's oldest forms of worship. With its massive rock as the object of veneration, it echoes the experience at Shishi-iwa of gazing up at a great stone.

Tips for Your Visit

• Rocky areas and coastal paths can be wet and slippery, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
• On days of high waves or strong winds, don't get too close to the sea.
• Be mindful of traffic along the national road; park and take photos only in safe spots.
• If using public transport, services are limited, so check schedules in advance for peace of mind.

For the latest information on hours, parking, and transportation, please check with the Kumano City tourist information office before you set out.

Summary | Meet a Rock by the Sea, and Expand Your Kumano Journey

Even in a short visit, Shishi-iwa lets you feel 'a form shaped by the Kumano sea.' Connect it with Onigajo, Matsumoto Pass, Shichiri Mihama, and Hana-no-Iwaya Shrine, and you'll have a half-day stroll that brings together sea, ancient road, and faith. Together with your Kumano journey on the Wakayama side, do walk the Kumano of the Iseji route as well.

Image: 熊野灘 (via (公社)和歌山県観光連盟)