Spectacular Ocean Vistas from the Tojimbo Cliffs in Fukui

Enjoy panoramic views of the Sea of Japan set among striking rock formations

Marvel at Mother Nature's magnificence at the Tojinbo Cliffs in Fukui Prefecture, a sightseeing destination famed for its 20-meter-high column-shaped cliffs that tower high over the Sea of Japan. Watching the waves crash against the surface of the rocks makes for a truly breathtaking sight. The formation of andesite cliff rocks is of geological importance, as well: this phenomenon occurring on such a large scale can only be seen in two other places in the entire world outside of Tojinbo.

Hike along the four-kilometer trail on top of the cliffs and you'll take in panoramic views of the Sea of Japan from all angles, so impressive that they've been known to enchant many Japanese authors and poets—in fact,  hikers will encounter many monuments to Japanese literary greats along the way.

Those looking to appreciate the unique natural beauty of this location even more deeply can take a boat tour, in which they can observe and enjoy the rocks from below. After seeing the sights, stop at one of the many restaurants that line the shore and feast on succulent crab, a regional specialty.

Access: From Shin-Osaka Station, take the Thunderbird limited express train to Awara Onsen Station (about two hours five minute), then transfer to the Keifuku Bus for the Tojinbo stop (about 40 minutes).

Tojinbo