Oya-shirazu

Overview

Oya-shirazu is a breathtaking coastline of cliffs along the Sea of Japan in Itoigawa City, Niigata Prefecture. Its name, meaning "parent and child forget each other," originates from the perilous nature of navigating this coastline by boat in the past; it was so dangerous that parents would abandon their children in order to escape. The magnificent scenery of rugged coastline and turbulent waves is renowned as one of the Sea of Japan's most stunning views. The coastline extending from Oya-shirazu is particularly diverse, featuring a scattering of unique rock formations, caves, and other intriguing sights. The Oya-shirazu coastline has long been known as a dangerous area for seafaring. Many ships were wrecked here throughout history, resulting in countless lost lives. However, it was also a bountiful fishing ground, providing the sea's bounty. Today, Oya-shirazu is a popular tourist destination. The dramatic cliffs pounded by relentless waves are awe-inspiring, offering a spectacular display of nature's power. The sunset over the Sea of Japan is captivating, with the orange hues painting a stunning contrast between the sky and water. It's also an ideal rest stop for drivers and bikers. Exercise caution when visiting Oya-shirazu. There are dangerous areas near the cliffs; please refrain from entering them.