Guide
The Jogasaki Coast is a breathtaking coastal area located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture. This landscape was sculpted by lava flows from the eruption of Mount Omuro approximately 4,000 years ago. The coastline is characterized by rugged, dramatic cliffs facing the Sagami Sea. Visitors can explore the well-maintained 'Jogasaki Picnica Course' and the 'Jogasaki Nature Study Path,' which span about 9km, offering up-close views of the incredible geological formations and the raw power of nature.
The unique topography was created when lava from Mount Omuro, one of the Eastern Izu Volcanic Group mountains, flowed out and filled the coastline for about 2km. Culturally, the area holds a place in Japanese music history; the lyricist Tetsuro Hoshino often used the Jogasaki Coast as a motif in his songs. The famous song 'Jogasaki Blues,' released in 1968, was inspired by the completion of the Kadowaki Suspended Bridge and the surrounding walking paths. Even today, you can find stone monuments dedicated to these musical inspirations throughout the area. The surrounding region is also rich in history, with sites like Renchakuji Temple nearby, which holds connections to the Buddhist monk Nichiren.
The most iconic landmarks of the Jogasaki Coast are the Kadowaki Suspended Bridge and the Kadowaki-misaki Lighthouse. The Kadowaki Suspended Bridge is a thrilling 48m long bridge hanging approximately 23m above the water, serving as a highlight of the coastal walking path. The Kadowaki-misaki Lighthouse serves as an observation point, offering a stunning 360-degree panoramic view. From the lighthouse, you can see the beautiful Izu Islands and the majestic mountains of the Amagi Range. Additionally, the 'Jogasaki Nature Study Path' allows visitors to observe unique geological features like potholes created by centuries of wave erosion.
The landscape changes beautifully with the seasons. In June, you can enjoy blooming hydrangeas, while July brings colorful flowers like Hama-kanzo and lilies. In autumn, the area is adorned with seasonal blooms such as Isogiku and Tsubaki. For the best experience, we recommend visiting during bright daylight hours to witness the striking contrast between the deep blue of the Sagmi Sea and the dark, rugged cliffs.
Beyond walking the nature study paths, the surrounding waters are a hub for marine activities. The nearby Futo Fishing Port is a popular spot for scuba diving. During the summer months, you might even witness the spawning of bigfin squid or enjoy whale watching to see sperm whales and dolphins.
There are many diverse attractions near the Jogasaki Coast. You can visit Mount Omuro for its incredible summit views, or explore nearby Ikoma Lake, Komuro Park, and Sakura-no-Sato to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Ito area. The Futo area also offers a glimpse into local maritime culture and fishing history.
As the walking paths include rocky terrain, stairs, and a suspended bridge, sturdy walking shoes (such as sneakers or hiking shoes) are essential. The terrain can be uneven, so please proceed with caution. For parking, both cash and credit cards are accepted. While there are some English signs and notices, most local communication is in Japanese. Please respect the environment by not removing any plants or rocks, and stay on the designated paths to ensure your safety near the cliffs.