Panduan
Mihama Cape (Mihama Misaki) is a peninsula shaped like a sand spit extending into Suruga Bay, located in Toda, Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture. This cape is characterized by its beautiful coastline and rich natural environment, offering both a rare geological formation and precious vegetation designated as a natural monument. The area surrounding the cape is well-maintained as Mihama Cape Park, where visitors can enjoy the aesthetic beauty of nature alongside breathtaking ocean views.
This area has a long history of living in harmony with nature. At the tip of the cape sits Moroguchi Shrine, dedicated to the deity Ototachibana-hime no Mikoto, who is revered for ensuring bountiful catches and safety at sea. Additionally, the grove of Inumaki trees (Podocarpus cuspidata) preserves the remnants of a lush evergreen forest, protected from invasive species, and was designated as a Shizuoka Prefecture Natural Monument on November 28, 1980. The area also features historic pine trees, such as the 'Negori no Matsu' and 'Yuai no Matsu,' which carry significant local historical weight.
Mihama Cape offers many attractions from both natural and cultural perspectives. First, the Moroguchi Shrine at the tip of the cape is an important site for praying for maritime safety. Second, the Inumaki grove provides a unique and precious landscape found nowhere else. Visitors can also learn about local history and marine ecosystems at the nearby Numazu City Toda Shipbuilding Museum or the Suruga Bay Deep Sea Creature Museum. Furthermore, the 'Kenko no Mori' (Forest of Health) on the southern slope features an observatory where you can witness the majestic silhouette of Mt. Fuji alongside the entire cape.
Mihama Cape shows different faces depending on the season. During the summer months, the sandy areas near the port become lively with beachgoers enjoying various sea leisure activities. Since views of Mt. Fuji are expected throughout the year, it is highly recommended to visit on clear, sunny days when the air is crisp. Visiting the shrine and the park during bright daylight hours allows you to experience the vivid blue of the sea and the surrounding greenery more intensely.
Various activities utilizing the natural environment are possible around Mihama Cape. In the park areas, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll along the coast. You can also deepen your knowledge of local shipbuilding techniques and deep-sea biology by visiting the local museums. From the observatory in Kenko no Mori, you can spend a peaceful time gazing at the spectacular view that combines the grandeur of Mt. Fuji with the vastness of Suruga Bay.
The area around Mihama Cape includes tourism hubs such as Toda Onsen and Toda Port, which serve as excellent bases for enjoying the fresh seafood of Suruga Bay. There are also facilities like the University of Tokyo Toda Dormitory nearby, reflecting the local cultural environment. The area is also part of the Izu Peninsula UNESCO Global Geopark, allowing for a deeper connection to the unique geological phenomena of the region.
When visiting Mihama Cape, please keep the following in mind: