Miho no Matsubara (Hagoromo no Matsu)

Overview and Charm

Miho no Matsubara, located in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, is a designated scenic spot and a vital component of the UNESCO World Heritage site "Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration, and the practices associated with Suwa worship." The striking contrast between the pine forests stretching along the coastline and the majestic Mt. Fuji beyond has inspired countless artists and poets throughout history. The most iconic symbol of this area is the 'Hagoromo no Matsu' (Celestial Robe Pine), which is deeply connected to the legend of a celestial maiden descending to this very land.

Historical and Cultural Background

The area is steeped in the 'Hagoromo Legend.' According to the tale, a fisherman found a celestial maiden's robe on the beach, and the maiden later performed a dance at the foot of Mt. Fuji. To honor this legend, the 'Hagoromo Pine' stands prominently in the center of the pine grove. The current tree is the third generation, carefully preserved through historical transitions. The area is also home to Miho Shrine, which serves as the guardian of the grove. Dedicated to deities such as Okuninushi-no-Mikoto and Mihotsuhime-no-Mikoto, the shrine has been a place of worship for maritime safety and bountiful catches for generations. It is also a traditional site where many gather on New Year's morning to witness the first sunrise over the Izu Peninsula.

Main Highlights

There are several spots within Miho no Matsubara where you can feel the presence of history and nature. First is the symbolic 'Hagoromo no Matsu,' which is protected by a fence to preserve its longevity. Next is the 'Path of the Gods' leading to Miho Shrine. This approximately 500-meter path is lined with black pines several hundred years old, their branches intertwining overhead to create a beautiful green tunnel. From the coastline, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji framed by the pine forest, which changes its expression depending on the season and time of day. Additionally, nearby facilities like the Marine Science Museum and Natural History Museum allow visitors to learn more about the local ecosystem.

Seasonal Recommendations

While Miho no Matsubara is beautiful year-round, it offers unique charms each season. In mid-October, a special cultural experience called 'Takigi Noh' (firewood Noh) is held, featuring the play 'Hagoromo' in front of the sacred pine tree. New Year's Day is also a significant time, as crowds gather to see the first sunrise of the year. During daylight hours, the colors of the pine forest and Mt. Fuji are most vivid, making it perfect for photography. In the evening, the silhouette of Mt. Fuji becomes particularly striking against the changing colors of the sky.

Activities and Experiences

Beyond walking through the historical landscape, you can enjoy various activities in the surrounding area. The Miho Peninsula area offers opportunities for swimming, marine sports, sea fishing, and traditional net fishing. You can also visit the Miho Shirube Cultural Center to learn about local history and nature, which serves as a great starting point for your visit. Taking a break at a local cafe while gazing at the ocean and the pine groves is another wonderful way to spend your time.

Surrounding Area

The area around Miho no Matsubara is rich in educational and leisure facilities. The Marine Science Museum and Natural History Museum offer exhibits on marine life and dinosaurs. The area around Miho Shrine maintains a historic atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful stroll. Don't forget to try local specialties such as edamame, tomatoes, and melons, as well as local tea and traditional sweets available in the vicinity.

What to Bring and Etiquette

Since the area includes sandy beaches and unpaved paths, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. As the coastline can be windy, please prepare clothing suitable for the season.

• Payment: Cash and major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) are accepted at local shops and eateries.
• Language: While some signs and facilities may have English, basic communication is primarily in Japanese.
• Reservations: No prior reservation is required for walking through the area, but please check in advance for specific events or facilities.
• Photography: Photography is allowed, but please do not touch the branches or roots of the sacred trees (like the Hagoromo Pine) to protect the natural environment.
• Trash: Please bring a bag to carry your trash back with you to keep the area clean.