Guida
Onigajo is a spectacular coastal scenic spot located in Kumamoto-cho, Kumano City, Mie Prefecture. It is registered as part of the UNESCO World Heritage site 'Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range' and was designated as a National Natural Monument in 1935. The landscape features countless sea caves of various sizes, carved by the powerful waves of the Kumano Sea. These caves are arranged in a stepped formation due to seismic uplift, stretching approximately 1.2 km along the coastline. This unique topography is a precious landscape shaped by the raw power of nature.
The area is steeped in ancient legends and history. One legend tells of Sakanoue no Tamaro, who supposedly subdued the pirate Tagamaru, who was terrorizing the area at the time. Additionally, the site holds significant historical ruins known as 'Onigajo Honjo.' This was a Japanese castle built atop a mountain by Arima Tadayoshi around 1523 as a retirement castle. The Arima clan was later defeated by the Horiuchi clan, who served Toyotomi Hideyoshi and ruled this land until the Battle of Sekigahara. On the hiking course connecting the mountain summit to the Matsumoto Pass of the Kumano Kodo, visitors can still see three 'horikiri' (defensive trenches), offering a glimpse into the ancient castle's fortifications.
The greatest attraction of Onigajo is the endless succession of sea caves along the coast. The rugged rock faces and stepped terrain created by coastal erosion offer a view found nowhere else. The area also includes the scenic 'Shishi Iwa' (Lion Rock), allowing visitors to admire the sublime beauty of natural rock formations. Walking along the coast, you can feel the changing scenery, the sound of the waves, and the refreshing sea breeze. The hiking course from the East Entrance to the summit offers diverse natural landscapes that change with the seasons.
For a seasonal highlight, the cherry blossoms planted along the hiking course from the East Entrance to the summit are a must-see in spring. Since four different varieties of cherry blossoms bloom at different times, visitors can enjoy 'hanami' (flower viewing) over an extended period. Additionally, because the landscape changes with the light, visiting during different times of the day—such as morning or evening—allows you to experience the dramatic shifts in how the light hits the rock formations and sea caves.
Visitors can enjoy walking through natural scenery and exploring historical castle ruins and hiking trails. The route leading to the Matsumoto Pass of the Kumano Kodo is particularly special, allowing you to walk through history. A stroll along the coast provides a unique way to connect with the ocean. Near the site, the 'Onigajo Center' serves as a hub where you can gather travel information and check out local specialty products.
Several attractive sightseeing spots are scattered around Onigajo. Nearby are the 'Kumano Kodo (Iseji)'—part of the World Heritage site—and the gentle sandy beaches of 'Shichiri Mihama.' Other important nearby spots include the historical 'Matsumoto Pass,' 'Benten Shrine,' and 'Shishi Iwa.' The area is also close to nature-rich locations like the Otomari Beach.
As you will be walking along the coast and on hiking trails, please be mindful of your footing.