Oki Islands UNESCO Global Geopark
UNESCO Global Geopark rising out of the Sea of japan
The Oki Islands UNESCO Global Geopark is a stunning destination located in the Sea of Japan. This geopark is famous for its breathtaking coastal scenery and stunning seascapes, making it a top choice for tourists. The Oki Islands Geopark is a designated UNESCO Global Geopark, which means that it is a geographical area where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education, and sustainable development. The Oki Islands Geopark perfectly fits this description, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and geology enthusiasts.
One of the highlights of the Oki Islands Geopark is a sunset cruise to Rosoku-jima, also known as Candle Island. This small island is known for its unique shape, resembling a candle, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding sea. Another must-see attraction in the geopark is the Matengai Cliff, which stands at an impressive 257 meters tall. From the top of the cliff, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the islands, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
To reach the Oki Islands Geopark, the best way is to take a ferry. Car ferries to the geopark depart from Shichirui Port near Matsue in Shimane Prefecture and Sakaiminato Port near Yonago in Tottori Prefecture. The journey takes between two and a half hours and four hours, depending on which island you choose to visit. Both ports also operate a high-speed hydrofoil service for passengers only, providing a faster option for those who prefer a quicker journey. Additionally, Oki Airport on Dogo Island offers flights from Osaka and Izumo Airport, providing convenient access to the geopark.
Once you arrive at the geopark, a good place to start your exploration is the Geopark Visitor Center located next to the main ferry terminal in Saigo Port on Dogo Island. Here, you can pick up maps and brochures to help guide you through your journey. The staff at the Tourism Information Office can also provide assistance and suggest itineraries based on your interests. The Oki Islands Geopark Museum, located on the second floor of the visitor center, offers a comprehensive exhibition about the nature, culture, and history of the Oki Islands. All information panels in the museum are available in English, making it accessible for international visitors.
Throughout the geopark, there are numerous sites of interest that showcase the unique geology and natural beauty of the Oki Islands. Large information boards in both English and Japanese provide detailed explanations and diagrams about the geological features and points of interest. The archipelago consists of four inhabited islands, with Dogo Island being the largest. The other three islands, Nakanoshima, Nishinoshima, and Chiburijima, collectively known as Dozen, are the remains of a sunken caldera and feature unique and convoluted shapes.
Dogo Island, being the largest and most accessible, offers plenty of highlights for visitors to enjoy. The Shirashima Coast, located at the far northern tip of the island, offers stunning viewpoints of a series of islands rising out of the sea. The Jodogaura Coast, located a short drive from the Shirashima Observatory, features unique rock formations and small coves. Candle Island, located on the northwest coast, is a popular icon of Dogo Island and offers breathtaking views, especially during sunset.
Nishinoshima Island is another must-visit destination within the geopark. The Kuniga Coast features a natural arch and sculpted rock formations, offering a unique and picturesque landscape. The nearby Matengai Cliff, one of the tallest in Japan, provides panoramic views of the surrounding sea and is best seen from a scenic boat tour. Mt. Takuhi, the central cone of the sunken caldera, offers great views from its summit and is home to an old shrine.
On Nakanoshima Island, Mt. Kinkoji offers stunning views over the vast flatland characteristic of the island, with Nishinoshima Island in the background. The Akiya Coast, located in the north of the island, features red rock cliffs and a heart-shaped opening in one of the rocks. Chiburijima Island, the smallest of the inhabited Oki Islands, is known for its unique red cliffs at Sekiheki. These cliffs feature vertical stripes that alternate between black, white, and other colors. The highest peak of the island, Mt. Akahage, provides an impressive 360-degree view of all the Oki Islands and, on a clear day, even the Shimane Peninsula and Mt. Daisen in Tottori Prefecture.
The Oki Islands Geopark offers a fantastic variety of amazing coastal landscapes to explore. From the cliffs and beaches to the mountains and out at sea, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you prefer hiking, cycling, or simply taking in the stunning views, the Oki Islands Geopark is a destination that should not be missed.
In conclusion, the Oki Islands UNESCO Global Geopark is a stunning destination located in the Sea of Japan. This geopark offers breathtaking coastal scenery and stunning seascapes, making it a top choice for tourists. With its holistic concept of protection, education, and sustainable development, the Oki Islands Geopark perfectly showcases the geological significance of the area. From sunset cruises to panoramic viewpoints, there are plenty of highlights to explore within the geopark. Whether you are a nature lover, geology enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and picturesque destination, the Oki Islands Geopark is a must-visit.
Address And Maps Location:
Oki-gun, Shimane-ken
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