Where is Kuniga Coast located and how do I get there?

Kuniga Coast is located on Nishinoshima Island in the Oki Islands, Shimane Prefecture, Japan. To reach Kuniga Coast, fly to Oki Airport or take a ferry from Sakaiminato Port to Beppu Port on Nishinoshima Island, then drive or take a bus to the coastal viewpoints along the scenic clifftop roads.

What are the best things to see and do at Kuniga Coast?

Kuniga Coast offers spectacular volcanic cliffs, dramatic sea stacks, and panoramic ocean views. Top activities include hiking the coastal trails, visiting Matengai Cliff viewpoint, exploring Tsutenkyo natural rock arch, taking scenic drives along the clifftop roads, and enjoying sunset photography from various observation decks.

When is the best time to visit Kuniga Coast for weather and sightseeing?

The best time to visit Kuniga Coast is from April to October when weather conditions are most favorable. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer mild temperatures and clear skies ideal for hiking and photography. Summer provides the warmest weather but can be crowded, while winter brings strong winds and rough seas.

Are there hiking trails and walking paths along Kuniga Coast?

Yes, Kuniga Coast features several well-maintained hiking trails and walking paths along the clifftops. The main coastal trail connects major viewpoints including Matengai Cliff and offers varying difficulty levels. Most trails are suitable for moderate fitness levels, with wooden walkways and safety barriers at key observation points.

What accommodation and dining options are available near Kuniga Coast?

Accommodation near Kuniga Coast includes traditional Japanese ryokan inns, guesthouses, and hotels primarily located in Beppu town on Nishinoshima Island. Dining options feature fresh local seafood, Oki beef, and regional specialties at local restaurants, with some facilities offering traditional kaiseki meals featuring ingredients from the Oki Islands.

Shimane

Kuniga Coast, Nishinoshima

4.9 (20)Hiking AreaSports Activity LocationPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Jun 30, 2026

The Kuniga Coast stretches along the northwestern shore of Nishinoshima Island in the Oki Islands archipelago, part of Shimane Prefecture. This dramatic coastline represents one of Japan's most spectacular geological formations, carved by millions of years of erosion from the Sea of Japan. The region gained international recognition as part of the UNESCO Global Geopark designation awarded to the Oki Islands in 2013, acknowledging its outstanding geological and cultural significance.

The coastline's crown jewel is Matengai Cliff, which rises 257 meters above the crashing waves below, making it one of Japan's highest sea cliffs. The entire 7-kilometer stretch showcases dramatic precipices, sea caves, and distinctive rock formations that tell the geological history of the region through visible sedimentary layers. The coastal area serves as open pastureland where cattle and horses graze freely against the backdrop of towering cliffs, creating an iconic scene unique to the Oki Islands.

Visitors can experience the Kuniga Coast through multiple approaches. The 6-kilometer hiking loop begins at Kuniga Beach and ascends to Matengai Cliff before returning inland, recognized as one of Japan's Top 100 walking tracks. This 2.5-hour trek offers close encounters with grazing livestock and panoramic views across the archipelago. Sightseeing boat tours operate from March to October, providing access to otherwise unreachable sea caves and clifftop perspectives. The boats navigate close to the Tsūtenkyō Arch, a natural rock formation created by a collapsed sea cave.

Transportation to the coast requires ferry access to Beppu Port on Nishinoshima Island, followed by a 35-minute drive or local bus service to the trailhead. Scenic tour buses run scheduled services from March to October, though they allow only brief stops unsuitable for hiking. Taxi transfers to Matengai Cliff cost approximately ¥3,000-3,500 for one-way transport. Local buses charge a flat rate of ¥200 between key destinations on the island. The site offers free access with no admission fees, though visitors should prepare for steep terrain and changing weather conditions typical of Japan's western coastline.

Phone

+81 8514-7-8888

Website

www.pref.shimane.lg.jp

Overview

Address

Urago, Nishinoshima, Oki District, Shimane 684-0211, Japan

Places & attractions near Kuniga Coast, Nishinoshima

Tamawakasu-mikoto Shrine

Iwami Town, Tottori

Mt. Akahage

Lake Shinji

Places & attractions near Kuniga Coast, Nishinoshima

Tamawakasu-mikoto Shrine

Iwami Town, Tottori

Mt. Akahage

Lake Shinji

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

Jagoda W

Jul 28, 2025

This is one of Nishinoshima's most spectacular routes, allowing you to experience the magnificent nature of Kuniga Coast up close. Drawn in by the images overlooking Matengai Cliff, I challenged myself to complete the entire walking trail. I hiked from Kuniga Coast to Matengai Cliff and back. The scenery was so breathtaking that it made me forget my fatigue. I highly recommend visiting this place at least once in your lifetime. [Points to Note] * There is a lot of cow and horse dung. * Tick prevention is recommended. → Long pants and long sleeves are recommended. * It can be very windy on some days. * No vending machines or shops. * There is almost no shade in summer.

On the way there, you can enjoy a never-ending hike with spectacular views. The climb back down was a bit daunting, but walking while looking back at the spectacular views was fun and before you knew it, the round trip was over in a flash. The path is well maintained and easy to walk on. Brochures and the internet say you can walk around the whole area, but I couldn't find the route on-site, and since I had a boat ride, I decided to do a round trip. If you're going around the whole area, I recommend relying on brochures and the internet.

This is truly a breathtaking view. The majestic natural scenery that only a caldera can offer makes the trip worthwhile just to see. On the way, we saw a cow sitting in the middle of the road and slowly passed by it. Although it wasn't a clear day, there was a bit of mist, which made the scenery feel even more mystical.

If you take a regular sightseeing bus that takes you on a route that includes both Matengai and Kuniga Coast, and get dropped off at Matengai and picked up at Kuniga Coast, you can enjoy just the descent without having to go there and back. The one-way descent takes about an hour, but it's best to avoid wearing heels or leather shoes, and if you have bad knees it's a good idea to bring a walking stick. If the weather is clear, you can enjoy the scenery just as it appears in the brochure.