Tosashimizu Geopark

The Tosashimizu Geopark is one of two such parks in Kochi (the other is at the tip of the Muroto Peninsula in the east of the prefecture). The park covers a wide area –– almost 350 square kilometers in total –– and includes over 70km of coastline that stretches from Oki Beach in the east, popular with surfers and a nesting spot for loggerhead turtles, to the sawtoothed coastline of Kanaezaki in the west. In between, a wide variety of geological features show evidence of the subduction of ocean plates, the formation of the Japanese archipelago itself and the violent seismic activity that followed.

Follow the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage route from Oki Beach, crossing the fertile coastal terraces of Tsuro and passing below arches formed by camellia trees. This brings you to Kongofukuji Temple (Temple Number 38) and the white cliffs of Cape Ashizuri, the southernmost point of Shikoku. Most of Tosashimizu’s accommodation is located around here and there are some lovely walking paths along the cliff tops and down to the massive Hakusan-domon (natural arch).

The views of the Pacific coast continues as you move around the Ashizuri Peninsula and to the west. Dramatic Ryugu Shrine, where the wives of local fishermen would pray for their husbands' safety and a good catch, looks out over swirling whirlpools that form around rocky reefs below the red-brown cliffs of Usubae. A steep climb takes you to Tojin Daba, site of a prehistoric settlement, from where, standing on top of huge slabs of granite forced upward by tectonic shifts, you can see the Pacific stretch seemingly to infinity.

To the west of Tosashimizu town center, Tatsukushi Marine Park and the surrounding area is a geological and marine wonderland where you can walk around rock formations so fantastical that it’s hard to believe that they are not man made. Tatsukushi Visitor Center Uminowa, located here, has photographic and interactive displays which showcase the rock formations that have fascinated sightseers for centuries, along with the area’s bountiful reef-building corals and diverse marine life.

Drop in before exploring the coastline, as knowing what to look can really enhance your enjoyment of Tatukushi, whether on foot or on a glass bottomed boat tour, or getting a closer look at the sea life from the Ashizuri Underwater Observation Tower or SATOUMI Kochi Prefectural Ashizuri Aquarium.

The most convenient way to get around Tosashimizu Geopark is by car. E-bikes are available for rent from many hotels near Cape Ashizuri, a fun way to explore the Ashizuri Peninsula and get out to Tatsukushi Marine Park. If you have the luxury of time to spare, you can always take a leaf out of the pilgrims’ book and walk part of the coastal trail.