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Goishi Coast (Sanriku Fukko National Park)
The Sanriku Coast, facing the Pacific Ocean, in the Tohoku region was dealt a devastating blow by the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2011. The Sanriku Fukko National Park was established here after the disaster as an important element of recovery for the local community and as a way of remembering the catastrophe. The southern part of this coastline, called the Goishi Coast, features eight scenic spots, all of which exhibit unique characteristics.
Goishihama Beach
The name Goishi Coast was derived from Goishihama Beach. "Goishi" refers to the stone pieces used in a Japanese board game called go ("ishi" means stones). This beach was so named because the blackish pebbles here bear a resemblance to goishi stones. It is said that stones from this beach were dedicated as goishi to the lord of the Date domain of Sendai between the 16th and 18th centuries.
Anatoshiiso
Anatoshiiso, another of the scenic spots along the Goishi Coast, is a massive rock formation in the sea with three holes created by the pounding of the powerful waves. Weather permitting, you can enjoy a thrilling guided small boat ride that takes you through these holes. The view from the observation point near the car park is also a special treat. The surrounding coastal area has been developed from an elevated section of ocean floor that started out as layered mud around 130 million years ago.
Kaminariiwa Rock
The 30-meter-tall Kaminariiwa Rock, or thunder rock, is another amazing spot in this area and was so named because of the roaring sound made when the strongest waves hit the holes in the rock. Incidentally, this sound is listed as one of the top 100 Soundscapes of Japan. The view of the rock with a slowly rising sun as a backdrop from the observation point is another must-see feature of the area.
Location
| Name | Goishi Coast (Sanriku Fukko National Park) |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.japan.travel/national-parks/parks/sanriku-fukko/ |
| Address | Ohama, Massaki-cho, Ofunato-shi, Iwate |
| Access | Approximately 10 minutes' drive from the Goishi-Kaigan IC on the Sanriku Expressway |
| Inquiries | TEL: 0192-29-2359 |
