Driving around the Oki Islands
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February 1, 2013 - Driving around the Oki Islands
I first travelled to the Oki Islands back in 2006.
I was based in Matsue City (Shimane) at the time, and was asked to go to Oki to teach the elementary school students about New Zealand. I didn't know anything about Oki...they knew nothing about NZ.
But...I have been going back ever since...and now I am proud to call Oki my home!
But...the people I met here were so friendly, they live in such a beautiful part of Japan, the seafood I ate for dinner was so fresh and delicious...and ever since then I have been travelling to these beautiful islands to take part in walking events, sea kayaking, wakeboarding, local shrine festivals etc.
The scenery is amazing! Stunning cliffs, bright blue sea, horses and cows grazing peacefully, old ladies hanging out squid to dry (a local delicacy), fantastic sunsets...
If you want to take a break from your everyday busy like in urban Japan, or if you are coming from overseas, make the effort to come to Shimane Prefecture and visit the Oki Islands.
Onimai Lookout is 30 minutes by car from Beppu Port.
The 360 degree views of the ocean and Nishinoshima Island are amazing.
Nearby many horses and cows graze peacefully soaking up the sun and the sea breeze.
Akao Lookout is 25 minutes drive from Beppu Port.
From here you can view the Sea of Japan stretching out in front of you, and the amazing Kuniga Coast all around you.
This area is also home to many cows and horses which graze nearby.
This is one of the best spots in all of Oki - Akao Lookout.
You can enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, including Matengai Cliff and Tsutenkyo Arch.
This photo was taken half-way down the Kuniga Coast Hiking Track.
The track starts at the top of the cliff (275m high). You can get to Matnegai Cliff by sightseeing bus or taxi. The 2.3km, 1 hour (one-way) walk is a must do if you visit Nishinoshima.
Matengai Cliff is 25 minites drive from Beppu Port.
Here you can enjoy views across this area of the Daisen-Oki National Park.
From here you can walk down the coast to Kuniga Beach. It is a great walk!
This is the view from Onimai Lookout (35 minutes from Beppu Port).
The sea in front of you is known as the inner sea - Dozen Islands Caldera - which was once an area of major volcanic activity.
The highest peak is Mt. Takuhi (452m). There is a beautiful shrine located on this mountain.
Tsutenkyo Arch is 20 minutes drive and 5 minutes walk from Beppu Port. This is an amazing achievement by Mother Nature!
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List of Posts:
2013/02/04 - Spectacular shrines and superb sea 2013/02/01 - Driving around the Oki Islands |
