This Geotrail course is unique as it includes seaside footpaths as part of the trail. Follow the sounds of the waves through the greenery to Kotohikihama Beach, famous for its singing sands and head towards Hatchohama Beach with its tropical ambience.
【Mitsu Fishing Port】
Over in Amino-cho is Mitsu Fishing Port. The port and coastline of the Mitsu area has been used as the backdrop for many TV dramas and films. The nearby small red lighthouse is a marked fishing spot and is a popular photo spot.
【Kotohikihama Beach】
Filled with high quantities of quartz and kept squeaky clean by the lapping waves, the sands of this 1.8km beach are known for the squeaking, or “singing”, sound made when walked on. Beach cleans are carried out regularly by locals to keep the sands clean. Kotohikihama Beach is designated as a National Treasure, a Place of Scenic Beauty and a National Top 100 Beach.
【Taikohama Beach】
Near the center of Kotohikihama Beach, there is an area where if you walk on or hit the sand it makes a drumming noise. This area is called Taikohama Beach, after Japanese taiko drums. It is thought that the sand makes this noise because the sound echoes up from holes in the bedrock below.
【Suishohama Beach】
Suishohama directly translates to “Crystal Beach” and it gets its name from the high level of quartz crystals in its sands which are created by high temperatures and pressures. While Kobama Beach and Kotohikihama Beach have a more orange hue, the sands of Suishohama Beach are a brighter white.
【Hatchohama Beach】
Connecting to Kobama Beach in the east, Hatchohama is about 4km long. The sands are fluffy and filled with shells and other fragments of sea life. In summer, it is popular with beachgoers but surfers can be seen enjoying the waves all year round.
Details
- Meeting Place
- Start: Mitsu Fishing Port Finish: Hatchohama Beach
- Duration
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Time Required: 260 mins
Distance: Approx. 8.4 km
Difference in Elevation: Approx. 50 m