【Hatchohama Beach】

【Northernmost Meridian Tower】

The Northernmost Meridian Tower stands at 135 degrees east longitude and marks the northernmost point of the Japan Standard Time Meridian Line. It displays the time in Japan and the rest of the world.

【Shizuka Jinja Shrine】

Shizuka Shrine is located on a hill in Iso, Amino, which is said to be the birthplace of Shizuka Gozen, one of the Seven Princesses of Kyotango and Shizuka Gozen is enshrined here.

Shizuka Gozen was a leading dancer in the Imperial Court in the 1100s. After catching the eye of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, millitary commander is one of the most powerful families ruling Japan at the time, she became his concubine.

After the Minamoto clan brought down the reigning Heike Clan (also known as the Taira clan) in 1185, Shizuka and Yoshitsune became separated due to conflicts in the Minamoto clan. Fleeing this, Shizuka went on to become a nun, dedicating the rest of her life to Buddhism and escaping back to her hometown in Amino, where she prayed for her husband’s safety.

The site of her birthplace is located on a small hill about 3 minutes walk away from Shizuka Shrine and a monument has been erected to commemorate her life.

【Goshikihama Beach】

Goshikihama is a rocky beach made up of colourful sedimentary volcanic rocks that have been around since the Sea of Japan was formed. The rocks are irregularly shaped as a result of years of erosion by the waves of the Sea of Japan. The name “Go Shiki” (five colors) comes from the colourful stone that shine at the edge of the shore.

【Hamazume Yuhigaura Beach】

Hamazume Yuhigaura Beach, is famous for its sunsets, so much so that the name Yuhigaura itself means “Sunset Bay”.

The best time to enjoy the iconic views of the sun setting over the horizon is from Spring to Summer. Hamazume Yuhigaura Beach also known as “Eternal Beach”, because of the way the surface of the water perfectly reflects the golden setting sun like a mirror. On the beach, there is a swing made of driftwood nicknamed “Yurari”. On the nearby Hamazume Yuhi Hill, there is a monument with the word “YUHIGAURA” spelt out that is illuminated after sunset, and this monument and the swing are popular photo spots.