What Is Nishinoshima in the Oki Islands? A Spectacular UNESCO Global Geopark Island
Nishinoshima (Nishi-no-shima) is one of the main inhabited islands that make up the Oki Islands in Shimane Prefecture, and it belongs to the Dōzen area.
The Oki Islands are an archipelago floating in the Sea of Japan and are recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark.
Nishinoshima is known for its dynamic landscapes and untouched nature, with highlights including the 257-meter-high Matengai Cliffs and a rich green plateau with grazing land, along with dramatic sea cliffs.
It is also known as a land where ancient history and legends still live on, giving the island a mysterious atmosphere.
Visitors can fully enjoy the unique charm of an Oki island trip through trekking, sightseeing boat cruises, and local cultural experiences.
Top Things to See in Nishinoshima
1. Matengai Cliffs | One of Japan’s Great Sea Cliffs
Matengai, one of Nishinoshima’s signature sightseeing spots, is a dramatic cliff rising 257 meters above sea level.
The nearly vertical cliff formed by marine erosion is known as a sea cliff.
The top of the cliff is an open pasture where cows and horses graze peacefully, and the panoramic view of the Sea of Japan beyond is breathtaking.
The walking trail from Matengai to Tsūtenkyō and Kuniga Beach has been selected as one of the “Top 100 Walking Routes,” and you can enjoy spectacular views on a one-way hiking course of about 45–60 minutes.
2. Kuniga Coast | A Magnificent Coastline Stretching About 7 km
Kuniga Coast (Kuniga Kaigan) is one of the most beautiful coastlines in the Oki Islands and is designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument.
Along the approximately 7 km coastline, naturally formed rock formations and caves are scattered, and you can enjoy them up close by sightseeing boat or sea kayak.
The especially famous “Tsūtenkyō” is a natural arch created by marine erosion and is a spectacular viewpoint where you can feel the beauty of nature’s formations up close.
3. Around Beppu Port and Villages on the Island
The area around Beppu Port, the gateway to Nishinoshima, is the island’s central area where ferries and high-speed boats arrive and depart.
Local diners and souvenir shops are scattered around the port, where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
The Uragō area on the island also has restaurants and accommodations, and you can enjoy interacting with local people while strolling around.
4. History and Legends
The Oki Islands are also known as a place of exile, and in the Kamakura period, Emperor Go-Toba was exiled to Oki.
Although Emperor Go-Toba stayed on Dōgo (Okinoshima Town), sites and legends related to him are found throughout the Oki Islands, making them a must-visit for history lovers.
Nishinoshima also preserves ancient places of worship such as Takuhi Shrine (Takuhi Jinja).
5. Island Activities You Can Only Experience Here
Nishinoshima offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including trekking, sea kayaking, and fishing, so you can fully enjoy the natural environment.
In particular, from June to September, you can also enjoy swimming and snorkeling in summer.
The sightseeing boat around Kuniga Coast (Kuniga Meguri regular sightseeing boat) is a powerful experience where you look up at the cliffs from the sea and is a highlight of Nishinoshima sightseeing.
Best Time to Visit Nishinoshima by Season
- Spring (April to May): Fresh greenery is beautiful, making it the best season for hiking. Endemic Oki flowers such as Oki dandelions also come into season.
- Summer (June to September): Marine activities are in full swing, including swimming and sea kayaking. Sightseeing boat services are also frequent.
- Autumn (October to November): Autumn leaves are beautiful and color the whole island. Migratory birds can also be seen, and you can enjoy nature in a peaceful environment.
- Winter (December to March): The rough winter waves of the Sea of Japan create a dramatic view. There are fewer tourists, so you can spend a relaxed time. However, ferry cancellations may occur, so caution is needed.
Access Information
Address
Nishinoshima Town, Oki District, Shimane Prefecture
How to Get to Nishinoshima
- By ferry
- From mainland Japan to the Oki Islands, you can take a ferry from Shichirui Port (Mihonoseki-cho, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture) or Sakaiminato Port in Tottori Prefecture.
- By Oki Kisen ferry, it takes about 2 hours 30 minutes from Shichirui Port to Nishinoshima (Beppu Port).
- From Sakaiminato, the Rainbow Jet high-speed ferry also operates, taking about 1 hour 20 minutes (winter suspension applies).
- By air
- You can also fly from Izumo Enmusubi Airport or Osaka Itami Airport to Oki World Geopark Airport (Dōgo), then travel to Nishinoshima by ferry or high-speed boat from Dōgo.
Getting Around the Island
Renting a car or bicycle is convenient for getting around Nishinoshima.
Municipal buses (seasonal sightseeing buses) to Matengai and Kuniga Coast also operate seasonally.
Recommended Ways to Enjoy Nishinoshima
1. Scenic Hiking at Matengai Cliffs
The trekking course from Matengai to Kunigahama includes sections with more downhill walking, and some parts are easy enough for beginners.
The view from the top of Matengai, looking down at the Sea of Japan from the cliff, will be an unforgettable experience.
2. Kuniga Coast Cruise
A cruise on a sightseeing boat to view the unusual rock formations and caves up close is one of the highlights of Nishinoshima sightseeing.
Sea kayaking is also available in summer, making it a great choice for active travelers.
3. Enjoy Oki Islands Local Food
Dishes made with fresh seafood are one of the pleasures of a trip to Nishinoshima.
Local specialties include dishes with turban shell and abalone, rock oysters (around March to June), and Oki beef raised on the islands.
Useful Travel Tips for Visitors
What to Bring and What to Wear
- Comfortable walking shoes: The Matengai hiking course includes grassland and slopes, so trekking shoes are recommended.
- Camera: Essential for capturing the spectacular scenery.
- Warm layers / windbreaker: It can be windy on the cliffs, and it may feel chilly even in summer.
Important Notes
- Check the weather: Sea transportation is affected by weather conditions, so be sure to check Oki Kisen’s operation status frequently in advance.
- Nature conservation: To protect the precious natural environment of this UNESCO Global Geopark, please take all trash home with you.
- Be careful around cows and horses: In the grazing fields around Matengai, do not get too close to the animals.
- Tick prevention: Sitting or lying down on grass may expose you to tick bites. Long sleeves and long pants are recommended.
Nishinoshima is a special place where untouched nature and rich history coexist.
Experience spectacular views and local culture, and enjoy an unforgettable trip to the Oki Islands.
