There are only three cliff formations in the world made from pyroxene andesite, which was deposited millennia ago by volcanic activity and eroded into pentagonal and hexagonal columns by the elements. One of these is found in the Echizen-Kaga Quasi-National Park in Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture. The Tojimbo Cliffs (東尋坊 or Tōjinbō) is the only one of its kind in Japan, and visitors enjoy the spectacular beauty throughout the year.
Tōjinbō Cliffs
Some prefer the heat of summer, viewing the cliffs and waters of the Japan Sea while eating ice cream or other snacks. Others prefer the winter or rainy days with the energy of the wind and waves and sense of isolation. Whatever your choice, a visit to Tojimbo Cliffs is a memorable experience. The cliffs stretch over 1 kilometer (over 3280 feet) and tower up to 25 meters (about 82 feet) tall.
One of the favorite viewing points is from Tojimbo Tower, an observation deck with souvenir shops and snacks overlooking Tojinbo Oike lagoon. At 55 meters (over 180 feet) tall, the tower gives an excellent vantage of the area. Others prefer to take a tour boat to see the Tojimbo Cliffs from the water.
Tojimbo Tower Observation centre
Getting to Tojinbo Cliffs from Fukui City takes about an hour. Take the Echizen Mikuni Awari train line from Fukui Station to Mikuni. Transfer there to the Keifuku bus to Tojinbo.
photo by: cotaro70s
