Jogasaki Coast - Shizuoka, Japan
The Jogasaki Coast on the eastern Izu Peninsula is famous for its dramatic cliffs, suspension bridges, lighthouse, and seasonal flowers. I visited in winter, so there weren’t any blooms, but the jagged coastline, panoramic ocean views, and rugged scenery were still breathtaking.
I took a bus to the trailhead and began on the Jogasaki Promenade Picnic Course, hiking north toward Kadowakisaki Lighthouse, the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge, and several scenic cliffside viewpoints. This section is easy to walk, well-paved, and clearly marked — it’s also the most popular part of the trail. I paused frequently to photograph the dramatic cliffs and crashing waves.
After completing the lighthouse loop, I continued south on the Jogasaki Nature Study Course. At the start, a small temple is flanked by a 1,000-year-old tree, an impressive sight hinting at the area’s long-standing cultural significance. This trail is narrower and far less crowded, offering a quieter experience with stunning views of rock formations, cliffs, and the Pacific coastline.
The southern stretch felt longer than expected—the trail signs indicate point-to-point distances, which made it feel like I was walking forever without seeing much progress. Eventually, I reached Tajima Falls after crossing the Hashidate Suspension Bridge, though the water flow was low and the falls were less impressive than I’d hoped. From there, I followed the trail to Izu-Kogen Station, ending my hike. Despite the low water and winter conditions, the coastline, suspension bridges, and sweeping ocean vistas made it a memorable adventure.
Background
The Jogasaki Coast (城ヶ崎海岸) is part of the eastern Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, a region known for its volcanic rock formations, rugged coastline, and scenic ocean vistas. The cliffs and rock formations were shaped by ancient lava flows, creating jagged landscapes that contrast sharply with the Pacific Ocean below. Suspension bridges, such as the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge, allow visitors to experience the dramatic cliffs up close. The coastline has long been a tourist destination, and trails like the Promenade Picnic Course and Nature Study Course were developed to showcase both natural beauty and cultural landmarks, including small temples and centuries-old trees.
Getting There
The Jogasaki Coast is accessible from Izu-Kogen Station on the JR Ito Line. From the station, a local bus takes you to the trailhead near the Promenade Picnic Course in roughly 10–15 minutes, running frequently throughout the day. For those driving, parking is available near the trailheads, though spaces can be limited on weekends and holidays. Once at the trailhead, the paths are well-marked, and loop options allow hikers to adjust the distance depending on time and fitness.
Route Overview
Distance: 10.28 km out & back (Izukaiyo Park Bus Stop → Izu-Kogen Station)
Total elevation gain: 346 m
Duration: 2 hr 54 min (with breaks 3 hr 6 min)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cost Breakdown
Bus: Shorten Park Bus Stop → Izukaiyo Park Bus Stop — ¥570
