Day 11 - Rugged Coast of West Japan

Before returning to Tokyo, we took a short day trip to the coast near Awaraonsen, discovering yet another completely different face of Japan. Our first stop was Tōjinbō (東尋坊), a dramatic stretch of cliffs formed from pillar-shaped volcanic rock. The rough waves of the Sea of Japan crash against the rock walls, giving the whole place a wild, untamed feeling—far from the gardens, temples, and city lights of the last days. It’s also a site wrapped in local legends and folklore, making it both beautiful and quietly mysterious.

We then crossed over to Oshima (雄島), a small sacred island connected to the mainland by a bright red bridge. Walking its trails felt like stepping into old Japan—dense forest, moss-covered stones, shrines tucked between trees, and complete silence. Not a single Western tourist in sight, only locals enjoying the sea breeze. It felt wonderfully remote.

For lunch we stopped at a tiny local seafood restaurant, where we enjoyed a fantastic meal—exceptionally fresh fish, warm hospitality, and that unmistakable “by the sea” flavour you only get in places like this.

Eventually it was time to head back. We boarded the Shinkansen and returned to Tokyo, suddenly swapping wild cliffs and ocean winds for neon lights, crowds, and the endless energy of the city.

A perfect little detour before diving back into urban Japan.Read more