Umagase Cliffs - Image 1
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Umagase Cliffs

4.5
·1k reviews·Hyuga, Japan

Witness Japan's largest columnar rocks at Umagase Cliffs, offering breathtaking Pacific Ocean views from dramatic basalt formations.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Golden hour light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Umagase Cliffs - Image 1

Umagase Cliffs

Best Time

Early morning

Golden hour light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness Japan's largest columnar rocks at Umagase Cliffs, offering breathtaking Pacific Ocean views from dramatic basalt formations.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"Prepare to be amazed by a spectacular view that you simply can’t miss when visiting Hyuga!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Ample Free Parking

Don't worry about parking fees; there's plenty of free space available for visitors. :car:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Deck

Walk the coastal path to find more viewpoints and unique rock formations. :hiking_boot:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Umagase Cliffs Observation Deck

Umagase Cliffs Observation Deck

Top of the cliffs

Marvel at Japan's largest columnar rocks and the vast Pacific Ocean from this stunning viewpoint.

Instagram
Glass Bridge

Glass Bridge

Skeluccha Viewing Deck

Add a thrill to your visit with a walk across the glass bridge, offering a unique perspective of the cliffs below.

Reddit
Coastal Path Exploration

Coastal Path Exploration

Path leading from parking

Extend your exploration by walking along the coastal path to discover additional observation decks and rugged cliff formations.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While Umagase Cliffs are open 24/7, visiting during daylight hours is essential for appreciating the dramatic coastal scenery. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for photography and fewer crowds, making for a more serene experience. Instagram

Parking and Facilities

Ample free parking is available, a welcome relief for many visitors. Facilities like restrooms are also on-site, making it convenient for longer stays or family visits. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Sunset hues, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

★Experience the stunning cliffs and breathtaking ocean views at Umagase, where nature takes your breath away! 🌊✨ ★เพลิดเพลินไปกับทิวทัศน์อันงดงามของทะเล🌊และแนวหินผาที่แหลมฮิวงะ-อุมากาเสะ👀 ★打包海天一色的超美海景! #馬背峽🤩 #HyugaCape #Japan #ญี่ปุ่น #มิยาซากิ #ทะเล #คิวชู #เที่ยวญี่ปุ่น #อุมากาเสะ #แหลมฮิวงะ #馬背峽 #日向市 #馬背 #海景 #日本旅行 #周遊宮崎 #九州 #宮崎縣 #觀景台 #空拍機
visitmiyazaki
153 likes • 5.4K views

🚗 Ample Free Parking

Don't worry about parking fees; there's plenty of free space available for visitors. Reddit :car:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Deck

Walk the coastal path to find more viewpoints and unique rock formations. Reddit :hiking_boot:

taking the scenic route one more time 🍃🌊 just me, cliffs and sea, and a little peace of mind 🍃🌊🏞️ #umagase #capehyuga #miyazakijapan #highlightseveryone
pogingaira
7 likes • 218 views
Three Generations, One Journey continues.🌿 From paddling boat on Takachiho Gorge’s emerald waters and surrounded by the towering cliffs, to the breathtaking Umagase Seaside Cliff, where the sea stretched endlessly, Kyushu’s beauty left us in awe. The joy of family and the power of shared memories. 📍 #Kyushu #TakachihoGorge #Umagase #FamilyTravel #ThreeGenerationsJourney
serenayeosh
4 likes • 343 views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The dramatic cliffs and ocean views make this a photographer's dream. Instagram :camerawithflash:

🐱 Friendly Feline Residents

You might meet some friendly, neutered cats around the feeding times. Reddit :cat:

went to this island to see the dolphins and we didn’t expect to see this view! just wow 🥹 this is Kochi prefecture’s Umagase and there’s even more rugged cliffs (different spots) here than in Miyazaki’s Umagase. Please visit #kochiprefecture if you have a chance ❤️ #ZellesTravelDiary
zelle.tsuji
4 likes • 203 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Ample Free Parking

Don't worry about parking fees; there's plenty of free space available for visitors. Reddit :car:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Deck

Walk the coastal path to find more viewpoints and unique rock formations. Reddit :hiking_boot:

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The dramatic cliffs and ocean views make this a photographer's dream. Instagram :camerawithflash:

🐱 Friendly Feline Residents

You might meet some friendly, neutered cats around the feeding times. Reddit :cat:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the spectacular and breathtaking views of the largest columnar rocks in Japan meeting the vast Pacific Ocean. The easy accessibility with ample free parking and facilities is highly appreciated, making it a rewarding stop for hikers and casual visitors alike. Some mention friendly local cats adding to the charm.

"Skeluccha offers stunning views over the largest columnar rocks in Japan, “Umagase” which is a wonderful sight to behold! It’s easy to access, a short 10 minutes walk from plenty of free parking spaces, and you can continue walking to other observation decks if you want (I highly recommend it!) there is information regarding the walking routes by the parking as well as toilets. It’s a great place to visit!"

Helena Ying Cecilie Wang

"We chose this place as our destination for our hiking trip from Hyuga station and it exceeded our expectations. It was a nice reward at the end of our trip. If you are near Hyuga, definitely don't miss this place.
May 18, 2024"

Monika Křtěnová

"Prepare to be amazed by a spectacular view that you simply can’t miss when visiting Hyuga! The breathtaking panorama stretches dramatically from the towering cliffs all the way to the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. It's an unforgettable sight that will leave you in awe!"

Francis

What People Like

Spectacular ocean views
Impressive columnar rocks
Easy access and free parking

What People Dislike

Potential for strong winds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Umagase Cliffs are accessible by car, with ample free parking available on-site. If coming from Hyuga Station, it's a pleasant hike or a short drive. Reddit

There are locations named Umagase in both Miyazaki Prefecture and Kochi Prefecture. The more widely known Umagase Cliffs with the columnar rocks are in Miyazaki. Instagram

While direct public transport to the cliffs might be limited, you can reach Hyuga Station by train and then consider a taxi or a hike to the cliffs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Umagase Cliffs are open 24/7 and offer free admission, with free parking also provided. Reddit

The cliffs are accessible at any time, day or night, but visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best views. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer hues and fewer harsh shadows. Instagram

The main observation deck provides iconic views, but exploring the coastal path can lead to unique angles and perspectives of the rugged cliffs. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Umagase Cliffs offer a fantastic outing for families. The ample free parking and on-site restrooms make logistics easier. The main observation deck provides a safe and accessible way for children to witness the dramatic coastal scenery without extensive hiking. Reddit

Encourage kids to look for different shapes in the columnar rocks or spot boats on the horizon. While the glass bridge might be thrilling for older children, younger ones can enjoy the expansive views from the main deck. The nearby coastal paths can be explored for shorter, manageable sections depending on the children's energy levels. Instagram

📸 Photographers' Paradise

For photography enthusiasts, Umagase Cliffs are a dream destination. The dramatic basalt columns and the vast Pacific Ocean provide a stunning backdrop for landscape shots. Visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon will yield the most captivating light and atmospheric photos. Instagram

Experiment with different angles from the main observation deck and explore the coastal paths for unique compositions. The glass bridge also offers a distinctive perspective, adding a sense of depth and scale to your images. Don't forget a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the cliffs. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geological Marvel of Umagase

Umagase Cliffs are renowned for their impressive columnar jointing, a geological phenomenon where lava cools and contracts, forming polygonal columns. These basalt formations are among the largest in Japan, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape that draws visitors from afar. The sheer scale of these cliffs, plunging into the Pacific Ocean, is a testament to the powerful forces of nature. Instagram

Visitors often describe the view as breathtaking and spectacular, with the vast expanse of the ocean meeting the rugged coastline. The main observation deck, known as Skeluccha, offers the most iconic panorama, but exploring the surrounding coastal paths reveals further geological wonders and unique vantage points. Reddit

For those interested in geology or simply seeking a dramatic natural spectacle, Umagase Cliffs provide an unforgettable experience. The visual impact of these ancient rock formations against the backdrop of the sea is truly remarkable. Instagram

Experiencing the Umagase Coastal Path

Beyond the primary observation deck, the coastal path at Umagase Cliffs offers an opportunity for a more immersive experience. This path allows visitors to extend their exploration, discovering hidden coves and different perspectives of the columnar rock formations. It's a chance to connect more deeply with the natural beauty of the area. Reddit

Many visitors recommend taking the time to walk these paths, noting that there are additional observation decks scattered along the route, each offering a slightly different, yet equally stunning, view. The terrain can be varied, so comfortable footwear is advised. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

The walk provides a sense of discovery and allows for a more personal appreciation of the dramatic coastline. It’s a great way to spend a few hours, enjoying the sea breeze and the magnificent scenery. Instagram

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