
Nakagi Coast
Discover dramatic columnar joint formations and access the pristine Hirizo Beach via ferry from this scenic geopark.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best ferry times & clear skies

Nakagi Coast
Best Time
Best ferry times & clear skies

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover dramatic columnar joint formations and access the pristine Hirizo Beach via ferry from this scenic geopark.
"Marvel at magnificent columnar joints and the beautiful sea, a highly recommended geopark."

🎯 Ferry Schedule is Key
Check the boat schedule carefully; tides rise fast! Aim to leave Hirizo Beach by 3 PM.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Nakagi Port offers free parking, a great perk for drivers exploring the coast.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hirizo Beach Access
Nakagi Port
Board a ferry from Nakagi Port to reach the secluded and breathtaking Hirizo Beach, a must-visit for its pristine waters.

Columnar Joint Formations
Nakagi Coastline
Marvel at the impressive natural sculptures of columnar joints, formed by ancient lava flows, creating a dramatic coastal landscape.

Nakagi Fishing Port
Nakagi Port
Experience the local charm of this active fishing port, offering free parking and a unique perspective of the coastline.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Ferry to Hirizo Beach
Geopark Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ferry Schedule is Key
Check the boat schedule carefully; tides rise fast! Aim to leave Hirizo Beach by 3 PM.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Nakagi Port offers free parking, a great perk for drivers exploring the coast.
⛰️ Admire Geological Wonders
The columnar joints are stunning! Stick to designated paths for safety.
🌊 Check Water Conditions
Water clarity and waves can vary. A sunny, calm day offers the best experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ferry Schedule is Key
Check the boat schedule carefully; tides rise fast! Aim to leave Hirizo Beach by 3 PM.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Nakagi Port offers free parking, a great perk for drivers exploring the coast.
⛰️ Admire Geological Wonders
The columnar joints are stunning! Stick to designated paths for safety.
🌊 Check Water Conditions
Water clarity and waves can vary. A sunny, calm day offers the best experience.
🚗 Scenic Mountain Drive
Enjoy the drive to Nakagi; the mountain roads offer beautiful views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Nakagi Coast for its stunning columnar joint formations and its role as a gateway to the beautiful Hirizo Beach. The free parking and scenic drives are appreciated, though some note that direct access to certain geological areas is restricted for safety. The experience can be weather-dependent, with water clarity and wave conditions varying.
"Nakagi Fishing Port also has a free parking lot and toilets.
In the summer, it is a famous fishing port that provides a ferry to the famous Hirizo Beach.
The mountains visible from Nakagi Beach are magnificent rocky mountains formed by columnar formations, and you can feel the greatness of nature.
Normally you could walk along the promenade to enjoy the columnar formations and the beautiful sea up close, but now it is prohibited to enter due to the danger of falling rocks.
There is a small embankment at the mouth of the river at Nakagi Beach, so you can enjoy the view from the end of the embankment.
From the embankment you can enjoy a relaxing time watching small fish and crabs."
M Takahiro.
"Nakagi Fishing Port is famous for its access to Hirizo Beach, a hidden gem in southern Izu, but the port itself has something to see.
The cliffs that spread out over the fishing port are columnar jointed. The geological formations of columnar joints, formed by cooling and solidifying lava, can be enjoyed right before your eyes from the promenade, and the port has been designated a geopark. You can also see sea caves, so it's a highly recommended place."
潤之助
"Beautiful sea. Large black porgy swam leisurely. Looking up, the cliffs were lined with columnar joints. There was a fishing port where ferries to Hirizohama Beach depart. A place I'd like to visit again."
E U
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nakagi Coast is best accessed by car, with free parking available at Nakagi Port. The drive itself, especially from Minamiizu, offers scenic mountain road views. If coming from further afield, consider public transport to nearby towns and then a taxi or local bus.
Yes, Nakagi Fishing Port has a free parking lot, which is convenient for visitors planning to take the ferry or explore the immediate area. Parking may be free during the off-season.
While direct public transport to Nakagi Port might be limited, you can reach nearby towns and then arrange for a taxi or local bus. Some visitors suggest Mera Port as an alternative if ferry services from Nakagi are unavailable.
The drive to Nakagi, particularly from Minamiizu, is described as an epic journey with twists and turns through mountainous terrain surrounded by nature.
If ferries to Hirizo Beach from Nakagi are full or cancelled, you can try Mera Port, which also offers access to the area, though it might take you to a slightly different location like Yagawahama.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Nakagi Coast itself is generally free. However, you will need to purchase tickets for the ferry service to Hirizo Beach from Nakagi Port.
The ferry operating hours are crucial, especially during summer. Tides rise quickly, so it's advised to plan your departure from Hirizo Beach by 3 PM. It's best to check the specific ferry schedule on the day of your visit.
The Nakagi Coast is a designated geopark, and there is no specific entrance fee to explore the accessible areas and view the geological formations.
Hirizo Beach is primarily accessible via ferry from Nakagi Port. While it's a beautiful spot, direct access by land is limited, making the ferry the recommended option.
Yes, due to the risk of falling rocks, direct access to some areas along the promenade for viewing the columnar formations is prohibited. Always adhere to safety signs and designated viewing points.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Nakagi Coast is renowned for its magnificent columnar joint formations, a testament to volcanic activity. You can also enjoy the views from Nakagi Fishing Port and observe marine life from a small embankment.
While Nakagi Beach is near the port, it's more famous as a ferry terminal for Hirizo Beach. The water quality and wave conditions can vary, and it might not be the primary swimming destination for everyone.
At Nakagi Port, you can rent equipment for activities, enjoy the views of the rocky cliffs, and take a ferry to Hirizo Beach. You can also relax on the embankment and watch small fish and crabs.
You can walk along parts of the promenade to enjoy the columnar formations and the sea up close. However, direct entry into certain areas is prohibited due to safety concerns regarding falling rocks.
From the embankment at Nakagi Beach, you can often see small fish and crabs. Reviewers have also noted seeing large black porgy swimming leisurely in the waters.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic columnar joint formations against the backdrop of the sea offer incredible photographic opportunities. The view from the embankment at Nakagi Beach and the ferry departure point also make for scenic shots.
While you can get close to some formations from the promenade, direct access to certain areas is restricted for safety. Focus on capturing the scale and texture from accessible viewpoints.
Morning light often provides beautiful illumination for coastal landscapes. Consider the angle of the sun to best highlight the textures of the columnar joints and the color of the sea.
Yes, the ferry ride itself offers unique perspectives of the coastline and the approach to Hirizo Beach, making it a great opportunity for photos.
The end of the embankment at Nakagi Beach provides a good vantage point for observing marine life and the surrounding cliffs. The general coastline offers numerous spots to capture the grandeur of the columnar formations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
A highlight for children would be the chance to observe small fish and crabs from the embankment at Nakagi Beach, offering a simple yet engaging nature experience. The ferry ride to Hirizo Beach can also be an exciting part of the adventure for kids, though parents should be mindful of the ferry schedule and ensure they plan their return trip by 3 PM. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities might be limited at the more secluded beach areas.
🚗 Road Trippers & Drivers
Drivers can easily access the port and then decide whether to explore the immediate coastal area or take the ferry to Hirizo Beach. The scenic drive itself is part of the attraction, offering a chance to immerse in the local landscape. Remember to check local road conditions, especially if traveling during or after periods of heavy rain.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel of Columnar Joints
The formations are a visual reminder of the powerful volcanic forces that shaped the Izu Peninsula. Seeing them up close provides a tangible connection to the earth's history. The contrast between the rugged, geometric rock structures and the vibrant blue sea is particularly captivating, making it a highly recommended spot for those interested in natural landscapes.
These geological features are not just visually impressive but also offer educational value, highlighting the processes of volcanic activity and erosion. The designation as a geopark underscores the importance of preserving these natural heritage sites for future generations to learn from and admire.
Navigating the Ferry to Hirizo Beach
If the ferries from Nakagi Port are too crowded or cancelled due to weather conditions, there's a viable alternative: Mera Port. This port can also take you to the Hirizo Beach area, though it might lead to a slightly different spot like Yagawahama, which is about 30 minutes away. Having this backup plan can save your trip if initial plans fall through.
When planning your trip, it's wise to check the ferry status on the day of your visit, especially if traveling during peak season or in unpredictable weather. The ferry ride itself offers scenic views of the coastline, adding to the overall experience of reaching this secluded beach.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit