Sanriku Coast and Goishi Beach: Dramatic Cliffs and Strange Rocks

The Sanriku Coast of eastern Iwate is roughly 200 kilometers of shoreline where the complex terrain of a rias coast produces one dramatic view after another. Among its highlights, Goishi Coast near Ofunato is known for wave-carved rocks and cliffs and ranks as a signature spot of Sanriku Fukkou (Recovery) National Park. This article focuses on Goishi Coast, a representative sight of the southern Sanriku Coast.

Terrain and Nature of the Sanriku Coast

The Sanriku Coast divides into a northern section of rias coastline, formed as mountains sank into the sea, and a southern section of well-developed coastal terraces. The intricate bays hold calm water and have long supported rich fisheries. On the headlands facing the open ocean, by contrast, wind and heavy waves have carved the rock over ages into dynamic cliffs and strange formations. Goishi Coast lies on the Massaki Peninsula in the southern section, in Ofunato.

Highlights of Goishi Coast

The name Goishi ("go stones") comes from the beach of black, flat pebbles (rounded mudstone) that lie scattered like the stones of the board game Go. Along about 3 kilometers, natural sculpture is dotted throughout: Anatooshi-iso, a run of sea caves; Kaminari-iwa (Thunder Rock), where waves crash with a thunder-like roar; and the distinctively shaped Kinchaku-iwa. A walking path through a red pine grove links the scattered scenic points, and there are eateries serving fresh seafood.

Seasonal Notes

Early summer through autumn, when sea and greenery are at their finest, is especially recommended, ideal for walking the path and watching black-tailed gulls. From autumn into winter, waves smashing against the rocks make a powerful sight, but winds are strong and the cold sharp, so dress warmly. Clear summer days show off the transparent water and greenery at their best.

Getting There

Take the JR Ofunato Line BRT to Goishi-kaigan-guchi Station, then continue to Goishi Coast by bus or car. From central Morioka it is about 2 hours by car. Walking the path is free, and there is parking nearby. BRT service is infrequent, so check the timetable in advance.

Practical Travel Notes

Walking the path past the main sights takes about an hour one way. There are slopes and rocky stretches, so wear comfortable shoes. The many black-tailed gulls are a highlight in themselves. The Sanriku coast is a treasure house of sea urchin, abalone, wakame, and other seafood, best enjoyed at harbor eateries and roadside stations. Combining Goishi with Rikuzentakata to the south or Miyako and Jodogahama to the north makes for a fine coast-spanning trip. The walk itself is free; even with a seafood meal, a few thousand yen is a good guide.

One Piece of Advice

Goishi Coast is a place to savor natural forms slowly rather than seek spectacle. Walk the beach paved with wave-polished black go stones and listen to the surf breaking against the rocks, and you will feel the raw power of Sanriku's nature firsthand. Give yourself plenty of time to stroll the path at an easy pace.

📚 Sources

This article was compiled by our editorial team based on public information from the city of Ofunato and the Ofunato Tourism and Products Association, on-site information boards at the Goishi Coast, general information about the Sanriku Fukko (Reconstruction) National Park, and public information about the JR Ofunato Line BRT. BRT times and frequency, the condition of the walking trail, and the operation of nearby facilities may change. Before you set out, please check the latest details on the tourist information of the city of Ofunato and the official information of the BRT.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time needed: about 1 hour one way to tour the main sights along the walking trail
• What to bring and prepare: the trail has ups and downs and rocky areas, so wear comfortable shoes. In autumn and winter the wind is strong and it grows cold, so prepare warm clothing
• Suggested route: take a bus or car from Goishikaiganguchi Station to the Goishi Coast, tour the unusual rocks such as Anatooshiiso, Kaminari-iwa, and Kinchaku-iwa along the trail, and visit the beach paved with black pebbles
• A note on getting around: the BRT does not run frequently, so it is reassuring to check the timetable in advance
• Local flavor: the Sanriku coast is a treasure trove of seafood such as sea urchin, abalone, and wakame, savored at harbor eateries and roadside stations