Hiwasa Sea Turtles and South Awa Drive Course

Starting from the seaside town of Minami, where sea turtles come to lay their eggs, this route drives along the beautiful south Awa coastline. Meet the creatures and enjoy the views.

Course Route

9:30 Start at the Hiwasa Chelonian Museum Caretta At this rare museum devoted to sea turtles, observe them swimming up close.

10:30 Walk Ohama Beach Stroll the sands where sea turtles come ashore to nest and take in the white beach and blue sea.

11:30 Visit Yakuoji Temple Climb the stone steps to pray at the twenty third temple of the Shikoku pilgrimage, famous for warding off misfortune.

12:30 Lunch with local seafood Enjoy dishes made with fresh fish, a treat of this port town.

14:00 To the Semba Sea Cliffs lookout Drive the coastline of steep cliffs and feel the sea breeze at a lookout facing the Pacific.

15:30 Toward Mugi and Ebisu Cave Gaze at the seaside scenery of jagged rocks and close the day by the south Awa sea.

Highlights

At Caretta you can watch sea turtles swimming in a large tank, with rich displays on nesting and their lives. Ohama Beach is counted among Japan finest shores.

Access and Tips

A car is convenient since the drive links coastal points. Nesting season is summer, and what you can see varies by the time of year.

A Quick Tip

The sunlight by the sea is strong, so bring a hat and drinks. Lookouts can get windy, so a jacket adds peace of mind.