Station Kushimoto Hashigui Rocks

Discover the Soul of Kii Peninsula at Kushimoto Hashigui Rocks

Nestled along National Route 42 in the heart of Kushimoto, Kushimoto Hashigui Rocks roadside station stands as a gateway to one of Japan’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Just a short walk from the station, the iconic Hashigui Rocks—national natural monuments—rise dramatically from the sea, their towering formations stretching in a striking line toward Kii Island. At low tide, visitors can stroll between the rocks, experiencing the raw power of the Pacific Ocean up close.

More than a scenic stop, the roadside station celebrates the rich culture and bounty of Kushimoto and the broader Kii region. Explore local specialties like fresh seafood, handmade sweets, and traditional crafts, or enjoy a cooling soft serve while taking in panoramic ocean views. With easy access from major cities and nearby attractions like the Sea Aquarium and the southernmost point of Honshu, this is the perfect place to begin or enhance your journey through this historic and scenic coastal paradise.

Kushimoto Hashigui Rocks roadside station is the only place where you can view the National Natural Monument Bridge Pillar Rocks directly from a roadside facility, with dry tide walks across the 40+ unique rock formations stretching into the sea. It’s also the only roadside station in the area offering authentic Turkish-themed souvenirs, including handmade ceramics and memorabilia from the 1890 Ottoman shipwreck, tied to the historic rescue of survivors by local islanders.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to access the fresh fish display at the local seafood counter, which is restocked daily at 8:00 AM and often sells out by midday.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the "Turkish Goods" section in the souvenir shop to find authentic Ottoman-style ceramic tiles and handwoven scarves, available only at this roadside station and not sold elsewhere in the region.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, stop by the bakery counter between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM to purchase the limited-edition "Kushimoto Sea Salt Croissant," baked fresh daily and sold out by 11:00 AM.

• Best Photo Spot: Walk behind the roadside station building to the small viewing platform near the parking area, where you can capture the full view of the Bridge Pile Rocks stretching across the sea—especially striking at low tide when the rock paths are exposed.

• Local Insight: Ask the tourism concierge at the information desk for the "Kushimoto Coastal Walk Route Map," which includes lesser-known trails from the roadside station to the hidden coves near the Arakawa Coast, accessible only via footpaths marked on the map.

• Must-Try Food: Try the "Kushimoto Sea Urchin Rice Ball" at the fast food counter—it is made with locally harvested sea urchin and served only during the summer months (June to September), typically available from 11:00 AM until sold out.

• Timing for Souvenirs: Purchase the "Bridge Pile Rocks Souvenir Set" (a small model of the rocks with a map and story booklet) before 4:00 PM, as the display is taken down and restocked early the next day, making it unavailable during the afternoon rush.

Spring (March–May): Visit during late March to April for peak canola flower displays near the roadside station.

Summer (June–August): Ideal for exploring the rocky shoreline at low tide and enjoying fresh sea urchin and local seafood.

Autumn (September–November): Best time for visiting the coastal cliffs and observing seasonal fish migrations.

Winter (December–February): Visit in December to see the first snowfall on the cliffs and enjoy warm local dishes.