Ryusendo & Jodogahama
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Port
Miyako, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$249
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 8 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Get acquainted with Jodogahama and its Visitor Center by boarding a boat for a cruise to this jagged rocky island.
The picturesque coastline of Sanriku Fukko National Park surrounds you, and you'll pass several dramatic rock formations, including towering Candle Rock. Large black-tailed gulls dip and dive into the salty seawater.
Jodogahama Beach, designated a National Scenic Reserve, is a beautiful white-pebble beach that creates a striking landscape against deep blue ocean. The contrast is punctuated by rocky islands and the surrounding lush green pine trees. Relax over lunch.
Northern Miyako is famous for its Ryusendo Cave National Monument. The Ryusendo Cave itself extends 2.2 miles underground, but only the first half-mile or so is accessible to the public. Within this subterranean world, you'll find formations such as stalactites and stalagmites, as well as some funny-looking long-eared bats. There are many emerald-green subterranean lakes and fresh-spring pools with crystalline waters -- among the most transparent in the world. Bridges, elevated walkways, and stairs transport visitors through this underground environment.
The Taro Kanko Hotel, now in ruins, serves as a commemorative site after the 55-foot-tall tsunami in 2011 that caused massive destruction. The first two floors of the hotel were completely lost, leaving only the pillars, but the remaining levels have been preserved and are now on display. You will view this monument to destruction from the outside only; feel free to take photos if you wish.
Don't miss the Sannoiwa Rocks, carved by centuries, or millennia, of wind and pounding surf. Overlooking the picturesque coastline of Sanriku Fukko National Park, the rocks consist of three huge boulders, including the Otoko-iwa (male rock) in the center at almost 120 feet tall, the Onna-iwa (female rock) on the left, and the Taiko-iwa (drum rock) on the right.
Notes:
Bring local currency, as many vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars. The cave's year-round temperature is approximately 50°; bring a warm outer layer. Ryusendo is a 'living' cave; water often drips from the cave roof -- you may wish to wear rain jacket. The ground is wet and slippery. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Terrain includes 310 steps. A walk of almost a half-mile round trip is required. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations.