Nishikigaura, Coastal cliff formation in Atami, Japan
Nishikigaura is a coastal cliff formation stretching about 1 kilometer along Atami Bay, where volcanic rock has been carved by ocean waves into distinctive shapes. The landscape reveals varied rock layers and natural fractures that become visible as you walk along the water's edge.
The name comes from the five-color reflections of sunlight on the water, which resemble the ornate brocade patterns found in Kyoto's traditional textile work. This poetic naming reflects how people of earlier times connected natural features to cultural imagery.
The rocky outcrops here are named after samurai helmets and traditional headdresses, showing how local culture shapes the way people see the landscape. These names remain in everyday use and connect the physical formations to broader Japanese imagery and storytelling.
The site is most accessible at low tide, when rocks and tidal pools are easier to explore and safer to navigate. Wear sturdy shoes since the ground is uneven and waves can splash unexpectedly over the edges.
Individual rock formations here go by names like Kabuto Rock, Eboshi Rock, and Benten Rock, each representing different traditional Japanese headdresses. Local guides and residents use these names routinely to point out and distinguish different sections of the coastline.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
