Japan Canyon, Natural canyon in Fukaura, Japan
Japan Canyon is a valley formed by white tufa cliffs that open along the coastline in a U-shape, with vertical walls cutting through green forest. The formation extends across several hundred meters and creates a defined space between towering rock and dense vegetation.
Explorer Mamoru Kishi gave this geological formation its name in 1953 after recognizing its similarity to the Grand Canyon. This naming took place during a nationwide geological survey and brought the site wider recognition.
The local name Higureyama comes from a tradition where people stayed here until dusk to observe the natural landscape. This habit shaped how generations of residents understood and spoke about this place.
The best time to visit is early morning or near sunset when light highlights the white rocks and fewer visitors are present. The walk to the viewpoint requires good shoes as the ground can be uneven and sometimes wet.
The white rock faces have long served as a navigation landmark for ships traveling the Sea of Japan coast, helping sailors find their way. This role as a maritime reference point existed well before the site became known to modern explorers.
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