Sotomo

On the northern coast of Uchitomi Peninsula, there is a cave created by marine erosion. The 6km-long cliff is dotted with amazing rocks, rock tunnels and caves named Hell Gate, Couple of Turtles, White Waterfall, Big Gate, Small Gate, etc. and designated as a national place of scenic beauty. Sotomo is the name originally used by local fishermen, meaning the exterior surface or back surface. The Kanji characters were adopted in Edo Period which are still used today.

These lofty scenes are best enjoyed by cruising. The tour boat, which leaves from Wakasa Fisherman’s Wharf, takes 60 minutes to go around the natural art made by Japan Sea’s rough waves. On the way, you will see Kama-no-Koshi, the giant rocks which look like Easter Island’s Moai Statues, Amikake Rock with cracks in a grid pattern, Daimon/Shomon, two arches side by side, etc. The boat comes with heating and AC for your comfort.

Wakasa Fisherman’s Wharf, which can be a base for Sotomo tour, has seafood restaurants, the largest souvenir shop in Wakasa Region, and shops selling Sashimi and sushi. It is a fun, scenic place for gourmet food and shopping.