A National Natural Monument: Vast Rocky Shelf and Fossil Hunting Keep Children Mesmerized
About this spot
A designated national natural monument featuring an expansive, flat rocky shelf called "Senjo-shiki" (covering approximately 5 hectares) that was created when the seafloor was uplifted by a major earthquake. Passing through the dimly lit tunnel at the entrance and emerging into the vista beyond creates a thrilling sense of discovery. The rocky shelf is dotted with rounded, bulbous rocks called "nodules," making it feel as though you're walking on the back of a giant tortoise. Fossil shells are embedded in the rock face, and by carefully observing your footing as you walk, you realize this is an open-air natural museum. Tide pools provide homes for small crabs and shellfish, captivating children's exploratory spirit.
Tips
Admission is free. Enter through the tunnel from the parking lot on the Karakanegane Fishing Harbor side. The rocky shelf becomes slippery when wet, so wear sturdy walking shoes. The shelf is wider to explore at low tide, so checking the tide table in advance is recommended.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes required. Visiting during low tide allows you to walk further along the shelf and enjoy fossil hunting to the fullest.
Access & map
〒697-0003 Hamada, Shimane Prefecture, Kokubunji-cho
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