A Unique Landscape Created by Coastal Terraces
One of Esuzaki’s most distinctive features is its dramatic terrain, which has been shaped over countless years. The island is surrounded by cliffs carved by powerful waves, while its central area is comparatively flat. This unusual landscape was formed when a wave-cut platform that once lay beneath the sea was gradually uplifted by movements of the Earth’s crust, creating a coastal terrace.
Visitors can also observe sandstone and alternating layers of sandstone and mudstone belonging to the Muro Group, a geological formation that forms part of the foundation of the Kii Peninsula. Walking through the area while observing the surrounding landscape offers a fascinating glimpse into the immense amount of time required for the ocean and the Earth to shape this coastline.
A Rich Forest Nurtured by the Kuroshio Current
The forests of Esuzaki support a wide variety of plants adapted to warm climates, thanks largely to the influence of the Kuroshio Current. More than 200 species of plants have been identified on the island, including subtropical species such as Hakamakazura, Ubame oak, Hamasedan, and Shimasarunashi.
One of the most impressive sights is the way vines climb and twist around large trees, sometimes forming several layers as they reach toward the sky. The scenery can feel remarkably similar to a tropical jungle. The fact that this evergreen broad-leaved forest has remained in such good condition is closely connected to the island’s long history as sacred ground, where human activity has been carefully restricted.
Esuzaki is also located near the boundary between Japan’s warm-temperate and subtropical vegetation zones. As a result, plants from both environments can be found here, creating an unusually diverse ecosystem. A once-famous giant Hakamakazura vine has unfortunately died in recent years, highlighting once again the importance of protecting this valuable natural environment.
The Entire Island Is Sacred – Kasuga Shrine and Esuzaki Myojin
At the center of Esuzakijima stands Kasuga Shrine, where Esuzaki Myojin is enshrined. The entire island has long been regarded as a sacred place, and a traditional local belief says that visitors should never take anything away from Esuzaki.
These beliefs have played an important role in protecting the island’s natural environment for generations. As you walk quietly through the forest, you may sense an atmosphere that is quite different from that of an ordinary tourist destination. Surrounded by the sound of leaves moving in the breeze and the scent of the sea, a walk through Esuzaki can be a peaceful and reflective experience.
A Spectacular View from Esuzaki Lighthouse
At the tip of the island stands Esuzaki Lighthouse, a scenic viewpoint offering wide views over the Pacific Ocean. The combination of the deep blue sea, rugged coastline, and seemingly endless sky creates a spectacular panorama.
The scenery is especially beautiful around sunset, when the setting sun casts a warm glow across the ocean. It is one of the landscapes for which Susami Town is particularly well known. Taking time to enjoy the view while feeling the sea breeze can provide a relaxing escape from the pace of everyday life.
One of Susami’s Eight Scenic Views
Esuzaki is recognized as one of the “Eight Scenic Views of Susami”, a collection of landscapes representing the natural beauty of the town. The magnificent coastline of the Karekinada Sea, combined with the mysterious ancient forest, creates scenery that feels like a work of art created by nature itself.
Several other scenic destinations can be found nearby, including Inazumijima Island, Koibito-misaki (Fufu-nami), and Hirose Gorge. Exploring these attractions by car or combining them with leisurely walks is a wonderful way to experience the coastal scenery of Susami.
Japanese Children’s Songs Garden – A Relaxing Place Filled with Familiar Melodies
Near the entrance to Esuzaki is the popular attraction known as the Japanese Children’s Songs Garden. This park features walking paths inspired by traditional children’s songs associated with the Kishu region. Visitors can enjoy both the beautiful coastal scenery and the gentle melodies of songs that have been loved by generations of Japanese people.
Throughout the park are monuments and song markers dedicated to familiar children’s songs such as “Mari and the Lord,” “Hato Poppo,” “Akatombo,” “Nanatsu no Ko,” “The Hill Where Mandarin Flowers Bloom,” and “Yuyake Koyake.” When visitors approach some of the monuments, the corresponding music begins to play, creating a warm and nostalgic atmosphere.
A Walk with Views of the Sea
The walking paths offer expansive views of the magnificent Karekinada coastline. On clear days, the contrast between the blue Pacific Ocean and the sky is particularly striking. Walking through the park with the sea breeze around you is a refreshing experience.
The Japanese Children’s Songs Garden has also been selected as one of the “100 Best Sunrise and Sunset Views in Wakayama Prefecture.” At sunset, the coastline takes on a beautiful, almost dreamlike appearance. With open grassy areas available, the park is also a pleasant place for families to enjoy a picnic while taking in the scenery.
The Gateway to Esuzakijima
Continue toward the far end of the Japanese Children’s Songs Garden and you will find a staircase leading toward the sea. Beyond it is a path connecting to Esuzakijima, allowing visitors to walk onto the island.
Walking along a nature trail while listening to traditional Japanese children’s songs, and then entering the mysterious ancient forest of Esuzaki, is an experience unique to this area. The combination of nature, history, traditional beliefs, culture, and music makes Esuzaki a memorable destination for anyone exploring Susami Town.
Access Information
Esuzaki and the Japanese Children’s Songs Garden can be reached on foot in approximately 15–20 minutes from either JR Mirozu Station or JR Esumi Station. By car, the area is approximately 5 minutes from the Susami-Minami Interchange on the Kisei Expressway.
Admission is free, making it easy to include Esuzaki in a sightseeing itinerary. With its spectacular Pacific Ocean views, ancient forest, sacred atmosphere, and nostalgic world of Japanese children’s songs, Esuzaki is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a peaceful encounter with nature and local culture.