Nagasaki nose

Nagasakibana is a cape located at the southernmost tip of the Satsuma Peninsula in Kagoshima Prefecture. It is formed of volcanic rock. Long ago, it is said that Urashima Taro departed for the Dragon Palace from here, and a legend remains. For that reason, there is also Ryugu Shrine, which is popular as a matchmaking deity. The cape is also known as a sea turtle nesting site, which is seen as supporting the Urashima Taro legend. From the cape you can overlook the ocean and also see Kaimondake, with magnificent scenery spreading out before you. You can also watch waves crashing against the rocky shore up close. On clear days, it is said you can see as far as Yakushima. The lookout platform is pure white, creating a striking contrast with the sky. The cape area, including the lookout, is designated as part of Kirishima-Kinko Bay National Park, and nearby Akamizu-bana has a natural cycad (sotetsu) habitat designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan. As it is a famous tourist destination, souvenir shops line the area, and the nearby Nagasakibana Parking Garden is also popular. Access: about 16 minutes by car from JR Yamakawa Station.