Onigajo

Onigajo is a scenic spot designated as a National Natural Monument in 1935, and in 2004 it was also registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it one of Mie Prefecture’s scenic highlights. Facing the sea, you can see countless caves of all sizes carved by the rough waves of the Kumano-nada Sea, as well as rugged rock surfaces shaped by uplift from earthquakes, all up close. This naturally formed fortress-like landscape is also linked to a legend in which the pirate Taga-maru, feared as a demon, once used it as his stronghold, and was later subdued by Sakanoue no Tamuramaro under an imperial order—a story that is still told today. The nearest station is JR Kumano-shi Station, with buses and taxis available, but if you walk, it takes about 30 minutes. It takes about an hour to walk the full route, but some areas may be closed depending on weather and other conditions, so it’s a good idea to check in advance. Nearby, there is also the Onigajo Center, equipped with a restaurant and souvenir shop. After touring the dramatic Onigajo scenery, you can relax and enjoy shopping and a meal at a leisurely pace.