Cape Hyuga Umagase

Hyuga Cape Umagase is a cape located atop striking columnar-jointed rock formations that jut out into the Hyuganada Sea of the Pacific. It is said to have been named “Umagase” because of the color and shape of the cliffs. The exposed 70-meter-high sheer cliffs are dramatic and well worth seeing. Located within Hyuga Kaigan Quasi-National Park, this ria coastline and its cliffs were shaped over long ages by volcanic eruptions and the relentless waves of the Pacific, and the area is designated a National Natural Monument. The inlets of the ria coast provide ideal habitats for fish, making it a popular shore-fishing spot. On the opposite side near the cape’s base, there is also a beautiful beach suitable for swimming, listed among Japan’s “88 Best Beaches.” The coast is a popular drive route running north–south through Miyazaki; besides Umagase, famous sights such as Horikiri Pass, Aoshima, Udo Jingu, and “Kurusuno-umi” are scattered along the way, making a drive-and-stop route recommended. Access: by public transportation, it’s about 18 minutes by car from JR Nippo Main Line “Hyuga-shi Station.” By car, it’s about 5 minutes from Higashi-Kyushu Expressway “Hyuga IC.” From Aoshima, it’s about a 1.5-hour (about 100 km) drive along the coast.