Located in Mikuni Town, Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture, Tojinbo is a magnificent sea cliff carved by the rough waves of the Sea of Japan. The columnar joint rock walls stretching approximately 1 kilometer reach heights of about 25 meters and are designated as a National Natural Monument and Place of Scenic Beauty.
These rare pyroxene andesite columnar joints are said to exist at only three locations in the world at this scale. This spectacular landscape, formed by volcanic activity approximately 13 million years ago, is a power spot where visitors can experience nature’s awesome power, attracting about 1.5 million visitors annually.
The name “Tojinbo” is said to derive from a legend about a monk who once lived in this area. This place where nature’s raw power and historical legend intersect is visited by many at life’s turning points, offering a power spot that resets the mind and gives strength to take new steps forward.
The Allure of This Sacred Site
A sad legend is associated with the name Tojinbo. Long ago, there was a monk named Tojinbo at Heisenji Temple (in present-day Katsuyama City). He was said to be violent and troublesome to the villagers, and was pushed off these cliffs by villagers who held a grudge against him.
It is said that the sea remained rough for 49 days afterward, leading to this place being called “Tojinbo.” However, this is merely legend, and there are various theories about the actual origin of the name.
Geologically, Tojinbo was formed by volcanic activity approximately 13 million years ago. As magma cooled rapidly near the surface, regular fractures (joints) formed, creating the current columnar rock formations.
It was designated as a National Natural Monument and Place of Scenic Beauty in 1935 (Showa 10). In 1972 (Showa 47), it was incorporated into Echizen-Kaga Kaigan Quasi-National Park. Today, it is Fukui Prefecture’s representative tourist attraction, drawing many visitors from Japan and abroad.
Tojinbo’s greatest feature is its “pyroxene andesite columnar joints.” This is an extremely rare geological formation worldwide, and similar-scale examples are said to exist only at Mount Kumgang on the Korean Peninsula and Norway’s west coast.
Columnar joints are polygonal (mainly pentagonal and hexagonal) columnar fractures that form when magma contracts in volume as it cools and solidifies. At Tojinbo, these columnar rocks extend continuously for about 1 kilometer, reaching a maximum height of approximately 25 meters.
From the tip of the cliff called “Oike,” a grand panorama of the Sea of Japan spreads out. On clear days, you can see as far as the Noto Peninsula, and at sunset, the sun sinking into the Sea of Japan creates a spectacular view.
From Tojinbo Tower (55 meters high), you can overlook the entire columnar joint formation and the Sea of Japan. On good weather days, it’s a viewpoint from which you can see all the way to the Hakusan mountain range.
What sets Tojinbo apart from other scenic spots is its “raw natural power” and “ability to help people reflect on life.”
Standing on the sea cliffs and looking down at the rough waves of the Sea of Japan, you realize human smallness before nature’s overwhelming power. This experience relativizes daily worries and resets the heart.
Tojinbo is also known for being visited by many at “life’s turning points.” When facing major decisions or feeling stuck, standing in this place is said to broaden perspectives and reveal new paths.
The columnar joints viewed from the sea on a sightseeing boat offer a different kind of impact than viewing from land. You can enjoy this natural artwork from various angles.
Spiritual Benefits and Effects
While Tojinbo is not a shrine or temple but a natural power spot, it is said to offer the following effects:
Mind-Body Purification & Refreshment: The sea breeze from the Sea of Japan and the wild natural energy blow away accumulated fatigue and stress. The sense of liberation when standing at the cliff’s edge is exceptional.
Enhanced Decision-Making & Action: Facing nature’s overwhelming power, you become aware of how you were worrying about small things, and decision-making ability is said to increase. This is why many visit at life’s turning points.
Renewal & New Beginnings: Just as rough waves carve rock and continue creating new forms, you can shed your old self and receive power to be reborn as a new person.
Warding Off Evil & Purification: The rough waves of the Sea of Japan are said to have purifying power, washing away negative energy.
What many visitors sense at Tojinbo is an “overwhelming sense of scale” and “reverence for nature.”
Facing the 25-meter cliff, you keenly feel that there are things human power cannot overcome. This experience conversely generates a positive feeling of “let me focus on what I can do.”
Also, facing terrain formed over 13 million mind-boggling years, you realize how short-term life’s worries really are. Many report feeling lighter in heart.
“I visited when struggling with whether to quit my job. Standing on the cliff looking at the sea, I thought ‘it’s a waste of time to keep worrying,’ and I could make my decision.” (Man in his 30s, Osaka)
“A friend brought me here when I was depressed after my divorce. Watching the rough waves, I mysteriously felt energized and thought ‘I can try again.’” (Woman in her 40s, Ishikawa)
Best Times to Visit
Mid-April to early May has mild weather ideal for sightseeing. Cherry blossoms bloom nearby, and fresh greenery is beautiful. Golden Week is crowded, but weekdays are relatively empty. The sea is often relatively calm. Summer is the best season for sightseeing boats. The columnar joints viewed from the sea are exceptionally impressive. However, the Obon period is very crowded. Sunset cruises are also popular. Fewer tourists for leisurely enjoyment. October–November has clear air, with days when you can see as far as the Noto Peninsula. The most beautiful time for sunset over the Sea of Japan. The Sea of Japan’s rough waves are at their most intense, and you may see “wave flowers” (sea foam). You can experience nature’s fury, but sightseeing boats are often cancelled and the cold is severe. Winter delicacies like crab are exceptional. Early Morning (6:00–8:00 AM): Few tourists, enjoy quiet Tojinbo to yourself. Ideal for photography. Morning (9:00 AM–12:00 PM): Sightseeing boats begin operating. Recommended for enjoying columnar joints from the sea. Afternoon (1:00–4:00 PM): Most crowded time. Shopping street is lively. Evening (4:00 PM–Sunset): Sunset over the Sea of Japan is spectacular. Autumn–winter sunsets are especially magnificent.
Recommendation: ★★★★☆
Recommendation: ★★★★★
Recommendation: ★★★★★
Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Visitor’s Guide
Tojinbo is a natural spot, so there are no specific worship rituals. Enjoy Tojinbo’s attractions with this course:
1. Walk the Sea Cliffs
Walk the main promenade to view the columnar joint cliffs up close. About 10 minutes’ walk from the parking lot to the tip “Oike.” Some areas have no railings, so watch your step.
2. Panoramic Views from Tojinbo Tower
A 55-meter observation tower. The 360-degree panorama from 100 meters above sea level is spectacular. Views of the entire columnar joint formation, Sea of Japan, and on clear days, the Hakusan mountain range. Admission ¥500.
3. Sightseeing Boat Tour
About 30-minute boat tour (adults ¥1,500). The columnar joints viewed from the sea are incomparably impressive compared to land viewing. See Lion Rock, Candle Rock, and other strange rocks up close.
4. Cross to Oshima Island
The sacred island “Oshima” floating about 1 kilometer offshore. Cross via a 224-meter vermillion bridge to visit Ominato Shrine and other attractions. Island circumference takes about 30 minutes on foot.
Deep Breathing at the Cliff’s Edge: In a safe spot, breathe in deeply the sea breeze from the Sea of Japan. Experience the sensation of body and mind being purified.
Take Time to Gaze at the Sea: While watching the rough waves, empty your mind. Worries become relativized and the heart feels lighter.
Pray at Oshima: Offer prayers quietly at Ominato Shrine. Said to offer blessings for safe voyages and matchmaking.
- Clothing: Wind is often strong, so bring layers. Wear comfortable walking shoes for cliff walking. High heels are dangerous.
- What to Bring: Camera, hat, sunscreen (summer), warm clothing (autumn/winter)
- Note: Some areas have no railings. Be very careful of your footing when taking selfies or photos.
Basic Information
Address: Anjima, Mikuni-cho, Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture
By Car:
- About 25 minutes from Hokuriku Expressway “Kanazu IC”
- About 40 minutes from Fukui City
- Parking: About 500 spaces (regular cars ¥500)
By Public Transportation:
- Keifuku Bus “Tojinbo” from JR Hokuriku Line “Awara Onsen Station,” about 30 minutes
- Keifuku Bus from Echizen Railway “Mikuni Minato Station,” about 10 minutes
Visiting Information
- Viewing Hours: 24 hours (no lighting at night)
- Closed: None
- Admission: Free (tower and boat tours extra)
- Tojinbo Tower: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, ¥500
- Sightseeing Boat: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM (often closed in winter), adults ¥1,500
- Duration: 1 hour for walking only, 3–4 hours including boat and Oshima
- Official Website: https://www.mikuni.org/ (Mikuni Tourism Association)
- Contact: Mikuni Tourism Association 0776-82-5515
Area Information
Oshima Island (15-min walk)
A sacred island floating offshore from Tojinbo. Ominato Shrine is enshrined here, and the entire island is a power spot. Cross the vermillion Oshima Bridge for an island circumference walk (about 30 min).
Awara Onsen (15 min by car)
One of Hokuriku’s premier hot spring towns. Refresh with day-use bathing after Tojinbo sightseeing. Many ryokan and hotels, also recommended as an accommodation base.
Echizen Matsushima (5 min by car)
A gentle landscape contrasting with Tojinbo. Small islands dot the area, explorable by walking paths. The “Echizen Matsushima Aquarium” is also popular with families.
Yamani Suisan (Tojinbo Shopping Street)
- Fresh seafood
- Specialties: Seafood Bowl (¥1,800), Grilled Squid (¥500)
- Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Bolga Rice Restaurant Rakuda (15 min by car)
- Fukui’s local gourmet “Bolga Rice”
- Specialty: Bolga Rice (¥1,100)
- Hours: 11:00 AM–2:30 PM
Tojinbo Umi no Ie (in shopping street)
- Famous for sweet shrimp kakiage
- Specialty: Sweet Shrimp Kakiage Don (¥1,400)
- Hours: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Senzoku Soba (10 min by car)
- Famous restaurant for Fukui specialty “Echizen Oroshi Soba”
- Specialty: Echizen Oroshi Soba (¥900)
- Hours: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM
Souvenirs & Local Products
- Echizen Crab: Winter-only (November–March). Premium nationally branded crab
- Sweet Shrimp: Mikuni Port is famous for sweet shrimp. Sashimi, kakiage, senbei, etc.
- Habutae Mochi: Representative Fukui confection. Known for soft texture
- Echizen Ware: One of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns. Subdued-taste pottery
Model Itineraries
Half-Day Course (approx. 3 hours)
10:00 AM Arrive at Tojinbo parking lot
10:15 AM Cliff walk (45 min)
11:00 AM Tojinbo Tower (30 min)
11:30 AM Seafood lunch at shopping street
12:30 PM Sightseeing boat (30 min)
1:15 PM End
Full-Day Course (approx. 7 hours)
9:30 AM Arrive at Tojinbo, cliff walk
10:30 AM Sightseeing boat
11:15 AM Oshima Island exploration (1 hour)
12:30 PM Lunch at shopping street
2:00 PM Echizen Matsushima Aquarium (1.5 hours)
4:00 PM Day bathing at Awara Onsen
5:30 PM End
Visitor Reviews and Experiences
“Overwhelmed by Nature’s Power” (Man in his 50s, Tokyo)
“The scale was beyond what I imagined from TV. Standing at the cliff’s edge, the impact almost made my legs give out. But somehow my heart felt refreshed, like daily stress was blown away.”
“The Sightseeing Boat Was Amazing” (Couple in their 30s, Aichi)
“The columnar joints viewed from the sea were beyond words. Lion Rock, Candle Rock—they were like artworks created by nature. The sunset cruise is also recommended.”
“Could Reflect on Life” (Woman in her 40s, Kyoto)
“I visited when I was down due to various circumstances. Watching the sea, tears wouldn’t stop for some reason… But by the time I left, I mysteriously felt positive.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the parking lot get crowded?
A: Golden Week, Obon, and autumn foliage seasons are crowded. Early morning or weekdays recommended. About 500 spaces available.
Q: Do sightseeing boats require reservations?
A: No reservation needed, same-day boarding available. However, boats may be cancelled on high-wave days. Many closure days in winter, so please confirm.
Q: Is it okay with children?
A: Some cliff areas have no railings, so caution is needed with small children. Combining with Echizen Matsushima Aquarium makes for family-friendly enjoyment.
Q: Can I enjoy it on rainy days?
A: The shopping street and tower can be enjoyed, but cliff walking is slippery and dangerous. Sightseeing boats may also be cancelled. Sunny days are recommended.
Summary
Tojinbo is a globally rare columnar joint sea cliff created by volcanic activity approximately 13 million years ago. The spectacular landscape of rock walls about 25 meters high extending for about 1 kilometer continues to captivate many as a power spot where you can experience nature’s awesome power.
This place where the rough waves of the Sea of Japan and the sea cliffs interweave is said to have the power to purify body and mind and help reflect on life. When facing major decisions or when your heart feels clouded, standing in this place will surely give you new perspectives.
The columnar joints viewed from the sea on a sightseeing boat, the mystical atmosphere of Oshima Island, and relaxation at Awara Onsen—the Tojinbo area offers spots to refresh both mind and body. When visiting Fukui, be sure to receive nature’s magnificent power at Tojinbo.
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*Information in this article is current as of December 2025. Please verify the latest details via the official website before visiting.*
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