What to know
Kitayamazaki (北山崎) is an eight-kilometer stretch of coastline in northern Iwate Prefecture. As part of the Sanriku Recovery National Park, it boasts cliffs that rise 150 to 200 meters high.
The best vantage point is the Kitayamazaki Observatory, a park at the northern end of the coastline. It features three observation decks offering breathtaking views, plus souvenir shops, restaurants, and lodgings. A network of walking trails connects the decks, and one steep stairway descends to sea level.
Another way to experience the coast is by sightseeing boat from a small port near Shimanokoshi Station, seven kilometers south of the cliffs. From late April to early November, four cruises run daily (more on busy days), lasting about 50 minutes and costing 2,000 yen.
About ten kilometers south lies the Unosu Cliff, a four-kilometer stretch of five nearly identical 200-meter cliffs lined up in a row. An observation deck on the south side offers views. Unosu means "cormorant's nest cliff," and visitors can spot cormorants, eagles, and ospreys nesting along the rocks.
A rental car is highly recommended due to infrequent public transport. Rental outlets are available near Morioka and Miyako stations.
By train, take the Sanriku Railway from Miyako to Tanohata Station (45 minutes, 1,120 yen, covered by the JR East Pass but not other JR passes). From Tanohata, "share taxis" run every 1-2 hours to Kitayamazaki Coast (20 minutes, 800 yen one way per person). A regular taxi costs about 3,900 yen per taxi.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Closed
- Admission
- English name
- Original name
- Kitayamazaki Coast
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.