Oniga-jo in Mie
Located in Mie Prefecture, Oniga-jo (鬼ヶ城; demon castle) is a natural rock wall that stretches across the coastline of Ise-Shima for 1.2km. Its uniquely beautiful rock formations have led to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, as part of the Kumano pilgrimage route in the Kii Mountain Range.
How the demon castle got its name
Image credit: @lynn_orin
According to the official promotional website for Oniga-jo, there used to be oni (鬼; demons) that dwelled on these very rocks. The oni caused turbulent waves and tempestuous winds that shaped the rocks to be what they are today.
Picture perfect rock formations
Image adapted from: @_rossifumi_46
If you wish to see the beautiful rock formations in their full glory, be sure to visit Oniga-jo during a clear, sunny day. Pro tip: you can avoid the crowd if you visit Oniga-jo early in the morning.
Since the rock formations were formed naturally, do be careful while hiking as the ground will be uneven. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring a hiking stick with you should you need it.
Image credit: @r7__happylife
Image credit: @takeshi_sakiyama_shibadog_0710
Keep an eye out for the unique honeycomb patterns on the ceiling of the caves – they were formed as a result of wind erosion. With the natural light of the glaring afternoon sun seeping into the caves, the rock formation frames a spectacular view of the Kumano ocean.
Image adapted from: @mikadukin3
The caves are perfect backdrops for silhouette photos on days where the skies are clear and vibrant.
Image credit: @hirohiro_3dayo
If you aren’t a morning person, fret not as the sunset views at Oniga-jo are equally phenomenal. Watch as the glowing orange ball sinks into the glistening Kumano ocean while the sky slowly transitions into a myriad of colours.
Image credit: @os__0114
After the sun sets, Oniga-jo takes on a whole different vibe as countless stars adorn the night sky. Even if you get whisked away by an oni, the exquisite view might just make up for it.
Image credit: @kun0606
Getting to Oniga-jo
Possessing different kinds of charm during different times of the day, Oniga-jo is the perfect stop for nature lovers. If you are ever planning a trip to Mie Prefecture, be sure to include the demon castle on your list.
Address: 1835 Kinomotocho, Kumano, 519-4323 Mie Prefecture
Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily
Telephone: 0597-89-1502
Website
Also check out:
- Monet’s Pond in Gifu
- Hello Kitty train station in Tokyo
- Things to do in Kawagoe, Saitama
- Konagai day trip guide
- Daikanyama: the Brooklyn of Tokyo
Cover image adapted from: @lynn_orin, @os__0114, and @r7__happylife