Nanbara Senjoiwa Coast

In short

Nanbara Senjoiwa Coast is a lava plateau extending along the western coast of Hachijojima Island. Formed when lava that flowed from eruptions of Mt. Hachijo-Fuji cooled and solidified, dark black rocks stretch across an area 500 meters long and 100 meters wide. With Hachijokojima Island directly in view offshore, it is also known as a prime sunset viewing spot.

• ​Black Lava Plateau​​: On the rugged basalt rock surface, visitors can feel how the island was born from a volcano.
• ​Sunset Behind Hachijokojima Island​​: Beyond the waves crashing against the black rocks, you can gaze at the sun setting behind Hachijokojima Island floating on the sea.
• ​Monument of Hideie and Gohime​​: Nearby stands a monument to Ukita Hideie and Gohime with Mt. Hachijo-Fuji in the background.

History & Highlights

Nanbara Senjoiwa Coast is a lava plateau located along the western coast of Hachijojima Island. It was formed when lava flowed out during eruptions of Mt. Hachijo-Fuji, poured into the ocean, cooled, and hardened. Along the coast, dark black rocks stretch across an area 500 meters long and 100 meters wide. The rock is basalt. It is estimated that the lava flowed out around 3,000 to 2,000 years ago.

The sections facing the ocean have been eroded by waves over many years, creating rocky walls. It is also known as a good spot for rock fishing. The contrast between the blue sea and the rugged volcanic plateau leaves an impression, making it a place where one can clearly appreciate that Hachijojima Island was born through volcanic activity.

Near the rocky shore stands a monument to Lord Ukita Hideie and Gohime. Hideie was exiled to Hachijojima Island after being defeated in the Battle of Sekigahara, spending approximately 50 years on this island. The monument depicts Hideie alongside his wife, Gohime, who remained on the mainland. It was created in memory of the husband and wife who were separated for the rest of their lives.

Highlights & Activities

• ​Viewing the Lava Rocks​​: The rugged black rock formations created by lava from Mt. Hachijo-Fuji pouring into the sea stretch outward. Beyond the waves crashing against the black rocks, Hachijokojima Island floats on the horizon.
• ​Watching the Sunset behind Hachijokojima Island​​: The sunset over Hachijokojima Island right in front of you is exceptional. Twilight in autumn is said to be particularly beautiful. In winter, many sightings of humpback whales have also been reported.
• ​Viewing the Monument Together with Mt. Hachijo-Fuji​​: The monument to Lord Ukita Hideie and Gohime faces the ocean with Mt. Hachijo-Fuji behind it. It is a good location for commemorative photos with Mt. Hachijo-Fuji in the background.

Tips for Visitors

Nanbara Senjoiwa Coast is about a 10-minute drive from Hachijojima Airport. In Nanbara Enchi along the road, walking paths are maintained alongside the rocky area. The monument to Lord Ukita Hideie and Gohime is located on the south side of Nanbara Enchi. While there are stairs leading down to the rocks, deep fissures run through the rock surface. Please watch your footing carefully. The expanse of black rocks of Nanbara Senjoiwa Coast can also be viewed from the Osaka Tunnel Observation Deck.