About
National Route 9 coastal section along the Sea of Japan in Tottori Prefecture, showcasing the dramatic interface between highway and coastline.
National Route 9 (ε½ι9ε·, KokudΕ KyΕ«-gΕ) is Japan's second-longest national highway at 638.4 kilometers, offering one of the most dramatic coastal driving experiences along the Sea of Japan. The route connects the prefectural capitals of Kyoto, Tottori, Matsue (Shimane Prefecture), and Yamaguchi across the Kansai and ChΕ«goku regions. π
The most scenic sections traverse the San-in Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, extending approximately 120 kilometers across Kyoto, Hyogo, and Tottori prefectures. This designated geopark area features a dramatic ria coastline where mountains meet the Sea of Japan directly, creating a landscape of sea cliffs, caves, and unique rock formations carved by marine erosion and seasonal winds. π
The coastal sections of Route 9 through Fukui Prefecture feature "constant changes between stone cliffs and lush greenery," with an "eclectic range of rock formations" where travelers can experience "a completely new coloration or structure" within just a few meters of driving. π
This route has been historically significant as a traditional maritime corridor connecting mountain cultures of the interior with coastal fishing traditions, showcasing the region's Echizen cultural heritage including pottery and knife-making traditions alongside coastal pilgrimage paths.
Cultural & Historical Significance
The San-in coastline offers a less-touristed alternative to Japan's Pacific coast, providing an authentic experience of the country's Sea of Japan maritime culture. The scenic drive from Fukui through Tottori to Hyogo "snakes between dense forests and a sparsely populated coastline," passing traditional fishing villages, dramatic geological formations, and Japan's only large dune system at Tottori. π
The San-in Coast UNESCO Global Geopark designation recognizes the dramatic coastal geology shaped by the Sea of Japan and the unique way of life that has evolved in harmony with this challenging environment. The coastal communities demonstrate how villages have adapted to and thrived along this dynamic coastline for centuries. π
As Japan's second-longest national highway, Route 9 serves as the primary transportation artery along the San-in (northern) coast of western Honshu, connecting mountain Hida culture with coastal fishing traditions.
Visiting Information
Access: From Takayama direction, drive south through the mountains and connect to Route 9 in the Fukui/Tottori area. The route follows the coastline westward toward Hyogo and Kinosaki Onsen.
Hours: Open 24/7 as a public highway; scenic viewpoints accessible during daylight hours
Route Context: Route 9 follows the coastline for approximately 120-150 km through San-in Geopark area
Seasonal Considerations: Late October offers excellent visibility and weather conditions; autumn foliage timing occurs from mid-October to mid-November in coastal areas. Clear autumn conditions ideal for Sea of Japan panoramic photography. π
Key Scenic Sections
Fukui Coastline (Tojimbo Area)
The Fukui coastal stretch features dramatic columnar basalt cliffs at Tojimbo, designated as a national scenic spot. The area showcases constant transitions between stone cliffs and lush greenery, with diverse rock formations providing excellent photography opportunities. π
Tottori Prefecture Coastal Drive
Uradome Coast: A 15-kilometer ria coastal inlet featuring distinctive sea walls, caves, and jagged rocks protruding from emerald waters. Designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument. Access via Route 9 with exit at San-in Kinki Expressway Otani Interchange. π
Three Main Viewpoints at Uradome:
- Sengan Matsushima
- Kamogaiso
- Shirahara Beach π
Tottori Sand Dunes: Japan's largest sand dunes (16km east-west, 2.4km north-south) providing a unique desert-like coastal landscape with wind-created patterns ideal for photography. π
Hyogo Prefecture Coastal Sections
Takeno Coast: Crystal-clear waters ranked in Japan's top 100 beaches by the Ministry of Environment. Multiple vantage points offer panoramic Sea of Japan views. π
Kasumi Coast (Kami Town): Features vast columnar joints, precipices, tunnels, caves, and reefs. Designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty (1938). Famous for ocean sunsets visible mid-April through early September, recognized as one of the "100 Sunsets of Japan." π
Recommended Viewpoints and Observatories
- Obiki Nohana Observatory: Recommended viewpoint for coastal panoramas in the Kasumi area π
- Yajogahana Lighthouse (Shiroyama): Offers 270-degree panoramic views of the Sea of Japan π
- Shiroyama Park: Lookout point providing bird's-eye views of Moroyose town, port, and the Sea of Japan π
- Okami Park: Spectacular viewpoint overlooking Kasumi Beach (national scenic spot designation) π
The Experience
October 26 Seasonal Considerations
Weather and Visibility:
- Late October offers excellent coastal visibility before winter weather patterns establish
- Clear autumn conditions ideal for Sea of Japan panoramic photography
- Comfortable driving temperatures with reduced summer humidity
- Pre-winter period provides crisp, clear views of the coastline
Foliage and Landscape:
- Coastal autumn foliage timing: mid-October to mid-November π
- The San-in region typically experiences peak autumn colors in mid-to-late November
- Late October represents the early autumn coastal atmosphere with gradual color changes
Lighting and Photography:
- Autumn sun angle provides excellent lighting for coastal photography
- Sunset timing shifts earlier in late October (typically around 5:00-5:30 PM)
- Morning light ideal for eastward coastal views
- Afternoon/sunset optimal for westward Sea of Japan vistas
Crowd Levels:
- Pre-crab season period means fewer tourists compared to November-March
- October weekday travel offers quiet coastal driving experience
- Major attractions like Tottori Sand Dunes accessible without summer crowds
Practical Visiting Tips
Photography Strategy
Best Photo Spots:
- Tojimbo cliffs for dramatic basalt columns and Sea of Japan backdrop
- Uradome Coast's three western viewpoints (Sengan Matsushima, Kamogaiso, Shirahara Beach)
- Tottori Sand Dunes for unique desert-meets-ocean compositions
- Kasumi Coast for sunset photography (though October sunsets occur earlier than peak viewing season)
Lighting Recommendations:
- Morning: East-facing coastal sections in Tottori
- Afternoon: General coastal panoramas with clear overhead light
- Late Afternoon/Sunset: West-facing viewpoints in Kasumi/Takeno areas
- Consider cloud cover for dramatic seascapes versus clear days for distant views
Driving Considerations
Safe Stopping Points:
- Designated parking at Uradome Coast boat pier (Address for GPS: "2182 Otani, Iwami-cho, Iwami-gun, Tottori Prefecture, 681-0073") π
- Parking available at major viewpoints (Obiki Nohana Observatory, Shiroyama Park, Okami Park)
- Roadside stations (michi-no-eki) along Route 9 provide rest stops with facilities
- Tottori Sand Dunes visitor center with ample parking
Timing Recommendations:
- Allow 4-6 hours for scenic driving with viewpoint stops
- Base drive time: 2-3 hours for main coastal sections
- Early morning departure recommended for optimal lighting progression
- Factor in 30-45 minutes for major stops (Tojimbo, Uradome Coast, Sand Dunes)
- Reserve 15-20 minutes for smaller viewpoint stops
Route Integration
Route 9 serves as the primary coastal corridor connecting:
From Takayama (Mountain Culture):
- Transition from alpine landscapes to coastal vistas
- Cultural shift from Hida mountain traditions to San-in maritime heritage
- Elevation descent from mountain passes to sea-level coastal drive
To Kinosaki Onsen (Destination):
- Natural progression from scenic coastal journey to traditional onsen town
- Route 9 provides direct access to Kinosaki via Hyogo coastal sections
- Takeno and Kasumi coasts are 20-30 minutes from Kinosaki, offering day trip potential
Connections with Route Stops:
- Complements other scenic stops along the Takayama-Kinosaki coastal route
- Provides continuous Sea of Japan views throughout the journey
- Offers multiple detour options to specific geological and cultural sites within the San-in Geopark
Cultural Etiquette
- Follow designated parking areas; avoid blocking coastal views for other travelers
- Respect local fishing communities and private property near coastal areas
- Be mindful of cliff edges at scenic viewpoints (safety barriers vary)
- Dispose of trash properly; maintain the pristine coastal environment
Weather Preparations
- Check Sea of Japan weather forecasts before departure
- Coastal winds can be strong; secure loose items
- October weather generally stable but prepare for potential rain
- Visibility can change rapidly with coastal fog; drive cautiously
Location: View route on Google Maps
Source: attractions/takayama-to-kinosaki-coastal-route/national-route-9-scenic-sections.md