Shikoku Seiyo Geopark 四国西予ジオパーク

Published on : 11/06/2018
by : J.R.

A geopark with a varied ecosystem

To the west of Shikoku Island, Seiyo Geopark is one of Japan's 34 recognized geoparks. It conceals well-hidden treasures, small villages and splendid landscapes, between sea and mountains...

Extending over a large territory, from Seiyo to Ehime on the island of Shikoku, the Shikoku Seiyo Geopark allows you to discover unique landscapes, due to varied ecosystems . It covers a terrain whose altitude varies between sea level and 1,400 meters: thus, from the Suzaki coast, passing through the terraced crops and the karstic plateaus inland, the landscapes are very diversified and allow discover a different Japan . For more simplicity and freedom, we advise you to explore it by rental car .

plan géoparc — Geopark map
Seiyo geopark

The Amazing Suzaki Coast

The geopark includes a coastal part, made up of cliffs and steep beaches with a wild appearance.

The Suzaki Coast features impressive 400 million year old rock formations that will fascinate geology enthusiasts. These rocks are recognizable by their development in vertical bands and are made up of tuff, solidified volcanic ash. Fossils of primitive corals have also been discovered there... These high cliffs, as well as the impressive rock planted in the middle of the beach, constitute a beautiful walk over more than 300 meters. It is also possible to discover this coast through boat trips.

See also: The Shikoku Pilgrimage

The lush Mitaki Gorge

To the east of the geopark, inland, a river has created over the centuries, by erosion, a narrow valley through the forest . The Mitaki Gorge is a veritable green paradise, a real corner of totally unspoilt nature, home to lush and sometimes almost tropical vegetation. Many waterfalls punctuate the course, along the river, through the ferns, for a refreshing walk.

At the entrance to the valley is a Geological Museum for those wishing to learn more about the ancient rocks of the region.

The Unomachi district in Seiyo

The geopark also includes unique villages , rich in heritage. Little frequented by tourists, the small town of Seiyo nevertheless has many interests, starting with its charming historic district, Unomachi . This old traditional district is home to houses from the Edo period (1603 - 1868). Nakanocho Street, in particular, is lined with traditional houses typical of this era, with white walls and wooden screens. The city is also home to the Meiseki Buddhist temple , an important stop on the Shikoku pilgrimage.

For more information: The Edo period

The Sazae-ga-Oka, a view apart

This rocky mountain , covered with greenery, dominates the surrounding land. After the ascent, the view is superb : on one side you can observe the village of Izumi , installed below, and on the other, you can see Sanbe Bay in the distance. From the top of its 360 meters, the Sazae-ga-oka makes it possible to appreciate the adaptation of the local populations to the rocky slopes of the terrain. The place will also delight ornithology enthusiasts: a nearby cliff is a nesting site for falcons, which hunt nearby. The flora is not to be outdone, with particularly rare local plants : ferns, rhododendrons and keibiran which bloom in summer.

Mont Sazae — The view from Mount Sazae
Seiyo geopark

Karihama Terraces

To the south of the geopark, the village of Karihama is home to unique terraced cultivations , installed by the Uwakai Sea. Here, the green hills seem to fall directly into the sea... Citrus fruits are grown there, especially mandarins . The mild climate, the sea breeze as well as the constant sunshine thanks to the organization on the terrace allow the mikan , this sweet and seedless mandarin, to grow in complete peace of mind. The limestone, very present in the soil of these hills, gives a particular flavor to these fruits. It is even possible to participate in a mandarin harvest in November!

Finally, the Seiyan Geopark conceals many other nuggets, such as the Anagami cave hidden in the land, or the high karstic plateaus at 1,400 meters above sea level, north of Yusuhara.