Cape Shiosezaki

Cape Shiosezaki is a flat area eroded by waves (a wave-cut terrace) that has protruded from the ocean somewhat. The lapilli tuff resulting from volcanic activity about 30 million years ago is here weathered away to form a unique shape. It is a beautiful geosite which some might call a natural art museum. So named in 1995, Godzilla Rocks looks just like the monster Godzilla. The most popular feature is the “mouth”, which looks like Godzilla breathing fire when aligned with a cloudy sunset.

Designated as One hundred strange stones from Japan, Godzilla’s Tail Rocks looks just like Godzilla’s tail. Located right next to Godzilla Rocks, it looks like Godzilla might move at any moment. When volcanic ash and lapilli fell on unhardened mud, the weight pushed the mud into the ash and lapilli and hardened, forming this rock.

The name Kame (Turtle) Rockｓ comes from the way this rock looks like a turtle heading for the sea when seen from the road. The body is a little big, making it somewhat unbalanced, but the turtle shape is unmistakable. Shiosezaki Lighthouse was built on the turtle’s “shell” in 1955.

Although Godzilla Rockｓ on Oga Peninsula is better known, there is also a rock resembling Gamera, Godzilla’s rival. The green moss that grows on the rock calls to mind the distinctive pattern on Gamera’s shell. It’s a hidden treasure for those in the know.

The Futago (Twin) Rocks are two similar rocks right next to each other. From a high angle you can see where magma flowed into the stone to form a dike, and from sea level you can see the bedrock. There are also many other rock formations such as Godzilla’s Tail Rocks, Gamera Rocks and Kame (Turtle) Rockｓ. Nature has created many interesting sculptures here.

Hokakejima Rocks (Sailboat Island) is so named due to its resemblance to the sail of a sailboat. With a height of 30m, it is the largest rock formation on Oga Peninsula. Nearby are many other rock formations such as Godzilla’s Tail Rocks, Gamera Rocks, Turtle Rocks. Another interesting sculpture created by nature.