On the Sea of Japan side of Hyogo Prefecture about ten minutes by car from Kinosaki Onsen is Hiyoriyama Kaigan Coast. Hiyoriyama Kaigan Coast is a ria coast that stretches from the mouth of the Maruyamagawa River to the Takeno Kaigan Coast, and it is popular as a scenic spot. The powerful waves of the Sea of Japan spread out just below the coastline, and the sea spray hitting the rocks is an impactful sight. On days when the weather and visibility are good, visitors can gaze out and see as far as the Tango Hanto Peninsula.
Floating in the open sea off the Hiyoriyama Kaigan Coast is the uninhabited Nochigashima Island. This island is famous as the setting for Japanese folktale "Urashima Taro," and a gazebo, which looks like the Dragon Palace from the tale, was built there. During twilight the silhouette of this gazebo is lightly illuminated by the sunset, and a fairytale-like atmosphere covers the area. The view of the light shining on the gazebo at sunrise is a sublime sight as well. Particularly in autumn and winter, if weather permits, fog cover creates a sea of mist. Over the course of the seasons or even just a day, each visit to the coast is sure to bring a scene of a different kind of beauty.