What to see at and around Shiroyama Park

1. Meikyōdō Cave framing the sea like a living painting

2. Observation Deck with panoramic ocean views and sunset frames

3. Seaside Trail weaving past rocky cliffs and lush greenery

Many people come to Shiroyama Park to relax on its wide grassy lawn or to gaze out at the horizon through the iconic Meikyō Cave. In the warmer months, the waters around the park are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Surprisingly though, few people know about the short hiking trails that wind through the park’s gentle hills, leading to stunning coastal viewpoints that offer some of the best (hidden) ocean vistas in Takahama.

Just a five minute short hike and you can reach the observation post on Shiroyama Park’s east hill.

Lessons from nature: A single pine tree emerging from the rock below – a testament to life’s remarkable ability to emerge and endure.

A man kayak fishing in the waters just off shore. Definitely want to try that one day soon!

Let’s explore the east hill, known as Tennōzan — a name that refers to a mountain dedicated to a powerful Buddhist guardian deity.

If you check the map, you can see there are two walking paths. Today, we’ll take the eastern route.

As you approach the park, keep an eye out for the Shinto torii gate at the base of the east hill.

Follow the forested path upwards and you will find an Ebisu Shrine on the left. Take the steps past the shrine and head up towards the observation deck.

On this day, there were lots of surfers enjoying the waves

Observation Post

If you follow the hill, the path winds around and eventually leads to a bench with a set of steps to your right. Take these to reach the observation post.

On a clear day, if you look to the east you can see Hasegi Island off the coast of Wada Beach

Making your way down from the observation post, you will find a small clearing from which you can view the majestic colors of the ocean below.

The water shifts in color — deep blue in places, turquoise in others, and completely clear where it laps gently against the shore.

For nature lovers, bird watchers and photographers, there are lots of beautiful sights to capture.

Background info

Access: 15‑minute walk from JR Wakasa‑Takahama Station

Opening Hours: Open 24/7, free admission.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring: Cherry blossoms along the hill paths
• Summer: Beach and SUP activities
• Evening: Spectacular sunsets from the observation deck
• All year: Sea caves exploration and fishing