Uradome Coast Geopark Trail

The Uradome Coast forms one of the signature sections of the roughly 30-trail hiking network within the San'in Kaigan UNESCO Global Geopark, which stretches across Tottori, Hyogo, and Kyoto prefectures. This particular segment follows the clifftops and coves above Uradome Beach, tracing the jagged, wave-cut coastline that gives the geopark its scientific significance — sea cliffs, caves, and rock formations shaped by shifting sea levels and ancient volcanic activity. Access starts at JR Iwami Station, a short walk from the trailhead near Uradome Beach; no permit is required. The path alternates between paved promenade sections near the main beach and narrower dirt-and-stone trail climbing over pine-covered headlands, with stairs at the steeper points and minimal overall elevation change, mostly staying under 60 m. Along the route, lookout points open onto the sea caves and rock arches otherwise only visible from the sightseeing boats that operate below, and interpretive signage explains the geopark's geology in Japanese and English at several stops. The trail can be walked as a there-and-back from Uradome Beach or extended further along marked segments toward Iwai Onsen for a longer day. There are no water sources along the bluff sections, though Uradome Beach and the nearby Iwai Onsen hot spring town both have restrooms, restaurants, and vending machines at either end. Because the coastal path has exposed, unfenced sections near some cliff edges, care is needed in wind or after rain.