The boat runs along the Uradome Coast east of Tottori city, a stretch of shoreline carved into coves, sea caves, and small pine-topped islets by wave erosion of the local granite. The standard cruise takes visitors close to the rock formations from the water, a vantage point that shows the coastline's texture in a way the clifftop roads above it don't.
The Uradome Coast Sightseeing Boat carries passengers along a rugged 15-kilometer stretch of coastline northeast of Tottori City, threading between wind- and wave-carved granite cliffs, sea caves, and small pine-topped islets. Departing from a small harbor near Kanban-jima, the open or glass-bottomed boats follow close to the rock formations, passing through the narrow Byobu-iwa gorge and past coves where the water turns a distinctive turquoise over white sand seabeds. A standard cruise runs 40 to 70 minutes depending on the chosen route, with the boat operator narrating (in Japanese) the names and legends attached to notable rock formations along the way. The coast is part of the San'in Kaigan Geopark, and the boat trip is the best way to see formations that are inaccessible from the coastal hiking trails above. Best conditions are clear mornings from May through October, when calm seas allow the boat closer to the cliffs and the water's turquoise color is most visible; afternoon winds can create choppier conditions and occasionally shorten routes. The service is weather-dependent and does not operate December through late February, and departures can be limited or cancelled outside the peak season, so checking ahead is advisable. Crowds are heaviest in August and around autumn foliage weekends in October and November.
| Admission | Adult ¥1,800–2,000 ($12–13.30) standard 40-minute cruise · Child Half price |
|---|---|
| Hours | Departures roughly 9:00–16:00 March–November, weather-dependent; closed December–late February |
| Typical visit | 40–70 minutes depending on route |
| Best time | Clear mornings May–October for calm water and turquoise cove visibility |
| Getting there | Nihonkai bus from JR Tottori Station (about 30 min) to Kanban-jima or Uradome Coast stop; limited service outside peak season |
| Address | 2182 Otani, Iwami-cho, Iwami-gun, Tottori 680-0342 |
Location
2182 Otani, Iwami-cho, Iwami-gun, Tottori 680-0342
35.5747, 134.3272 View on map
Highlights
- Turquoise coves over white sand seabeds
- Passage through the narrow Byobu-iwa rock gorge
- Wind- and wave-carved granite sea cliffs
- Views of pine-topped islets along the coast
- Part of the San'in Kaigan UNESCO Global Geopark
Tips for visiting
- Book or arrive early in August and on autumn weekends when departures fill quickly
- Check sailing status ahead of the visit, as trips are weather-dependent and can be cancelled on rough-sea days
- Bring a light jacket even in summer, as the open boat catches sea spray and wind
- The service does not run December through late February
- Morning departures generally have calmer water and better visibility than afternoon sailings
When to visit
Clear mornings between May and October offer the calmest water and best visibility of the turquoise coves; the service is closed December through late February.
Accessibility
Boarding requires stepping down into the boat from a harbor pier, which is difficult for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility; no ramp access is available.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
The cruise itself runs 40 to 70 minutes depending on the route chosen, plus time to reach the harbor from Tottori City.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes, children generally enjoy the boat ride and the caves and rock formations, though the open boats can be a concern for very young children in rough weather.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is unrestricted and the coastal rock formations are a popular subject for passengers throughout the cruise.