On the northern coast of Japan lies Hisui Coast, a destination not only admired for its natural beauty but also treasured as a hunting ground for jade seekers.
In Japanese, Hisui Kaigan means “Jade Coast.” This shoreline was once abundant with rare minerals such as jade, but after years of extensive collection, much of it has diminished. Still, with patience and keen observation, visitors may stumble upon leftover jade stones glistening among the pebbles.
The abundance of jade here is due to the fact that Hisui Coast sits on the Itoigawa-Shizuoka Tectonic Line, a geological fault. The minerals found on this beach date back 200 to 500 million years.
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Surrounded by mountains, strong river currents are believed to have carried minerals down to the shoreline, where over time the waves smoothed them into colorful jade stones. Collecting these stones is permitted by the Japanese government, making it even more appealing for visitors.
Hisui Coast is unlike what many might expect when visiting Japan. Less than five hours by car from Tokyo, the beach lies at the base of the Karamatsu, Shirouma, Yukikura, Asahi, and Inugatake mountain ranges. To its sides run the Kurobe River and the Himekawa River, both carrying mineral-rich deposits down into Toyama Bay.
Despite its reputation as a jade-hunting spot, the beach itself is also calm and inviting, with gentle waves perfect for swimming and summer relaxation.
For those interested in jade hunting, locals recommend searching a few days after rougher seas, when larger jade fragments are more likely to wash ashore.
Another key stop is Hisui Terrace, a tourism exchange center built in 2018. From its upper floors and panoramic windows, visitors can enjoy breathtaking coastal views. The center also hosts events, offers a cycling shop for rentals and repairs, and features a kitchen space as well as premium bathing facilities.
When visiting, don’t miss trying the area’s specialties, especially codfish dishes and miso soup. This traditional soup was first created by local fishing families as a hearty way to enjoy the day’s catch, and it remains a beloved dish of the region.
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Conveniently located only 1.6 km from Etchu-Miyazaki Station, Hisui Terrace and the coast together offer a blend of natural beauty, local flavors, and the thrill of jade discovery.
Whether you come to Hisui Coast to admire its natural scenery, enjoy a peaceful swim, or try your luck at finding a piece of jade, the area offers a mix of relaxation and discovery. With its unique landscape, cultural flavors, and easy access from nearby towns, it is a destination that invites visitors to explore at their own pace and appreciate one of Japan’s more unusual coastal treasures.
