Kuroshima Island can be seen on the left, and Taijima Island on the right. The latter has a distinctive, eye-like hole. Kuroshima Island can be seen on the left, and Taijima Island on the right. The latter has a distinctive, eye-like hole.

Located on the west side of Cape Shiono-misaki. Long ago during the early spring, people kept watch here for whales swimming from the waters of Shikoku toward the Kii Peninsula in the east.

A row of enormous, strangely shaped rocks extends 850 meters out to sea.

The aquarium reproduces the Kushimoto seascape. Enjoy watching marine life from the undersea tower and the sightseeing ship.

The museum features exhibits of crewmembers’ belongings. The accident claimed more than 580 lives, despite islanders’ best efforts to rescue survivors.

Kashino-zaki Lighthouse, which is located at the site of a whale lookout, is Japan’s oldest Western-style lighthouse. You can look out over the Kumano Sea from the walkway that circles the building.

Koza whaling superintendents worshiped this shrine, where they offered pieces of wood that described distinguished service rendered by Kitano Matabee.

The scenic landscape woven from the azure ocean and oddly shaped rocks was chosen as one of the 100 most beautiful places of natural beauty in Japan that should be preserved for the 21st century.

Visit the Japan-U.S. Friendship Memorial Museum to learn about the very first contacts between the two countries.

The shrine continues to hold traditional events celebrating whales, and the gorgeous main shrine has been designated as a Cultural Property by the Town of Taiji.