See Muroto’s fascinating rock formations up close with a walk along the shoreline of the cape, between boulders and past fossils that were formed on the ocean floor millions of years ago. See the layers of turbidite formations, tubeworm colonies and rocks warped by the area’s harsh elements.

See an important local Buddhist site with a visit to the Hotsumisakiji Temple, of the Shingon sect. Founded in 805 by Kōbō-Daishi/Kukai after achieving enlightenment, the temple features several buildings with historic architecture, and a statue of the deity Kokuzo Bosatsu - said to have been carved by Kukai - to whom he chanted a million times.

Visit Mikurodo Cave, where the beloved 8th-century monk Kōbō-Daishi spent three years attaining enlightenment. Kōbō-Daishi was reportedly so enamored of the coastal views his cave afforded that he changed his name to Kukai, derived from the Japanese words for sky (ku) and sea (kai).

Take a scenic walk along the coastline on the one-and-a-half-mile trail called Ransho Promenade (or “Reef-Watching Walking Path”). From here, take in breathtaking panoramas of Cape Muroto being pummeled by the Pacific Ocean, its dark volcanic rocks disappearing into sea foam. Along the way, enjoy views of nearby Cape Ashizuri and keep on the lookout for dolphins and whales cavorting offshore.