Susa Hornfels

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Susa Hornfels

One of the Sea of Japan coast’s most representative geological landscapes, with rock strata from Approx. 14 million years ago exposed.

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A dramatic cliff formation along the Sea of Japan coast in the nationally designated scenic area of Susa Bay, known for its dark-colored rock surface and layered structure. Alternating layers of sandstone and mudstone were transformed by the heat of magma Approx. 14 million years ago, and the exposed rock hardened as a result.

It is widely known for its striking striped rock surface, but the defining feature of hornfels is that the rock has turned black and hardened due to thermal metamorphism caused by magma. For this reason, in recent years it has sometimes also been described as “Tatami Iwa,” a name that focuses on its visual appearance.

You can take in the whole view from above, and there is also an Approx. 500-meter walking path from the parking lot down to the base of the cliff, where you can observe the rock surface up close. In September 2018, Hagi Geopark was recognized as a Japanese Geopark, and Susa Hornfels is positioned as one of its component assets. The ground is quite rocky, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Highlights

  • A geological landscape where rock strata from Approx. 14 million years ago were transformed by the heat of magma.
  • You can see the blackened rock surface and layered structure along the coast.
  • An Approx. 500-meter walking path leads from the parking lot down to the base of the cliff.
  • You can enjoy both a panoramic view from above and close-up observation from below.
  • It is designated as one of the component assets of Hagi Geopark.

Photos

  • A fault that can be seen in the nationally designated scenic area of Susa Bay

    A fault that can be seen in the nationally designated scenic area of Susa Bay

  • A walking path is maintained, allowing you to view the rock surface up close

    A walking path is maintained, allowing you to view the rock surface up close

  • You can also view it from the water by taking a sightseeing boat

    You can also view it from the water by taking a sightseeing boat

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Is there free Wi-Fi available in the area?

A

No, there is not.

Q

Are there coin lockers?

A

No, there are not.

Q

Are there restrooms?

A

Yes, there are.

Q

Are there any sightseeing spots nearby?

A

Yes, there are Takayama Observatory and Magnet Rock.

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
須佐ホルンフェルス
Postal Code
759-3411
Address
Kita Coast, Takayama, Susa, Hagi, Yamaguchi
Phone
08387-6-3380 (Susa Omotenashi Association, Ika Marche)
Closed on
Open daily
Hours
Open for free walking at any time
Admission
Free
Access
Approx. 10 minutes by car from Susa Station on the JR Sanin Main Line
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official website
Official website (Japanese)