Hello, fellow travel lovers!
Today, I visited Banshozyama Park, part of the National Natural Park in Nanki Shirahama!
This park boasts three spectacular observation spots with breathtaking views, along with nature-filled walking trails.
Today's mission is... to conquer all the scenic spots!
The morning air is crisp and clear, and the sound of birds chirping is so soothing. It's truly a luxurious moment of peace.
Time to Find Those Scenic Spots!
The view from the first observation deck: You can see Engetsuto Island, and just beyond it is Sakinoyu, where I soaked yesterday.
After climbing up to the observation deck…
As expected from such a high vantage point, the view stretches far into the distance! The blue ocean expands endlessly, and the clear horizon is truly breathtaking.
This is the Bansho-hana Lighthouse. It's a charming little lighthouse, standing at just 9 meters tall. Unfortunately, we couldn’t go inside.
This is the observation spot near the lighthouse. Is that another lighthouse out in the sea? The breeze here is refreshing, and it's another breathtaking viewpoint.
Each spot offered a different angle to enjoy the stunning scenery of Shirahama, making for a series of amazing viewpoints!
Find the Zodiac Animals! Wooden Sculptures Scattered Throughout the Park
The park is said to have wooden sculptures of the twelve zodiac animals scattered throughout, so I decided to embark on a little hunt for them. Let me introduce them in the order I found them!
1. Tiger (tora)
Right after entering, I was met with a sharp gaze... The "tiger" had locked eyes with me, ready for a staring contest!
2. Dog (inu)
At its feet, a gift from the forest? ... A bunch of mushrooms! This is a pair of parent and child dogs, living in harmony with nature.
3. Snake (hebi）
The charming snake is coiled in a heart shape for some reason. Could it be a lucky charm for boosting romance? ♡
４．Dragon （tatsu)
海から飛び出して、空に向かって舞い上がるたつ！ドラゴンパワー全開で、景色もドラマチックに盛り上がります。
5. Rabbit (usagi)
From here, you get a perfect view of the back side of Engetsuto Island!
But the real highlight is the rabbit's hat—where did it get that? This stylish bunny clearly has an eye for fashion! Quite the sense of style.
６．Monkey （saru)
A heartwarming scene of a parent monkey cuddling its baby—such a cute and tender moment.
７． Boar （Inoshishi）
Here’s another parent-child duo, the wild boars… though their weathered appearance from the wind and rain is a bit rough. Hang in there!
８．Horse （uma)
The imposing head and neck of the parent horse, and at its feet, a tiny little foal standing proudly. The presence of this parent-child duo is truly remarkable.
９．Sheep （Hitsuji）
The sheep sculpture has a calm and gentle expression, but if you look closely, there's a hint of wisdom in its gaze.
10. Ox (ushi)
The mother cow's head and neck are finely carved, and nestled close to her is a small calf. Together, they gaze into the distance, as if they are quietly watching over something important.
11．Rat （nezumi)
A baby mouse being gently stroked by its mother—such an adorable scene! I could watch this all day!
12. Rooster (tori)
Looks like I missed this one (crying). Maybe the "bird" flew away!? Just kidding, of course!
But hey, little mishaps like this are part of the fun of exploring, right? I'll definitely come back for a rematch next time!
Each zodiac animal has its own unique charm, and they all brought a smile to my face!
I hope you’ll also find your favorite animal when you visit Banshoyama Park!
Summary
This park is rich in nature, and just walking through it refreshes the soul. If you visit Nanki Shirahama, I highly recommend taking a stroll here and soaking in the beauty of nature.
The journey continues... Wishing you all a wonderful trip! – TabiJun
Staying time here: 1 hour
