"Shimotsubo Coast," a stunningly beautiful Japanese shoreline — legends say women are forbidden at Kamui Misaki

Reported and photographed by Huang Yanqi / Hokkaido

In Hokkaido, besides Otaru and Niseko, Shimotsubo Coast on Shakotan Peninsula and Kamui Misaki, known for the legend of a women ban, are also highly recommended by locals. Shimotsubo Coast is even selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Coastlines. Though the round trip takes about 20 minutes and leaves those who don’t often exercise panting for breath, it still attracts many visitors, including elderly people, to explore this serene spot.

▲ Shimotsubo Coast is selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Coastlines.

Located on Shakotan Peninsula, Shimotsubo Coast in the Ainu language means "a place where seabirds gather." The coastline is lined with rocky cliffs, and after passing through a roughly 30-meter-long tunnel at the entrance, you’ll need to walk down from the observation deck for about ten more minutes to reach the beach. Aside from seabirds such as seagulls and white-tailed eagles, you might even spot sea lions in winter.

▲ Visitors have to walk through a steep, 30-meter-long tunnel to reach the observation deck.

About a 30-minute drive from Shimotsubo Coast lies Kamui Misaki, which takes nearly half an hour to reach the end of. As you look up, you’ll see a gate inscribed with the words “Women Prohibited.” There are three versions of the story behind this gate, but the most widely circulated one goes like this: long ago, the daughter of an Ainu tribal chief fell in love with a Japanese warrior. The warrior was injured and fled to Shimotsubo Coast, planning to take a boat back to Honshu once he recovered. The chief’s daughter chased him to this spot, only to see her lover sail away, so she threw herself into the sea... No matter which version you hear, the conclusion is that disasters befall ships when women come here, hence the ban on women. But after all, that’s just an old legend — nowadays it’s a popular tourist destination, open to both men and women.

Shimotsubo Coast and Kamui Misaki, located not far from each other, are almost essential stops for tourists visiting Shakotan Peninsula. Shimotsubo Coast, selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Beautiful Coastal Spots, is even playfully nicknamed by visitors as sounding similar to “losing 500 million yen.” Meanwhile, Kamui Misaki boasts a nearly 360-degree panoramic view and the legendary “Women Prohibited” gate, both drawing visitors regardless of the journey required.

▲ Kamui Misaki offers nearly 360-degree unobstructed views, attracting many photography enthusiasts.

▲ The gate that prohibits women’s entry is surrounded by various legends.