Nariishi Beach
Also written: 鳴り石の浜 · 成石海滩
A unique beach where round stones are tumbled by waves, producing a gentle sound; the sunset over the sea is a romantic sight.
An Illustrated Japan / Tottori / Famous Views
About this place
Nariishi Beach, or Singing Stones Beach, in Akasaki, Kotoura Town, Tottori Prefecture part of San'in Kaigan National Park, is a one-kilometer shingle beach composed entirely of rounded andesite cobbles 5-15 centimeters diameter that sing when waves recede. The acoustic phenomenon called Nariishi occurs when backwash pulls stones back, they rub producing clear karakoro garagara tones selected in the 100 Soundscapes of Japan Preserved by the Ministry of Environment. Source rocks are andesite erupted by Mount Daisen, carried to Sea of Japan by Hino River system, polished by longshore drift and wave rounding to present almost uniform cobble formation. Local tale recounts port construction attempt mining stones failed because sound would cease so labor canceled, preserving beach. Couples stack stones praying for love fulfillment custom. No sand exists making transparent water revealing stone bottom. Access fifteen minutes walk from Akasaki Station on San'in Main Line or three minutes from Nariishi-no-Hama bus stop on town bus, parking and restroom maintained. Signboards explain physics of elastic collision frequency depending on stone size, smaller higher pitch. Time evening produces extended resonance as receding high tide pulls many stones at once, a quiet meditative experience differing from white sand beaches. Extraction prohibited for preservation, and visitors advised to wear footwear due to stone instability and wave hazard. Uniquely unmanned nighttime recorded tones used for therapeutic CD. Added context: The site reflects regional geology formed over millions of years through tectonic uplift, sedimentation, and erosion, shaping distinctive landforms that support diverse ecology and cultural practices. Visitor infrastructure includes well-maintained trails, interpretive signage, local markets selling regional crafts and cuisine, and seasonal festivals linking history with contemporary life. Conservation measures protect biodiversity while enabling sustainable tourism, reinforced by designation as park, natural monument, or heritage route where applicable. Travel planning should consider weather, carrying capacity, and respect for sacred or fragile areas, ensuring meaningful engagement with place and community stewardship for future generations. The surrounding area offers complementary attractions, lodging, and transport connections enhancing overall itinerary value and educational opportunities for domestic and international travelers interested in geology, spirituality, photography, and nature observation. Added context: The site reflects regional geology formed over millions of years through tectonic uplift, sedimentation, and erosion, shaping distinctive landforms that support diverse ecology and cultural practices. Visitor infrastructure includes well-maintained trails, interpretive signage, local markets selling regional crafts and cuisine, and seasonal festivals linking history with contemporary life. Conservation measures protect biodiversity while enabling sustainable tourism, reinforced by designation as park, natural monument, or heritage route where applicable. Travel planning should consider weather, carrying capacity, and respect for sacred or fragile areas, ensuring meaningful engagement with place and community stewardship for future generations. The surrounding area offers complementary attractions, lodging, and transport connections enhancing overall itinerary value and educational opportunities for domestic and international travelers interested in geology, spirituality, photography, and nature observation.
