Seki Gohonmatsu Park is one of the most scenic destinations in Mihonoseki, Matsue, Shimane Prefecture. Located on a gently elevated hillside west of Mihonoseki Fishing Port, the park stretches across a hill approximately 100 to 130 meters above sea level.
From the park, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Miho Bay, Yumigahama, Lake Nakaumi, and the Sea of Japan. On clear days, the distant Oki Islands can also be seen. The combination of mountains, sea, sky, and historic coastal scenery makes the park a popular viewpoint for experiencing the natural beauty of Mihonoseki.
The park takes its name from the five pine trees that once stood on the hill. During the era when maritime transportation flourished, sailors used these distinctive pine trees as navigational landmarks. For ships entering Mihonoseki Port and vessels traveling toward the Oki Islands, the five pines served as an important guide.
Although the original trees no longer survive, their story and the affection of local people are preserved through the traditional folk song “Seki Gohonmatsu-bushi”. Today, the park remains a place where the history and culture of Mihonoseki can be experienced alongside its magnificent scenery.
Mihonoseki has flourished as an important maritime center since ancient times. During the Edo period, it became particularly prosperous as a port of call for Kitamaebune merchant ships, which traveled along the Sea of Japan.
On the hill overlooking this busy port once stood five large Japanese black pine trees. Their distinctive silhouettes could be seen from far offshore, making them indispensable landmarks for sailors and fishermen navigating the often rough waters of the Sea of Japan.
For vessels approaching Mihonoseki or setting out toward the Oki Islands, the five pines were more than simply beautiful trees. They were familiar markers that helped guide ships safely along the coast.
The five pines are associated with a well-known local legend. According to the story, when the procession of a feudal lord visiting Miho Shrine passed by the trees, one of the long spears carried by an attendant became caught in a pine branch.
The tree was reportedly cut down because it obstructed the procession. Local residents regretted the loss and expressed their feelings through a folk song. This became “Seki Gohonmatsu-bushi,” a song that remains closely associated with Mihonoseki.
The song includes the famous line:
“At Seki Gohonmatsu, cut down one and four remain; the remaining trees are the paired pines.”
The words express the affection people felt for the remaining trees as well as their sadness over the pine that had been lost. The song is still known as one of Shimane’s representative traditional folk songs.
The four remaining pines were designated a Natural Monument of Japan in 1943 because of their historical and cultural significance. They were believed to be approximately 350 years old and had become enduring symbols of Mihonoseki.
Over time, however, the trees were gradually lost to typhoons, pine wilt disease, and other damage. The final surviving pine was cut down in 2000 for safety reasons.
Today, monuments made using sections of the original trees and their stumps are displayed in the park, allowing visitors to remember the distinctive pines that once stood on the hill.
Seki Gohonmatsu Park is also known as one of Shimane’s notable destinations for viewing azaleas. Approximately 5,000 azalea plants grow throughout the park, reaching their peak from late April to early May.
Brilliant red, pink, and white flowers cover the hillsides, creating a striking contrast with the blue sea beyond. With Miho Bay and Yumigahama forming the backdrop, the blooming azaleas create one of Mihonoseki’s most memorable spring landscapes.
A leisurely walk through the park while feeling the gentle sea breeze is especially pleasant during this season. The park becomes particularly lively around Golden Week, when many visitors come to enjoy the flowers and panoramic views.
The observation deck near the top of the park offers an expansive panorama extending in almost every direction.
Looking south, visitors can see Miho Bay, Yumigahama, Lake Nakaumi, and Mount Daisen, the highest mountain in the Chugoku region. To the north, the Sea of Japan stretches toward the horizon, with the silhouettes of the Oki Islands visible on clear days.
The scenery can change dramatically depending on the weather and time of day. Morning light and evening colors create particularly beautiful views, while clear days reveal a vast landscape resembling a natural painting.
Near the observation deck stands the Peace Memorial Tower. The monument was erected in 1929 to commemorate those who died when the Japanese Navy destroyers Warabi and Ashi collided and sank during exercises off Jizozaki in 1927.
When it was originally constructed, the monument was known as a memorial tower for the war dead and bore an inscription meaning “Honor the spirits of the fallen,” written by Admiral of the Fleet Togo Heihachiro.
After the end of World War II, the removal of the memorial was ordered, and the inscription was removed. In 1952, the monument was given its present name, the Peace Memorial Tower.
Today, it stands quietly amid the beautiful natural surroundings, offering a place to reflect on the tragedy of war and the importance of peace. The monument adds another layer of historical meaning to the park’s scenic landscape.
A nature-rich walking route leads from Seki Gohonmatsu Park toward Jizozaki. A sightseeing lift once operated in this area, but it is currently out of service. Visitors can instead walk approximately 500 meters along the trail toward the observation area.
The route passes through seasonal vegetation, with wildflowers and trees changing throughout the year. Fresh green foliage in spring and colorful leaves in autumn make this an enjoyable destination for a relaxed walk or light hike.
Because Mihonoseki lies at the eastern end of the Shimane Peninsula, it is also an important passage point for migratory birds.
In spring, visitors may encounter summer migrants such as blue-and-white flycatchers and narcissus flycatchers, while autumn brings birds traveling south along their seasonal migration routes.
The natural surroundings of the park provide an excellent setting for birdwatching. Listening to birdsong while feeling the sea breeze offers a peaceful experience far removed from the atmosphere of a city.
A visit to Seki Gohonmatsu Park can easily be combined with a trip to Miho Shrine. Known as the head shrine of Ebisu worship in Japan, it has long been an important center of faith among people involved in fishing, maritime activities, and commerce.
The shrine is particularly famous for its distinctive Miho-zukuri architecture, in which two sanctuaries stand side by side. The main sanctuary is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, and the shrine is also associated with blessings for good relationships and prosperous business.
Aoishidatami Street, which connects Miho Shrine with Bukkokuji Temple, is one of the most atmospheric historic streets in Mihonoseki. Its natural stone pavement takes on a beautiful bluish appearance when wet, while traditional inns and townhouses line the route.
The street preserves the character of the port town during the period when Mihonoseki flourished through Kitamaebune trade. Walking along the quiet stone pavement offers a glimpse into the everyday atmosphere of historic Japan.
Further along the coast stands Miho Seki Lighthouse, one of the most historic lighthouses in the San’in region. First illuminated in 1898, the stone lighthouse is a popular destination for enjoying spectacular views over the Sea of Japan.
Walking paths around the lighthouse allow visitors to explore the coastline while enjoying a broad panorama of the ocean and surrounding landscape.
Seki Gohonmatsu Park offers far more than beautiful scenery. Its landscapes are connected with the history of Mihonoseki, the lives of sailors and fishermen, traditional folk music, and the memories preserved by local people.
The story of the five pines, the maritime history of the port, and the changing natural scenery come together to create a distinctive atmosphere that invites visitors to slow down and explore.
Each season reveals a different side of the park. Azaleas brighten the hills in spring, the blue sea dominates the summer landscape, clear skies enhance the views in autumn, and the rugged Sea of Japan creates a dramatic winter scene.
When visiting Mihonoseki, take time to walk through Seki Gohonmatsu Park, feel the sea breeze, and look out across the surrounding waters. Alongside its spectacular panorama, the park offers an opportunity to discover the history, legends, and cultural memories that have shaped this historic Japanese port town.