Nature's Healing Power in Gotsu City
The Japan Sea: White Sand and Green Pine
Although the Sea of Japan is imagined as a harsh environment through the influence of folk ballads, the coastline to Gotsu is in fact gentle and calm. Of the diverse pleasures to the seashore, nothing can compare to the contrast of blue-green waves and white breakers, or the sandy beaches against the craggy rocks. Swimming areas include the pine speckled locales of Kuromatsu and Asari Beach, as well as the popular surfing spot, Hashi Beach. The ocean's bounty also provides a variety of delicious seafood. Squid (ika) and horse mackerel (aji) are available year round, with summer specialties including abalone and “sazae” mollusks.
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The Go River: Chugoku's Taro
With the headwaters to the Go River lying in Hiroshima Prefecture, the river itself flows a total of 194 kilometers down to the ocean. As it is the largest river in the Chugoku Region, it is lovingly called “Chugoku's Taro” (Taro being a traditional boy's name, roughly meaning “great son.”) Our recommendations for optimal enjoyment of the Go River is by canoeing or fishing.
August brings the flourishing Go River Festival, famous for its dragon-boat races and fireworks display. The rich Go River also provides sweetfish (ayu), river crab, eel, a variety of river shrimp and even the surprising sight of freshwater perch returning upstream.
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Mountainsides: Waves of Red Roofs
Following the Go River inland along Route 261, mountainsides wrap around you. Red roof tiles projected against the green foliage are an idyllic example of the Japanese countryside. With various types of trees growing all around, the first sign of spring comes from the mountain cherry and wild wisteria. In the autumn, you can enjoy the passing of the seasons with the deepening color of the leaves. Other merits to the mountainside are the variety of agricultural products, including seasonal grapes, Chinese long-yams, and white onions.
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Windmills: Harmony between Wind, Sea and Mountains
Along the western border of Gotsu stand nine windmills near Takano Mountain. Additionally if one follows Route 9 east from the city center towards Asari and Kuromatsu Beach, there the majestic figures of eleven slowly turning windmills along the ocean are calming sight for any driver. The windmills are the union of power generation and environmentally friendly energy use.
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