Hanzaki, Natsui Town, Kuji City, Iwate Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
The Hanzaki Noda Group is a fascinating geological formation located in Hanzaki, Natsui Town, Kuji City, Iwate Prefecture. Part of the Sanriku Geopark, these approximately 30-million-year-old strata, extending from Kuji City to Noda Village, have yielded numerous subtropical plant fossils. The exposed cliff face in Hanzaki is easily viewed from the road, about 1.5 km from Rikuchu-Natsui Station on the JR Hachinohe Line. It's conveniently situated en route to the Kuji Underground Water Aquarium Moguranpia, making it a great stop for those interested in geology and natural history. The similar Noda Group strata at Otangano-Kura, south of Kuji, are also worth a visit.