Muroto UNESCO World Geopark: The Cape Where Earth's History is Concentrated

Muroto Geopark: Earth Science on a Cape Where You Feel Earth's Activities

The "Muroto UNESCO World Geopark" in Muroto City, Kochi Prefecture, was certified as a world geopark in 2011. A region where Earth's history from 200 million years ago to the present is concentrated as rocks, strata, and coastal landforms, it also attracts worldwide attention as a field for earth science research.

Turbidites and Geological Highlights

Around Cape Muroto, striped strata called "turbidites" are exposed. Turbidites, where sand and mud deposited on the deep seafloor are alternately layered, are evidence of being uplifted over tens of millions of years by plate subduction. A powerful landscape that conveys the dynamism of the Earth.

Deep Ocean Water

In Muroto City, an industry utilizing "deep ocean water" pumped up from deep in the Pacific Ocean (320 meters depth) has developed. Deep ocean water with excellent mineral balance has been commercialized as beverages, cosmetics, and food products (salt and tofu using deep ocean water, etc.).

Kukai's Training Ground

Cape Muroto has "Mikurodo Cave" where Kobo Daishi Kukai is said to have trained in his youth. It is also handed down that he obtained the Buddhist name "Kukai" from the scenery of sky and sea he saw here.

Access

Approximately 2 hours by car from Kochi city. Buses also operate (approximately 2 hours from Kochi Station to Muroto).