Coastal Scenery and the Former Pine Grove
In the past, Yokosu Coast was celebrated as “Yokosu no Matsubara,” or the Yokosu Pine Grove, and was counted among the Twelve Scenic Views of Shikoku. Although the pine forest has diminished in size over the years, the coastline retains its natural charm and historical character.
Today, visitors can explore the area for a peaceful seaside walk and discover the stories that connect this stretch of coast with the development of Komatsushima and its surrounding communities.
A Landmark in Japan’s Aviation History
Yokosu Coast holds a special place in the history of Japanese aviation. In 1922, during the Taisho era, Japan’s first scheduled commercial air service began operating between Ohama Beach in Sakai, Osaka Prefecture, and Yokosu Coast in Tokushima.
This pioneering route connected Tokushima with the Kansai region and marked an important milestone in the development of commercial aviation in Japan. For visitors interested in transportation and industrial history, the story adds an unexpected historical dimension to what might otherwise seem like an ordinary coastal landscape.
The Former Yokosu Swimming Beach
Until 1974, Yokosu Swimming Beach operated as Komatsushima City’s only designated swimming beach. Although the swimming area has since closed, the coast remains a place where visitors can appreciate the seaside atmosphere and enjoy walks along the shore.
Kaneiso Benzaiten: A Sacred Coastal Sanctuary
The Inner Sanctuary of Onzanji Temple
Kaneiso Benzaiten is a Buddhist sanctuary located in Kaneischo, Komatsushima City. It serves as the inner sanctuary of Onzanji Temple, the 18th temple on the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage. The principal deity enshrined here is Benzaiten, a Buddhist figure associated with eloquence, wisdom, the arts, and good fortune.
The surrounding area is known as Benten Mountain, where the natural environment and religious traditions create a quiet, spiritual atmosphere. The sanctuary has long been an object of local devotion and is an appealing stop for visitors interested in the religious heritage of Shikoku.
The Legend of Kōbō Daishi and the White Dragon
According to local tradition, the sanctuary’s origins date to the Enryaku era (782–806), when the Buddhist monk Kōbō Daishi, also known as Kūkai, is said to have discovered the sacred site while training in the area.
The legend tells that Kūkai saw a mysterious dragon-shaped light over the sea and spent the night discussing Buddhist teachings with Benzaiten. At dawn, Benzaiten reportedly transformed into a white dragon and returned to the sea. Inspired by this encounter, Kūkai is said to have enshrined Benzaiten here, establishing a place of worship that developed into an enduring center of local faith.
These stories add a mystical element to the coastal landscape, linking the sea with the spiritual traditions that are deeply rooted in Shikoku.
Mount Hōrai and the Rare Akō Tree
Near Kaneiso Benzaiten is a small hill known as Mount Hōrai. It is home to a naturally growing akō tree, a subtropical species related to figs. This tree has been designated a Natural Monument of Tokushima Prefecture, making it a noteworthy feature for visitors interested in the region’s botanical heritage.
The area also has a military history. Toward the end of the Edo period, Tada Sōtarō constructed the Benten Mountain Battery here as part of local coastal defenses. The site therefore brings together natural, religious, and historical interests in a relatively small area.
Part of the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage
Kaneiso Benzaiten is closely connected with the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage, one of Japan’s most famous Buddhist pilgrimage routes. As the inner sanctuary of Onzanji Temple, the 18th temple, it forms part of the spiritual landscape encountered by pilgrims traveling onward toward Tatsueji Temple, the 19th temple.
For travelers following the pilgrimage, visiting the sanctuary offers an opportunity to explore a lesser-known sacred site while learning more about the religious traditions that have shaped the region for centuries.
Getting to Yokosu Coast
Yokosu Coast can be reached on foot from Minami-Komatsushima Station on the JR Mugi Line, approximately a 20-minute walk away. Visitors can also take a Komatsushima City bus to the Keirinjo-mae bus stop and walk for about 10 minutes to reach the coast.
Discover Yokosu Coast and Its Surroundings
Yokosu Coast offers more than a pleasant seaside setting. Its history includes an early milestone in Japanese commercial aviation, the former Yokosu Pine Grove, and the memory of a swimming beach that once served the local community. Nearby, Kaneiso Benzaiten preserves religious traditions and legends associated with Kōbō Daishi, while Mount Hōrai is home to a prefecturally designated natural monument.
For travelers exploring Komatsushima City, a visit to Yokosu Coast provides a rewarding combination of coastal scenery, local history, and spiritual heritage. Take time to explore the surrounding area and discover the stories that make this part of Tokushima distinctive.