Northern Kyoto Region, the Bridge to Heaven & Funaya Boathouses
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Port
Maizuru, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$229
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 8¼ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Grab your camera for a highlight-filled adventure that takes in three top scenic attractions of the northern Kyoto region.
A 60-minute drive through ever-changing landscapes brings you to a long and narrow spit known as Amanohashidate — the Bridge to Heaven. This two-mile-long stretch is rimmed by sand and covered in thousands of fragrant pine trees. It is one of Japan's top three scenic views and is considered one of the world's most beautiful bays. Spend some time here walking and photographing this stunning landscape.
Visit Motoise Kono Shrine, built in Japan's oldest known architectural style and noted for its roof logs and decorated railings. Motoise Kono is also known for the calming peal of the suikinkutsu — a garden ornament that reverberates from the impact of water droplets.
A cable car whisks you up to Kasamatsu Park for a must-see optical illusion. From this vantage point, turn your back to the Amanohashidate sandbar and bend down to look at it from between your knees — it really does look like a bridge leading to heaven.
After lunch, hop aboard a 25-minute cruise on Ine Bay. Sail past the distinctive buildings called funaya. These traditional boathouses appear to float on the water. Back on land, stroll through Ine town and step inside one of the 230 remaining funaya, used by generations of local fishermen. Take a look around before a relaxed 90-minute drive returns you to the pier.
Notes:
The cable car and cruise operate weather permitting. Expect a line to board the cable car. Seating on the boat is on a first-come, first-served basis. Tour requires one hour of walking at Amanohashidate and in Ine town. Tour sequence may vary. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Mobility devices (wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, etc) cannot be accommodated on the transportation. Some shops and restaurants around Amanohashidate may be closed on Wednesdays. You must remove your shoes at one or more location(s). Weather and atmospheric conditions vary; no guarantee is offered with regard to visibility or views on any particular day. Bring local currency or credit cards, as most vendors do not accept US dollars. Unfamiliar accents can be challenging; feel free to ask your guide to repeat or elaborate on information, and to speak more slowly so you can fully comprehend and converse.