In Amanohashidate, the station is just a short walk from the southern end of the famous three-kilometer-long sandbar. Since the Amanohashidate Sandbar is quite long, renting a bicycle is a popular and convenient way to get around. Bikes are available near the station for about 500 yen for the first two hours and 300 yen for each additional hour. It takes around 15 minutes to cycle to the other side, or about 45 minutes on foot.
You can also take a relaxing sightseeing boat across the bay. Boats run every 30 minutes between Chionji Temple and Motoise Kono Shrine. A one-way ride takes 12 minutes and costs 800 yen, or 1400 yen for a round trip. If you’d like to explore further, the peaceful village of Ine lies 15 km north of Amanohashidate and is reachable by bus in 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your starting point. For easy travel, the Amanohashidate Ine Free Pass (3500 yen for 2 days) offers unlimited rides on local buses, the cable car, chair lift, sightseeing boats, and the bus to Nariaji Temple. The pass can be purchased at the tourist information desk.
Amanohashidate Travel Tips
Amanohashidate (天橋立), located in northern Kyoto Prefecture, is a breathtaking natural formation — a narrow, pine-covered sandbar stretching gracefully across Miyazu Bay. Nicknamed the "bridge to heaven," its name reflects the ethereal beauty seen from surrounding viewpoints, where the sandbar resembles a pathway suspended between sky and sea. Revered for centuries and celebrated as one of Japan's Three Scenic Views (Nihon Sankei), Amanohashidate has long captivated poets, artists, and travelers drawn to its tranquil landscape and rich cultural heritage.
Exploring the area is a delightful experience, whether on foot or by rental bicycle. Visitors can stroll beneath thousands of pine trees along the sandbar, visit Chionji Temple with its famous vermilion gate, and explore Motoise Kono Shrine, deeply rooted in Shinto tradition. Observation decks such as Amanohashidate View Land and Kasamatsu Park offer iconic panoramic views, especially popular for the unique matanozoki (upside-down viewing) tradition. Additional attractions like the Amanohashidate Cable Car, Isoshimizu freshwater spring, and the nearby Amanohashidate Hot Spring add variety to any visit. With inviting beaches, scenic cruises across Miyazu Bay, and even a small amusement park, Amanohashidate offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural sites, and leisure activities.
Getting around
Attractions
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1Amanohashidate SandbarBridge in heaven with scenic views
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2Chionji TempleWisdom god statue and poet’s tomb
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3Motoise Kono ShrineHistoric shrine with Ise Shrine resemblance
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4Nariaiji TempleShingon temple with Kannon statue
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5Amanohashidate View LandBreathtaking views and amusement park fun
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6Amanohashidate BeachScenic beach with clear waters
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7Kasamatsu ParkUnique sandbar view and tradition
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Reviews
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5/5 - Excellent
Amanohashidate is a hidden gem in Japan, known for its breathtaking beauty. The iconic sandbar, which stretches across the bay, is often referred to as one of Japan’s three scenic views. Whether you view it from the Amanohashidate View Land or take a walk along the path, the landscape is simply stunning. The area is peaceful, with lush green surroundings, making it a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
In addition to the scenery, Amanohashidate has a charming atmosphere with temples, shrines, and local eateries to explore. The nearby Kasamatsu Park offers panoramic views of the sandbar and is perfect for a leisurely hike. It’s also a great spot for those interested in history, with sites like the Chion-ji Temple adding cultural depth to the visit. Amanohashidate is a serene destination that offers a perfect escape from the busy city life, ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a more tranquil experience in Japan.4 months ago — by Wesley