One of the Three Wonders of Japan - Amanohashidate
Today, let me take you to explore one of the three wonders of Japan - Amanohashidate. Are you ready? Let's go together!
Embark on a fantasy wonderland: an in-depth journey to Amanohashidate
Hello everyone! I am your travel guide. Today I will take you to a place full of history and natural beauty - "Amanohashidate" in Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. This is a beautiful place known as one of the "Three Views of Japan". After experiencing it myself, I dare say that it is indeed worthy of its reputation!
Footprints of history: the mysterious legends and allusions of Amanohashidate
When I first set foot on this land, many ancient legends about Amanohashidate emerged in my mind. It is said that this is a floating bridge built by the god Izanagi to go to Izanami. Later, the bridge collapsed and formed the Amanohashidate we see today. This allusion alone makes me full of awe and curiosity about this land.
In addition to myths and legends, the history of Amanohashidate is also closely related to the cultural development of Japan. From ancient times to the present, this place has always been the subject of literati and poets. Many poems and paintings are based on Amanohashidate, which shows its important position in Japanese culture. Walking on the sandbar, it seems that you can feel the wind and sand of history, and the voice of chanting thousands of years ago can also be heard in your ears.
Beautiful scenery: pine forest, sea view and inverted sky bridge
What attracts me most about Amanohashidate is its unique natural scenery. This is a sandbar about 3.6 kilometers long, with about 8,000 pine trees growing on it, separating Miyazu Bay from the Aso Sea. Walking in the pine forest, the sea breeze blows gently, the pine waves burst, and the air is filled with the fragrance of pine trees, which makes me feel extremely relaxed and happy.
Of course, when you come to Amanohashidate, the most unmissable experience is to look at this beautiful scenery from a high place. There are several viewing points here, but my personal recommendation is at Kasamatsu Park or Amanohashidate View Land. Looking down from here, the sandbar is like a slender green ribbon lying on the blue sea.
The most special way to see it is to experience "gushiki" (under-leg view). Bend down and look back from between your legs, and a miracle happens! The sandbar that originally looked like a bridge has turned upside down and turned into a "sky bridge" that seems to lead to the sky! This visual illusion really amazed me and made me understand the origin of the name "Amanohashidate".
Easy Travel: Cable Car and Transportation Guide
It is very convenient to get to Amanohashidate. I took the JR train to Amanohashidate Station, which is about a 5-10 minute walk from the station. Of course, if you want to explore the surrounding area more easily, renting a bicycle is also a good option. Riding along the sandbar and feeling the sea breeze on your face is very pleasant.
As for experiencing "gushiki", I recommend taking the cable car or chairlift to go up the mountain. Kasamatsu Park has two options: cable car and chairlift, while Amanohashidate View Land only has a monorail. I personally chose the chairlift because it allows me to feel the nature more closely, and the view is wider. The breeze brushes my face, which is very comfortable. During the slow ascent, the full view of Amanohashidate gradually appeared in front of me, which was beautiful!
Surrounding attractions: Deeply explore the charm of Miyazu Bay
In addition to Amanohashidate itself, there are many attractions worth visiting in the surrounding area.
* Chionji Temple: Right at the entrance of Amanohashidate, it is a temple dedicated to Manjusri Bodhisattva, who is in charge of wisdom. Many students come here to pray for a smooth academic career. The temple's architecture is simple and elegant, and the environment is quiet, which is very suitable for meditation.
* Ine Funaya: If time permits, I strongly recommend everyone to go to Ine Town to experience the unique "Funaya" culture. These wooden houses built on the seaside are very special. The first floor is a port for ships to dock, and the second floor is a living space. Take a tour boat to shuttle between the funayas, as if you are in Venice on the water.
* Motoise Kono-jinja Shrine: It is said to be the Moto-gu Shrine of Ise Shrine. It has a long history and a solemn atmosphere. There are many precious cultural assets in the shrine, which are worth visiting.
Food experience: Taste local Japanese cuisine
How can you miss the food when traveling to Japan? Amanohashidate is located on the seaside, so fresh seafood is naturally not to be missed.
Near Amanohashidate, I tasted the local seafood bowl. The fresh sashimi is paired with fragrant and chewy rice. Every bite is the taste of the sea, which is extremely sweet. In addition, Tango soba noodles are also a local specialty. The chewy noodles are paired with a refreshing soup, which makes people have endless aftertaste.
Of course, all kinds of Japanese cuisine such as grilled fish and sushi are also available. I especially like to find some local small restaurants, taste authentic home cooking, and experience the Japanese food culture.
In short, the trip to Amanohashidate has given me a lot of gains. There are not only amazing natural scenery here, but also a profound historical and cultural heritage, as well as delicious local cuisine. If you are planning a trip to the Kansai region of Japan, I sincerely recommend that you include Amanohashidate in your itinerary. Believe me, this place will definitely bring you an unforgettable journey! I hope my sharing will be helpful to you. See you on your next trip!