Amano Hashidate

Tuesday, March 29, 2022 Updated

One of the Three Most Beautiful Spots in Japan

The scenic Ama-no-hashidate sand bar is located in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture, on Miyazu Bay, facing the Sea of Japan. Located on the west coast of the bay, it is a 3-kilometer-long and 40- to 100-meter-wide sand spit, stretching into Miyazu Bay from Ejiri on the Tango-hanto Peninsula. It was formed by sand accumulated by the tides and wind. There are over 8,000 pine trees growing on this white sand spit. Some of the trees exhibit unique shapes and have been given names such as Meoto Matsu (Couples Pine), Nakayoshi no Matsu (Friendly Pine), and Chie no Matsu (Wisdom Pine). The area is said to be one of the three most beautiful spots in Japan.

- Amano Hashidate
- Matsushima
- Miyajima

Mata-Nozoki*

If you bend over and try to look at the view through your legs, it is said that Ama-no-hashidate will appear like a bridge to the heavens. In fact, roughly translated, Amano Hashidate translates to "bridge in heaven". The sandbar is best viewed from parks located in the hills on either side of the bay.
*Bending down and looking at scenery from between ones legs.

Kyoto Bridge in Heaven

Amanohashidate View Land lies on the south side of the sandbar behind Amanohashidate Station. This small theme park is accessed by chairlift or monorail and features a variety of amusements, such as a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, go-karts and mini golf. There are several viewpoints from which to look out over the sandbar. Many consider this the better view as from this perspective the sandbar is said to resemble a dragon flying up to heaven. Bathing in the Ama-no-hashidate-onsen Hot Spring, which is located in the vicinity, is said to give bathers beautiful skin.

View one of the three most beautiful spots in Japan yourself by arranging your own trip after or before one of our Japan tours.