1-Day Leisurely Journey through the Sea of Kyoto: Amanohashidate Scenic Viewpoints, "Venice of Japan" Ine Boathouses and Chionji Temple Monju-do
5.0
(5 reviews)
Tour Code: 672501
$43.29 per person
Best Price Guaranteed
Departure CityOsaka
End CityOsaka
Duration1 days
LanguageEnglish Live, Japanese Live, Korean Live, Chinese Live
Tour ThemesNatural Landscapes
Guide TypeGuided Tour
Group SizeStandard Group Tour
Activity LevelModerate
Highlights
• Escape the tourist crowds and explore Kyoto's northern coastline for a deeper, more authentic experience
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Itinerary
8:40am Osaka
Pick-up/Drop-off Points:
8:40am, Nihonbashi Exit 2 (Namba and Shinsaibashi area)
9:50am, Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit – Bus Stop in front of the station
11:20am Kyoto Prefecture
▼ One of Japan's Three Scenic Views – Amanohashidate Observation Point (Approx. 2.5 hours, including time for self-paid lunch)
Amanohashidate, located in the Sea of Japan's Miyazu Bay, is one of the three most famous scenic spots in Japan, along with Matsushima in Mutsu and Itsukushima in Aki. The sandbar is approximately 3.6 kilometers long and is formed by coastal sedimentation. The sandbar is lined with around 8,000 pine trees, with white sandy beaches on both sides, creating a unique natural landscape. The shape of the sandbar resembles a bridge stretching upwards toward the sky, hence the name "Amanohashidate" (Heavenly Bridge). It lies at the meeting point of the Asou Sea and the Miyazu Bay, offering views of unspoiled natural beauty and expansive seascapes.
At the top of Mount Monju, there is an observation deck offering views of Amanohashidate. The mountain has an observation car and various amusement facilities suitable for all ages. The view from here is said to resemble a dragon flying into the sky, and it is often called "Flying Dragon View." You will see a vibrant and energetic view of Amanohashidate from this spot (Cable car ticket is at your own expense).
* From December 16 to December 18, the Viewland Ropeway will be closed for maintenance. During this period, visitors will take the ropeway at Kasamatsu Park instead.
Chionji Temple & Monju Hall (Temple for academic success prayers)
Chionji Temple enshrines Monju Bosatsu, the deity of wisdom, praying for academic success, similar to the Chinese God of Literature, Wenchang Dijun. The mountain gate of Chionji is the gateway to the Tango region. A special feature here is the fan-shaped fortune slip. When the fan is hung upside down, the narrow side expands to the wider side, symbolizing progress. Nearby, there is a rotary bridge connecting Amanohashidate and Monju Hall. When large ships pass through, the bridge rotates 90 degrees to allow the ships to pass (timing is irregular) (Entrance is free).
Rotating Bridge - Aesthetic of Motion (Operates Irregularly)
Imagine a bridge that slowly rotates 90 degrees like the hand of a clock to let boats pass—this isn’t a movie scene, but the real-life Amanohashidate Rotating Bridge! Whenever a cruise ship approaches, the bridge deck horizontally rotates to allow passage, then gracefully returns to its original position. The entire process is a display of elegant mechanical beauty.
Amanohashidate Beach - Seaside Strolls or Summer Fun - A Seasonal Hidden Gem
On both sides of the Amanohashidate sandbar stretch white sandy beaches with fine, soft sand. Strolling through the pine grove that runs along the sandbar and admiring the variety of uniquely shaped pine trees is a delight in itself. With crystal-clear waters, pure white sand, and lush pine trees on both sides, the scenery feels like stepping into a natural painting. The dense pine needles provide natural shade like green parasols.
14:30pm Kyoto Prefecture
▼ Ine Boat Houses – "The Venice of Japan" and "Kyoto's Last Hidden Gem" (Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes, options to walk, cycle, or take a boat tour to feed seagulls. Boat fee is not included.)
Ine Village is ranked among Japan's 18 most beautiful villages. It features Japan's unique water-based boat house architecture, offering a natural landscape that cannot be experienced at typical tourist destinations. The boat houses are aligned along the southern shore of Ine Bay, stretching for about 5 kilometers with more than 230 houses, where people still coexist with the sea. The crystal-clear blue sea, the deep green mountains, the ever-changing sky, and the traditional boat houses are a harmonious natural sight that can only be experienced in Ine. The coastal fishing village is peaceful and untouched, far from the hustle and bustle, maintaining an authentic and simple charm.
Boat Tour
You can choose to experience a boat tour at your own expense, which lasts around 25 minutes, cruising through Ine Bay while feeding seagulls. From the second-floor deck, enjoy a beautiful view of the boat houses and spend special moments with your family. Boats depart every hour on the hour and at half-past the hour. Boat tickets and seagull feed are not included. If the weather conditions prevent the boat from operating due to wind or waves, the tour will be replaced with free time to explore on foot.
* Complimentary: one pack of shrimp crackers per person for feeding the seagulls.
Note: Due to the presence of many eagles in the Ine boat house area, please be cautious when feeding seagulls. If you spot any eagles nearby, immediately stop feeding the seagulls and securely store the feed to avoid being injured by the eagles.
Cycling Tour
Ine offers free bicycles for guests to explore the village at their own pace. You can pick up or return bikes at any of the five rental stations located around the village, making it very convenient. Riding through the quiet, narrow alleyways with no one around creates a wonderfully peaceful experience. (Free of charge, with five bike stations for easy pick-up and drop-off.)
15:50pm Return
Enjoy the rest of your day's journey, and begin your return trip.
18:20pm Kyoto Prefecture
Arrival in Kyoto, the return time is for reference only and may be earlier depending on the smoothness of the day's itinerary and good road conditions.
19:20pm Osaka
Guests will either drop off at Nihonbashi Exit 2 area or end the tour at their hotel in Osaka city.
Guests who selected the hotel transfer package but choose to continue exploring on their own will end the tour on-site (this will be regarded as a voluntary waiver of the return transfer service, and the transfer fee is non-refundable).
Guests who selected the "meet-up/drop-off at meeting point" package will be dismissed at the drop-off location to end the tour.
Guests who booked the hotel or accommodation transfer package, please wait for the shuttle vehicle to arrive. You will be sent back to your hotel or accommodation to officially end the tour.
Shinsaibashi: The most famous shopping street in Osaka, home to large department stores, major drugstore chains, long-established specialty shops, and small boutiques. It offers a wide range of products in various styles and price ranges. Popular character stores like Hello Kitty and Disney also have branches here. It's a favorite destination for beauty lovers, with numerous drugstores offering a wide selection of cosmetics and skincare products. Most stores have Chinese-speaking staff and accept UnionPay, making shopping convenient and enjoyable.
Dotonbori: Known as the symbol of Osaka's gourmet culture, this bustling street is lively day and night. Considered the birthplace of Osaka's famous "kuidaore" (eat till you drop) culture, Dotonbori is packed with delicious street food such as takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and Kinryu Ramen. You'll also find traditional izakayas and trendy restaurants, including the iconic Kani Doraku crab restaurant, a favorite among Chinese visitors.
Pick-up/Drop-off Points:
8:40am, Nihonbashi Exit 2 (Namba and Shinsaibashi area)
9:50am, Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit – Bus Stop in front of the station
11:20am Kyoto Prefecture
▼ One of Japan's Three Scenic Views – Amanohashidate Observation Point (Approx. 2.5 hours, including time for self-paid lunch)
Amanohashidate, located in the Sea of Japan's Miyazu Bay, is one of the three most famous scenic spots in Japan, along with Matsushima in Mutsu and Itsukushima in Aki. The sandbar is approximately 3.6 kilometers long and is formed by coastal sedimentation. The sandbar is lined with around 8,000 pine trees, with white sandy beaches on both sides, creating a unique natural landscape. The shape of the sandbar resembles a bridge stretching upwards toward the sky, hence the name "Amanohashidate" (Heavenly Bridge). It lies at the meeting point of the Asou Sea and the Miyazu Bay, offering views of unspoiled natural beauty and expansive seascapes.
At the top of Mount Monju, there is an observation deck offering views of Amanohashidate. The mountain has an observation car and various amusement facilities suitable for all ages. The view from here is said to resemble a dragon flying into the sky, and it is often called "Flying Dragon View." You will see a vibrant and energetic view of Amanohashidate from this spot (Cable car ticket is at your own expense).
* From December 16 to December 18, the Viewland Ropeway will be closed for maintenance. During this period, visitors will take the ropeway at Kasamatsu Park instead.
Chionji Temple & Monju Hall (Temple for academic success prayers)
Chionji Temple enshrines Monju Bosatsu, the deity of wisdom, praying for academic success, similar to the Chinese God of Literature, Wenchang Dijun. The mountain gate of Chionji is the gateway to the Tango region. A special feature here is the fan-shaped fortune slip. When the fan is hung upside down, the narrow side expands to the wider side, symbolizing progress. Nearby, there is a rotary bridge connecting Amanohashidate and Monju Hall. When large ships pass through, the bridge rotates 90 degrees to allow the ships to pass (timing is irregular) (Entrance is free).
Rotating Bridge - Aesthetic of Motion (Operates Irregularly)
Imagine a bridge that slowly rotates 90 degrees like the hand of a clock to let boats pass—this isn’t a movie scene, but the real-life Amanohashidate Rotating Bridge! Whenever a cruise ship approaches, the bridge deck horizontally rotates to allow passage, then gracefully returns to its original position. The entire process is a display of elegant mechanical beauty.
Amanohashidate Beach - Seaside Strolls or Summer Fun - A Seasonal Hidden Gem
On both sides of the Amanohashidate sandbar stretch white sandy beaches with fine, soft sand. Strolling through the pine grove that runs along the sandbar and admiring the variety of uniquely shaped pine trees is a delight in itself. With crystal-clear waters, pure white sand, and lush pine trees on both sides, the scenery feels like stepping into a natural painting. The dense pine needles provide natural shade like green parasols.
14:30pm Kyoto Prefecture
▼ Ine Boat Houses – "The Venice of Japan" and "Kyoto's Last Hidden Gem" (Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes, options to walk, cycle, or take a boat tour to feed seagulls. Boat fee is not included.)
Ine Village is ranked among Japan's 18 most beautiful villages. It features Japan's unique water-based boat house architecture, offering a natural landscape that cannot be experienced at typical tourist destinations. The boat houses are aligned along the southern shore of Ine Bay, stretching for about 5 kilometers with more than 230 houses, where people still coexist with the sea. The crystal-clear blue sea, the deep green mountains, the ever-changing sky, and the traditional boat houses are a harmonious natural sight that can only be experienced in Ine. The coastal fishing village is peaceful and untouched, far from the hustle and bustle, maintaining an authentic and simple charm.
Boat Tour
You can choose to experience a boat tour at your own expense, which lasts around 25 minutes, cruising through Ine Bay while feeding seagulls. From the second-floor deck, enjoy a beautiful view of the boat houses and spend special moments with your family. Boats depart every hour on the hour and at half-past the hour. Boat tickets and seagull feed are not included. If the weather conditions prevent the boat from operating due to wind or waves, the tour will be replaced with free time to explore on foot.
* Complimentary: one pack of shrimp crackers per person for feeding the seagulls.
Note: Due to the presence of many eagles in the Ine boat house area, please be cautious when feeding seagulls. If you spot any eagles nearby, immediately stop feeding the seagulls and securely store the feed to avoid being injured by the eagles.
Cycling Tour
Ine offers free bicycles for guests to explore the village at their own pace. You can pick up or return bikes at any of the five rental stations located around the village, making it very convenient. Riding through the quiet, narrow alleyways with no one around creates a wonderfully peaceful experience. (Free of charge, with five bike stations for easy pick-up and drop-off.)
15:50pm Return
Enjoy the rest of your day's journey, and begin your return trip.
18:20pm Kyoto Prefecture
Arrival in Kyoto, the return time is for reference only and may be earlier depending on the smoothness of the day's itinerary and good road conditions.
19:20pm Osaka
Guests will either drop off at Nihonbashi Exit 2 area or end the tour at their hotel in Osaka city.
Guests who selected the hotel transfer package but choose to continue exploring on their own will end the tour on-site (this will be regarded as a voluntary waiver of the return transfer service, and the transfer fee is non-refundable).
Guests who selected the "meet-up/drop-off at meeting point" package will be dismissed at the drop-off location to end the tour.
Guests who booked the hotel or accommodation transfer package, please wait for the shuttle vehicle to arrive. You will be sent back to your hotel or accommodation to officially end the tour.
Shinsaibashi: The most famous shopping street in Osaka, home to large department stores, major drugstore chains, long-established specialty shops, and small boutiques. It offers a wide range of products in various styles and price ranges. Popular character stores like Hello Kitty and Disney also have branches here. It's a favorite destination for beauty lovers, with numerous drugstores offering a wide selection of cosmetics and skincare products. Most stores have Chinese-speaking staff and accept UnionPay, making shopping convenient and enjoyable.
Dotonbori: Known as the symbol of Osaka's gourmet culture, this bustling street is lively day and night. Considered the birthplace of Osaka's famous "kuidaore" (eat till you drop) culture, Dotonbori is packed with delicious street food such as takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and Kinryu Ramen. You'll also find traditional izakayas and trendy restaurants, including the iconic Kani Doraku crab restaurant, a favorite among Chinese visitors.
Tips
* The above itinerary is for reference only. The specific attractions, tour sequence and time may be changed according to the situation on the day.
* Due to the high volume of tourism in Japan, traffic congestion is common on weekends and public holidays. Return trips are often delayed, sometimes by 2-3 hours. We recommend not scheduling other activities on the evening of your tour's conclusion, as it may interfere with the itinerary.
* Due to the high volume of tourism in Japan, traffic congestion is common on weekends and public holidays. Return trips are often delayed, sometimes by 2-3 hours. We recommend not scheduling other activities on the evening of your tour's conclusion, as it may interfere with the itinerary.
Visiting Attractions
Shinsaibashi
Dotonbori
Meal
B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: Excluded
Meeting & Transfer Info
Meeting Point
08:40 AM | Osaka
Nihonbashi Exit 2 (Namba and Shinsaibashi area)
Pick-up and Drop-off at Designated Locations package
09:50 AM | Osaka
Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit – Bus Stop in front of the station Kyoto-Hachijoguchi Bus Loading Area Higashikujo Nishisannocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8003 Japan
Pick-up and Drop-off at Designated Locations package
Own Expenses
- Amanohashidate Observation PointCable Car/Monorail Combined Ticket: JPY 1,000.00/person
- Amanohashidate Onsen - Chie no YuOutdoor footbath is free of charge;
Admission fee: JPY 700.00/person - Boat Tour of the Ine Boat HousesDepartures every hour and half-hour.
JPY 1,000.00/adult;
JPY 500.00/child;
Seagull feed: JPY 100.00/pack.
In case of rough seas, service will be replaced with a free walking tour.
What’s Included
Includes
- Vehicle service fees as listed in the itinerary
- Fuel costs, toll fees, and highway charges
- Vehicle service duration: Within 10 hours (as per Japanese regulations)
- Driver and guide service fees: Small group (1-13 people); Bus group (14-45 people)—actual service fees will be adjusted based on the group size on the departure day
- Reference Vehicle Types: 5-8 seats: Toyota Alphard or equivalent; 9-14 seats: Toyota HiAce or equivalent; 18-22 seats: Mini bus; 22+ seats: Large bus. (Vehicle models are for reference only; the actual vehicle will be arranged based on the group size on the departure day.)
- Children 0-2 years old may ride for free if held and without a separate seat (advance notice required). Children aged 3 and above are charged the same as adults.
Excludes
- Accommodation fees, meals, attraction tickets, optional activities, and other personal expenses
- For one-day tours, bringing luggage is not recommended. If necessary, each person may bring one piece of luggage for free, with no size restrictions. Advance notice is required at the time of booking. Any additional luggage beyond the free allowance or unnotified luggage will incur an extra charge
- Any other items not mentioned in the "Included in the Price" section
Special Notes
1. Pick-up/Meeting
Please ensure you arrive at the designated pick-up location on time. Late arrivals will not be accommodated. This product is non-refundable and non-changeable, and you cannot switch to another departure or join midway. If you miss the tour for any reason, you will bear the associated losses.
2. During the Trip
1) During the group tour, you cannot leave the group early or drop out midway. If you choose to leave the tour, any uncompleted parts of the itinerary will be considered as forfeited, and no refund will be given. Any accidents occurring after leaving the group will be your own responsibility.
2) During peak travel seasons or under special circumstances, the tour departure time may be adjusted slightly earlier or later (the exact departure time will be notified by the guide), so please prepare in advance.
3) The timing of transportation, sightseeing, and stay times may vary based on the actual conditions of the day. In case of special circumstances (e.g., traffic jams, weather conditions, etc.), the guide may adjust the sightseeing order with your consent, without reducing the number of attractions.
4) This tour does not include meals. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are at your own expense. Some restaurants may not allow outside food or may only reserve seating without ordering food, so please pay attention.
3. Local Customs/Regulations
Please respect local customs and cultural practices during your trip.
4. Weather
1) This tour may be adjusted due to weather conditions. For your safety, staff members have the right to ask you to stop outdoor activities and rearrange the schedule as needed. The adjustments will depend on the situation of the day.
2) In the event of severe weather or other force majeure factors, the park may delay or change the operating hours of amusement facilities or performances without prior notice, and some activities may be canceled.
3) The quality of flower blooms is largely affected by weather conditions. If the bloom is not at its peak, the tour will proceed as scheduled. Guests concerned about this should carefully consider their booking.
5. Meals
This tour does not include meals, so please make your own arrangements.
6. Shopping
1) Some attractions, restaurants, and rest areas may have shopping facilities, but these are not designated by the travel agency. Please shop wisely and ask for receipts if necessary. If any consumption disputes arise, you will be responsible for them. We appreciate your understanding.
2) There may be privately operated entertainment and consumption venues in the destination, most of which may not have legal operating qualifications and could pose potential risks. For your safety and health, please consider consumption carefully.
7. Friendly Reminders
1) Please keep your phone on during the tour so that relevant staff can contact you.
2) If you have a history of motion sickness (car or boat), we recommend you take preventive measures to avoid affecting your enjoyment.
3) Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for activities, and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, windbreaker, camera, etc.
4) Keep your personal belongings safe and avoid carrying valuable items. If they are lost or damaged during the tour, you will be responsible for the loss.
5) Safety Warning: Activities such as swimming, rafting, diving, skiing, ice skating, and snow sports carry inherent risks. Before participating, please assess your own condition and carefully consider the related warnings and advice from local authorities and professional organizations.
The time we mentioned in the itinerary is for reference only. Please refer to your guide on tour for the actual arrangement. The visiting order and duration might be changed according to actual and practical situation for better service.
This tour/activity is overseen by a select local operator in the region. Upon booking your tour or activity and after receiving confirmation, you will be issued an e-ticket detailing the local operator's name and contact information. If you require assistance finding a specific tour, please contact us for more information.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirement: If you have traveled to or transited through yellow fever-endemic regions including East African countries (excluding Tanzania) or South American countries, either before or after your trip, you may be required to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. This requirement can apply not only for joining tours but also for certain flights or entry into specific countries. For more details, please refer to the official site: : Yellow Fever Risk Areas - Fit for Travel
Please ensure you arrive at the designated pick-up location on time. Late arrivals will not be accommodated. This product is non-refundable and non-changeable, and you cannot switch to another departure or join midway. If you miss the tour for any reason, you will bear the associated losses.
2. During the Trip
1) During the group tour, you cannot leave the group early or drop out midway. If you choose to leave the tour, any uncompleted parts of the itinerary will be considered as forfeited, and no refund will be given. Any accidents occurring after leaving the group will be your own responsibility.
2) During peak travel seasons or under special circumstances, the tour departure time may be adjusted slightly earlier or later (the exact departure time will be notified by the guide), so please prepare in advance.
3) The timing of transportation, sightseeing, and stay times may vary based on the actual conditions of the day. In case of special circumstances (e.g., traffic jams, weather conditions, etc.), the guide may adjust the sightseeing order with your consent, without reducing the number of attractions.
4) This tour does not include meals. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are at your own expense. Some restaurants may not allow outside food or may only reserve seating without ordering food, so please pay attention.
3. Local Customs/Regulations
Please respect local customs and cultural practices during your trip.
4. Weather
1) This tour may be adjusted due to weather conditions. For your safety, staff members have the right to ask you to stop outdoor activities and rearrange the schedule as needed. The adjustments will depend on the situation of the day.
2) In the event of severe weather or other force majeure factors, the park may delay or change the operating hours of amusement facilities or performances without prior notice, and some activities may be canceled.
3) The quality of flower blooms is largely affected by weather conditions. If the bloom is not at its peak, the tour will proceed as scheduled. Guests concerned about this should carefully consider their booking.
5. Meals
This tour does not include meals, so please make your own arrangements.
6. Shopping
1) Some attractions, restaurants, and rest areas may have shopping facilities, but these are not designated by the travel agency. Please shop wisely and ask for receipts if necessary. If any consumption disputes arise, you will be responsible for them. We appreciate your understanding.
2) There may be privately operated entertainment and consumption venues in the destination, most of which may not have legal operating qualifications and could pose potential risks. For your safety and health, please consider consumption carefully.
7. Friendly Reminders
1) Please keep your phone on during the tour so that relevant staff can contact you.
2) If you have a history of motion sickness (car or boat), we recommend you take preventive measures to avoid affecting your enjoyment.
3) Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for activities, and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, windbreaker, camera, etc.
4) Keep your personal belongings safe and avoid carrying valuable items. If they are lost or damaged during the tour, you will be responsible for the loss.
5) Safety Warning: Activities such as swimming, rafting, diving, skiing, ice skating, and snow sports carry inherent risks. Before participating, please assess your own condition and carefully consider the related warnings and advice from local authorities and professional organizations.
The time we mentioned in the itinerary is for reference only. Please refer to your guide on tour for the actual arrangement. The visiting order and duration might be changed according to actual and practical situation for better service.
This tour/activity is overseen by a select local operator in the region. Upon booking your tour or activity and after receiving confirmation, you will be issued an e-ticket detailing the local operator's name and contact information. If you require assistance finding a specific tour, please contact us for more information.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirement: If you have traveled to or transited through yellow fever-endemic regions including East African countries (excluding Tanzania) or South American countries, either before or after your trip, you may be required to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. This requirement can apply not only for joining tours but also for certain flights or entry into specific countries. For more details, please refer to the official site: : Yellow Fever Risk Areas - Fit for Travel
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