Amanohashidate — Kyoto’s Hidden Coastal Escape
Amanohashidate might technically be part of Kyoto, but it feels like a completely different universe. Instead of temples, crowds, and busy streets, you get a quiet coastal town that feels almost untouched. It’s about a two‑hour drive from the main tourist areas, and the moment you arrive, the whole atmosphere shifts — slower, softer, and almost dreamlike.
The town itself is small, almost like a traditional fisherman village tucked along the water. Wooden houses, calm waves, and a peaceful rhythm that makes you forget how close you are to the city. It really feels like stumbling onto a secret hideaway that only locals whisper about.
But the real magic happens at the observatory. Looking down at the long sandbar stretching across the bay is surreal — like a natural bridge floating between two sides of the sea. My friend couldn’t stop saying how beautiful it was, and honestly, I understood the obsession. It’s one of those views that photos never fully capture.
There’s also a funny little tradition here: you’re supposed to bend forward and look at the scenery upside‑down through your legs. They say it makes the sandbar look like a “bridge to heaven.” I had to skip that part — wearing a dress definitely wasn’t the best outfit choice for that pose — but watching everyone else try it was entertaining enough.
Amanohashidate is remote, but that’s part of its charm. You have a few options:
By Car (fastest & easiest)
Around 2 hours from central Kyoto.
The drive becomes scenic once you get closer to the coast.
By Train
- From Kyoto Station → Hashidate Limited Express
- Travel time: around 2 hours
- Arrives at Amanohashidate Station, walking distance from the sandbar and cable car
By Bus
Less common, but some highway buses run from Kyoto and Osaka.
Driving gives you the most flexibility to explore nearby spots.
What to Do in Amanohashidate
1. Amanohashidate View Land (Observatory)
This is where you get the iconic view of the sandbar.
Take the chairlift or monorail up — both are fun in their own way.
2. Walk or Cycle Across the Sandbar
The sandbar is about 3 km long.
Rent a bicycle and ride through the pine trees with the ocean on both sides.
3. Chionji Temple
A peaceful temple near the entrance of the sandbar.
People come here to pray for academic success.
4. Boat Ride Across the Bay
A short, relaxing ride that gives you a different angle of the sandbar.
🍜 What to Eat
Amanohashidate is known for fresh seafood, especially:
- Grilled squid
- Snow crab (in winter)
- Sashimi rice bowls
- Local soft‑serve ice cream
There are small cafés near the station and along the water — perfect for a slow lunch with a view - Café du Pin
The town itself is small, almost like a traditional fisherman village tucked along the water. Wooden houses, calm waves, and a peaceful rhythm that makes you forget how close you are to the city. There are also many forest trails you can wander through, leading you to hidden temples, quiet stretches of sea, and little cafés tucked between the trees. It’s the kind of place where you can just follow a path and discover something charming without even trying.
Staying the Night in Central Kyoto
After exploring Amanohashidate, I decided to stay overnight in central Kyoto so I could visit Kinkaku‑ji first thing the next morning. I checked into Hotel Resol Kawaramachi, and honestly, it was such a pleasant surprise — beautiful, clean, and very affordable for the location.
The room had a cozy Japanese‑style design, with warm lighting and thoughtful details that made it feel extra welcoming after a long day of travel. One of my favorite touches was the little “make‑your‑own matcha” set waiting in the room. It felt so uniquely Kyoto — a small ritual to unwind before bed.
The hotel is also conveniently located, making it easy to explore the city at night or grab a quick bite before heading out the next morning. It was the perfect base for my Kyoto adventure.
Kinkaku‑ji — The Golden Pavilion
The next morning, I headed straight to Kinkaku‑ji, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Even if you’ve seen a hundred photos of it, nothing compares to seeing the Golden Pavilion shimmering over the pond in real life. The reflection, the garden, the calm atmosphere — it all feels like stepping into a postcard.
Kinkaku‑ji can get crowded, especially after 10 AM, so going early makes a huge difference. The walking path around the temple is smooth and easy, and you’ll find small teahouses and souvenir shops along the exit where you can enjoy a quiet moment before heading to your next stop.
🎫 Kyoto Pass Guide (Perfect for First‑Time Visitors)
If you’re planning to explore multiple temples, shrines, and attractions in Kyoto, getting a Kyoto sightseeing pass can save you both time and money. It’s especially useful if you’re visiting places like:
• Kinkaku‑ji
• Kiyomizu‑dera
• Fushimi Inari
• Arashiyama
• Gion & Higashiyama
• Kyoto Imperial Palace
The pass gives you unlimited rides on Kyoto’s buses and subways, which is super convenient since many temples are spread out across the city.
👉 Book your Kyoto Pass here:
Use my code drakoadventure for a discount (3% off for existing users, 8% off for new users).
• Minimum spend: $50
• Maximum discount: $50
• One‑time use
It’s one of the easiest ways to move around Kyoto without worrying about individual tickets or transport costs adding up.
🐉 Drako’s Verdict: 10/10
Amanohashidate completely exceeded my expectations. From the peaceful fisherman‑village vibes to the breathtaking observatory view, everything felt like a quiet escape from the usual Kyoto itinerary. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave — calm, scenic, and just a little bit magical.
Drako’s final score: 10/10.
