• Funaya - Ine is a delightful fishing village situated along the Sea of Japan’s coast in northern Kyoto Prefecture. It is famous for its distinctive wooden boathouses, called “Funaya,” which means “boat house” in Japanese.

Approximately 230 Funaya line the shores of Ine Bay, extending for five kilometers. Each boathouse features two levels: the ground floor is designated for storing fishing boats and equipment, offering direct sea access. This design gives the impression that the boathouses are floating, as the ground floor is nearly level with the water. The upper floor serves as a living space and connects to the main house, providing road access.

These unique houses have existed for over 300 years and offer stunning views throughout the year. From spring’s cherry blossoms to winter’s snow-covered roofs, the Funaya of Ine Bay is a must-visit for those wishing to experience the charm of traditional Japanese seaside architecture.

• Ine Bay Sightseeing Boat - Experience the Funaya from the sea for a unique perspective! Embark on a sightseeing cruise to enjoy the breathtaking seascape of Ine Bay and its iconic boathouses. As the ferry sets off, seagulls will follow, eager for food, creating an enjoyable and interactive experience. You can engage with the seagulls by feeding them; food is available for purchase, and they will even take it from your hand.

Larger sightseeing boats offer a comfortable 25-minute loop around the bay. These boats ensure a stable ride with minimal rocking, enhancing your enjoyment. Ticket prices for the sightseeing boats are 1,200 yen for adults and 600 yen for children.

• Amanohashidate Viewland - “Amanohashidate” translates to “bridge to the heavens,” named for its shape. It resembles a path connecting heaven and earth when viewed from the surrounding mountains. This breathtaking view of Amanohashidate has been admired for centuries and is recognized as one of Japan’s “Three Most Famous Views.”

Take a Chairlift or Monorail to the Hiryukan-kairo Observatory for a panoramic view of Amanohashidate. From this vantage point, the sandbar resembles a dragon ascending to heaven. Traditionally, the sandbar is viewed by turning your back to the bay, bending over, and looking between your legs, appearing as a bridge to heaven. This position is known in Japanese as “Matanozoki.”

The ticket price for Amanohashidate View Land is 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children. This fee includes round-trip access to the lift and monorail, which transport visitors to the observation deck.

• Chion-ji Temple - Chionji Temple is located at the southern entrance of the Amanohashidate Sandbar. The temple houses one of Japan’s “Three Important Statues of Monju Bosatsu,” the Buddhist god of wisdom and intellect. Consequently, students and visitors often visit the temple to pray for wisdom and success in their academic and personal endeavors. They purchase special fortunes (omikuji) shaped like folding fans, which many hang from the pine trees around the temple grounds.

Other significant structures around the temple include a large entrance gate and a two-story tahoto-style pagoda, built in the 1500s and the oldest structure on the temple grounds. The temple gate facing Chaya Street is registered as a Cultural Property of the City and is the largest temple gate in the Tango area.

• Kaisen Bridge - This rotating bridge turns 90 degrees when ships pass through the waterway, connecting the Amanohashidate landbridge and the Monju area. The original bridge was constructed in 1923 and operated manually; however, it was converted to electric operation in May 1960 due to increased ship traffic.
• Kayabuki-no-sato Kitamura - Miyama’s Kayabuki-no-Sato is located on a hilly slope and is renowned for its traditional thatched-roof houses, built in the 19th century. The roofs of these houses are covered with layers of thick thatch, arranged in a steep herringbone pattern resembling hands clasped in prayer. This design is not only visually appealing but also reflects the wisdom of ancient builders: it withstands heavy snow during harsh winters and has effective drainage characteristics. As a result, these houses remain warm in winter and cool in summer. In 1993, Kayabuki-no-Sato was designated as a Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, recognizing the exceptional preservation of its historical landscape.

The Miyama Folk Museum is located within the picturesque thatched-roof village of Miyama. Please note that the Miyama Folk Museum is closed on Mondays, and admission is 300 yen. If you plan to visit, please ensure you bring the appropriate cash for entry.

• If you book the Include Tickets package, it covers tickets for the Sightseeing Cruise and Chairlift.
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Round-trip transfer from designated meeting points (Osaka or Kyoto)
• Guide

• Lunch and personal expenses
• If you book the Exclude Tickets package, it does not include tickets for the Cruise and Chairlift.
• Miyama Folk Museum Ticket: JPY 300 per person

Discover Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s “Three Most Scenic Views.” Known as “bridge in heaven,” Amanohashidate resembles a celestial pathway connecting heaven and earth. It boasts nearly 8,000 pine-covered sandbars, resembling a dragon ascending to the skies.

Ine Funaya, often called the “Venice of Japan,” is renowned as one of the country’s most beautiful villages. Situated on a slender strip between land and sea, this delightful fishing village, with its traditional boat houses, embodies the spirit of traditional Japanese coastal living.

Entering Miyama Kayabuki No Sato is like walking into a pastoral painting from the Edo period. This meticulously preserved “Gassho-zukuri” settlement is frequently described as “the last secret place in Kyoto.” The thatched-roof houses offer a rustic village atmosphere, reflecting genuine rural life in Japan.

Depart from Osaka or Kyoto and enjoy a magical blend of nature, history, and culture with our friendly and professional guide.

• Please indicate when booking if you’re traveling with stroller or large luggage.
• Please inform us at least one day in advance if you have placed an order separately from your relatives or friends. This will help avoid the situation where you and your companions are assigned to different vehicles.
• Not recommended for travelers who use wheelchairs

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.