Nature, History

Port of Otaru

Sakaimachi Street

Dating from the Meiji Period until the beginning of the Showa Period when Otaru's economy was at its zenith, the stone houses of merchants and modern western-style buildings lining the bustling merchant's quarter are still plainly evident today. Visitors can feel the spirit of the good old times from the rows of shops dealing glass, music boxes, sweets, and other Otaru specialties to the night-light and steam clock at the Meruhen Kosaten (Marchen Crossroads).
Address
047-0031
1-1-6 Ironai,Otaru-shi, HOKKAIDO JAPAN
Access
15 minutes on foot from the Otaru Port
Distance
Approximately 1 kilometer from the Otaru Port
Links
Official website of Otaru Sakaimachidori Shopping Street
Contact
Otaru Tourism Association
TEL +81-134-33-2510

Otaru Canal

Along the canal, which is a symbol of Otaru city, there is a row of stone storehouses. It preserves the appearance of the city at the old time. At night, gas lamps are lit. Very fantastic views give you a melancholic feeling for all four seasons.Our canal cruise, a boat tour going around the canal, is also popular.
Address
047-0007
5 Minatomachi, Otaru City, Hokkaido
Access
About 6 minutes on foot
Distance
About 500m
Contact
Otaru Tourism Association
TEL +81-134-33-2510

Historical Structures

At the center of the Otaru city, many old stone-buildings are remained. In Otaru there used to be branch offices of big banks. Especially the Ironai District, the economic center of Hokkaido from the late 1800s and the early 1990s, has many bank buildings constructed in those days and currently creates a unique scenery with these architechtures.
In the suburb, there are a palatial house, called “Nishin Goten (herring palace),” and a luxury house of a fisherman’s boss. Inside of the buildings, valuable materials are exhibited to describe the herring fishery at the peak.
Address
Otaru City, Hokkaido
Access
About 12 minutes on foot
Distance
About 1㎞
Contact
Otaru Tourism Association
TEL +81-134-33-2510

Shukutsu

At one time Otaru prospered as a herring village. Even today, the palatial mansions and simple houses of people who toiled away at herring fishing, as well as other historical buildings, dot the coastline as a reminder of prosperity in the golden age of herring fishing. You can enjoy the beautiful sea and the majestic beauty of the coastline from the observation deck. Otaru is surrounded by this abundant nature. There is also an aquarium where you can get close to the habitats of over 250 kinds of animals and fish permanently on display.
Address
047-0047
3-228 Shyukutsu, Otaru-shi, Hokkaido, Japan
Access
About 15 minutes by car
Distance
About 5 km
Contact
Otaru Tourism Association
TEL +81-134-33-2510

Mt. Tengu

Mt. Tengu is one of the best three major spots to see the night view of Hokkaido. By 4- minute ropeway ride, you will reach the top to see the port of Otaru and the Ishikari Bay, as well as the Shokanbetsu mountain range and the Shakotan Peninsula over the sea. There are also a 100-year-old cherry tree, called “Tengu zakura,” and Tengu House where about 700 masks of Tengu goblins from throughout Japan are exhibited.
Address
047-0023
2-16-15 Mogami, Otaru City, Hokkaido
Access
About 15 minutes by car
Distance
About 5㎞
Links
Chuo Bus, Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway
Contact
Otaru Tourism Association
TEL +81-134-33-2510

Asarigawa Onsen(Hot Spring)

Hokkaido has the largest number of hot-spring resorts (onsen). Otaru city has also many onsen. The representative one is Asarigawa onsen. There are also various sports facilities maintained for tennis and golf in summer, and ski in winter. For further exploration, visitors can enjoy the hot springs of Jozankei Onsen, a hot spring resort that represents Hokkaido.
Address
047-0154
Asarigawa Onsen, Otaru City, Hokkaido
Access
About 20 minutes by car
Distance
About 10km
Contact
Otaru Tourism Association
TEL +81-134-33-2510

Cape Kamui

The Shakotan Peninsula is included in the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park, and the Shakotan Sea has been designated as Hokkaido's only ocean park. Cape Kamui (or Shakotan Blue), and Shakotan Peninsula are designated as must-see Hokkaido assets with its 42km long coast, and with its steep cliffs and strange rock formations. The fishing industry thrives as well, and sea urchin and cod roe are famous products.
Address
046-0321
Kozaki cho, Shakotan cho, Shakotan gun, Hokkaido
Access
About 100 minutes by car
Distance
About 70km
Contact
Shakotan Sightseeing Association
TEL +81-135-44-3715

THE NIKKA WHISKY DISTILLING CO., LTD YOICHI Distillery

It was established in 1934 as the first distillery of NIKKA WHISKY DISTILLING CO., LTD. There are “the Whisky Museum” and buildings which were designated as a registered tangible cultural property. You can visit and see the history of whisky and the manufacturing process. It was the setting for Massan, a morning TV drama series by a Japanese broadcaster NHK in 2014 to 2015. It is very popular tourist area.
Address
046-0003
7-6 Kurokawa-cho, Yoichi-cho, Yoichi-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
Access
About 30 minutes by car
Distance
About 20 km
Contact
THE NIKKA WHISKY DISTILLING CO., LTD YOICHI Distillery
TEL +81-135-23-3131

Mt. Yotei

Mt. Yotei, showing us very beautiful views every season, has a shape very similar to Mt.Fuji. Therefore, it is called Ezo-Fuji (“Ezo” is an old name of Hokaido). In the area around the mountain, you can enjoy outdoor sports, including trekking. Agriculture and dairy husbandry are thriving here, and you can buy fresh local products in farmers’ markets. In the ranches dairy products such as milk, cheese, and ice cream, are very popular. There is also water spring. The water here is selected as one of the one hundred exquisite water of Japan.
Access
About 120 minutes by car
Distance
About 80km

Hurano Biei

The national route 237 from Biei to Shimukappu is called Hanabito Kaido. Various kinds of flowers and agricultural products make the hillsides colorful along the route in each season. You can enjoy the distinctive and spacious sceneries of Hokkaido. Cuisines with local vegetables and specialty products are very popular.
Address
Biei - Hurano - Shimukappu
Access
About 150 minutes by car
Distance
About 150km
Links
Furano city official website
Biei town official website
Hurano BieiPhoto

Sapporo

Sapporo is the biggest city in Hokkaido including a population of more than 1.9 million and has a lot of tourist attractions: The former Hokkaido government office known as its nick name "Red Brick Office", Odori Park measuring 1.5 kilometers from east to west, Sapporo TV tower and more. Festivals such as the YOSAKOI soran festival and the Sapporo snow festival, Genghis Khan (Mongolian mutton barbecue) and Sapporo ramen are famous among locals and visitors. Trains from Otaru to Sapporo are operated in every 15 minutes and take passangers to this destination in 40 minutes approximately.
Address
Sapporo City, Hokkaido
Access
About 40 minutes by car
Distance
About 40km
Links
Yokoso Sapporo
YOSAKOI Soran official website
Contact
Sapporo Tourist Association
TEL +81-11-221-3341

Areas around Odori Park

Odori Park is located in the center of the metropolitan City of Sapporo and is approximately 1.5 km long with an area of approximately 7.8 ha. This park is familiar to citizens for relaxing and is a venue for several festivals and events including the Yosakoi Soran Festival and the Sapporo Snow Festival. The clock tower, one of the places to go in Sapporo, is near the park as well as department stores and large retail stores. This area is popular among visitors.
Address
060-0042
7 Odori-nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi, HOKKAIDO JAPAN
Access
50 minutes by car from the Otaru Port
Distance
Approximately 40 kilometers from the Otaru Port
Links
Official website of Odori Park
Contact
Sapporo Tourist Association
TEL +81-11-211-3341

Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park is a complehensive park in Sapporo. Isamu Noguchi, a world-renowned sculptor, created its basic design based on the concept of “the whole being a single sculpture". The fountains and hills form many geometric shapes in the expansive grounds, facilities for play equipment and so forth are arranged in an orderly manner, and the landscape can be enjoyed as a fusion of nature and art.
Address
Moerenuma-koen 1-1, Higashi-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido 007-0011
Access
45 minutes by car from the center of Otaru
Distance
45 kilometers approximately from the center of Otaru
Contact
Official website of Moerenuma Park

Historical Village of Hokkaido

Historical buildings were moved from all over Hokkaido and restored to exhibit the industries, life, and culture in the frontier period of Hokkaido in Meiji, Taisho, and the early Showa eras. There are four sections of Town, Farm Village, Mountain Village and Fishing Village. This is the open-air museum, where you can enjoy visual scenes in old Hokkaido.
Address
004-0006
50-1 Konopporo, Atsubetsu-cyo, Atsubetsu-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
Access
About 60 minutes by car
Distance
About 50 km
Contact
Historical Village of Hokkaido Foundation
TEL +81-11-898-2692

Port of Akita, Port of Funagawa, Port of Noshiro

Port Tower SELION

Covered with glass, the Port Tower is a characteristic landmark in the Port of Akita and its term of endearment is "Selion." The tower is 143 m in height and provides panoramic view from the observation deck floor of 100 m high, and there you can look down the Sea of Japan and the urban area of Akita City and overlook the Oga Peninsula, Mt. Taihei, and the unparalleled beauty of Mt. Chokai. From the morning to twilight and night, you can enjoy Akita's varied scenery full of expression.
Address
011-0945
1-9-1, Tuchizakiminatonishi, Akitashi, Akita
Access
10 minutes on foot
Distance
800m
Links
Port Tower SELION
Contact
Tourism Promotion Division
TEL +81-18-860-2261

Uchikura of Masuda

The uchigura storehouses of the Masuda area in Yokote City were selected as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The uchigura is at the rear of the main building, and the earthen storehouses are covered by the roof, so the uchigura cannot be seen from the main street. Unlike other earthen storehouses, these distinctive buildings have living areas.
Address
019-0701
5, Motomachi, Masuda, Masudamachi, Yokote-shi, Akita
Access
100 minutes
Distance
92km
Links
Uchikura of Masuda
Masuda Tourism Association
Contact
Tourism Promotion Division
TEL +81-18-860-2261

Mt.Kampu Rotating Obserbation deck

Mt. Kampu, reaching a height of 355 m, is a gentle slope mainly covered with grass. The rotating observation deck at the summit commands a panoramic view of land reclaimed from Hachirogata to the east, once Japan's second largest lake; Mt. Chokai to the south; Nyudozaki Cape to the west; and World Heritage Site Shirakami-Sanchi to the north. All this can even be enjoyed while dining.
Address
010-0344
62-1, Kampuzan, Wakimoto Tominaga, Oga-shi, Akita
Access
34 minutes by car
Distance
13.5km
Links
Mt.Kampu Rotating Obserbation deck
Contact
Akita prefecture,Tourism Promotion Division
TEL +81-18-860-2261

Kakunodate Samurai Residences

Kakunodate is an area where thick copses of trees and massive residences still stand as reminders of Japan's feudal times. Being called the Little Kyoto of northeastern Japan, it is famous for the cherry blossom trees that decorate the entire town. The Bukeyashikidori Street, or the area commonly known to stretch from National Route 46 at the foothills of Mt. Furushiro to just before the firebreak, was selected as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in September 1976.
Address
014-0331
1, Simotyo, Omote-mathi, Kakunodate-mathi, Senboku-shi, Akita
Access
110 minutes
Distance
67km
Links
STAY AKITA,Kakunodate Samurai Residences
Contact
Tourism Promotion Division
TEL +81-18-860-2261

NamahageMuseum,OgaShinzan Folklore Museum

The NamahageMuseum exhibits valuable documents related to Oga's Namahage ogres based in folklore and known across Japan, and showcases a dynamic display of 150 diverse Namahage masks actually used across the city. The adjacent OgaShinzan Folklore Museum replicates the New Year's Eve ritual involving these Namahage.
Address
010-0685
Mizukuisawatinai, Kitaura Shinzan, Oga-shi, Akita
Access
27 minutes by car
Distance
16.1km
Links
Experience the folklore of the Namahage Namahage Museum
Contact
NamahageMuseum
TEL +81-185-22-5050

Shirakami-Sanchi World Natural Heritage Site

Shirakami-sanchi is a moountainous region that has elevations ranging from 200 m to 1,250 m and straddles the prefectural border between the southwestern part of Aomori Prefecture and the northwestern part of Akita Prefecture. The World Natural Heritage property is an area of approximately 17,000 ha situated in the central part of Shirakami-Sanchi. It is an almost undisturbed pristine beech forest,as it is located in the steep-sided hills far away from cities.
Access
Bus two hours
mountain climbing one hour 31 minutes
Distance
65km
Links
The Shirakami-Sanchi World Heritage Conservation Center
Contact
Akita prefecture,Tourism Promotion Division
TEL +81-18-860-2261

Port of Fushiki-Toyama

*The time required to sightseeing area, is the time required from Fushiki area.

Nosaku Corporation

Visitors can observe the production line of this company that has shouldered over 400 years of the metalworking industry in Takaoka while listening to detailed explanations. Nousaku is home to a workshop where tourists can cast their own tin products using traditional techniques and a café where they can enjoy food and drinks on Nousaku’s own tableware. At their factory shop, visitors can also purchase a variety of exclusive items.
Address
939-1119
8-1 Office Park, Takaoka City, TOYAMA JAPAN
Access
30 minutes by car from the Fushiki-Toyama Port
Distance
Approximately 18 kilometers from the Fushiki-Toyama Port
Links
Official website of Nosaku Corporation
Contact
Official website of Nosaku Corporation
TEL +81-765-63-5080
Nosaku CorporationPhoto

Shinminato Uchikawa

The Uchikawa River flows through the center of the Shinminato area. The many fishing boats moored along the riverside, the lines of houses that seem to guide the river, and the scenery of its unique bridges led the area to be called “Japan’s Venice”. The pleasure boat departing from the Kaiwomaru Park to cruise around the 12 bridges letting people enjoy a refreshing view of Toyama Bay and the beautiful sight of the town along the Uchikawa River is especially recommended.
Address
934-0013
1-26, Tatemachi, Imizu-City, TOYAMA JAPAN
Access
10 minutes by car from the Fushiki area/ 10 minutes on foot from the JR Manyo Line Shinmachiguchi Station
Distance
Approximately 6 kilometers from the Fushiki-Toyama Port
Links
Imizu tourism organizations
Shinminato sightseeing cruise
Contact
Imizu tourism organizations
TEL +81-766-84-4649
Shinminato UchikawaPhoto

Shinminato bridge and Kaiwomaru Park

Shinminato Bridge represents the largest cable-stayed bridge on the Sea of Japan side of Honshu Island. On a fine day it commands a view of the sea and the Tateyama Peaks. Pedestrians are invited to stroll along the walkway called Ainokaze Promenade. Kaiwomaru Park is an attractive bayside area designed around the Kaiwomaru ship, also known as the "Lady of the Sea." Visitors flock here to lounge about, feel the refreshing breeze and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere by the sea.
Address
934-0023
8 kaiomachi, Imizu City, Toyama Prefecture
Access
10 minutes by car from Fushiki area
Close to Shinminato area
Distance
About 8km from Fushiki area
In Shinminato area, a leaving a ship place is a Kaiwomaru Park.
Links
Kaiwomaru Park
Contact
Tourism Division, Toyama Prefectural Government
TEL +81-76-444-3200

National Treasure Zuiryuji Temple

Zuiryuji is a temple of the Soto sect of Zen Buddhism, which has been designated as a national treasure of Japan. Built as the family temple of Maeda Toshinaga, a feudal lord of the Kaga clan, it has the qualities of a grand castle. Following the classical seven-hall construction, the somon (main gate), sanmon (temple gate), butsuden (Buddhist temple), and hatto (public chamber) are arranged in a straight line and connected to the sodo (meditation hall) and kuri (priest's quarters) to the left and right via a kairo (corridor). The white gravel -lined premises complete the serene atmosphere.
Address
933-0863
35Sekihonmachi,Takaoka city,Toyama Prefecture
Access
20 minutes by car
Distance
About 10km
Links
Zuiryuji Temple
Contact
Takaokazan Zuiryuji
TEL +81-766-22-0179

Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a world famous alpine sightseeing route which goes through Toyama’s 3,000-meter high Northern Japan Alps. From Toyama, you can get to Shinano-Omachi of Nagano Pref. by train, cable car, highland bus, trolley bus, ropeway, etc. while enjoying the changing of Mother Nature’s seasons. Every year in spring, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is opened to the public. Visitors will be dazzled by the magnificence of the 20 meter high snow wall.
Address
930-1406
2 Senjugahara, Tateyama Town, Toyama Prefecture
Access
90 minutes by car
Distance
About 50km
Links
Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route
Contact
TATEYAMA KUROBE KANKO CO.,LTD.
TEL +81-76-432-2819

Amaharashi Coast

A splendid view of the offshore rocks and the 3,000-meter high Tateyama mountain range over the Toyama Bay shows various sceneries in each season. It takes your breath away. A very famous Japanese poet of the ancient time loved this view very much and created many poems about it.
One of the offshore rocks is called “Yoshitsune Rock” since Minamoto no Yoshitsune, a general of the Minamoto clan of Japan in the 12th century, took shelter from a sudden shower there on the way to escape toward the Oshu area (Tohoku area at present). The name of “Amaharashi” comes from this story (“ama” means rain and “harashi” means “clear”).
You should come and see this beautiful view.
Address
933-0134
Ohota, Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture
Access
10 minutes by car
Contact
Amaharashi Tourism Association
TEL +81-766-44-6200
Amaharashi CoastPhoto

Kurobe Gorge Railways,“TOROKKO”Train

You can visit Japan’s deepest gorge by the Torokko Train. Let yourself be taken in by the gentle beauty of untouched nature along the 20 km railroad line from Unazuki to Keyakidaira. Become one with nature afterwards by healing your body and soul at kanetsuri, kuronagi or other hot springs in the area.
Address
938-0293
11 Kurobekyokokuguchi, Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture
Access
90 minutes by car
Distance
About 50km
Links
The official homepage of Kurobe Gorge Railway Co., Ltd.
Official site Tourism Infomartion in toyama
Contact
Kurobe Gorge Railway Co., Ltd.
TEL +81-765-62-1011

Shokoji Temple

Shokoji Temple was a stronghold of the Etchu Ikko-ikki uprisings against Japan's feudal system in the 15th and 16th centuries, and today retains the energy of the medieval temple-castle. It is best known for its Seven Wonders, including the unfruitful ginkgo, the stone fallen from heaven, and the perennial pond. The great hall and 11 other buildings are currently undergoing extensive refurbishment in one of the largest projects in Japan. Visitors are welcome to witness the restoration work. Reservations are required.
Address
933-0112
17-1Fushikifurukofu,Takaoka city,Toyama Prefecture
Access
25 min walk from port
Distance
About 1.8km
Links
Takaoka tourism portal site "Takaoka michishirube"
Contact
Tourism Division, Toyama Prefectural Government
TEL +81-76-444-3200

Shinminato Fishing Port Afternoon Auction

Shinminato Fishing Port holds auctions of freshly caught seafood not only in the early morning but also from 1pm. The highlight between September and May is the auction of red snow crabs laid out across the market like a scarlet blanket. Reservations are required. Contact the market for details.
Address
934-0023
1 kaiwomachi, Imizu City, Toyama Prefecture
Access
20 minutes by car
Distance
About 7km
Links
Tourism Division, Toyama Prefectural Government
Contact
Tourism Division, Toyama Prefectural Government
TEL +81-76-444-3200

World Heritage Site, Historic Villages of Gokayama-Traditional Houses in the Gassho Style

The Gokayama area, including the Suganuma and Ainokura communities, along with Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture, was designated as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1995. Villagers living in these farmhouses maintain traditional ways of life, and some provide accommodation for tourists.
The name of this architectural style, “Gassho Zukuri”, originates from the shape of the steep grass roof. “Gassho” in Japanese means hands clasped together in prayer.
Address
939-1914
754 Kaminashi, Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture
Access
60 minutes by car
Distance
About 50km
Links
Gokayama Tourist Information
Contact
Gokayama Tourist Information
TEL +81-763-66-2468

Kansui park

The Kansui Park, 10-minute walk away from the JR Toyama Station North Exit, was developed based on Toyama’s nature and the history of the canal there. It is an oasis where people feel cultural atmosphere and may consider the future of the community. In the park which has an open space of lawn, anyone from young to old can have a pleasant time.
There are several facilities in the park: Tenmon Bridge with observation towers which is a symbolic building of the park, an open space with a fountain and a waterfall, and big playground equipment. A Starbucks is also in the park. This Starbucks is famous for the most beautiful location in the world.
Many events are organized in the park during all seasons in the year, such as fireworks shows. At night the park is lit up. It is so romantic that you should not miss it.
Address
930-0805
Minatoirifune-machi, Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture
Access
30 minutes by car
10 minutes on foot from Ainokaze Toyama Railway Toyama Station
Distance
About 25 km
Links
Kansui Park
Contact
Kansui Park Center
TEL +81-76-444-6041

Fugan Canal Kansui Park and Toyama Prefectural Museum of Art & Design

This oasis of greenery around the Fugan Canal is home to a popular cruise to Iwase. The Nakajima Lock, designated an important cultural property is one of the must-see sights, including its “Water Elevator” with a maximum height of 2.5 meters. Furthermore, the Toyama Prefectural Museum of Art & Design, opened in 2017 with the concept of “connecting art and design,” enables visitors to admire a stunning view of the Tateyama Mountain Range.
Address
930-0805
1 Minato Irihune-cho, Toyama City, TOYAMA JAPAN
Access
30 minutes by car from the Fushiki-Toyama Port/ 9 minutes on foot from the Ainokaze Toyama Railway Toyama Station
Distance
Approximately 20 kilometers from the Fushiki-Toyama Port
Links
Fugan Suijyo Line
Toyama Prefectural Museum of Art and Design
Contact
Fugan Canal Kansui Park
TEL +81-76-444-6041
Fugan Canal Kansui Park and Toyama Prefectural Museum of Art & DesignPhoto

Takayama

Takayama is home to historic districts and buildings, beautiful scenery that changes dramatically with the shifting of the seasons, hot springs, morning markets where visitors can interact with the locals, and many locations where they can engage in activities that will nurture a greater understanding of Japanese culture. See its storied artisanal culture of furniture, lacquer, and wood carving, and taste some of the cuisine including Hida beef and local Japanese sake that makes the area such an attractive destination.
Address
506-0844
Kami-ichinomachi, Takayama-City, GIFU JAPAN and other locations around this venue
Access
110 minutes by car from the Fushiki-Toyama Port
Distance
Approximately 116 kilometers from the Fushiki-Toyama Port
Links
Takayama City Official Tourism Site
Contact
Hida Takayama Tourist Information Office
TEL +81-577-32-3333
TakayamaPhoto

Hida Furukawa

Hida Furukawa instantly became famous when it became the setting for a hit 2016 animated film that drew fans from all across the world. This castle town flourished in the Edo period (1603-1868), and was home to many merchants and artisans. The Seto Canal, filled with more than 1,000 swimming Japanese carp, is lined with many tall earthen storehouses. Visitors can also get tours of one of the many sake breweries or traditional shops that specialize in warosoku (Japanese candles).
Address
509-4292
Furukawa-machi, Hida-City, GIFU JAPAN
Access
110 minutes by car from the Fushiki-Toyama Port
Distance
Approximately 125 kilometers from the Fushiki-Toyama Port
Links
Hida City Official Tourism Site
Contact
Hida City Tourism Division
TEL +81-577-73-2111
Hida FurukawaPhoto

Port of Kyoto

Kotohiki-hama (The Singing Sand Beach)

Kotohiki-hama Beach is a 1.8km long white sandy beach with green pine trees. The beach is famous for the peculiar sound its sands make; if you walk on the beach by scuffing your feet on the sand, the sand makes a squeaking sound said to be similar to the sound of the koto, a kind of Japanese harp. The beach takes its name from koto, hiki, meaning “to play”, and hama, meaning “beach”. A certain area of the beach is also known as the Taiko-hama, as the sands give off drum-like sounds when scuffed (from taiko, meaning “drum”). The sands do not make a sound when they are dirty however, so local people cooperate to keep the beach pristine. The beach is relatively close to the Byobu-iwa (Folding Screen Rock); 10 km away, taking about 20 minutes by car.
Address
629-3112
Amino-cho Kakezu, Kyotango City, Kyoto Prefecture
Access
About 75 minutes
Distance
About 60km (from Port of Kyoto)
Links
Kyotango City Tourism Association
Contact
Amino-cho Branch, Kyotango City Tourism Association
TEL +81-772-72-0900 (Japanese language only)

Byobu-iwa (Folding Screen Rock)

This 13m andesite rock is named for its appearance, as it is said to resemble a folding screen (byobu) rising steeply from the sea. This peculiar sight is known as a geosite in the San’in Kaigan Geopark. There is an observation deck at the coastal terrace on the other side of the coast which gives great views of the rock. The area is located 10 km away, 20 minutes by car, from the Kotohiki-hama Beach, which is famous for its "singing" sands.
Address
627-0222
Tango-cho Fudeshi, Kyotango City, Kyoto Prefecture
Access
About 80 minutes
Distance
About 60km (from Port of Kyoto)
Links
Kyotango City Tourism Association
Contact
Tango-cho Branch, Kyotango City Tourism Association
TEL +81-772-75-0437 (Japanese language only)

Fukuchiyama Castle

Fukuchiyama Castle was established in 1579 by Akechi Mitsuhide, a general who suppressed the Tamba area. It was demolished in the early Meiji Era (1868 – 1912), and only the stone walls and the Akaganemon Guard Station were left. In 1986 however, the 4-storied-3-floored castle keep was rebuilt due to strong enthusiasm from the local people. The inside of the castle is open as a local museum to show materials related to the castle and the historical and cultural assets in Fukuchiyama. You can enjoy great bird’s-eye views from the tower, including views over the Yura River and the Fukuchiyama valley.
Address
620-0035
5 Naiki, Fukuchiyama City, Kyoto Prefecture
Access
About 40 minutes
Distance
About 36km (from Port of Kyoto)
Links
Fukuchiyama Tourist Association
Contact
Fukuchiyama Castle (Local museum)
TEL +81-773-23-9564 (Japanese language only)

Amanohashidate (Bridge to the Heavens)

One of the Three Scenic Views of Japan

Amanohashidate, along with Matsushima and Miyajima, ranks as one of the three most scenic views in Japan, and has been designated a place of special scenic beauty by the national government. A sandbar stretching about 3.6 km, along which grows some 8,000 pine trees, is often compared to a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. The monument erected there in July 7, 2006, inscribed with poems composed by Yosano Hiroshi and Akiko, is a must-see for visitors enjoying a strolling along Amanohashidate.
Address
626-0001
Amanohashidate Monju, Miyazu City, Kyoto
Access
About 50 minutes
Distance
About 40km
Links
Amanohashidate Tourism Association
Contact
Amanohashidate Tourist Information Center
TEL +81-772-22-8030

Funaya Boat houses of Ine

Picturesque scenery with numerous boathouses lining the shore

The lower floor of these funaya boathouses is for boat mooring and the upper floor is the living area. There are around 230 of these funaya and they are situated in neat rows like a grid that surrounds Ine Bay. At the Ineura inlet, you can see this unique scenery and the lives of people who coexist with the sea. In July 2005, Ine Town became the first fishing settlement to be designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.
Address
Kameshima, Hirata, Hide, Ine Town, Yosa-gun, Kyoto
Access
90 minutes by car
Distance
About 65km
Links
Ine Town Tourism Association
Contact
Ine Town Tourism Association
TEL +81-772-32-0277

World Cultural Heritages: Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto

World Heritage sites are a testament to what we have managed to retain from the past. The Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto consists of 17 temples, shrines and a castle, including Toji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Nijo Castle as well as Enryakuji Temple, situated atop Mt. Hiei in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture. The mission for the current generation is to ensure that these cultural heritage sites are preserved for future generations.
Address
Kyoto city/Uji City
Access
90 minutes
Distance
About 100km
Links
World Cultural Heritage -Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto-
Contact
KYOTO PREFECTURE TOURISM GUIDE
TEL +81-75-411-9990
World Cultural Heritages: Historic Monuments of Ancient KyotoPhoto

Maizuru Brick Park

Visit the foundation of modern Japan

These red brick warehouses, established at the beginning of the 20th century, laid the foundation of modern Japan, and still remain in the Kitasui area. In May 2012, they were renovated and opened to the public as Maizuru Akarenga Park. The park is used as a place of entertainment and relaxation, a venue for art, and a sightseeing spot.
Address
625-0080
2-1039 Kitasui Maizuru City
Access
20 minutes by car
Distance
8km
Links
Maizuru Brick Park
Contact
Maizuru Tourism Association
TEL +81-773-75-8600

Miyama Kayabuki no Sato (Thatched-Roof Village)

Experience a fascinating village comprised of thatched-roof houses

There are many kayabuki thatched roof houses in Miyama Town: 38 out of the 50 houses in the community of Kita in Chii district, have traditional thatched roofs. There is widespread admiration for the dedication of Miyama Town to preserve these historical neighborhoods including a group of buildings made by traditional techniques. In December 1993, Miyama Town was designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.
Address
601-0712
Miyama Town, Nantan City, Kyoto
Access
90minutes by car
Distance
72km
Links
Kyoto Miyama Navi
Contact
Miyama Town Tourism Association

Port of Sakai

Kurayoshi White Warehaouses -Little Kyoto in San’in-

There are old white warehouses alongside of Tama River and those buildings were built about 300 years ago. The town still bears an atomosphere of good old days of Japan. Once you take a walk into the town, you come across with an old stone bridge over Tama River or warehouses with a beautiful contrast between white walls and red roofs. Enjoy relaxing time in Kurayoshi.
Address
Kurayoshi City, Tottori Prefecture
Access
90 minutes
Distance
65㎞
Contact
Tottori Prefectural Government Tourism and Exchange Bureau Tourism Strategy Division
TEL +81-0857-26-7273

Mizuki Shigeru Road

The Port of Sakai is situated in Sakaiminato City which is the hometown of a manga artist, Shigeru Mizuki. The main street of the town is dedicated to him and is named as Mizuki Shigeru Road. There are total of 153 bronze statues of "Yokai" monster, the main characters in Mizuki's popular cartoon "GeGeGe no Kitaro" on the Road. Visitors can purchase "Yokai" goods and souvenirs such as local confectioneries as well as daily items at nearby supermarkets and drug stores.
Address
Taisho-machi, Sakaiminato-City, Tottori
Access
7 minutes by car
Distance
3km
Links
The city of fish and Kitaro Sakaiminato Guide for Sightseeing
Contact
Tottori Prefectural Government Tourism and Exchange Bureau Tourism Strategy Division
TEL +81-0857-26-7273

Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory -Home of “Detective Conan”

Hokuei Town is the birthplace of a renowned Manga artist, Gosho Aoyama. Visitors can learn about his personal history or inventions and tricks that are actually in "Detective Conan". People can even try to solve the trick in person.
Address
689-2221
1414 Yurashuku, Hokuei Town, Tohaku-gun, Tottori Prefecture
Access
80 minutes
Distance
60㎞
Contact
Tottori Prefectural Government Tourism and Exchange Bureau Tourism Strategy Division
TEL +81-0857-26-7273

Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine

Izumo Grand Shrine is where Okuninushi, the deity of marriage, is enshrined. People from all over the world come to visit the shrine to pay their respects. The main building was built in 1744 and is 24-meter high. The construction style used for Izumo Taisha is the oldest way in Japan. The shrine and other related buildings around it are registered as important cultural properties. A number of souvenir stores have newly opened in recent years alongside the main street "Shinmon-dori" leading up to the shrine.
Address
699-0701
195, Kizuki-higashi, Taisha-cho, Izumo-City, Shimane
Access
About 120 minutes
Distance
About 75km
Links
Sightseeing Navigation in Shimane
Contact
Shimane Prefectural Government Tourism Promotion Division
TEL +81-852-22-5579

Matsue Castle

Matsue Castle still keeps its original form and shape since it was founded in 1611. It is one of 12 castles in the country that have retained their central keeps standing. For this reason amongst others, Matsue Castle has been registered as a National Treasure since 2015. The contrast between the black panels and white walls looks very distinguished and it creates a simple yet strong structure of the castle. Visitors can go up to the keep and get a great view of entire Matuse City. Also, historical suits of armor are displayed inside and people can learn the history of the castle. The sightseeing boat that travels around Horikawa moat that surrounds the castle is a popular tourist attraction.
Address
690-0887
1-5, Tono-machi, Matsue-City, Shimane
Access
About 50 minutes
Distance
About 24km
Links
Matsue Castle
VISIT MASUE
Contact
Shimane Prefectural Government Tourism Promotion Division
TEL +81-852-22-5579

Yuushien Garden

Tourists can enjoy the beautiful view of seasonal flowers including fully bloomed Japanese peonies while walking in this Japanese garden. Three different restaurants are on offer where respectively different atmospheres of the scenery available in the garden can be viewed. Their delicious dishes with Korean ginseng and, local and seasonal ingredients also will entertain visitors.
Address
690-1492
1260-2 Hanyuu Yatsuka-cho, Matsue-shi, SHINAME JAPAN
Access
Approximately 25 minutes by car from the berth at the Sakai Port
Distance
Approximately 11 kilometers from the berth at the Sakai Port
Links
Official website of Yuushien Garden
Contact
Shimane Prefectural Government Tourism Promotion Division
TEL +81-852-22-5579

Miho Shrine

Miho Shrine enshrining Ebisu, the Japanese god of fishermen and luck, has glorified and worshiped as a deity protecting the antient country of Izumo between East and West, as well as Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine located in the west of the Shimane Peninsula. Mihonoseki, a port town which used to flourish as a distribution center of the west-bound route of the Kitamae-bune (northern-bound ships carrying products from the Edo period to the Meiji era), still reserves the old townscape and cobblestones in those days, and attracts visitors every day.
Address
690-1501
608 Mihonoseki Mihonoseki-cho, Matsue-shi, SHIMANE JAPAN
Access
Approximately 20 minutes by car from the berth at the Sakai Port
Distance
Approximately 10 kilometers from the berth at the Sakai Port
Links
Official website of Miho Shrine
Mihonoseki-cho Branch, Matsue Tourism Association
Contact
Shimane Prefectural Government Tourism Promotion Division
TEL +81-852-22-5579

Daisen Home of Milk

In Daisen Home of Milk, visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural setting and incredible scenery of the place, and the experience of milking cows and making ice cream. The fresh milk is sweet and has a rich flavor, and is featured in the dishes served at the restaurant. Milk and dairy products as well as confectioneries made with the milk make great souvenirs, and there are plenty of options available at the gift shop. Among all the products they have, their special soft-serve ice cream is extremely popular.
Address
689-4101
2-11 Kobayashi Mizunasihara,Houki-cho, Saihaku-gun, TOTTORI JAPAN
Access
Approximately 50 minutes by car from the berth at the Sakai Port
Distance
Approximately 35 kilometers from the berth at the Sakai Port
Links
Official website of Daisen Home of Milk
Contact
Tottori Prefecture Tourism and Exchange Bureau Tourism Strategy
TEL +81-857-26-7273

Kaike Hot Springs

The Kaike hot springs face the Sea of Japan, and lie on the highest point of the Chugoku Region's coastline in the Daisen National Park surrounded by white sand and green pines. The waters there are said to help people suffering from neuralgia, rheumatism, chronic skin conditions, chronic gynecological conditions, to name but a few, and to make the bather's skin beautiful. The Kaike hot springs are especially popular with female bathers. They live up to their billing as the hot springs with "hot water that leaves your skin feeling smooth and looking beautiful."
Address
Kaike Onsen,Yonago-shi, TOTTORI JAPAN
Access
Approximately 30 minutes by car from the berth at the Sakai Port
Distance
Approximately 18 kilometers from the berth at the Sakai Port
Links
Official website of Kaike Hot Springs
Contact
Tottori Prefecture Tourism and Exchange Bureau Tourism Strategy
TEL +81-857-26-7273

Adachi Museum of Art

This gallery and museum hold 1,500 contemporary works of art including pieces by Taikan Yokoyama, a great master of Japanese modern art, as well as ceramics, art for children, etc. This is one of the most visited art museum in Japan with over 600,000 visitors a year. Moreover, the garden, which benefis from Shakkei (borrowed scenery principle) of he mountains, have been ranked by an American magazine as the best in Japan since 2003. A French travel guide book gives the museum three-star rating and it is the only facility which received such a high rating in San'in area.
Address
692-0064
320, Frukawa-cho, Yasugi-city, Shimane
Access
60 minutes
Distance
37km
Links
Website, Adachi Museum of Art
Contact
Shimane Prefectural Government Tourism Promotion Division
TEL +81-852-22-5579

Tottori Hanakairo – Flower Park

Tottori Hanakairo is the largest flower park in Japan, measuring about 50 ha with a roofed observation platform measuring 1 km in length, an exhibition hall and flowers and plants in bloom whatever the weather or climate may be. The main flower of Tottori Hanakairo is a Japanese lily, whichi you can enjoy them in bloom all year around at this park. This is the only facility in entire Japan that has 15 different kinds of wild lily on show.
Address
683-0217
110 Tsuruta, Nanbu-cho, Saihaku-gun, Tottori
Access
45 minutes
Distance
32.6km
Links
DAISEN GUIDE
Contact
Tottori Prefectural Government Tourism Policy Division
TEL +81-857-26-7421