Amanohashidate is a natural land bridge in the north of Kyoto Prefecture. Along with Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture and Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture, Amanohashidate has for centuries been named one of Japan’s most famous scenic landscapes. This natural land bridge is a sandbank that spans 3.6 km of Miyazu Bay and ranges from 20m to 170m in width. This sandbank is home to around 8000 Japanese pine trees – a rare sight to see so many of these beautiful trees in one place. The name ‘Amanohashidate’ means ‘bridge to the heavens’ and was named for its shape when seen from the lookout points at either end of Amanohashidate – the land bridge looks as it looks as if it travels up to the sky.
Amanohashidate has been molded into the shape it is today through mysterious natural forces, over thousands of years.
It can be viewed from the lookout points at either end and visitors can also walk or cycle across it, take the ferry alongside it, or swim at the beach on its northern side. (Walking across takes about 50 mins one way; while cycle takes around 20 mins).
Amanohashidate has entered many of Japan’s “Top 100” lists including Japan’s Top 100 pine trees; water spots; streets; sand blue pine trees; seashores; beautiful Japanese historic places; Japanese historic parks; and geological features.
