Kotohiragu Shrine is a must-visit when you come to Kagawa. The stone steps along the approach keep stretching upward, earning it the nickname “the shrine path that challenges your stamina and faith.”
This time, we climbed all the way to the 977th step and reached the quiet, solemn Shiramine Shrine. The scenery along the way was beautiful, and the fresh air in the forest made every step feel like a conversation with nature.
We didn’t make it all the way to the final inner shrine, but getting this far already felt like a real achievement. Leaving a little unfinished gives us a reason to come back next time. Next time, we’ll definitely take on the rest of the stairs! ⛩️🌿
Kotohiragu Shrine | Review by 王小鈞
Other Reviews by 王小鈞
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Ine no Funaya
Ine Bay is located in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture, where fishing has been thriving since ancient times. Along the coast, there is a row of buildings called "Funaya," whose first floor is connected to the sea as a storage area for boats used for fishing.
When visiting Kyoto, there’s more than just old temples and charming streets. This time, we made a special trip to Ine Bay in northern Kyoto Prefecture, and the scenery was so soothing the moment we arrived!
The traditional “funaya” boat houses lined up along the bay are really unique. The first floor is for boats, and the second floor is living space. The whole village sits between the mountains and the sea, almost like time has stopped in an old fishing village. The calm water, neat wooden buildings, and relaxed, peaceful atmosphere made me want to slow down and really enjoy it all.
It does take some time to get to Ine, but once you see this picture-perfect ocean view, it feels totally worth it! If you love Japan’s natural scenery and slow travel, Ine Bay is definitely a must-visit spot near Kyoto ❤️ -
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Amanohashidate Kasamatsu Park
Located in Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture, Amanohashidate Kasamatsu Park is a breathtaking viewpoint that overlooks Amanohashidate, one of Japan's Three Scenic Views. Situated on the slopes of Mt. Nariai at an altitude of 130 meters, the park is easily accessible via the Amanohashidate Cable Car or lift from Fuchu Station.
When we visited Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views, we not only enjoyed the amazing “matanozoki” view, but also made time to walk around Kasamatsu Park on the north side. It’s not just an observation spot for the scenery—there are also lots of little surprises that are great for families with kids.
The park has plenty of rides and activities that children enjoy, each paid for separately. Once the kids saw them, they couldn’t stop—one activity after another, with laughter the whole way 😂. Adults can take in the beautiful view of Amanohashidate at a relaxed pace, while kids have their own fun too. It’s a nice spot that balances great scenery with family-friendly enjoyment.
I originally thought we were just coming here to take photos and enjoy the view, but it unexpectedly became one of the happiest stops for the kids. Adding a little playtime like this to the trip made the memories even richer ❤️ -
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Amanohashidate
Amanohashidate is one of Japan’s Top 3 Scenic Spots, along with the bay of Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture and Miyajima in Aki, Hiroshima Prefecture. Across the length of this 3.6km landbridge you’ll find 5000 pine trees planted across its 20m-170m wide shores.
I finally got to see Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s three most scenic spots, with my own eyes. The view truly lives up to its nickname, “the bridge to heaven” ✨
The weather was beautiful that day. Looking down from the mountaintop observatory, the sea and sky blended together, with the long, narrow sandbar lined with pine trees stretching across the water. It was genuinely moving.
The most unique thing to try here is the “matanozoki” view, where you bend over and look between your legs! They say it makes the scenery look like a flying dragon in the sky. The pose is a little embarrassing, but it’s worth trying for the view.
When I visited in May, it was pretty windy up on the mountain and noticeably chilly, so I recommend bringing a jacket. Taking the cable car up for the view, then slowly strolling around and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, makes this a fantastic day trip near Kyoto! -
