Tourist Attractions

The Motoise Kono Shrine used to be the house of Amaterasu, the sun goddess, before she was moved and enshrined in the Ise Shrine. Apart from the main shrine, you can see several smaller ones, which are dedicated to Amaterasu and other deities. You can see a special Shinto motif on the railing of the main shrine, which only can be used by this shrine and the Ise Shrine.
The Manai Shrine is the rear shrine of Motoise Kono Shrine. You can find a sacred water at this site too, that a lot of visitors come to draw from. It is a famous power spot, attracting many tourists each year.

This memorial museum was opened in April 1988 after the withdrawal from Siberia, in order to transmit the importance of peace to the future generations. In 2015, 570 of the collection’s materials were registered as UNESCO World Heritage.

This is one of the thirty three locations for the Kansai Kannon Pilgrimage, and houses a wooden statue of Kannon (the name of the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy). It is said that this is a place where wishes come true. You can find a small bell tower with the “bell of neutrality.” According to a story, a baby was dropped into the metal which was supposed to be cast into the bell itself, and for this reason the bell has never been struck.

You can find this temple at the southern entrance of the Amanohashidate. This temple is most frequented by those who wish for wisdom, academic and personal success in life. The special fortunes available for purchase here are fan-shaped. There is also a pagoda built in the sixteenth century on the temple grounds, as well as the tomb of Izumi Shikibu, a famous poet from the Heian period.

Textile factory and a museum, Tango Chirimen History Museum, is counted among Japan Heritage sites. Tango chirimen is a form of flat-woven silk crepe and this museum, first built in the 1900s and rebuilt in 1935, showcases 300 years old weaving techniques and precious weaving related materials dating back to Edo period. Inside you can also admire old weaving looms still at work. The admission to the factory is free.
To further immerse yourself in the world of tradition, a walk down the old-fashioned streets of the nearby textile and merchant district is also a must.

Listed as one of the most beautiful waterfalls of Japan, it is a waterfall 20m in width and 40 in height. Pouring down gracefully on Kanabiyama’s rocks beneath it, the abundance of splashing and sparkling water will charm you. The water separates to two sides: on the right we have the “Men’s Falls” and on the right the “Women’s Falls.” The falls behind are called the “White Dragon” and the “Reclining Dragon.” Together, they are referred to as the “Kanabi-no-taki” waterfalls. It is a popular spot with people who are looking for relaxing moments at scenic spots.

You can see the overwhelming, powerful warships from the pier. During the special opening periods, you can see inside the warships as well. This is the most important base of the Maritime Self Defense Force in Japan.

This is Japan’s oldest brick warehouse which had also been used as a naval torpedo storage in the Pacific War. It was designated as an important cultural asset of the country in 2016 and accredited as Japanese heritage. You can also view the “Red Brick Museum” and understand the charm of red brick buildings by learning more about their history.

An observation tower above Goro-dake. From 325 m above sea level, you can enjoy the 360 degree panorama of Maizuru city, which was selected as one of the best 100 sceneries in the Kinki area. You can also enjoy some coffee and a light meal.

This single-track railroad bridge is located near the mouth of the Yura River, which flows between Miyazu city and Maizuru. Completed in 1924, it is known for its iconic red colour and the stunning view of the Sea of Japan it provides. The track, which runs 550 metres, is elevated 3 metres above the surface of the water, so you can enjoy the illusion of gliding directly on the river.

The Amanohashidate is a strip of sand extending across Miyazu Bay. Meaning “a bridge to heaven” in Japanese, it truly looks like a bridge extending between our world and the world above. It is considered as one of Japan’s three most beautiful views. You can overlook Amanohashidate from the Kasamatsu Park. Make sure to take a trip around this place, as there are several other sights worth exploring in the vicinity!

Ine is a fishing village that is part of the national historical-traditional building conservation project. You can find around 230 boat shops along the 5 km bay. The first floor of the houses are used as garages for the boats, and the second floors are usually used for living and bed and breakfast. Touring boats, overlooking this gorgeous view are very popular with tourists who want to explore the area more.

The Uocchikan Aquarium is home to approximately three hundred different kinds of fish, as well as seals and penguins. It also includes an outdoor touch pool, where you can enjoy a closer contact with marine life.