A day trip to see the breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan | Fukui Mikata Five Lakes + Japan Fish Market + Amanohashidate Beach in Kyoto/Sanjusangendo Temple (departing from Kyoto)
- Meet in Kyoto and depart without transfers; easily explore the city in one day.
- Explore the enchanting scenery of "Sanfang Wuhu" and experience the changing shades of blue that shift with the light.
- Visit a Japanese seafood market and freely sample fresh seafood (a must-visit for seafood lovers).
- A popular, high-value itinerary combining lake views, sea views, and a railway experience in one day.
- Visit Amanohashidate, one of Japan's three scenic wonders, and stroll through the pine forest and sandbars to experience breathtaking views.
- Take the subway to Amanohashidate and enjoy the soothing coastal scenery of Japan along the way.
- Visit the historic and cultural site "Sanjusangendo" and experience the awe-inspiring atmosphere of the thousand-year-old Buddhist statues.
- Combining nature, culture, and cuisine, this is perfect for travelers who enjoy photography and slow travel.
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Product Info
The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.
- Attraction Introduction -
- Mysterious Lakes of Three Directions and Five Lakes
Known as the "Mysterious Lakes," the Mikata Gotago (Three Lakes of Mikata) consists of five interconnected lakes. Due to differences in water depth and salinity, the lake water displays different shades of blue depending on the weather and light. The lakes and mountains complement each other, offering different views in each season, making it one of the most representative natural wonders on the Sea of Japan side.
- Rainbow Line Hilltop Park
Located above the Sankata Goko (Three Lakes) scenic viewpoint, you can take a cable car or chairlift to the summit for a breathtaking panoramic view of the five lakes meeting the Sea of Japan. The summit features several themed observation decks and relaxation areas, including a sofa terrace, a sky chair, and a foot bath, allowing you to unwind while enjoying the dreamlike scenery of the lakes and sea merging into one. As the weather and light change, the lake surface displays different shades of blue and green, making it a popular spot for photography and social media check-ins.
- Japanese seafood market
Located in Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture, the Japan Sea Fish Market is one of the largest seafood markets on the Sea of Japan side, bustling with numerous seafood shops and food stalls. Fresh catches from the Sea of Japan are delivered daily, offering everything from crabs, sweet shrimp, and sashimi to various seafood bowls and sushi, allowing travelers to freely choose their favorite dishes and fully enjoy the rich flavors of the sea. In addition to dining on-site, the market also sells various dried seafood, pickled products, and unique souvenirs, satisfying both dining and shopping needs in one place. Immersed in the vibrant fishing port atmosphere, it offers the most authentic Sea of Japan experience, making it a must-visit popular attraction combining delicious food and engaging activities.
- Sanjusangendo
Sanjusangendo Temple is famous for enshrining 1,001 statues of the Thousand-Armed Kannon. The temple features a 120-meter-long wooden corridor with neatly arranged Buddha statues, creating a magnificent and solemn atmosphere. It is one of Kyoto's representative historical and cultural sites.
- Metasequoia
The 2.4-kilometer-long avenue lined with towering bald cypress trees offers different views in each season: lush green in spring and summer, golden in autumn, and covered in snow in winter. It's like walking through a natural tunnel that changes with the seasons, making it a very popular tourist attraction in the Kansai region.
- Amanohashidate, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan
Amanohashidate, listed as one of the three scenic wonders of Japan, is a natural sandbar that spans Miyazu Bay. It is about 3.6 kilometers long and is lined with thousands of pine trees. From a distance, it looks like a flying dragon connecting heaven and earth, hence the name "Amanohashidate".
Here, you can not only stroll along the pine forest trail and get up close to the natural landscape where the sea and sandbar intertwine, but also experience the unique local "upside-down view (股のぞき)"—viewing the sandbar upside down between your legs, it seems to transform into a bridge to the sky, a fun experience not to be missed.
The changing seasons add different charms to Amanohashidate: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, autumn leaves in autumn, and snow in winter, each with its own unique character. Whether you climb to the observation deck for a panoramic view or take a leisurely stroll, it is one of the most representative scenic spots in the Kansai region.
Located in Wakasa Bay Quasi-National Park in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, this group of stunning lakes consists of five lakes: Lake Mikata, Lake Suigetsu, Lake Sugata, Lake Kukuko, and Lake Hyuga. Because of the different water qualities of each lake, they display different colors, hence the name "Five-Colored Lakes".
Take a cable car or mountain bike up the mountain to enjoy the magnificent scenery of the five-colored lakes and the Sea of Japan, overlooking the breathtaking view that resembles a painting.
The hilltop park is not just a single observation deck, but consists of multiple themed viewing spaces; the most unique experience is to soak your feet in the foot bath while taking in the magnificent views of the Sanpō Gokho and the Sea of Japan, enjoying a relaxing and therapeutic time.
In winter, the Sanfang Five Lakes transform into a low-key and serene place, presenting a minimalist and pure natural beauty.
Autumn is one of the most popular seasons at the Sanpō Gotō Lakes, when the forests are ablaze with red, orange, and golden leaves, creating a rich tapestry of colors against the lake's surface. ★The best time to view the autumn foliage at the Sanpō Gotō Lakes is typically from early to late November.
Indulge in freshly caught seafood at the largest fish market in the Sea of Japan, savoring the most authentic Wakasa seafood flavors. The must-try is the top-quality winter delicacy—crab, with the "Echizen crab" from Fukui being the most famous.
Taking the Kyoto Tango Railway from Nishi-Maizuru to Amanohashidate is a therapeutic railway journey that combines sea views with local charm, and is a classic experience on the "Kyoto by the Sea" route.
Sanjusangendo, one of the longest wooden buildings in Japan, is approximately 120 meters long. The "thirty-three bays" refers to the 33 bays between the pillars.
The "Hiryukan" (飛龍觀) at Amanohashidate is one of the most classic and impressive vantage points for appreciating Amanohashidate. From this vantage point, the entire sandbar appears as if a giant dragon is soaring through the air, hence the name "Hiryukan".
Purchase Notice
[Tourism Conditions]
Travel departure point and destination: Kyoto and Fukui
Trip duration: Day trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus company names: Huaying International Travel Co., Ltd. / Japan Tourism Cooperation Bus Co., Ltd., etc.
Meals: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch according to plan, Dinner 0 times
Minimum group size: 15
Team Leader: 1
[Travel Planning/Implementation]
Operating Company Name: LION TRAVEL JAPAN Co., Ltd.
Address: 7th Floor, Toranomon Central Building, 1-7-1 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
License Number: Tourism Authority Registered Travel Agent No. 1892
Name of travel agency: Japan Travel Agents Association (General Incorporated Company), Regular Member
Reminders
A minimum of 15 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
The tour will be arranged according to the number of participants. When there are a small number of participants, a driver will also be arranged to accompany the group throughout the tour. No additional tour leader will be provided. Participants are free to visit the attractions at their own pace. Please be aware of this.
Please note that the time spent at attractions may be adjusted or some attractions may be cancelled due to road conditions and other factors on the day of the trip. The return arrival time may also be significantly delayed.
Bus seats are subject to on-site allocation and cannot be specified. Thank you for your understanding.
FAQ
Visiting the Mikata Five Lakes is highly recommended for first-time travelers seeking natural beauty. This area is celebrated for its enchanting scenery, where the five lakes display captivating changing shades of blue that shift with the light. It offers a tranquil and beautiful natural escape, perfect for those who enjoy photography and a slow-paced journey amidst serene lake views, providing a truly healing experience.
To experience the Japan Sea Fish Market at its best, visiting during its regular operating hours, typically in the morning or early afternoon, is ideal for sampling the freshest catches. As part of a day trip, you'll have the opportunity to freely sample a wide array of local fresh seafood. This ensures you enjoy the market's vibrant atmosphere and the quality seafood it's renowned for, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Amanohashidate is renowned as one of Japan's Three Scenic Wonders, famed for its stunning natural bridge of pine-covered sandbars stretching across Miyazu Bay. Its unique features include a scenic pine forest ideal for leisurely strolls along the sandbar, and breathtaking panoramic views from observation decks where the landscape appears like a "bridge in heaven" or a "flying dragon" stretching across the bay.
At the Japan Sea Fish Market, visitors can freely sample a diverse selection of local fresh seafood. While specific offerings vary by season and daily catch, you can typically expect to find fresh sashimi, grilled seafood, and various processed seafood products. It's an excellent opportunity to taste regional specialties directly from the source, making it a highlight for any seafood enthusiast.
For a comprehensive experience of Amanohashidate, it's generally recommended to spend around 2 to 3 hours. This allows ample time to stroll along the scenic pine forest sandbar, ascend to an observation deck for panoramic views, and perhaps enjoy some local treats. As part of a day trip, sufficient time is allocated to appreciate its status as one of Japan's three scenic wonders.
The Mikata Five Lakes are unique for scenic viewing due to their distinct characteristics and the phenomenon of displaying "changing shades of blue that shift with the light." Each of the five lakes has a different salinity, depth, and water quality, resulting in varied hues from emerald green to deep indigo. This creates a mesmerizing, dynamic landscape that offers diverse photographic opportunities and a truly enchanting natural spectacle.
Sanjusangendo Temple holds significant historical and cultural importance, primarily for housing 1,001 statues of the goddess Kannon, the principal deity. The temple's 120-meter-long main hall dates back to the 12th century, offering an awe-inspiring atmosphere. Visitors can experience the profound spiritual heritage and architectural grandeur of these thousand-year-old Buddhist statues, making it a powerful cultural stop on the itinerary.
During the railway journey to Amanohashidate, travelers can expect a relaxing and picturesque experience. The route offers soothing coastal scenery of Japan, allowing you to observe the tranquil landscapes and local life passing by. This part of the trip is designed to be a scenic journey, complementing the natural beauty awaiting you at Amanohashidate itself, enhancing the overall exploration of the "Kyoto of the Sea."
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