Amanohashidate is renowned as one of Japan’s “Three Most Scenic Views,” but this destination in northern Kyoto Prefecture is much more than a famous viewpoint. The true beauty of this “bridge to heaven” extends to its coastline, where two distinct beaches offer visitors different experiences. On the south end of the sandbar, you have the lively Amanohashidate Beach, perfect for a refreshing swim after exploring the main town. On the north end, the tranquil Amanohashidate Fuchū Beach provides a serene setting for sea kayaking and SUP.
The Swimming Season at Amanohashidate
The swimming season at Amanohashidate is from mid-July to mid-August. During the swimming season, a lifeguard is stationed from 9 am to 5 pm to ensure you can enjoy the beaches safely.
Amanohashidate Beach (天橋立海水浴場)
Just a 7-minute walk from Amanohashidate Station, the Amanohashidate Beach is especially popular with families with young kids. Amanohashidate Beach is open from mid-July to mid-August, allowing you to enjoy a variety of beach activities.
Essential facilities, including change rooms, shower facilities with warm water, toilets, a first aid room, and cafes, are all available for your use when needed.
If you plan to drive, there are car parks close by, but you will have a hard time securing a parking space if you arrive late in the morning on weekends and public holidays.
Amanohashidate Fuchū Beach (天橋立府中海水浴場) and Amanohashidate Activity Center (天橋立アクティビティセンター)
The beach at the northern part of Amanohashidate, which is also open from late July to mid-August, is called Amanohashidate Fuchu Beach. This is the beach you want to be at for those who want to do SUP and/or sea kayaking.
The Amanohashidate Activity Center, with all the necessary equipment, is just next to the beach. Even if you have no experience, they have well-trained instructors who can guide you throughout the session.
Be aware that pre-school children won’t be able to participate in either of the activities. And if you don’t feel well, don’t force yourself to participate either, because they won’t accept you anyway.
The Cost of Enjoying SUP and Sea Kayaking at Amanohashidate Fuchu Beach
- SUP
- 4,000 yen for adults, 3,000 yen for elementary school students
- 2 sessions, one at 7 am, one at 4:30 pm
- Each session lasts for 60 minutes, including an introduction.
- If you would like to do it during the day, feel free to check with them for their availability.
- Sea Kayak
- 7,000 yen for adults, 4,000 yen for elementary school students
- 2 sessions, one at 9:30 am, and one at 1:30 pm
- Each session lasts for 120 minutes, including the introduction.
- There are also two 60-minute sessions held at 7 am and 4:30 pm.
- The cost is 4,000 yen for adults, 3,000 yen for elementary school students
During your session, they will also help you take photos.
To make a reservation, you can either book online on their Japanese website or call them at +81-90-9047-5896. If you check the links below using Google Chrome, the browser can automatically translate the page to English by clicking the Google Translate icon to the right of the address bar.
Important: Please note cancellation fees apply if you cancel within 5 days of your booked session. If they have extra capacity, they will also take walk-in customers.
Tip: You can also ask the staff at your accommodation to make the phone call to reserve on your behalf.
Amanohashidate Activity Center’s Business Hours and Access Information
- The center is open from 9 am to 6 pm.
- From Amanohashidate Station, it is a 35-minute walk
- From Kasamatsu Park, it is a 15-minute walk
- If you are taking a bus from Amanohashidate Station, get off at Amanohashidate Kono Jinja Shrine (天橋立元伊勢籠神社).
- Refer to HERE for the timetable.
- If you are taking the sightseeing boat, Motoise Kono Shrine is just a one-minute walk from Ichinomiya Ferry Terminal.
- Refer to HERE for the timetable.
- From the ferry terminal, it is around a 3-minute walk.
Discover Other Attractions in Amanohashidate
Obviously, Amanohashidate has attractions beyond its beautiful beaches. Selected as one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views, it is one of the best rural Japanese towns to experience the authentic Japanese culture, history, and stunning scenery.
Check out our article on Amanohashidate to find out what else you can do there and how the 5,000 pine trees can grow on the 3.6 km sandbar surrounded by seawater!
