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Viewpoint · Miyazu, Kyoto
Kasamatsu Park
Viewpoint on the north slope of Miyazu Bay, reached by cable car or chairlift, from which you see Amanohashidate facing backward, between your legs, and at the foot of which is Kono Shrine, one of the region’s oldest.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Kasamatsu Park in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
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Discover
About Kasamatsu Park
Kasamatsu Park is about 130 meters above sea level, on the slope of Mount Nariai, above the Fuchu neighborhood on the north side of Amanohashidate. From there, the sandbar appears in full, running diagonally across the bay, with the sea on one side and the lagoon on the other. It is the oldest and most traditional viewpoint for the landscape.
This is where the custom of matanozoki began: turning your back to the view, bending over, and looking between your legs. Upside down, the sandbar looks like a dragon climbing to the sky, and the sea and sky seem to swap places. Stone platforms mark spots for the pose, and it’s common to see entire families doing it together.
The ascent is made by cable car or chairlift, which operate side by side from Fuchu Station and take about 5 minutes. At the top there is a restaurant, shops, and a bus stop for Nariai-ji Temple, further up. It is also possible to walk down via a trail.
At the foot of the lift station sits Kono Shrine, Motoise Kono Jinja, the main shrine of the former Tango Province. Tradition says the deities of Ise passed through here before moving on to Ise Shrine, which is why it’s called Moto-Ise, the original Ise. The wooden pavilion, in a sober style, and a pair of old stone guardian dogs are part of the visit.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour, including Kono Shrine.
Best time
Morning, when the light comes from the east and the bay is usually clearer. The chairlift may stop in wind or rain. Check schedules.
How to get there
From the south side, sightseeing boats run to Ichinomiya pier in about 12 minutes, followed by a short walk to Kono Shrine and the lift station. By bus, about 20 minutes from Amanohashidate Station.
Tip
Take the chairlift for open views of the bay, and look for the stone platforms for matanozoki.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kasamatsu Park
What is Amanohashidate’s matanozoki?
The custom of looking at the view backward, between your legs. Upside down, the sandbar looks like a dragon climbing to the sky.
How do you get up to Kasamatsu Park?
By cable car or chairlift from Fuchu Station, about 5 minutes.
What is Kono Shrine?
The main shrine of the old Tango Province, at the foot of Kasamatsu Park, called Moto-Ise and traditionally linked to Ise Shrine.
Kasamatsu or View Land: which viewpoint to choose?
Kasamatsu is the traditional spot on the north side and is quieter. View Land, on the south near the station, offers amusement-park attractions. The views complement each other.
Beyond the guide
