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Discover Amanohashidate’s Oceanside Charm in Northern Kyoto

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Former Kitasui Water Purification Plant

Former Kitasui Water Purification Plant is a giant water purification plant built in 1901 in the mountains near Maizuru Bay to serve the new naval base.The enormous quantities of water required to supply the naval facilities and fleet were brought from a dam some 6km away and stored here before being distributed.
Although it’s usually closed to the public, you might be lucky enough to catch one of the occasional openings.
After entering the structure, visitors are led down into a maze-like underground space containing several 6-meter-high walls. These were designed to keep the water circulating and prevent stagnation.Absent water, the vast chamber is profoundly silent, and it feels like being inside some kind of ancient monument. The overwhelming grandeur and scale give you a sense of the technological prowess of the navy at the time.

投稿タイプ：activities

Maizuru Bay Sightseeing Boat

Visitors can take a pleasure cruise around Maizuru Bay that leaves from a small pier in Maizuru Red Brick Park. Upholding the naval legacy, the Maritime Self-Defense Force operates a base here, so in addition to historical spots like the old shipyards, you can expect to see lots of active self-defense vessels on the tour.
Cruises take approximately 35 minutes. The crew members are all former Maritime Self-Defense Force personnel and provide highly knowledgeable commentary. You’ll see giant escort vessels, minesweepers and various others depending on what is in port on the day.

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

atick

To experience the modern face of the town, head to Atick, a shopping, food and entertainment complex Atick that opened in September 2024 and boasts amazing panoramic views of Maizuru Bay.

Those looking for some retail therapy can shop local clothing brand Solamonat, a curated range of apparel and other products with a Japanese theme at Beams Japan, and a range of Maizuru souvenirs. There’s also a café where you can enjoy premium coffee and food while watching the naval vessels and giant cruise ships coming and going across the bay. The café boasts a 360-degree sound system that pipes music from every angle so it’s a treat for the ears as well!

On the rooftop there’s a viewing platform and a Finnish-style barrel sauna. The beautiful ocean views and the cozy feel of wood are just the things to soothe body and soul.

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Tanabe Castle

The western district, Nishi-Maizuru, is the historical center of the city. It grew up around Tanabe Castle built by Samurai lord Hosokawa Yusai in 1582 and flourished for some 290 years until the castle was deserted with the end of samurai reign in the latter half of the 19th century.

Sections of the walls and foundations are all that remain of the original structure, but the main gate and turret have been reconstructed and the grounds made into a park. It’s a lovely place to take a stroll and get a hint of bygone days.

The museum has displays about successive lords of the castle, armor and swords worn by historical military commanders, and a diorama of the castle town. Most of the information is in Japanese, so consider bringing an interpreter with you.

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Admire Hydrangea Flowers in Kyoto: Uncover the Most Beautiful Ajisai Spots

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Charms and Fortunes, Oh my! Explore Kyoto’s Cute Omamori and Omikuji

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Amanohashidate/Ine 2-Day Standard Course

This model course lets you enjoy two of northern Kyoto Prefecture's most charming destinations, Amanohashidate and Ine, over two days. On the first day, depart from JR Kyoto Station and savor the local specialties of Amanohashidate while exploring its famous sights. Take a stroll along the Amanohashidate sandbar and soak in the stunning views from Amanohashidate View Land, accessible by a lift up the mountain. On the second day, head further north to Ine Town and explore its unique scenery, and tour the distinctive boathouses that line the waterfront!

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Top Things to See and Do in Kyoto, Japan: A Guide from JR Kyoto Station

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Car rentals might be the best way to explore Kyoto, Japan. These roadside stations are proof.

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Discover the Magic of Kyoto’s Summer Fireworks Festivals

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Seaside Cafés in Kyoto: Where Ocean Views and Local Delights Meet