Like many other areas of Kyoto, Amanohashidate sure doesn't lack in history and spirituality. From its stunning sandbar bridge, which is called 'bridge in heaven' to the many temples, shrines and iconic dotted around the area spirituality is everywhere in this stunning pocket of northern Kyoto. In order to fully grasp the religious significance of the area it's best to take a little temple and shrine walk around there area, here's what not to miss along the way.
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![Amanohashidate Temple and Shrine Walk]()
Amanohashidate Temple and Shrine Walk
A visit to Amanohashidate isn't complete without a visit to Chionji temple, one of the area's most iconic local sites. One of Japan's only three temples dedicated to the Bodhisattva, it's said that visitors to this temple will gain wisdom, which has made it a popular destination for university and high school age students looking for some good fortune during the stressful exam period. Explore the temple grounds on the 15th day of the month to see the area come alive with local artists, farmers and craftspeople who come together each month to see their wares no matter the weather.
![Amanohashidate Temple and Shrine Walk]()
Amanohashidate Temple and Shrine Walk
Situated in the midst of the many temples and shrines dotted around the area is an impressive Daibutsu statue which is worth visiting if you have an interest in Buddhist history or event the spirituality of everyday life in Japan. A daibutsu is a giant Buddha many of which can be found in Japan and other Buddhist countries.
![Amanohashidate Temple and Shrine Walk]()
Amanohashidate Temple and Shrine Walk
One of the area's most famous spiritual sites, Motoise Kono Shrine is worth visiting if you find yourself in the area. Because it was once home to Amaterasu, aka the Sun Goddess, Shinto religion's most venerated deity, this Shrine is considered one of the most important shrines in the Tango Region. The enshrinement of Amaterasu was later on moved to the inner and outer Ise Shrines, which is how this place got its name. In Japanese 'Motoise' literally means 'the origin of Ise'. One of the most unique features of Motoise shrine is its suikinkutsu, which is a traditional Japanese garden ornament. As water drips through the ornament, it makes a sound that resembles the playing of a Koto harp. Relaxing but strangely otherworldly the atmosphere of Motoise is unlike anywhere else in the area.
![Amanohashidate Temple and Shrine Walk]()
Amanohashidate Temple and Shrine Walk
Tucked away in the Amanohashidate area sits the more humble, but equally as worthy Amanohashidate Shrine, named after the natural bridge itself. This shrine is home to many legendary stories and is considered to be one of the Tango area's many 'power spots'. The shrine is home to the enshrinement of the powerful King of Eight Dragons. Located just beside the shrine is one of the country's most famous water springs known as Isoshimizu, which means pure water of the beach. Despite being located right by the ocean, this spring is filled with fresh water that's used by travelers and guests to purify themselves before entering the shrine area.
![Amanohashidate Temple and Shrine Walk]()
Amanohashidate Temple and Shrine Walk
Shourotei Hotel
Amano Hashidate, Monju, Miyazu-shi Kyoto
- Chionji Temple (Monjudo)
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4.0
10 Reviews -
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- Kyoto Miyadushi Monju 466
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- 0772222553
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- 8:00-17:00
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- Kono-jinja Shrine
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4.0
182 Reviews -
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- Kyoto Miyadushi Ogaki 430
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- 0772270006
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- [Gates openHours] 7:30-16:30…
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- Isoshimizu
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3.5
30 Reviews -
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- Kyoto Miyazu-shi Monju Amanohashidate Park
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- 0772228030
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- open everyday
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Shourotei Hotel
Amano Hashidate, Monju, Miyazu-shi Kyoto
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