A Guide to Kyoto’s Serene Seaside: From Amanohashidate to Ine Fishing Village

From train rides along the picturesque coast to cooking regional dishes or learning silk and kimono history, there is something for everyone to enjoy in coastal Kyoto. English guidance is available for certain activities––be sure to inquire directly to confirm.

For anyone looking for a share-worthy picture, take a ride on the Kyoto Tango Railway, which is known for its top-notch sightseeing trains and the stunning coastal route between the Amanohashidate area and Maizuru City. Pictured above is the Tango Kuro-matsu train crossing the Yurakawa Bridge. You can take a picture from the inside of the train, or wait for the train to cross from across the riverbank (you will be in good company with others snapping photos).

Two sightseeing trains, theTango Kuro-matsu and Tango Aka-matsu, as well as the local Tango-Ao-matsu train operate along this scenic route. The Tango Kuro-matsu is a one-car dining room, providing delicacies made with local ingredients to riders as they take in the views from the train windows. Passengers on the Tango Aka-matsu will enjoy the scenery from sofas and other fun and comfortable seating arrangements. Please note that the Kuro-matsu and the Aka-matsu only operate on certain days, and advanced reservations are required to board.

View the official website for information and to make a reservation for the sightseeing trains.

For a close-up look at one of Japan’s most important traditional arts, visit the Chirimen Kaido in Yosano, a town in northern Kyoto. This small district has been a vital part of Japan’s kimono and silk textile industry for around 300 years, known for producing high-quality silk crepe (Tango chirimen) used in kimono and other silk items––the Tango area is responsible for around 70% of the traditional silk material made domestically today.

You can walk through the streets lined with traditional homes, factories, and shops by yourself, but guided tours with locals are available and will allow you to learn more about the beautiful kimono and excellent silk woven here. Some activities include a kimono try-on, too.

For more information, see the official website. Inquire about English guidance availability here.

With an ideal climate for rice production and supply of high-quality water, Kyoto prefecture produces the most sake in Japan. Much of the best-tasting sake in the region comes from the Kyotango area, near the Sea of Japan. Kumano Shuzo, or Kumano Brewery, is one place where you can try this delicious rice wine.

Sake at the Kumano Brewery is under the label of “Kumi no Ura,” inspired by the nature and sea surrounding it in the town of Kumihama, on the bay. Several varieties of hand-brewed sake and umeshu (plum wine) are available, and the shop offers in-store sampling. (*2)

*2… In-store sampling may or may not be available due to the effects of the coronavirus.

Ine has a centuries-long tradition in Japan’s fishing industry. Residents in the traditional funaya live right on the bay, with access to the freshest seafood, including yellowtail, a local specialty. During a visit, you may spot some people doing just this––either on a boat in the bay, or fishing from a dock. Travelers can fish here, too––go with a local fisherman guide to learn how to hook and reel in the plentiful fish in Ine.

See this official website for more details, and use this contact form to inquire about English guidance.

Crab is one of the delicacies of Kyoto’s northern coast. For those looking to hone their culinary skills, a cooking workshop for a seafood bowl using the tender seko crab is a fun and flavorful choice. Seko crab is the female version of the famous matsuba crab, and is prized for its delectable flavor.

The freshest seko crab is available between early November and January, making this activity ideal for a winter visit.

Click here to view more information on this cooking workshop and to reserve. For inquiries about the activity in English, use the contact form here.

Tempura––battered and deep-fried until golden––is one of the most delicious ways to enjoy vegetables. Those craving this classic Japanese dish can enjoy it with local, seasonal vegetables from Ayabe, a lush, mountainous region in Kyoto. This workshop uses in-season ingredients and wild vegetables picked by participants themselves!

After cooking, participants can enjoy their hard work with the other students and the instructor after the tempura is made. For more information and reservations, please see the official website. For inquiries about the activity in English, use the contact form here.

The northern coastal region in Kyoto is best known for the impressive scenery of Amanohashidate, and the charming funaya of Ine, but a lot more awaits those who come and stay to explore. There is much to discover in this area easily accessible from Kyoto Station. Take in the best of this delightful region and experience another side of the ancient capital.