Back at your ship in good time
This tour is planned to bring you back to the port 90 to 120 minutes before your ship departs. If traffic or opening hours require it, your guide may change the order of visits or the time at a stop.
Illustration only. The exact hours depend on your ship’s schedule and are listed per departure below.
Tour Overview
A full day Maizuru shore excursion in northern Kyoto Prefecture, starting from Maizuru Port. The centrepiece is Amanohashidate, a sandbar across the bay and one of the “Three Most Scenic Views of Japan”, joined by a shrine, a temple, a rotating bridge and a quiet boat ride.
- Amanohashidate View Land: A chair lift or monorail up Mt. Monju, then a view of the sandbar often described as a “flying dragon” over the sea.
- Ine Bay cruise: A 30-minute boat ride past the “funaya” boat houses built right on the water.
- Motoise Kono Shrine and Monjudo Chionji Temple: A shrine with five-coloured Shinto motifs, and a temple where visitors pray for wisdom.
- Kaisenkyo Rotating Bridge: A bridge that turns 90 degrees to let ships pass. Currently under construction, see the itinerary.
Who This Tour Is For:
- Cruise travelers with limited time who want to experience the highlights of northern Kyoto Prefecture.
- Nature lovers and photographers eager to capture one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes.
- History and culture enthusiasts seeking insight into Japan’s temples, shrines, and living traditions.
- Families and couples looking for a relaxed yet enriching day trip combining scenic views, cultural discovery, and a serene boat ride.
Inquire about this tour now with Japan Shore Excursions - Your local experts in unforgettable journeys!
Full Itinerary
Port Departure - Welcome at Maizuru
Your private guide and driver will meet you right at Maizuru Port after disembarkation. From here, you’ll begin your journey through the beautiful landscapes and cultural treasures of northern Kyoto Prefecture.
Motoise Kono Jinja
Your first destination is Motoise Kono Shrine, one of only two shrines in Japan permitted to display the five-colored Shinto motifs at its main sanctuary. The shrine grounds feature several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, each with distinct architectural styles that highlight Japan’s spiritual and artistic heritage.
Ine Bay Cruise (30-minute boat ride)
Continue your sightseeing with a cruise through Ine Bay, a traditional fishing village known for its unique “funaya” (boat houses) built directly on the water. Observe the daily rhythms of local life, where fishermen dry their catches and families live in harmony with the sea. The tranquil charm of Ine Bay makes for a memorable finale.
Amanohashidate View Land - Gaze Upon the “Flying Dragon”
Your next stop is Amanohashidate View Land. Take a 6-minute chair lift (or 8-minute monorail, wheelchair accessible) to reach the observatory on Mt. Monju. From the top, you’ll witness the breathtaking sight of Amanohashidate, a sandbar stretching gracefully across the bay, often described as a “flying dragon” soaring above the sea.
Kaisenkyo Rotating Bridge
Next, stop by the Kaisenkyo Rotating Bridge, a rare and ingenious structure that turns 90 degrees to let ships pass through. Once operated manually and now powered by electricity, this bridge has become a symbol of the lively maritime culture of the area.
Monjudo Chionji Temple
Continue to the historic Monjudo Chionji Temple, renowned as a sacred site where visitors pray for wisdom. Students and their families often come here before important exams. Inside, you’ll discover hundreds of striking oil paintings depicting everything from heaven and hell to legendary tales of loyalty and revenge.
Return to Maizuru Port
Your driver will transfer you comfortably back to Maizuru Port, ensuring you return in time for your cruise ship’s departure.
Upcoming Small-Group Shore Excursions You Can Join
| Date | Group Size (Pax) | Price | Booking Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Azamara Pursuit | |||
| Apr 28 2027 (09:00 - 18:00) | 10 - 15 | $272 USD
Early Bird Offer: $257 USD |
Inquire Now |
Please Note:
- Cherry Blossom season may come with higher-than-usual prices
- If you’re looking for other dates, simply complete the Inquiry Form below, and we’ll promptly send you clear, helpful information tailored just for you.
- The remaining balance for tours with a deposit is due closer to the departure date.
From Maizuru to Amanohashidate Tour Details
Guide
Licensed English-speaking guide.
Transport
Chartered car, with highway and parking fees covered, plus the Ine Bay boat.
Activity Level: Moderate
Senior-friendly. Guests say the pace was comfortable and suitable for elders.
Tour Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
✓ Licensed English-speaking guide.
✓ Chartered car or coach, including highway and parking fees
✓ Entrance fees: Amanohashidate View Land
✓ Cruise in Ine Bay
Not included
✕ Pre and post-tour accommodation
✕ Tips for guide and driver
✕ Meals & Drinks
Cancellation and Refund Policy
| When you cancel | What is charged |
|---|---|
| More than 40 days before | 10% of the deposit is non-refundable and kept as credit for your next trip. The rest is refunded (your bank may charge a fee). |
| 40 to 30 days before | 35% of the deposit |
| 29 to 15 days before | 50% of the deposit |
| 14 to 10 days before | 75% of the total booking value |
| Less than 10 days, or no show | 100% of the total booking value |
Refunds are usually processed within 2 to 4 working weeks after we receive your written cancellation request. After the trip has started, we cannot refund unused services, early departure, late arrival or missed days.
Return-to-Ship Policy in Short
When we step in
- Significant itinerary delays caused by poor tour management or scheduling by our operations team;
- Operational errors that are solely attributable to Shore Excursions Asia and directly result in the guest missing the vessel.
When we are not liable
- Heavy traffic, road closures, severe weather or natural disasters;
- Civil unrest, public demonstrations, strikes, or government/police restrictions;
- Customs or immigration delays, medical emergencies, third-party suppliers.
Guests Responsibilities
- Arrive on time at the meeting point and return on time after free time;
- Follow the guide’s instructions on departure times;
- Communicate requests for additional sightseeing, shopping stops, or itinerary modifications in advance.
FAQs about From Maizuru to Amanohashidate Tour
No. Sending a request is free. Some departures also offer a deposit link; the remaining balance is due closer to the tour date.
The drive from Maizuru Port to Amanohashidate takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes each way via private vehicle. The extension to the historic Ine Fishing Village takes about 20 to 30 minutes from Amanohashidate, offering a smooth and scenic drive through northern Kyoto’s coastal landscapes.
Yes. Most major stops, including Motoise Kono Shrine and Monjudo Chionji Temple, feature accessible pathways. Please inform us in advance if you have specific mobility needs so we can tailor the pacing and vehicle access accordingly.
Footwear & Clothing:
- Comfortable, flat walking shoes or sneakers are strongly recommended for walking around temple grounds and viewpoint platforms.
- Dress in layers, as coastal winds around Wakasa Bay and Ine Bay can be cooler than inland areas.
Photography: Don't forget your camera! Both Amanohashidate View Land and Ine Bay provide panoramic photography spots.
Safety is our top priority. If severe weather or heavy sea conditions affect the Ine Bay boat cruise or chairlift operations, your guide will adjust the itinerary to include safe, alternative local attractions. Passengers will be notified of any changes at the earliest opportunity.
If your ship is forced to bypass Maizuru due to weather, mechanical issues, or official itinerary changes, our shore excursion policies offer flexible arrangements or refunds tailored specifically to cruise passengers.
Send Inquiry
Maria & Nicola –
We really enjoyed this excursion from Maizuru. Amanohashidate was even more beautiful than we expected, and the view from the observation deck was fantastic. The boat ride around Ine Bay was another highlight, especially seeing the traditional funaya houses along the waterfront. Our guide explained the history of each place in an engaging way. The group size was comfortable, and the day felt well organized without being rushed. A great way to discover this part of Japan.
Antonella –
The tour was organized well from the port pickup to the return journey. Our guide was welcoming, knowledgeable and attentive to the group, making sure everyone understood the plan at each stop. The transport was comfortable for the journey between attractions. We especially enjoyed the panoramic view at Amanohashidate and the boat trip around Ine Bay. It was a full sightseeing day, but the variety of stops kept it interesting throughout.
John Jackson –
This tour offered a lovely mix of scenery and cultural experiences. We enjoyed visiting Motoise Kono Shrine and learning about its religious significance, followed by the spectacular view of Amanohashidate from above. The traditional boathouses at Ine Bay were particularly interesting, as they are quite different from anything we had seen elsewhere in Japan. Our guide shared useful background information at each stop and made the day more meaningful.
Rebekah –
Serena made the reservation process simple and reassuring. We had a few questions about the schedule and how the excursion would work with our cruise arrival, and she explained everything clearly. The tour itself was enjoyable, with a good balance of scenic viewpoints, cultural landmarks and time on the water. Our guide was knowledgeable and took good care of the group. We particularly liked visiting Ine Bay and seeing the traditional funaya houses from the boat.
Elie G. –
Ine Bay was one of my favorite parts of the tour. The traditional wooden boathouses along the water are fascinating, and viewing the village from the boat gave us a different perspective on local life. Amanohashidate was equally impressive, especially from the observation deck. Sammy was helpful when we were making our booking, and the tour information was clear. I appreciated having a guide who explained the places we visited rather than simply taking us from one stop to another.
Todd –
We were looking for a tour that covered the main attractions without making us feel rushed all day. This excursion was a good fit. We had time to appreciate the views at Amanohashidate, visit the temple and shrine, and enjoy the boat ride around Ine Bay. Our guide kept everyone informed about the schedule and was happy to answer questions. The small-group format made the day feel comfortable and well coordinated.
Martin –
We have visited Japan several times, so we wanted to explore somewhere beyond the better-known destinations. This tour introduced us to a beautiful part of northern Kyoto Prefecture that we probably would not have visited independently. The scenery at Amanohashidate was wonderful, and Ine Bay had a distinctive local character. Our guide explained the region's traditions and history clearly. Traveling with a small group also made the experience more sociable without feeling crowded.
Elizabeth Mills –
We specifically looked for a small-group tour because we wanted something more personal than a typical large bus excursion. This was a good choice. It was easy to hear the guide, ask questions and enjoy the different stops without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. Amanohashidate View Land offered wonderful panoramic views, while Ine Bay had a peaceful atmosphere. The combination of nature, local culture and sightseeing made this a very enjoyable day.
Chantal Broadhurst –
We joined this tour as a family and had a very enjoyable day. The observation deck at Amanohashidate offered beautiful views, and the boat cruise was something everyone could appreciate. We also liked learning about the local traditions at the shrine and temple. Our guide was patient with questions and kept the group moving at a comfortable pace. The small-group arrangement worked well for us and felt more personal than a large organized excursion.
Jennifer Edwards –
The view from Amanohashidate View Land was definitely the highlight for us. Seeing the long sandbar stretching across the bay was impressive, and the chairlift ride added a little fun to the experience. We also enjoyed visiting the local temple and seeing the traditional fishing village at Ine. Felix helped us with our booking questions beforehand, and the arrangements were easy to follow. Overall, a memorable excursion and a good way to spend our day in Maizuru.
Dawn W. –
Fiona was excellent throughout the planning process. She answered our questions about the meeting point, itinerary and timing, which was especially important because we were visiting on a cruise. Booking was straightforward, and the information provided beforehand was clear. We enjoyed sharing the excursion with a small group of fellow travelers. The scenery was lovely, the guide was informative, and the boat cruise around Ine Bay was a relaxing highlight.
Charles Powell –
From the first message with Thomas, we felt valued as customers. His quick, clear replies helped us decide confidently. The tour itself was wonderfully paced, with fascinating stops and lovely local scenery. The monorail ride and boat cruise were perfect additions. The guide was engaging and kept everyone involved.
Hannah Brooks –
This tour from Maizuru port provided a wonderful introduction to one of Japan’s most iconic natural landscapes and cultural spots. The calm boat cruise and the peaceful temples made the day memorable. The guide managed the timing well, and the transport was comfortable for all ages.
Daniel Reed –
Sammy made the booking process smooth and reassuring, always quick to respond. She also helped us to create a small group from Diamond Princess cruise. The tour’s highlight for me was the Kaisenkyo Rotating Bridge. So unique and fascinating. The temples and shrine visits gave great cultural context, and the boat ride around Ine Bay was a serene way to end the day. Highly recommend this tour with Japan Shore Excursions.
David Thompson –
This Maizuru to Amanohashidate tour was a wonderful blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. Fiona answered all our questions promptly, making the booking easy. The guide was knowledgeable and patient, sharing interesting stories about each site. Comfortable transport and thoughtful pacing made it suitable for our family, including elders. Highlights like Amanohashidate View Land and the Ine Bay cruise were truly breathtaking. The attentive team support before and during the tour made the whole experience worry-free and memorable.
Olivia Harper –
Booking this tour from Maizuru port was easy thanks to Felix, who patiently answered all my questions and helped tailor some special requests. The day itself was fantastic, from the breathtaking views at Amanohashidate View Land to the peaceful Ine Bay cruise. Our guide kept the pace comfortable, which made it enjoyable for our entire group.
Theresa Benson –
From the moment we disembarked at Maizuru port from Westerdam cruise, the adventure began smoothly. Our guide greeted us warmly and set the tone for a captured experience that blended striking landscapes with centuries-old traditions. The trip to Amanohashidate was marked by the stunning chair lift ascent to the summit of Mt. Monju, where the iconic “flying dragon” sandbar beckoned. Alongside this visual treat, the visit to the Monjudo Chionji Temple was enlightening—the art and stories embedded in its walls brought Japan’s spiritual heritage alive for us. The tranquil cruise on Ine Bay was a perfect pause, letting us soak in the quaint charm of the funaya houses and everyday fishermen’s routines. The guide’s engaging commentary, combined with the attentive driver’s punctuality, ensured the day was worry-free and memorable. Our only minor wish was for slightly longer time on the sandbar to linger at the viewpoint. Regardless, the whole experience was enriching and highly recommended for those wanting to see a slice of authentic Japan in comfort.
Victor Hughes –
Starting with a scenic chair lift ride to the Amanohashidate View Land, we were greeted with breathtaking panoramic views that truly lived up to the reputation of being one of Japan’s most scenic spots. Moving on, the historic Kaisenkyo Rotating Bridge fascinated us not only for its design but also for its cultural significance. The temples along the way provided deep insights into local traditions and architectural elegance. Ending the day with a peaceful boat cruise through the traditional fishing village of Ine Bay allowed us to witness the harmonious relationship between people and nature here. Highly recommend!
Eleanor Green –
The tour from Maizuru was smooth and enjoyable. Highlights were the beautiful views and the boat cruise. Guide and transport were very good. Perfect day trip.