Small Town Reverie in japan‘s Quaintest Fishing Village
Introduction
Japan is a country known for its unique and picturesque villages, and one such gem is the charming village of Ine. Located in the northern Kyoto Prefecture, Ine is a small town with a population of about 1,900 people. Nestled between the mountains and Ine Bay, this quaint fishing village offers visitors a glimpse into a bygone era with its distinctive boathouses, known as funaya, that line the bay. Ine is not only a place of historical significance but also a destination that offers superb accommodation options, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
A Village with History
Ine has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Situated along the trade route from Mainland China to Kyoto, the village developed as a town dedicated to the fishing industry. Its strategic location made it an important hub for maritime trade, and the area flourished as fishermen settled in the village. Today, Ine is considered one of the most picturesque villages in Japan, with its traditional architecture and stunning coastal scenery.
The Funaya Boathouses
One of the main attractions of Ine is its unique funaya, or boat houses. These wooden buildings sit right on the water, serving as both a dock and a home for the fishermen of the village. The boats are housed on the first floor, while the second floor serves as the dwelling area. There are approximately 230 funaya remaining today, stretching along five kilometers of the coastline. Some of these funaya have been converted into minshuku, or guest houses, providing visitors with an authentic experience of the fishing village life. Staying overnight in one of these guest houses allows guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy the tranquil ambiance of the bay.
Accommodation and Activities
The guest houses in Ine usually include two meals, offering guests the opportunity to savor delicious seafood dishes prepared using the freshest catch of the day. Additionally, one of the guest houses even provides an onsen bath, allowing guests to relax and unwind while enjoying the scenic views of the bay. Apart from the comfortable accommodations, the guest houses also offer guided sea taxi services and fishing experiences. Visitors can explore the bay by boat and witness the beauty of Ine from a different perspective. The larger sightseeing vessels provide a 25-minute tour of the bay, while the smaller sea taxis offer a more personalized experience. These sea taxis are operated by locals and require reservations. One of the highlights of the boat tours is the opportunity to feed the birds that inhabit the area, including sea hawks. The boats sell bird snacks, allowing visitors to interact with the wildlife in a unique and memorable way.
Funaya no Sato Park
For those looking to explore beyond the fishing village, Funaya no Sato Park is a must-visit destination. Situated on a hill above Ine, the park offers an observation deck with panoramic views of the village and the bay. Additionally, the park boasts a larger collection of restaurants and shops compared to Ine itself, making it an ideal place to enjoy a meal or purchase souvenirs. Due to its remote location, it is advisable to plan for an entire day by the Ine seaside or even consider an overnight visit to fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the area. Moreover, Ine can be combined with a visit to Amanohashidate, another seaside town in northern Kyoto Prefecture.
How to Get There
Ine Fishing Village is a remote destination that is accessible only by car or bus from Amanohashidate Station. Amanohashidate Station is famous for its long pine-treed sandbar and can be reached by taking a JR Hashidate limited express train from Kyoto Station. Buses run between Amanohashidate Station and Ine approximately once per hour, with the journey taking about 60 minutes. It is recommended to check the latest transportation information before planning a visit, as schedules may be subject to change due to COVID-19.
Conclusion
Ine Fishing Village offers visitors a unique and immersive experience in one of Japan’s most picturesque villages. From the charming funaya boathouses to the breathtaking scenery of the bay, Ine captivates the hearts of all who visit. Whether it’s staying overnight in a guest house, touring the bay by boat, or exploring the surrounding attractions, Ine promises to provide a memorable and tranquil getaway. So, if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of rural Japan, Ine Fishing Village is the perfect destination for you.
Address And Maps Location:
Hirata, Ine-cho, Kyoto-fu
Find Location And Direction On Google Maps
Subscribe, follow travelbloggerindonesia.com