Japan is a land of breathtaking views, from towering skyscrapers, to imposing mountains to tranquil seascapes. Among its countless scenic wonders, three have captivated visitors for centuries. Known as the Nihon Sankei, or the Three Views of Japan, these iconic destinations—Matsushima Bay, Amanohashidate, and Miyajima—have long been revered in Japanese culture.
The concept of the Three Views dates back to 1643, when scholar Hayashi Gahō, selected these locations as the most stunning examples of Japan’s natural beauty. His decision reflected not only their visual appeal but also their deep connections to Japanese history. Since then adaptations of the Three Views of Japan have been popularized, such as Three Night Views of Japan.
Visiting each attraction, it is not hard to see why they have been ranked the three views of Japan. With the 250+ islands of Matsushima Bay, the stunning and uniquely shaped sandbar that forms Amanohashidate, and the ancient roots of Miyajima and picturesque views of the Hiroshima Bay, no attraction elsewhere in Japan is as special as the Three Views of Japan.
Amanohashidate, Kyoto Prefecture
Amanohashidate is a stunning sandbar located in the Miyazu Bay of the Sea of Japan, in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, about a 2 hour train ride from Kyoto Station.
The sandbar stretches 3.6 kilometers across the Miyazu Bay, and is covered with approximately 8000 pine trees. The name ‘Amanohashidate’ translates to ‘Bridge to Heaven’, According to legend, the deity Izanagi no Mikoto used the sandbar as a ladder to travel between the heavens and the earth. One day, while he was asleep, the ladder fell, forming the natural sandbar we see today.
On either side of Amanohashidate, you can find hillside observation decks, overlooking the famous sandbard. On the south side – looking North, you can find Amanohashidate View Land, which is a small park with some family friendly rides. Many visitors to Amanohashidate View Land will view the sandbar upside down, by looking through this legs. This is because when viewed upside down, thew sandbar is supposed to resemble the staircase of legend, while others say it resembles a dragon soaring to the sky.
At the North side, looking south is the Amanohashidate Kasamatsu Park. which offers you with a vastly different perspective of the sandbar.
Miyajima, Hiroshima Prefecture
Miyajima (also known as Itsukushima), is a place where ancient traditions and breathtaking natural beauty blend seamlessly to create a destination unlike any other in Japan. Nestled in the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea in Hiroshima Prefecture, Miyajima has long been regarded as a sacred sanctuary, revered for its iconic floating torii gate, dense forests, and serene temples.
One of the most recognizable landmarks on Miyajima is the floating torii gate, which sits at the entrance to the island’s Itsukushima Shrine. The gate is said to symbolize the boundary between the mundane and sacred worlds and is an iconic symbol of Miyajima. At high tide, the gate appears to be floating on the water, adding to its mystical charm.
The Itsukushima Shrine itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the three most beautiful shrines in Japan. The shrine was built in the 6th century and has been preserved over the centuries, despite numerous natural disasters and wars. Visitors can enjoy the shrine’s stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, as well as the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Matsushima Bay, Miyagi Prefecture
Matsushima Bay, located in the Miyagi Prefecture in Japan, is famous for a group of small islands known for their stunning natural beauty. The name Matsushima means “pine-tree islands,” and it lives up to its name with its stunning views of pine trees draped over the rocky shorelines. The bay consists of approximately 260 unique and small islands that line the Matsushima bay.
One of the most popular activities in Matsushima is to take a boat tour around the islands. This is the best way to get a full appreciation of the breathtaking views, including the iconic pine trees, serene waters, and rock formations. There are a number of tours and sightseeing options for exploring the Matsushima Bay.
Explore the Three Views of Japan
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