Amanohashidate

3.6-kilometer pine-covered sandbar stretching across Miyazu Bay in Kyoto Prefecture, counted as one of Japan's three classic scenic views since the 17th century. The traditional way to appreciate it is matanozoki, bending over and looking back through your legs, which makes the sandbar appear to float in the sky like a bridge to heaven. Two viewpoints overlook it from either end: Kasamatsu Park in the north, accessible by cable car, and Amanohashidate View Land in the south, reachable by chairlift or monorail from near the train station. Activities include sea kayaking, cycling the length of the sandbar in about 50 minutes, and sightseeing cruises. Nearby Chionji Temple and Nariaiji Temple are traditional stops on a visit.