Amanohashidate

Amanohashidate—One of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views
Conquer All Four Viewing Points for a Complete Experience!

Amanohashidate is one of Japan’s most famous landscapes, and when you hear its name, you probably think of the iconic matanozoki—bending over and looking at the sandbar upside-down between your legs.
But Amanohashidate actually has four major viewpoints, each offering a different perspective.
Here are the four must-see scenic spots you should visit to fully enjoy the beauty of Amanohashidate.

1. “Hiryukan” – The View of the Soaring Dragon from Amanohashidate Viewland

The first of the two classic matanozoki spots is Amanohashidate Viewland, located atop Mt. Monju.
From this southern viewpoint looking north, the sandbar appears as if a dragon is rising to the heavens when seen upside-down—hence the name “Hiryukan” (Soaring Dragon View).

The observatory even has a special matanozoki platform, so be sure to give it a try!
If you’re too shy to bend over, try the more elegant historical method “Sode-nozoki”—viewing it upside-down through the sleeve of a kimono, as women used to do in the past.

2. “Shoryukan (Diagonal Line View)” – From Kasamatsu Park

The second matanozoki viewpoint is Kasamatsu Park, located on the opposite shore.
This northern vantage point looks south. Seen upside-down, the sandbar appears like a dragon ascending to the sky, giving the name “Shoryukan” (Ascending Dragon View).

Because the landform appears as a straight diagonal line, the scenery is also called “Naname Ichimonji” (Diagonal Straight Line View).

Kasamatsu Park’s Sky Deck features a transparent, reinforced-glass walkway suspended about 40 meters above ground—perfect for those who love heights and thrills!

3. “Ichijikan” – The One-Line View from Ouchi Pass Park

The third viewpoint is the Ichijikan view from Ouchi Pass Ichijikan Park.
While the first two views show the sandbar vertically (north–south), this view looks eastward from the west, allowing you to see Amanohashidate stretching as a horizontal line dividing Miyazu Bay and Aso Sea.

This spot is also said to be the birthplace of the traditional matanozoki.

The park features cottages, tent sites for camping, barbecue facilities, and a mini playground.
It is also a beautiful spot for cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.

4. “Sesshukan” – The View from the Sesshu Scenic Rest Point

The final viewpoint is Sesshukan, located at the observation rest area above Shishizaki Inari Shrine.
This eastern viewpoint looks west and is named after its resemblance to the composition of the famous ink painting “Amanohashidate” by the Muromachi-period artist Sesshū.

You can also enjoy a sweeping view of Miyazu Bay from here, making it one of the finest scenic points in the area.

From these four locations, you can admire the many faces of Amanohashidate, each revealing a different charm of this remarkable landscape.
Visit all of them, and you’ll be a true Amanohashidate expert!