TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Angel Road is a sandbar that appears depending on the tide in Tonosho Town, Shozu District, Kagawa Prefecture (Shodoshima Island). When the sea level drops at low tide, the main island and the surrounding small islands are connected, and a path that can be crossed on foot appears. The mystical scenery created by nature and the "special feeling that can only be walked at low tide" are its charms, and it is also known for the romantic superstition that couples in particular will be happy if they cross the road holding hands.
Highlights
- The sandy road that appears at low tide: You can experience up close how the sea surface changes with the tide. The photogenic scenery is especially beautiful in the early morning and evening.
- Observation Deck/Observation Point: There are observation spaces with great views in the surrounding area, where you can take pictures of the entire scenery.
- Views of the surrounding islands and the Seto Inland Sea: Enjoy the scenery of the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea, the scattered islands, and the seasonal colors of the sky.
- Photo spots: There are plenty of photo spots, such as photos of people walking along the sandbar, silhouettes, and backlit sunsets.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest land terminal (mainland):
- From Takamatsu: Take a ferry or high-speed boat from Takamatsu Port (accessible from Takamatsu Station) to Shodoshima Tonosho Port. Travel times vary depending on the boat, so be sure to check the timetable in advance.
- From Okayama: There are also routes from ports on the Okayama side, such as Uno Port. The travel time varies depending on the operating company and flight.
- Access to the island:
- After arriving at Tonosho Port, take a bus or taxi to the site. It takes about 5 to 15 minutes by taxi, but we recommend checking the timetable for local buses as there are limited bus services.
- If you are walking, it takes about 20-30 minutes from the port (depending on luggage and walking speed).
- Renting a car or bicycle is also convenient. There is a parking lot on-site, but it may be full during peak seasons.
- Note: There are no trains on Shodoshima, so transportation is mainly by boat, bus, car, or bicycle. Ferry and high-speed boat schedules vary depending on the season and day of the week, so be sure to check before you set off.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Viewing Angel Road alone: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour (including photography and use of the observation deck).
- If you want to take your time and shoot according to the tide: 1 to 2 hours (taking into account the time before and after low tide).
- Sightseeing in the area (day trip plan combining Olive Park, the Movie Village, etc.): Half a day to a full day.
Nearby spots
- Shodoshima Olive Park: A park where you can enjoy the olive fields and the scenery of the Seto Inland Sea. There are plenty of olive products and observation spots.
- Kankakei: A valley that is considered one of the three most beautiful valleys in Japan. The view from the ropeway is popular.
- Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village: A themed facility that recreates the filming locations of the movie "Twenty-Four Eyes." Nostalgic scenery remains.
- Sho no Sato - Soy Sauce Brewery Tour: Shodoshima is also famous for its soy sauce production. You can try local cuisine that is easy to preserve and tour the brewery.
- Stroll around the port town of Tonosho: Enjoy local fish and island cuisine in the area around the port, where souvenir shops and restaurants line the streets.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Check the tide times: Angel Road can only be crossed at low tide. Be sure to check the low tide times on a tide chart or local guide to avoid being left behind by high tide.
- Allow plenty of time: There is a limited time to cross before and after low tide, so make sure you allow plenty of time. Time management is especially important if you are planning to take photos or enjoy the sunset.
- Crowds: The park is crowded with tourists during the spring and autumn holidays, summer, and weekends. Parking lots and observation decks tend to be crowded during popular times (early morning and evening).
- Clothing and shoes: You may get wet from sand and the tide, so it's a good idea to bring shoes you don't mind getting wet or a change of clothes. We also recommend clothing that can withstand strong sunlight and wind.
- Manners: To protect the natural scenery, please be sure to take your trash with you, avoid touching plants and animals, and stay away from restricted areas on private property.
- Safety precautions: If you are traveling with small children or elderly people, please be especially careful of waves and slippery areas and do not push yourself too hard.
*The travel times and transportation information above are estimates only. Please check official information or tourist association guides before visiting for the latest ferry timetables, bus schedules, tide information, parking availability, etc.
