TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Ine Funaya (Ine Town, Yosa District, Kyoto Prefecture) is a fishing village landscape known for the two-story boathouses that line the indented coastline of Ine Bay. The first floor of each boathouse is a garage where boats can be loaded and unloaded, and the second floor is used as living quarters, and the unique architectural style that integrates fishing and daily life on the water's edge has been maintained for many years. The lifestyle that has continued since the Edo period remains strong, and the group of dark wooden buildings lined up in the calm inlet are highly attractive as a "satoumi" landscape.
Highlights
- View of the Funaya houses: There are several great vantage points from which you can get a bird's-eye view of the row of funaya houses along the bay, either from the sea side or from higher ground. Perfect for taking photos or strolling.
- Ine Bay sightseeing boat: A sightseeing boat operates from within the bay, allowing you to see the boathouses up close. You can observe the construction of the boathouses and the fishing industry from the sea.
- Funaya accommodation (overnight stay): There are renovated boathouses where you can stay overnight, and you can enjoy the sounds of fishing village life in the mornings and evenings and the sea views.
- Local seafood: There are many restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood and locally-sourced seafood. Seasonal seafood (such as flounder, yellowtail, and crab) is recommended.
- Scenes of daily life: As fishing is still active, it is also attractive to be able to observe daily activities such as net work and fishing scenes.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Public transportation: There are no direct train lines into the town, so the nearest major stations are Amanohashidate (Kyoto Tango Railway, Amanohashidate Station) and stations in the direction of Miyazu and Ayabe. From Amanohashidate Station, take a local bus towards Ine, then walk to the Funaya Village (takes about 30-50 minutes, route and timetables vary depending on the season).
- By car: From Kyoto city, it takes about 2 to 2.5 hours (depending on traffic conditions) via the Meishin Expressway, Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway, and other public roads. Please drive carefully as there are some narrow sections around Ine Bay.
- Tourist package tours: It is convenient to use local day tours departing from Kyoto city or Amanohashidate, or sightseeing buses and shuttles.
- Sightseeing boat pier: Ine Bay sightseeing boats depart and arrive from the pier in the Ineura area (check the tourist association website or local information for operating times and fares).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short tour: If you only want to see the main viewpoints of the Funaya houses, it will take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Sightseeing boat + stroll: If you take the sightseeing boat (about 30-40 minutes) and then stroll around the bay and visit the museum and souvenir shop, it will take about 2-3 hours.
- Relaxed stay: If you want to stay overnight and enjoy the morning and evening scenery and local cuisine, we recommend a one-night stay (half a day to one and a half days). If you combine this with photography and sightseeing in the area, two days will be plenty of time.
Nearby spots
- Amanohashidate (Miyazu City): One of the three most scenic spots in Japan. It can be combined with Ine for a day trip.
- The nature of the Tango Peninsula and Tango: coastal drives, lighthouses, beach tours, and more.
- Tourist facilities around Ine: local restaurants, souvenir shops, observation spots, etc. It's a good idea to check the latest information at the tourist information center.
- (Within driving distance) Kinosaki Onsen and tourist spots in northern Kyoto: You can create a travel plan that combines hot springs and historical sites in northern Kinki.
Things to be aware of (crowding, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Privacy and Respect: The boathouses are still used as living spaces for local residents. Please refrain from trespassing on the premises, taking photographs without permission, or making noise.
- Parking and Traffic: The roads within the town are narrow and parking lots are crowded during the tourist season. Please use designated parking lots and do not park on the street.
- Busy periods: Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season, and weekends can be busy and fully booked. Advance reservations for sightseeing boats and accommodations are recommended.
- Seasonal sea conditions: In winter or during stormy weather, the sea can be rough and sightseeing boats may be canceled. Please check the operation information before setting off.
- Local reception system: As a tourist destination, there are plenty of restaurants and shops, but many of them have short opening hours. Some stores only accept cash, while others do not accept cards, so it is a good idea to have some cash on hand.
- Plant and nature conservation: Please take care of the coast and surrounding nature. Take your trash home with you and do not damage the sea or shore.
- Drone photography: The use of drones may be restricted or prohibited to ensure the privacy and safety of local residents. Please check with the local government or tourist association in advance.
The Funaya houses of Ine are a precious place that still preserves the traditional Japanese scenery of living in harmony with the sea. When you visit, please be respectful of the scenery and the lives of the residents, and enjoy the slow pace of life.
