Why You Should Visit Ine, Japan: A Hidden Gem in Japan

Tucked away on the northern coast of Kyoto Prefecture, Ine (伊根) is a serene fishing village that feels like a world apart. Just beyond Amanohashidate, about 15 kilometres to the north. The village sits nestled along the shores of Ine Bay. Here, a picturesque town unfolds, renowned for its funaya, traditional boathouses where the first floor serves as a garage for boats, while the upper floors function as living quarters. Today, with over 200 funaya lining the bay, Ine offers visitors a rare glimpse into Japan’s maritime heritage, all the while framed by stunning coastal vistas.

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Getting there

Reaching Ine is straightforward for travellers coming from Amanohashidate Station, the nearest main hub. Buses run approximately once an hour. It takes about one hour for a one-way trip at a fare of 400 yen. If you are starting from the opposite side of the sandbar, near Motoise Kono Shrine or the lower cable car station to Kasamatsu Park. The journey is shorter, around 30 minutes, costing 200 yen.

Within the town, all buses first stop at the Ine Bay cruise pier before continuing to the town centre. Many buses also make a stop at Funaya no Sato Park, a roadside station perched on a hill above the town that offers an observation deck, shops, restaurants, and parking.

Exploring the Funaya

The defining attraction of Ine is, without doubt, its funaya houses. These waterside homes are still inhabited, and some serve as guest lodgings, though reservations can be challenging due to their popularity. Visitors are encouraged to respect private property and not enter without permission.

Things to do

Enjoy Funaya Scenery Up Close at Ineura Park

Ineura Park sits at the heart of the Funaya area, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the village. Here, visitors can stop by the Ine Tourist Information building, relax in cafes or tea shops, and enjoy a meal at local restaurants. All while taking in views of the iconic boathouses. Coin-operated parking is available. For a deeper understanding of the area, consider booking a guided walking tour through the park.

Admire panoramic views from Funaya no Sato Observatory

For a bird’s-eye view of the bay, head to the roadside station Funaya no Sato. Perched on a hill, its observatory offers sweeping vistas of the funaya. It makes it a favourite spot for photography and quiet reflection. While there, you can also purchase fresh, seasonal local fish to take home.

Experience the Funaya from the water

Seeing the boathouses from the sea is an entirely different experience. Ine offers two types of boat tours:

Sea Taxis

Small boats holding 10–20 passengers, operated by local fishermen. It provides a personalised and intimate tour of the funaya. Tours last about 30 minutes and cost 1,000 yen per person (tax included). No prior reservation is required. Tourists may book directly at the Tourism Center. Boarding is at Shichimensan Parking Lot.

Ine Bay Sightseeing Ferry

A larger ferry accommodating 150 passengers, running a 25-minute loop around the bay for 800 yen per person. The boarding point is at Ine Bay Sightseeing Ferry, accessible via the “Inewanmeguri Hide” bus stop.

Urashima Shrine

Located about 15 minutes from the Funaya area, this historic shrine is linked to the legend of Urashima Taro. One of Japan’s oldest folktales. The entrance to the “secret tunnel” is also associated with the legend. An Italian restaurant, PIENO Ine, sits conveniently next to the shrine for a post-visit meal.

Sea kayaking activity at Honjohama beach

Just a few minutes by car from Urashima Shrine, Honjohama Beach offers swimming and kayaking opportunities. Sea kayaking tours reveal hidden coastal cliffs and secluded coves that are inaccessible by land. It offers a more adventurous perspective of Ine Bay. A 15-minute walk from the bus stop leads to the beach, and the Tourism Center can provide tour details.

Seasonal food

Ine’s cuisine reflects the rhythms of the sea, with fresh fish and seafood at the heart of local dishes throughout the year.

December to March: During these months, the highlight is Japanese yellowtail, prized for its rich flavour during the colder months.

April to August: Visitors can savour Japanese oysters, enjoyed at their freshest and most succulent when harvested straight from the bay.

October: This season brings autumn squid, a delicacy often prepared as sashimi or grilled.

October to December: Ine celebrates Tangoguji, a speciality tied to the harvest season and enjoyed in local dishes during the autumn and early winter months.

Visitors are encouraged to check local menus, as seasonal availability can vary slightly year by year.

Tourist guidelines

Ine remains a living, working village, and visitors are urged to treat it with respect. Swimming is prohibited in the Funaya area but permitted at Tomari and Honjohama beaches. Only a few shops and restaurants accept credit cards. However, an ATM is available at the post office. Parking can be found at several spots, including Funaya no Sato Park and Ineura Park. Bicycle rentals are limited.

Most importantly, visitors should respect residents’ privacy, enjoy the town quietly, and follow all posted local rules. Cooperation ensures that Ine remains a harmonious and authentic destination for generations to come.

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A living village by the sea

Ine’s residents still earn their living mainly from fishing. Traditions have been preserved and passed down for centuries. Stunning scenery, historic funaya houses, and vibrant local culture make Ine unique. Glide past the funaya on a sea taxi. Explore hidden shrines. Savour seasonal seafood. A visit to Ine offers a glimpse of Japan that feels untouched by time.