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Ine no Funaya – Northern Kyoto

Overview

Ine no Funaya is one of Japan’s most unique and picturesque coastal villages, famous for its traditional boathouses—called funaya—that line the edge of Ine Bay. Located in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture along the Sea of Japan, Ine is a peaceful fishing town where daily life continues much as it has for centuries.

The village is renowned for its approximately 230 wooden boathouses, each built directly over the water with the first floor functioning as a boathouse and the second floor serving as the living space. This rare architectural style exists almost nowhere else in the world.

With its quiet atmosphere, crystal-clear bay, and perfectly preserved tradition, Ine no Funaya offers visitors an intimate look at rural Japanese coastal culture while providing spectacular scenic views.

Highlights

• Traditional Wooden Boathouses Along the Waterfront

Each funaya is built at the water’s edge:

  • The first floor functions as a garage for fishing boats

  • The second floor is a home with views over the bay

  • Many are over 100–200 years old

  • Built using traditional carpentry techniques without nails

The sight of wooden houses appearing to “float” on the water is one of the most iconic coastal images in Japan.

• A Living Historical Village

Ine is not a museum—it is a real, functioning fishing town.
Locals still:

  • Store boats in their funaya

  • Fish in the bay

  • Hang nets outside their houses

  • Maintain age-old traditions and lifestyles

This gives the village an authentic, timeless charm.

• Ine Bay – Calm, Clear, and Beautiful

Protected from the open sea, Ine Bay is:

  • Exceptionally calm

  • Surrounded by lush green mountains

  • Home to dolphins, seabirds, and seasonal fish

  • Extremely clean due to strict conservation and waste management

The peaceful waters mirror the boathouses, creating stunning reflection photography.

• Boat Tours for the Best Views

The most popular way to enjoy Ine is from the water.

Boat options include:

  • Ine Bay Sightseeing Boat (large boat, 25-minute cruise)

  • Private Sea Taxi (small boat operated by locals, customizable routes)

You can admire the architecture up close and learn about local fishing culture directly from fishermen.

• Funaya-Stay – Stay Overnight in a Boathouse

Several funaya have been converted into guesthouses, allowing visitors to:

  • Sleep above the water

  • Wake up to sunrise over the bay

  • Hear the gentle sound of waves beneath the floor

These stays are extremely popular and provide a uniquely Japanese coastal experience.

• Incredible Photography Spots

Top scenic points include:

  • Ine Fishing Harbor

  • The Viewpoint Observatory (Funaya no Sato Park)

  • Coastline roads around the bay

  • Wooden piers and docks

The village is especially beautiful during:

  • Golden hour

  • Early morning mist

  • Nighttime when lights reflect on the bay

Recommended Experiences

• Take a Bay Cruise

See the boathouses from the water for the best perspective.

• Eat Fresh Seafood

Local specialties include:

  • Grilled or sashimi-style yellowtail

  • Snow crab (winter)

  • Mackerel sushi

  • Seasonal shellfish and seaweed

Several restaurants overlook the water.

• Walk Through the Village

Enjoy the narrow seaside paths and peaceful local atmosphere.

• Visit Funaya no Sato Park

A hilltop observation area with panoramic views of the entire bay.

• Stay Overnight in a Funaya

An unforgettable experience unique to Ine.

• Explore by Bicycle

Rent a bicycle and follow the quiet coastal roads around the bay.

Practical Information

• Location

Ine Town, Kyoto Prefecture
Approx.:

  • 2.5 hours from Kyoto City

  • 3 hours from Osaka

  • 30 minutes from Amanohashidate

• Access

By Bus:

  • JR Amanohashidate Station → Local bus to Ine

  • Limited direct express buses from Kyoto may be available seasonally

By Car:

  • Scenic coastal drive through northern Kyoto

• Opening Hours

The village is always accessible.
Boat tours and restaurants have individual schedules.

• Prices

  • Sightseeing boat: approx. ¥1,000

  • Sea taxi: approx. ¥2,000–¥3,000 per person (varies)

  • Funaya guesthouses: typically ¥15,000–¥30,000 per night depending on season

• Best Time to Visit

  • Spring: mild weather, fresh greenery

  • Summer: dazzling blue water

  • Autumn: colorful mountains

  • Winter: dramatic waves, snow-capped scenery

Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting.

Nearby Attractions

  • Amanohashidate – One of Japan’s “Three Scenic Views”

  • Ineura Coast

  • Kyogamisaki Lighthouse

  • Miyazu Bay

  • Tango Peninsula Sightseeing Drive

Ine can easily be combined with a full-day coastal itinerary.

Why You Should Visit

Ine no Funaya is one of the most unique traditional landscapes in Japan. Its rare waterfront architecture, serene bay, and preserved fishing culture create an atmosphere found nowhere else in the country. Whether you are seeking photography, tradition, relaxation, or authentic Japanese coastal life, Ine offers a beautiful and unforgettable experience.

It is truly a hidden gem—quiet, remote, and breathtakingly beautiful.

Related articles

Official Website

https://www.ine-kankou.jp/en/funaya

Great Accommodation Site

Agoda

Expedia

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