It was a moment I will remember forever – my heart-thumping encounter with an eagle soaring over Amanohashidate’s Miyazu Bay.
Amanohashidate is one of the Nihon Sankei or “Three Scenic Views” of Japan, alongside Itsukushima and Matsushima Bay. As part of a complete tour package via GetYourGuide, a boat cruise around Miyazu Bay is also included, giving you a glimpse of the vast Sea of Japan.
Setting Sail At Miyazu Bay
The beautiful Miyazu Bay is home to the iconic sandbar of Amanohashidate, one of the most scenic spots in Japan. Located on Kyoto’s northern coastline, it’s about a 2-hour bus ride from Kyoto Station. Given the inland nature of the prefecture, this is the only part of Kyoto where you can look out to the ocean, taking in the beauty of the surrounding islands in Miyazu Bay.
Houses and boats surround the large body of water that is Miyazu Bay, and surrounding them are thick green forests that transition into mountains the deeper you go. Tour buses are lined up in a big car park area as visitors from all over the world gather for the scenic boat cruises and the exclusive souvenir stores of the local town.
The Last Sakura Tree!
The final cherry blossom trees of spring are typically found in the outback areas of Japan, particularly where there are thick forests present.
This is because the cherry blossoms bloom is delayed due to being protected from the elements of sunshine and rain, essentially slowing down its growth and adapting to a new timeline.
As such, it was quite a surprise to see a full bloom cherry blossom tree in May, long after the sakura season had ended in Kyoto.
Angry Birds!
As the boat cruise proceeded along Miyazu Bay, a flurry of eagles and seagulls appeared to hover over the boat in a very “hunter-like” fashion.
Looking for any opportunity to swoop in and steal your food, it was quite an anxiety-inducing experience (or exciting if you’re a psycho).
In my case, I was enjoying a delicious olive oil ice cream from the local cafe when the attack happened.
Admittedly, I was trying to feed a seagull, and while I thought I had a good view of all the birds in sight, I was absolutely blind sided by this soaring beast of an eagle!
Eagle Attack!
Needless to say, it was a frightening experience, but a fun and memorable one too. Getting up close and personal with wild beasts in their element is one way to feel like a man. I’m just glad my fingers didn’t get clawed off in the process!
To learn more about life in Japan, check out my book: The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection. This book features my most profound observations of Japanese culture and society as a foreign resident. Available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Grab your copy today!