Kasamatsu Park

Naname Ichimonji

The Diagonal View of Amanohashidate

Amanohashidate is a narrow sandbar stretching approximately 3.6 kilometers. Its full length can be appreciated from elevated viewpoints on either side of the bay.

From Amanohashidate View Land on the southern side, the sandbar is known as “Hiryūkan,” or “View of the Flying Dragon,” because it resembles a dragon soaring toward the sky.

From Kasamatsu Park, located on the northern side, the sandbar can be seen from the mid-slopes of Mount Nariai at approximately 130 meters above sea level. The sandy strip curves around the bay and extends diagonally toward the upper right of the view. This distinctive perspective is known as “Naname Ichimonji,” meaning “Diagonal Straight Line.”

The Birthplace of the Famous Mata-nozoki View

Kasamatsu Park is widely known as the birthplace of mata-nozoki, a traditional way of viewing Amanohashidate upside down by bending forward and looking between your legs.

After walking up the park’s steps for approximately three minutes, visitors reach a pine tree called Kasamatsu, which gave the park its name. Nearby, a viewing platform marks the spot associated with the origin of mata-nozoki.

Looking at the landscape upside down makes the sky and earth appear to switch places. The long, pine-covered sandbar can then look like a bridge stretching across the heavens. A special viewing platform is provided, so visitors can try this distinctive local tradition for themselves.

Sky Deck and Panoramic Restaurant

The park offers more than spectacular views of Amanohashidate. Its glass-floored Sky Deck allows visitors to enjoy an elevated walk approximately 40 meters above the ground, creating an exhilarating sensation of being suspended in the air.

The observation restaurant is another highlight, where visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the magnificent scenery. To reach the park, take the Amanohashidate cable car or chairlift from the foot of Mount Nariai. The ride takes approximately six minutes.

Nearby Attraction: Motoise Kono Shrine

At the foot of Mount Nariai stands Motoise Kono Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine that traditionally used Amanohashidate as its approach. According to shrine tradition, Amaterasu Ōmikami, the sun goddess, and Toyouke Ōmikami were once enshrined here before being transferred to Ise Grand Shrine. This connection is said to be the origin of the name “Motoise,” meaning “former Ise.”

Kono Shrine is a prestigious ancient shrine, distinguished by its five-colored ornamental jewels, known as suetama, displayed in front of the main sanctuary. These ornaments are traditionally associated with Ise Grand Shrine and Kono Shrine.

Nearby Attraction: Seisoji Temple

Higher up Mount Nariai, at an elevation of approximately 328 meters, stands Seisoji Temple. Visitors can continue from Kasamatsu Park by taking a mountain shuttle bus. The temple is traditionally said to have been founded in 704 and is the 28th temple on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage route.

The temple grounds feature a wooden five-story pagoda approximately 33 meters tall, reconstructed in 1998 in a style inspired by Kamakura-period architecture. From the grounds, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Amanohashidate.

Mount Nariai was formerly known as Mount Seno. The famous ink painting Amanohashidate-zu, created around 1501 by the celebrated Zen monk and painter Sesshū and now designated a National Treasure, depicts the temple under the name “Seno-san Seisoji.”

With its breathtaking views, distinctive upside-down viewing tradition, glass-floored Sky Deck, and access to historic shrines and temples, Kasamatsu Park is an excellent destination for experiencing the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Amanohashidate.