This is K, in charge of the Miyako region. This time, I'd like to introduce you to the time when O boarded the Miyako Umineko Maru sightseeing boat in Miyako City.
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Hello! This is the Iwate Prefectural Coastal Regional Development Bureau, which is responsible for the coastal areas of the Iwate Prefectural Government. We are responsible for 13 coastal municipalities from Tanohata Village in the north to Rikuzentakata City in the south. On March 11, 2011, a massive tsunami caused by the Great East Japan Earthquake struck this area. Although we suffered enormous damage, we have been on the road to recovery thanks to support from all over the world. The area also places great emphasis on disaster prevention education, and has earthquake relics and facilities to pass on the history of the disaster. You can experience the history of reconstruction by walking with a guide. [Famous places in the north] Tanohata Village is home to Kitayamazaki, a series of 200-meter-high cliffs; Iwaizumi Town is home to Ryusendo Cave, one of Japan's three largest limestone caves; Miyako City is home to Jodogahama, a beach of pure white stones said to resemble paradise; and Yamada Town is home to Oshima (also known as Holland Island) and Koshima, both of which float in a calm bay. The Sanriku Railway is the perfect way to enjoy this region. Take a leisurely ride on the local line and enjoy the scenery from the train window. [Famous places in the middle] In Otsuchi town, you can enjoy both the sea and the mountains, such as Horai Island, affectionately known to the locals as "Hyotan Island," and in Kamaishi city, the Hashino Iron Mine, the site of Japan's oldest surviving Western-style blast furnace and a registered World Heritage Site. This area is also famous for its local performing arts such as Toramai and ShikaOdori, and you can experience these ancient traditions at events and festivals. [Famous places in the south] There are many spots where you can experience the region's unique nature and culture, such as Goishi Coast in Ofunato, where you can enjoy the varied scenery of the rias coast; the Iwate Tsunami Memorial Museum in Rikuzentakata, which disseminates the facts and lessons learned from the tsunami; and Roukando Cave, a limestone cave with one of Japan's largest waterfalls inside a cave in Sumita town. This is an area where you can enjoy the blessings brought by the majestic nature while also learning the wisdom and lessons of coexisting with the threats of nature. We look forward to seeing you all.
Hello!
This time, I'd like to share my experience aboard the Umineko-Maru at Jodogahama Beach in Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture, which I visited in mid-May. It was the perfect time to enjoy the spectacular views of the sea and mountains during the season when new greenery is sparkling.
● Be enchanted by the emerald green sea
On the way from the Miyako Visitor Center to the boarding point, the first thing that caught our eye was the incredibly beautiful emerald green sea.
I couldn't help but take lots of pictures with my camera. I felt that it was worth coming just for this view.
(This photo is the view from Jodogahama Rest House)
Boarding the Uminekomaru!
We purchased tickets for 1,500 yen and boarded the Uminekomaru, a boat decorated in the "eternal green" of Jodogahama Beach.
The view from inside the boat is amazing! As soon as we set sail, we could see the famous Blue Cave, Hachinohe-ana, and our excitement grew.
While listening to the guide's detailed explanations, we enjoyed the scenery from an angle that cannot be seen from land.
As you leave the calm waters of the inland sea and head out to the open sea, the waves get bigger, making you feel like you're on an adventure.
Interacting with sea lions
On board, the crew sells "Umineko Bread" for 100 yen. This was more fun than I expected!
I throw bread at the crowd of sea lions, but they just can't catch it.
The trick is to make eye contact with Umineko while throwing the ball. Then, he will catch it perfectly.
It becomes fun and you just keep tearing them off and throwing them.
The bread disappeared in no time and I had to buy a second one.
I was so engrossed that I forgot to look at the scenery.
The unknown charm of Miyako
After the bread ran out, we returned to concentrating on the scenery and our guide's stories.
When I realized that the snow-capped mountain I could see inland was Mount Hayachine, I felt the depth of Miyako's nature.
We also heard that there is a lightning rod made of pure gold at the tip of the 160m-tall Rasa chimney in Miyako City, which can be seen from the boat.
Apparently, the TV program's investigation was unable to confirm this. Interesting information about local areas like this is one of the joys of traveling.
An emotional finale
Towards the end of the cruise, our guide sang two songs for us.
The entire passengers burst into applause! This heartwarming song brought another wonderful memory to the ship.
Miyako's Jodogahama Beach and the Uminekomaru cruise were a wonderful experience filled with natural beauty and local charm.
Why not visit not only during the season of fresh greenery but also in various seasons?
It will surely become an unforgettable memory.
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