Gamagori Sightseeing Guide | Highlights of Takeshima Island and Mikawa Bay

The Sea and History of Gamagori, Spreading Out from Nishiura Onsen

Nishiura Onsen-GIMPASO stands in Nishiura Onsen, a seaside hot-spring resort in Gamagori, Aichi, facing Mikawa Bay. The surrounding area is dotted with spots where you can enjoy the sea and greenery, including Takeshima Island, the symbol of Gamagori. Before or after your stay, we invite you to experience the sea and history of Gamagori for yourself.

Takeshima Island

Takeshima Island, the Symbol of Gamagori

Takeshima Island is a small island about 680 meters in circumference floating in Mikawa Bay, connected to the mainland by Takeshima Bridge. The shrine forest covering the entire island is designated a Natural Monument of Japan, and thanks to the warm ocean current, it is known for its rare vegetation of warm-climate plants growing naturally here despite being on Honshu. Yaotomi Shrine, one of the “Seven Benzaiten of Japan,” stands on the island and is known for blessings of good relationships, making it one of Gamagori’s leading sightseeing spots. As access is from around Gamagori Station, we recommend visiting by car.

Nishiura Coast

Enjoying the Sea of the Nishiura Peninsula

Map image of the promenade and shrine forest along the Nishiura Peninsula coast and the palm beach

At the palm beach right in front of you, you can enjoy swimming in summer, and SUP or sea kayaking from spring through autumn. You can experience the natural charm of the sea unique to Gamagori, Aichi throughout the year, with activities such as strolling along Hashida-hana Point and the Matsushima promenade, or rock fishing.

In spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom, the contrast between the pink blossoms and the blue sea is beautiful, and Nishiura Park is also a popular photo spot for sunset views. In autumn, a golden carpet of tsuwabuki (Japanese silver leaf) flowers spreads across the area.

Mikawa Bay Quasi-National Park

The Scenery of Mikawa Bay Quasi-National Park

The waters stretching from Gamagori to the Atsumi Peninsula are designated as the Mikawa Bay Quasi-National Park, offering the calm scenery unique to a gentle inland sea. At dusk, the sea surface is dyed a deep amber, which is part of why Nishiura Onsen-GIMPASO evokes such a romantic, nostalgic travel atmosphere.

Shiohigari

Clam Digging (Shiohigari) in Spring

Mikawa Bay has extensive shallow tidal flats and is also known for clam digging (shiohigari), including for asari clams. For seasonal guidance and access details, please see our Shiohigari Guide.

Stay at Nishiura Onsen-GIMPASO in Gamagori

Enjoy Gamagori’s sea, exceptional cuisine, and hot springs at your leisure, in a room overlooking Mikawa Bay.

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