Spectacular Views in Kyotango City! Instagrammable Spots and Photography Tips
In Kyotango City, I am entertained every day by the various scenery of the sea, mountains, and sunsets.
Whether it's the sea or the mountains, Kyotango is full of photogenic spots everywhere!!
I encountered breathtaking views in Kyotango, where the blue sea and sunset shine, that I just had to share! I will introduce spots that look great even for beginners, along with photography tips based on my own experiences.
Located at the northern tip of Kyoto Prefecture, Kyotango City is a "treasure trove of spectacular views" where dynamic terrain created by the rough waves of the Sea of Japan coexists with beautiful, crystal-clear beaches. In recent years, its overwhelming landscape has garnered significant attention on social media, including Instagram, as the "Sea of Kyoto."
However, the charm of Kyotango City is not just that it is "beautiful." It lies in the fact that you can capture experiences that engage all five senses in your photos, such as the mysterious beach that makes a sound when you walk on the sand, or the magical gradation of the sunset as it sinks into the sea. In this article, I will introduce in detail carefully selected spots in Kyotango City that will make you want to press the shutter, as well as specific tips for anyone to easily take "Instagrammable" photos.
1. Art woven by nature: Breathtaking scenery encountered in Kyotango City
The first thing that surprises you when visiting Kyotango City is the richness of its colors. The vivid cobalt blue sea in summer, the burning sunset in autumn, and the rough yet divine Sea of Japan in winter. Depending on the season and time of day, the same place shows completely different expressions.
The tourist base areas are mainly divided into six towns: Kumihama, Amino, Tango, Yasaka, Omiya, and Mineyama, but photogenic spots are concentrated especially along the coastline. Just by driving, scenery that makes you want to take pictures unfolds one after another outside your window.
As preparation for photography, first prepare a wide-angle mode on your smartphone, or a wide-angle lens for a single-lens reflex camera if possible. By fitting the vast horizon or huge rocks into the frame, you can fully express their sense of scale.
2. The blue sea and dynamic rocks are the stars! Classic photography spots
I will introduce two representative spectacular spots that you absolutely cannot miss when coming to Kyotango City.
Kotohiki Beach
This is a scenic spot with white sand and green pines stretching about 1.8 km, and it is also designated as a national natural monument. Its biggest feature is the "singing sand" that makes a "squeaky" sound when you walk on it.
Instagrammable point: It is a place where the contrast between the crystal-clear seawater and the endless white sandy beach is extremely beautiful.
Photography tip: If you shoot from a low angle (low angle) including the sand ripples and the sea, you will get a photo with depth. Also, making the footprints left on the sandy beach the main subject creates a sense of story.
Tateiwa Rock
This is a huge monolith about 20 meters high that towers over the coast. It is characterized by a unique rock surface called columnar jointing, which makes you feel the power of nature.
Instagrammable point: Since there are no tall buildings around, the hugeness of the rock stands out. Especially on days when the waves are rough, the white waves crashing against the rock become a dynamic accent.
Photography tip: By placing a person near the rock and shooting from a distance, you can emphasize the size of the rock. It is also interesting to aim for a close-up of the rock's texture using a telephoto lens.
3. The sunset and seasonal spectacular gradations that change their expression moment by moment
Kyotango City is also known as the "Holy Land of Sunsets." The following spots, in particular, have exceptional beauty at dusk.
Yuuhigaura Beach
This is one of Kyotango's most iconic beaches, selected as one of the "100 Best Sunsets in Japan."
Instagrammable Point: The large wooden swing "Yurari," installed from spring to autumn, is one of the most famous photo spots on Instagram.
Photography Tip: Aim for the magic hour when the sun sets. Silhouetting a person sitting on the swing against the backdrop of the sky's gradient from orange to purple creates a truly magical shot.
Byobu-iwa Rock
A strange rock formation that juts out of the sea like a folding screen.
Instagrammable Point: The highlights include the light streaming through the gaps in the rock and the harmony with the surrounding plants that change with the seasons.
Photography Tip: Keeping the balance between the sea and the rock even in a landscape composition results in a stable and beautiful landscape photo.
4. Tips for taking Instagrammable photos
We have summarized specific techniques to make your wonderful scenery look even more attractive.
Technique points and effects
Be conscious of the rule of thirds and align the horizon with either the top or bottom line
-> Gives the photo a sense of stability and a professional finish
Utilizing light
Use soft light (oblique light) from early morning or evening instead of strong midday light
-> Creates depth in the scenery and reproduces colors vividly
Vertical composition
Hold your smartphone vertically to capture more of the sky or sea
-> Increases impact for Instagram Stories and Reels
Props
Incorporate items like drinks from local cafes or fashion accessories such as hats.
→ This increases the sense of approachability as a "travel record."
Also, when shooting Reel videos, moving the camera slowly horizontally (panning) or slowly approaching the subject will create immersive footage.
⑤ Points to note when enjoying the scenery and a summary for visiting Kyotango City
Finally, let's confirm the manners and precautions to ensure we can continue to enjoy the wonderful scenery.
Safety First: Some coastal areas and rocky shores can be slippery. Please be careful not to get so absorbed in taking photos that you neglect your footing.
Environmental Protection: The singing sand of Kotohikihama will stop singing if it becomes dirty. Please strictly follow rules such as taking your trash home and not smoking.
Check for Latest Information: The installation status of swings and access restrictions may change depending on the weather and season. We recommend checking official sites like "Kyotango Navi" before you depart.
Kyotango City is a place where you can make new discoveries every time you visit. Beyond the scenery seen through the lens, try capturing your own special shot while enjoying the atmosphere, sounds, and scents of the location.
References
Please take a look at our official Instagram as well!