Step across the sea and discover Takeshima, a small sacred island set in the waters of Mikawa Bay Quasi-National Park.
Connected to the mainland by a 387-meter bridge, the island has long held a special place in the spiritual and cultural life of Gamagori. With a local guide who lives in the city, explore the stories, beliefs, and natural beauty that have shaped this distinctive landscape.
At the heart of the island stands Yaotomi Shrine, whose history is said to date back to 1181. According to tradition, the renowned Heian-period poet Fujiwara no Toshinari enshrined Benzaiten here, establishing a sacred site that later attracted the devotion of prominent samurai, including Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Cross Takeshima Bridge and visit Yaotomi Shrine and four other shrines nestled across the island. Continue along the walking path around Takeshima, where subtropical vegetation and coastal scenery unfold against panoramic views of Mikawa Bay. The entire island is designated as a National Natural Monument of Japan.
On rare occasions around the full and new moons, exceptionally low tides reveal a natural land bridge between Takeshima and the mainland. Known as a tombolo, this phenomenon allows visitors to walk across an area normally covered by the sea.
Whether experienced at high tide or during one of these unusual low-tide moments, Takeshima offers an intimate encounter with the history, spirituality, and coastal landscape of Gamagori.
This experience is available with two departure times. Please select your preferred start time when booking.
This experience is available with two departure times. Please select your preferred start time when booking.
Meet your local guide in the lobby of Hotel Takeshima and walk together toward Takeshima Island.
Visit the statue of Fujiwara no Toshinari, the Heian-period poet closely connected with the founding of Yaotomi Shrine. Your guide will introduce the history of Gamagori, Takeshima, and the shrine before you enjoy views and photo opportunities with Mikawa Bay and the island as your backdrop.
Cross the 387-meter Takeshima Bridge and enter the sacred island. Visit five shrines, including historic Yaotomi Shrine, then follow the walking path around Takeshima. Discover the island’s distinctive natural environment while taking in views across Mikawa Bay Quasi-National Park.
Around the full and new moons, exceptionally low tides can occasionally expose the seabed between Takeshima and the mainland, creating a natural land bridge known as a tombolo. When the phenomenon occurs, walk across the exposed tidal flats and experience the island from an entirely different perspective.
The tombolo is a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed. When suitable tidal conditions are forecast, the timing will be provided in advance and the itinerary may be adjusted to coincide with low tide.
The tour concludes at Takeshima Park.
The following options can also be added to your tour. Please inquire when booking.
Hotel Takeshima Lobby
This is a walking tour that includes crossing the 387-meter Takeshima Bridge and walking along paths around the island. When a tombolo occurs, the optional tidal-flat walk involves walking over wet and potentially uneven ground.
| Cancellation Date | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|
| No-show or cancellation after tour departure | 100% of the tour price |
| On the tour date and 1 day prior to the tour date | 50% of the tour price |
| 2 or more days prior to the tour date | Free |
Takeshima, Gamagori