Exploring Aichi
Gamagori
Gamagori is a small fishing city that lies between the mountains and the sea. You can visit many places here including the HOT SPRINGS, a large bronze statue and an island that lies in the Pacific Ocean.
Hot Springs Resort
You can relax in the hot spring baths overlooking the sea. Hot springs are called onsen or sento and it's basically communal bathing done naked! There are many places in Gamagori to experience these hot springs, as the town is known for them. The average cost is about 1,500 yen and this includes a small towel. Beware as the towels are very small!
The best way to get to any of the onsen is to take a taxi from Mikawa Miya Station. This may cost you about 1,000 yen or more. Many of the hotels in the area have their own onsen and sento so just ask any taxi driver and they will be able to take you to one. You can also walk there, but it will take you about an hour.
Kobo San
This statue is of the Buddhist kobodaishi. It's about 18.78 meters high and he's the tallest statue in Asia; he's actually taller than the Great Buddha of Nara. He lives next to Miya onsen. There's a great hilltop cafe that sells good coffee and tea up there with him.
Again you can walk there or take a taxi.
Takeshima Island
Takeshima Island is a tiny island off the west coast of Gamagori; it is actually joined to the mainland by a bridge. You can walk around the whole island in about 20 minutes. The easiest way to the island is to get off the train at Gamagori Station. It is about a 20-minute walk. You can either take a taxi or get a map to go on foot. The island is open all year, even New Years Eve, but closes after 5pm.
Next to the island is an aquarium and also an outdoor water park with slides. The entrance fee is 500 yen for an all-day pass. This is only open in July and August, which is the best time to get out of Aichi's heat and humidity and play in the water.
WARNING!
To get to Gamagori you must take the JR line, as Meitetsu takes twice as long and does not stop at Mikawa Miya station.
Gamagori also offers boat trips.
For information on any of these places in Gamagori please contact:
Gamagori International Association
0533-66-1190