Discovering Manazuru
Located in western Kanagawa Prefecture, Manazuru is a small peninsula town extending into Sagami Bay. Its distinctive shape, resembling a crane with outstretched wings, makes it a hub for aquatic activities like fishing and diving. Visitors can enjoy stunning bay views surrounded by well-preserved forests.
Natural and Cultural Attractions
Manazuru boasts the Kibune Festival, held in July at Kibune Shrine, and the unique Mitsuishi stones at the peninsula’s tip. The forest at the end of the peninsula, known as ‘Orin,’ is carefully maintained as a ‘fish-guarding’ and ‘fish-nurturing’ forest, emphasizing its ecological significance.
Getting to Manazuru
Travelers can reach Manazuru Station from Tokyo Station in approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by train. The peninsula, a volcanic plateau, offers spectacular views, especially at Cape Manazuru, where visitors can witness the first sunrise of the year.
Kibune Shrine and Festival
Kibune Shrine, established in 889, is a prominent landmark in Manazuru. The annual Kibune Festival on July 27 and 28 is recognized as a national Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset and ranks among Japan’s top three boat festivals.
