Reader’s Question: About the sea in Mie Prefecture. If your goal is to see the ocean and take photos, the best view in Mie Prefecture, despite being from another prefecture, is at Kumano City’s Shichiri Mihama. I wonder what the
sea is like in the neighboring Owase City. I love the ocean and sometimes travel from other prefectures to see it. Within Mie Prefecture, I have visited Suzuka’s Kogakuura, Tsu’s Nagisamachi, Matsusaka’s Matsunase Beach, Meiwa Town, Ise’s Futamiura, Toba, and Kumano City. Kumano City’s Shichiri Mihama had an exceptionally wide and beautiful view of the sea. I have not been to Owase City. Are there any good spots with nice views there? Is it different from the outer sea of Kumano?
Discovering the Ocean in Owase City, Mie Prefecture
Ah, the ocean! There’s something about being near the water that just makes my soul sing. As someone who has spent countless hours chasing the perfect seaside view, I can’t help but reminisce about my recent adventures in Mie Prefecture. You know, places like Kumano City’s stunning Shichiri Mihama, with its sweeping vistas that seem to stretch on forever. But I’ve recently been intrigued by the neighboring Owase City, and I thought, “Why not explore what the sea has to offer there?”
Now, let me set the scene for you. Owase City is nestled along the southern coast of Mie Prefecture, and while it doesn’t have the same fame as its neighbor Kumano, it definitely has its own charm. I had heard whispers about its coastal beauty—exciting news for someone like me who thrives on ocean views. I needed to see it for myself.
First Impressions: The Journey to Owase
Getting to Owase City was quite the adventure. I hopped on the express train from Tsu, my heart racing with excitement. As the train wound its way through the lush countryside, I gazed out at the rolling green hills and mountains that seemed to cradle the sea like a treasured secret. It felt like nature was teasing me, saying, “Just wait until you see what lies ahead!”
When I finally arrived in Owase, the first thing that hit me was the salty breeze. It wrapped around me like a warm hug. I could hear the whispers of the waves crashing against the rocks in the distance. My heart skipped a beat, and I hurriedly made my way toward the coast.
Beaches and Hidden Gems
One of the first spots I stumbled upon was the breathtaking Owase Beach. Now, don’t let the name fool you; this isn’t your typical crowded beach scene. Instead, picture a peaceful stretch of golden sand, framed by rocky cliffs on either side. The sight was absolutely mesmerizing. The beach was almost deserted, which made it feel like my own private paradise.
As I walked along the shore, I couldn’t resist taking a few pictures. The waves were gentle, lapping at my feet, and the sun was casting a golden hue over everything. It reminded me of the quiet beauty of Shichiri Mihama, but with a vibe that was all its own. There’s something about Owase Beach that feels untouched, like a little secret waiting to be discovered.
And speaking of secrets, I later found out about a hidden spot called Hagachi Beach. This gem is slightly off the beaten path, tucked away in a small cove. It’s a bit more rugged than Owase Beach, but that’s part of its charm. I found myself captivated by the unique rock formations that jutted out from the shore, creating a dramatic backdrop for my photos. I could have spent hours there, just soaking in the beauty of it all.
The Sea: A Different Kind of Magic
Now, you might be wondering how the sea in Owase compares to that of Kumano. Well, let me tell you—while Kumano offers those expansive views of the open ocean, Owase feels more intimate and secluded. The water here has a deeper, richer blue hue, and the way the light dances on the surface is simply enchanting.
As I stood on the rocky edges of Hagachi Beach, I could feel the energy of the ocean. It was like it had a personality—sometimes calm and serene, other times wild and free. You know that feeling when the waves crash fiercely against the rocks, and you can almost feel their power? That was the vibe I got here. It’s a different kind of magic, for sure.
Local Culture and Cuisine
One of the things I love most about traveling is immersing myself in local culture. In Owase, I found that the coastal community has a deep connection to the sea. This is reflected in their cuisine, which is largely centered around seafood. I decided to treat myself to a meal at a local izakaya, and let me tell you, it was an experience I won’t soon forget.
They served up grilled fish that was caught that very morning, and it was so fresh it practically melted in my mouth. Paired with some local sake, it felt like a celebration of everything that makes Owase unique—the ocean, the culture, and the warmth of its people. I even got into a conversation with the owner, who shared fascinating stories about the fishing traditions of the area. It was moments like these that truly made my trip special.
Sunsets that Take Your Breath Away
As the day began to wind down, I knew I had to find a good spot to catch the sunset. There’s something about watching the sun dip below the horizon that makes all the travel hassle worth it, right? I made my way back to Owase Beach, and my jaw literally dropped at the sight before me.
The sky was painted in hues of pink, orange, and purple, reflecting beautifully on the water’s surface. I felt a mix of emotions—gratitude, awe, and a touch of wanderlust. It was one of those moments that stops you in your tracks and makes you realize how lucky you are to witness such beauty. I snapped photo after photo, hoping to capture even a fraction of the magic I was experiencing.
Final Thoughts: Owase City Won My Heart
As I wrapped up my adventure in Owase City, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of fulfillment. Sure, Kumano’s Shichiri Mihama is breathtaking in its own right, with those wide-open ocean views that make you feel on top of the world. But Owase has its own allure—a charming, tranquil escape that left me with memories I’ll cherish forever.
For anyone looking to explore the coastline of Mie Prefecture, don’t overlook Owase! It’s a little slice of heaven that deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. Whether you’re seeking peaceful beaches, mouth-watering seafood, or simply a moment to breathe in the salty air and soak up the sun, Owase City offers it all.
Next time you find yourself in Mie, make sure to take a detour to Owase. I promise you won’t regret it. Who knows? You might just fall in love with its hidden beauty the way I did. Happy travels, everyone!
