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Village in Tōhoku, Japan
Photo: Marie438, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
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Hotokegaura is the main attraction to Sai. It is a collection of odd rock formations that have sparked people's imaginations. People claim to see shapes and faces in the rocks that resemble Buddhas. The azure sea reflects off their surface creating a surrealistic atmosphere. One can easily spend an afternoon exploring them and watching the magnificent Japanese sunset. Hotokegaura can be accessed by car or chartered ferry.
A large boulder overlooking the sea that is known for its view from the top. It is also a popular swimming spot and has changing room facilities available. It can be found on the way to Hotokegaura.
From Mutsu
From the Shimokita JR station in Mutsu, take the Shimokita bus heading to Sai. The bus ride takes about 2 hours and costs about ¥3,000.
From Hakodate
Take the Tsugaru Kaikyo Ferry. The ferry makes two runs a day between Hakodate and Ōma. The ride is about 1 hour and 45 minutes. A return trip ticket costs about ¥4000.
From Tsugaru
Take the Mutsuwan Ferry. It makes three runs between Kanita and Wakinosawa a day except for winter: late November to mid April. From Wakinosawa, you can catch the Shimokita bus directly to Sai.
Walking is fine for exploring the town, but to see the breathtaking scenery, renting a car or taking a ferry ride are highly recommended. The ferry ride is chartered at Arusas, the community center.
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