Ine, Fishing village in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
Ine is a small port town along Ine Bay in Kyoto Prefecture with around 230 wooden structures called funaya that face the water directly. These buildings stretch for about 5 kilometers along the coastline.
The town emerged from its strategic location on a maritime trade route that connected mainland areas with Kyoto in early times. Shipbuilding and fishing have shaped its economic story since then.
The funaya houses shape the town's appearance and show how fishing families traditionally live between water and home. The lower levels serve boat storage while upper floors are living spaces.
The town is best reached by public transport, taking a train and then continuing by bus for the final stretch. The best time to visit is in warmer months when weather is stable and fishing activities are most visible.
The funaya houses are built so close to the water that fishermen can step directly from their living rooms to their boats during the season. This direct link between home and work is rarely seen anywhere else today.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
