Angel Road

Angel Road, also known as the “Path of Angels,” is a popular tourist attraction located in the southwestern part of Shodoshima Island in Tonosho Town, Shozu District, Kagawa Prefecture. This sandy path emerges from the sea only twice a day at low tide, connecting Shodoshima’s main island with the four offshore islands of Bentenjima, Koyojima, Nakayojima, and Oyoshima. Because of its fantastical scenery, appearing and disappearing with the ebb and flow of the tide, it is known as the “Path of Angels” and attracts many visitors as one of Shodoshima’s most spectacular scenic spots.

Angel Road is nationally known as a romantic place where it is said that “holding hands with someone special while crossing the path will make your wishes come true” and that “walking along it as a couple will bring happiness.” Because of its beautiful scenery and legends of fulfilled romantic wishes, it has also been recognized as a “Lover’s Sanctuary.” It is popular not only with couples and married partners, but also with families and groups of friends.

## A Mysterious Sandy Path That Appears Only at Low Tide

Angel Road is a landform known as a sandbar, naturally created by the ebb and flow of the tide. It is normally submerged, but at low tide twice a day, a sandy path approximately 500 meters long emerges.

The times when the path appears vary each day depending on the tide level, so visitors are advised to check the tide tables published by Tonosho Town in advance. In general, the path can be crossed for about two hours before and after low tide. However, once the tide begins to rise, the path can quickly become covered by seawater, so visitors should pay close attention to the time.

## A Fantastical Landscape Connecting the Islands

At Angel Road, visitors can take a leisurely walk along the sandy beach while enjoying beautiful views surrounded by the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea. The scenery created by the blue sea, white sand, and lush green islands is highly popular as one of Shodoshima’s most spectacular landscapes.

Beautiful seashells and pieces of sea glass carried in by the waves can sometimes be found on the beach, making nature walks another attraction of the area.

Please note that the sandy path can only be crossed at low tide. Koyojima and Nakayojima are privately owned, and Oyoshima is also off-limits to anyone other than authorized persons. Visitors should not enter areas outside the designated zones.

## Yakusoku no Oka Observatory

When visiting Angel Road, be sure to stop by Yakusoku no Oka Observatory, located on Bentenjima.

From the observatory on top of a small hill, visitors can look out over the entire Angel Road and enjoy a panoramic view of the fantastical sandy path extending through the sea. The observatory is also a popular photography spot and is known as one of Shodoshima’s signature scenic viewpoints.

A “Bell of Happiness” is installed at the observatory, making it a popular spot where couples and married partners ring the bell and pledge their eternal love. Visitors can also dedicate ema votive plaques inscribed with their wishes, and many people come to pray for romantic fulfillment and a good match.

## A Filming Location for Movies and Television Dramas

Because of its beautiful scenery, Angel Road has frequently been used as a filming location for movies and television dramas.

In addition to the films *My Yellow Bicycle with Mom* and *The Seto Inland Sea Pirate Story*, Angel Road appeared as a “secret island” in the TBS television drama *Love Letter*, which helped increase its recognition nationwide. As it has served as the setting for these productions, many tourists also visit as part of a pilgrimage to locations featured in their favorite works.

## Facilities in the Surrounding Area

There is a tourist information center and shop near Angel Road where visitors can obtain souvenirs from Shodoshima and tourism information. Parking lots and public restrooms are also available, allowing visitors to enjoy sightseeing with peace of mind.

Near the tourist information center are the “Angel’s Post,” where letters receive an original postmark when mailed, and a photo spot featuring angel wings. The area is lively with people enjoying commemorative photographs.

## Seasonal Attractions

Angel Road offers a different appearance in every season.

From spring through early summer, the calm blue sea and fresh greenery are especially beautiful, while summer brings crystal-clear waters and expansive blue skies. In autumn, the clear air makes the Seto Inland Sea’s beautiful array of islands appear even more vivid. In winter, the tranquil sea and dreamy scenery create a peaceful atmosphere. The sandy path is particularly beautiful when illuminated by the morning or evening sun, attracting many photography enthusiasts.

## Angel Road Today

Today, Angel Road is one of Shodoshima’s leading tourist attractions, welcoming visitors from across Japan and around the world. It is a unique destination where the mysterious sandy path created by nature, the beautiful scenery of the Seto Inland Sea, and the romantic atmosphere of a Lover’s Sanctuary come together.

Visitors can create unforgettable memories unique to Shodoshima by taking a leisurely walk with someone special while enjoying the extraordinary scenery that appears only at low tide, or by admiring the spectacular view from Yakusoku no Oka Observatory. Angel Road is one of the most popular tourist attractions to visit when traveling to Shodoshima.