Kuroshima Venus Road

Kuroshima Venus Road is a natural sandbar phenomenon located off the coast of Ushimado in Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture. During low tide, an 800-meter-long sandy path emerges from the sea, connecting three small islands in an arch formation: Kuroshima, Nakanokojima, and Hatanokojima. This mystical pathway appears and disappears with the tides, typically remaining visible for 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on tidal conditions. The sandbar has earned its romantic name from Greek mythology, befitting the area's nickname as the "Japanese Aegean Sea."

The site has become recognized as a power spot for couples and lovers seeking romantic experiences. Local legend speaks of the "Heart of the Goddess" or "Heart Stone", a heart-shaped rock located on Nakanokojima. According to tradition, if two people touch this stone together, their love will be fulfilled. The phenomenon shares similarities with other famous tidal paths worldwide, including Angel Road on Shodoshima Island in Kagawa Prefecture and Mont Saint-Michel in France.

Visitors can walk across the sandy path between the islands during low tide periods, observing small fish swimming in the shallow clear waters nearby. The surrounding area of Ushimado offers exceptional sunset views, having been selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Best Sunsets. The combination of the sandbar crossing at sunset creates particularly memorable photographic opportunities, making the location popular for wedding photography and promotional filming.

Access to Kuroshima requires booking a shuttle boat exclusively operated by Hotel Limani Setouchi, as there is no regular ferry service to the islands. The hotel's boats depart from their private pier, with the crossing taking approximately 5 minutes. From May to November, tours last 60 minutes total, providing around 40 minutes on the islands, priced at ¥2,500 per adult. From December to April, tours are shortened to 40 minutes total, costing ¥2,200 per adult. Advance reservation is mandatory, and boats operate only on days with favorable tides. A minimum of two passengers is required for the boat to operate. Visitors should check the Hotel Limani website for the schedule of available crossing dates.

To reach Ushimado from Okayama, take the JR Ako Line from Okayama Station to Oku Station, approximately 25 minutes by train. From Oku Station, local buses serve Ushimado, though service is limited. By car, the journey from central Okayama takes approximately 40 minutes via Route 2 and the Okayama Blue Line. The area offers additional attractions including the Ushimado Olive Garden and nearby Maejima island, accessible by regular ferry service.