The pine-studded sandbar spans Miyazu Bay, facing the Sea of Japan in northern Kyoto. The accumulation of white river sand over thousands of years sculpted this impressive strip of land, which has been the subject of significant poems and paintings for more than 1000 years. In this edition of "journeys in japan," our reporter, Judit Kawaguchi, meets the warm residents of this gorgeous area where history is very much alive. Looking at the "bridge in heaven" from above is not the only way to enjoy Amanohashidate. Walking across it is also delightful. The white sand beach, with its 8000 pines, has been considered a mystical place since ancient times. The city also prospered as a kimono textile center for several hundred years, drawing buyers from Kyoto. Structures reflecting its past glory can be found in many parts of Miyazu. The city also prospered as a kimono textile center for several hundred years, drawing buyers from Kyoto. Geisha also have a repertoire of amusing parlor games, called ozashiki-asobi . The living art of the geisha has been passed down in Miyazu for hundreds of years.