Searching for sunsets in Kagawa Prefecture
After arriving at Takamatsu Airport in Japan, completing immigration procedures, and picking up the rental car, it was already past 3 PM. Since the sunset time was around 5 PM, I decided to drive to Chichibugahama Beach in Mitoyo City to watch the sunset. Chichibugahama is renowned as one of Japan's "Top 100 Sunset Spots." When the low tide coincides with sunset, it creates a mystical scene reminiscent of Bolivia's "Mirror of the Sky." The beach features a 1-kilometer-long and 400-meter-wide shallow area, which becomes even more picturesque during low tide. As the tide recedes, seawater remains in the uneven depressions of the beach, forming shallow pools. By capturing photos from a low angle at this time, the pools act as natural mirrors. However, due to insufficient preparation, the low tide timing did not align as expected. The remaining water on the beach was minimal, and my attempt to create a "Mirror of the Sky" effect fell short. Therefore, in addition to checking the sunset time, it's crucial to also verify the low tide timing.
The next day, I headed to Angel Road in Tonosho Town to watch the sunset. Angel Road refers to a 500-meter-long sandbar that only appears twice a day during low tide. When the sandbar emerges, it forms a golden pathway connecting several small islands. Legend has it that couples who walk hand-in-hand along Angel Road will enjoy a blissful and sweet love. Besides strolling along Angel Road, visitors can climb up to the observation area on Yakusoku Hill to enjoy a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea and even ring the Bell of Love to declare their affection to the world.
Many people wonder why these two scenic spots, which rely on the interplay of low tide and sunset, have become so popular. The answer lies in their time-sensitive nature. Since the water levels rise and fall only twice a day, the shallow pools at Chichibugahama and the sandbar at Angel Road are incredibly precious. Additionally, the photography techniques required are simple—ordinary smartphones can achieve professional camera effects. Naturally, this attracts many visitors eager to experience these sights.
This journey of chasing sunsets not only resulted in stunning photos but also brought profound insights to my soul. Perhaps influenced by Eason Chan's song "Sunset is Infinitely Good," every time I admire a sunset, despite its seemingly melancholic nature, I am reminded of the lyrics: "There are many beautiful sceneries. Sunset is a common sight, yet what we see every day is never the same." Life is finite, and every story has a beginning and an end. Learning to fully immerse oneself and gently let go is a life lesson we must continue to embrace.