Umihotaru PA

Umihotaru is a parking area on the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line, but with facilities more like a full service area—making it a sightseeing spot with an observation deck, monuments, a “Bell of Happiness,” and local gourmet foods. It’s also designated as a Japan Night View Heritage site. Access is by local bus: from Kisarazu Station, board at stop #7 for about 30 minutes. The night view from the observation deck is recommended, but a must-visit is the free rest area on the 4th floor. This rest area is surrounded by glass, offering a full ocean view; you can watch passing ships, airplanes, and beautiful sunsets. It’s fun to compare the views by time—rest area during the day, observation deck at night. Another unique highlight is the “Time Capsule Post,” where a letter you mail here will be delivered about one year later. It’s popular for anniversaries and surprise plans, but it’s also a nice idea for families: mail a letter as a visit memento and look back on the memories when it arrives a year later.