Owner of the best Sasebo burger joint, Bronxburg, recommended Awashima Shrine for its panoramic view of the Ninety-Nine Islands. It took about 30 minutes by electric bike from Sasebo Station. Once you reach the Ninety-Nine Islands, there are some fairly steep mountain roads, so it would be quite tough on a regular bike. Wow, this offered one of the most breathtaking views I've ever seen at a shrine. The timing just before sunset, the perfect weather, and the effort of crossing a mountain on an electric bike all came together. You rarely get to see such an amazing vista. You can buy amulets and such at an unmanned kiosk, but they don't give change for 10,000-yen bills, so I strongly recommend having small change and 1,000-yen bills ready beforehand.
