At the end of the seasonal rains, temperatures normally rise: this is the official start of the bathing season in Japan. Due to its geographical location, the Japanese archipelago is an excellent destination for summer vacations, with beautiful golden sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. The country offers a wide variety of beach resorts divided into its four main islands, all to explore and easily accessible wherever you decide to stay.
The waters of the Pacific Ocean feature colorful reefs populated with all sorts of sea creatures; a real corner of paradise for lovers of diving and snorkeling. Locally, you might find everything you need to enjoy the beaches: showers, toilets, shops where to rent equipment, lifeguards, the ubiquitous “kombini” open 24 hours a day. Almost anywhere you can taste the typical specialties based on freshly caught fish and seafood.
The right beach for every need
The four main islands of Japan have several beaches that will satisfy any traveler’s needs.
In Shimoda, specifically in the Izu Peninsula (Shizuoka Prefecture), there are several of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Japan. These are the most favorite seaside resorts for those who live in Tokyo, with all the comforts and facilities. For the more experienced and adventurous swimmers, we recommend the nearby island of Niijima; with its long beaches and white rocks overlooking the ocean, it is a small corner of paradise.
Wave lovers cannot miss the beaches of Onjuku Beach and Enoshima in the prefectures of Chiba and Kanagawa (not far from Tokyo), a historic meeting place for surfers from all over the country.
From Osaka and Kyoto, the beach to visit is Shirahama that combines white sand with traditional Japanese onsen and stunning fireworks at sunset.
In the south of the country, we suggest the historic town of Shimonoseki: straddling the two main islands, it offers incredible landscapes on the Inland Sea and fine sand. South of Kagoshima, don’t miss the island of Yoron-to, bordered by pristine sandy beaches and surrounded by fantastic coral reefs.
Let yourself be fascinated by the beauty of the beaches and the Japanese sea, perhaps while enjoying a delicious matcha green tea ice cream.
