Traveling across Japan presents many opportunities to engage with the country's culture and traditions, as well as with the archipelago’s outward appearance of being incredibly contemporary. Tourists will have the chance to experience sleeping on tatami mats and futons while at a ryokan, and make their way to the bathhouse through ancient wooden halls. They can also learn how to drink matcha tea or meditate with local monks. Japan can enthrall even the weariest traveler, from the splendor of a traditional geisha dance in Kyoto to the understated beauty of a Zen rock garden. In addition to that, there are many beaches in Japan with mesmerizing golden sands and clear waters for travelers to explore. They may choose from the onsen, sand slopes, and even views of Mount Fuji while they tan. Here are the 10 beaches in Japan worth skipping Tokyo for.
10 Yuigahama Beach
This lively beach is among the greatest places for beach activities, swimming, and taking in the spectacular sunsets. The neighborhood that encircles the area is immensely cultural and historical. Tourists will have the opportunity to attend surfing lessons. For people starting to practice this activity, the shallow water and calm waves are ideal. Yuigahama Beach has several events throughout the summer. Some of the entertaining things that drive people to this location are fireworks and outdoor markets.
- Location: A 15-minute walk from Kamakura Station
9 Ibusuki Beach
When visiting Ibusuki, tourists will expect to see crystal blue water and amazing golden sand shore because the area is known for its sand. In fact, they will find themselves covered up to the neck in the sand due to its fascinating calming and purifying effects since it is heated by natural underground hot springs. This is a unique and mind-blowing experience.
- Cost: Around $7.5
- Duration: 10 to 15 minutes
8 Jodogahama Beach
White volcanic cliffs and pine trees surround this little beach. The name Jodogahama’s translation is "Pure Land Beach", which refers to the beautiful magnificence of this secret inlet. With its calm and pristine blue sea, this beach is excellent for swimming. Although the shore is rocky, the area's natural beauty and tranquility that is worth seeing and experiencing.
7 Naoshima Island
Naoshima Island’s beaches have a comfortable climate allowing visitors to extremely enjoy it. The area is a magnificent beach destination where people may see distinctive art pieces directly on the beach while spending the night in a traditional circular tent used by Mongolian herdsmen or a yurt. The island is also known for its bewitching museums.
6 Enoshima Beach
One of the things that makes Enoshima such a special spot is that on a clear day, tourists can see the fabulous Mount Fuji. Along with the breathtaking scenery, there are a shrine, various caverns, and an observation tower from where visitors can see the area. It is advised that people who decide to visit Enoshima buy the Enopass, which grants entry to a variety of activities on the island, including the caverns and observation tower.
5 Shirahama Beach
Shirahama's "white beach" appellation lets tourists know what to expect in terms of sand and gives them an idea of how popular it could be. The beach is wonderful, with an eye-catching bend to its sandy shore, despite being surrounded by onsen resort hotels. The coastline is ideal for swimming and tanning, and nightly fireworks are displayed throughout the summer. This destination is one of Japan's 3 oldest hot spring regions.
4 Okinawa Beaches
The ideal place in Japan for water activities is the Okinawa region due to its tropical weather. The island has secluded coast and fantastic coral reefs and is characterized by the longest beach season in the archipelago. While the most well-known beaches are excellent for snorkeling and diving, the most hidden ones are more desirable if tourists are looking for isolated shorelines, particularly those close to the Kerama and Miyako islands.
- Summer season: Most beaches in Okinawa open from March until October
3 Oarai Beach
One of the largest and busiest beaches in the Kanto region is Oarai Beach, which is renowned for its broad, deep shoreline. The waves are ideal for swimming and other water sports, and the soft white sand is fantastic for running down the beach. In case visitors forgot something or would want to buy a present, there are sellers in the parking lots close to the beach, and there is also a restaurant where visitors may sample some traditional Japanese food.
2 Tsunoshima Island
The huge 1,780-meter-long (1.1 miles) Tsunoshima Bridge connects the island of Tsunoshima to the shore. The island's 4.1 km2 (1013.13 acres) area may be tiny, but its beautiful beaches and turquoise waters compensate for it. Several facilities are available along the beach on the north side. Swimming and watching the sunset over the bridge are popular activities there due to the shallow and calm water.
1 Kotohiki Beach
Northern Kansai's Kotohiki Beach is regarded as a secret paradise. Residents want to preserve this beach, so it is not overrun with tourists. Visitors will be amazed by the breathtaking views and soaring cliffs as they stroll down the beach. The outdoor hot springs may be found if they walk far enough along the coast. In the afternoon, the mountainous area is a lovely area to visit.