The exceedingly diverse topography of the Japanese archipelago, made up of more than 6,000 islands, big and small, means a quest to find the most beautiful beaches in Japan is no small feat. This ancient land is simply brimming over with tamed and wild stretches of mesmerizing coastlines to choose from.
If you happen to be a lover of sandy shores and stunning coastal walks, Japan serves up a cornucopia of varied, fascinating and outstanding beaches for you to explore, from the subtropical cobalt-blue waters surrounding Okinawa, down south to the more frigid seas off of the northern island of Hokkaido.
Whatever your favorite style of seashore, here’s a curated selection of the best beaches in Japan.
Tanesashi Coast, Aomori
Tanesashi Coast, Aomori
Toward the northern tip of Japan’s main island, Honshu, you’ll come across the city of Aomori, and the neighboring Tanesashi Coast, which is part of Sanriku Fukko National Park.
And while you’ll find a few small beaches sprinkled about here, many featuring piles of boulders, what makes this slice of Japanese coast stand out are the eye-catching wild lawns that grow up to the water’s edge.
Tanesashi Coast, Aomori
Black-tailed gulls have selected this part of the Tanesashi Coast as their breeding ground, which means there’s a good chance you’ll see these monogamous birds taking to the sky above Kabushima Island and Shrine.
When you do walk along Tanesashi’s sandy beach areas, you can listen to the nakisuna or “singing sands” beneath your feet, which produce vibrating sounds to accompany you as you meander along this magnificent sliver of Japanese shoreline.
Shirahama Ohama Beach, Shizuoka
Shirahama Ohama Beach, Shizuoka
Shirahama Ohama Beach, in Shizuoka Prefecture, is close to the capital of Tokyo, an almost obligatory destination when visiting Japan. The white-sand Shirahama Beach, framed by verdant hillsides on either end, is an enormously popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Shirahama Ohama Beach, Shizuoka
The fact that Shirahama can quickly be reached by bullet train from Tokyo does mean that during the hot summer months, throngs of sunbathers, swimmers, and surfers tend to fill up the shore, jockeying for position for their place in the sun. But the journey there and the experience of the bullet train is an adventure in itself.
If you prefer slightly less population density, head to Shirahama Chuo Beach, just north of Shirahama Ohama Beach, past the red Izu Shirahama Shinto Shrine.
Read: Three Days in Tokyo
Mizunashi Kaihin Hot Spring, Hakodate
Mizunashi Kaihin Hot Spring, Hakodate
At first glance, the rocky shores surrounding Mizunashi Kaihin Hot Spring, located on Japan’s northernmost major island, Hokkaido, in the suburbs of Hakodate, don’t seem that inviting at all—at least to the average beachgoer.
The beach faces the often chilly Northern Pacific and is covered with smooth, good-sized stones. But to the locals, this small sweep of unassuming coastline is a magical spot.
Mizunashi Kaihin Hot Spring is butted up against the ocean, with its thermal waters only appearing at low tide. This natural onsen (hot spring) vanishes when the tide swooshes in, which affects the temperature of the water throughout the day.
The smart thing to do is to plan your visit here for low tide, which will let you delight in the stark temperature contrasts. You can soak in the toasty hot spring while gazing out over the cool Pacific.
Ibusuki, Kyushu Island
Ibusuki, Kyushu Island
Ibusuki, on Kyushu Island, with its warm black sand, numbers among the most beautiful beaches in Japan thanks to its stunning views, including the conical Kaimondake volcano in the distance, along with the surrounding green countryside and hills. Another big draw here is the unique tradition of suna-mushi, or sand bathing.
The mechanics of a detoxifying sand bath at Ibusuki are simple: You arrive at the beach, change into a yukata, or light kimono, then with the help of a beachside spa attendant, lie down (with a towel wrapped around your head for comfort, and to protect your face and hair) and are partially buried into the beach.
Ibusuki sand baths
Your entire body, save for your head, will then be sheathed inside a warm and soothing mound or “blanket” of black sand.
Ibusuki sand baths, which typically last 20 minutes or less, are meant to rejuvenate the body and spirit, letting you become one with the beach and sand, helping you relax by dissolving your tension and stress away.
Lake Biwa, Omi Maiko Beach, Kyoto
Omi Maiko Beach, Kyoto
If you’re the sort of traveler who prefers freshwater, Lake Biwa and Omi Maiko Beach, near Kyoto, might be the Japanese lakeside beach experience you’re searching for.
Lake Biwa is, in fact, the largest freshwater lake in Japan. Omi Maiko Beach, on the lake’s western shore, is only a half an hour or so from Kyoto.
Lake Biwa, Kyoto
Biwa offers visitors to Kyoto, and even bustling Osaka, a refreshing reprieve from the heat of the cities in summer.
Omi Maiko Beach features pebble and white sand beaches, clear water for swimming, plus beachside barbecue pits for grilling your lunch. The fir and pine trees lining the shores, along with expansive vistas across the lake, add to the inviting, refreshing atmosphere here.
Lake Biwa, Kyoto
Omi Maiko can get fairly busy, but if you scoot down the beach far enough, you should find some peace and quiet.
Read: Two Days in Kyoto
Yoron Island, Yurigahama Beach, Kagoshima
Yurigahama Beach, Kagoshima
Tiny Yoron Island, in Kagoshima Prefecture, is a small oasis in Japan’s southern Amami Islands. Yoron offers coral reefs inhabited by dozens of species of brilliantly colored fish along with crystal clear water, sandbars and white-sand beaches on which to unwind.
The most famous of Yoron’s beaches, and one of the best beaches in Japan, is Yurigahama Beach, which is actually a sandbar that vanishes at high tide. You’ll need to time your visit for when the tide is out.
Yoron Island, Kagoshima
The shallow, balmy waters surrounding “phantasmal” Yurigahama, when it does emerge from the sea, make this tiny desert island perfect for photos or a scenic morning or afternoon swim.
If you don’t want to wait for Yurigahama to appear, you can always head over to the much bigger white-sand Okaneku Coast, with its romantic views across the ocean.
Miho-no-Matsubara, Mt. Fuji
Miho-no-Matsubara, Mt. Fuji
The pebbly beach of Miho-no-Matsubara, on the Miho Peninsula near Shizuoka City, is famed for its iconic, artist-inspiring views of Mt. Fuji (often seen in Japanese ukiyo-e paintings), its dense pine forest, as well as a celestial legend involving a fisherman and a goddess.
Head to Miho-no-Matsubara for stirring vistas of one of the most beautiful mountains in the world, Mt. Fuji. While there, enjoy strolls along the beach and among rows of pine trees, some more than 200 years old, on the Kami no Michi or “Way of Kami” path. The trail leads to the lovely Shinto Miho Shrine, slightly inland and west of the beach.
Miho-no-Matsubara, Mt. Fuji
Miho-no-Matsubara is also where Japan’s fabled Hagoromo legend is set. According to the story, a celestial maiden left her otherworldly hagoromo (kimono) hanging from a tree branch here and went for a swim.
A local fisherman found the kimono and thought it of great value, but ultimately handed it back to the deity after she agreed to offer him a heavenly dance.
Read: Most Famous Landmarks in Japan
Katsurahama Beach, Kochi
Katsurahama Beach, Kochi
On Shikoku Island, which is counted among Japan’s five main islands, you’ll find the city of Kochi—not to be confused with a city of the same name (Kochi or Cochin) in Kerala, India—and Katsurahama Beach, which numbers among the best beaches in Japan.
Sakamoto Ryoma statue, Kochi
The Pacific Ocean’s currents at Katsurahama are too rough to allow swimming, but the beach, backed by pine groves, still offers plenty of other distractions. A sizable statue of the celebrated samurai Sakamoto Ryoma, who hailed from Kochi, stands near the sand and gravel shoreline.
Katsurahama Beach, which lies just south of Kochi’s Urado Bay, also holds a special place in the hearts of romantic Japanese. Katsurahama is renowned as an enchanting spot for gazing up at the moon at night, thanks to the Yosakoi-bushi folk song, which cites Katsurahama as an exceptional place for viewing our planet’s natural satellite.
Katsurahama Beach, Kochi
The entire area is known as Katsurahama Park, where you will stumble across the smallish Katsurahama Aquarium as well, plus, somewhat incongruously, the Tosa Dog (a breed of Japanese fighting dog) Museum.
Takahama Beach, Nagasaki
Takahama Beach, Nagasaki
Takahama Beach, half an hour’s drive from Nagasaki on the Goto Islands, is a somewhat hidden sanctuary of sandy perfection. The water here is amazingly clear and swimmable, which is one of the reasons why this spot is one of the most beautiful beaches in Japan.
The long beach, with its stark white sand, is protected by a broad sandbank. Tumbling into the serene waves here, next to the East China Sea, is very pleasurable indeed.
Takahama Beach, Nagasaki
The beach is surrounded by alluring green hills, which you admire further if you opt for the short hike up to the Gyoran Kannon Observation Deck.
From the observation deck, you’ll be able to appreciate the true splendor of Takahama Beach. You can also take in views of Sagano Island across the water to the west. Over the horizon is South Korea’s Jeju Island – but not so close you can swim or paddle there, of course.
Read: Best Things to Do in Nagasaki
Iso Beach, Kagoshima
Iso Beach, Kagoshima
If you’re trying to picture something truly amazing when it comes to beaches in Japan, Iso Beach is like no other stretch of sand thanks to its stellar, unimpeded views of the very active and formidable-looking Sakurajima, an imposing stratovolcano.
Along with stunning views of the volcano, with its ashy smoke and volcanic silhouette rising out of Kagoshima Bay, this waterside locale will also provide you with a fun beach day.
And while the sand quality here isn’t anything to write home about, Iso is a busy spot where you can enjoy the sun, swimming, banana boats, windsurfing, and more along calm shores—even in the presence of the brooding volcano.
Sengan-en Garden, Kagoshima
Once you’ve soaked up the views, head over to the splendid Sengan-en Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape garden with different water features and even a stand of bamboo. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is only a five-minute walk north of Iso Beach.
Iso Beach, and Kagoshima in general, is a city where you’ll find natural wonder, volcanic scenery, and plenty of beachside entertainment.
Itoshima Peninsula, Fukuoka
Itoshima Peninsula, Fukuoka
If you plan on spending some time in Fukuoka Prefecture, Itoshima Peninsula, about an hour away from Fukuoka City, should make your list of places to visit, with its pristine sand, blue water, and chic yet relaxed vibe.
One of the coolest attractions here is the celebrated “wedded rocks,” also known as meoto iwa in Japanese, which consists of two sacred rocks joined together by a massive shimenawa rope garland, located just offshore in front of a white beachside torii gate.
There are trendy cafés and little stores scattered around the beach areas as well, which include Keya and Futamigaura beaches, where you can buy a refreshing drink, food, or shop for souvenirs.
The waves here are ideal for swimming and paddle boarding—and in winter, surfing. If an easygoing beach life, comfy cafés, appetizing grilled fish, and delicious seafood in local eateries appeal, Itoshima is one of the best off-the-beaten-path places to visit in Japan.
Hotokegaura Beach, Aomori
Hotokegaura Beach, Aomori
Hotokegaura Beach, north of Aomori, is a unique, surreal seaside space defined by tall, ethereal white rocks given their distinctive shape thanks to eons of pounding surf carving away at their stone.
These giant rock blocks, originally formed from volcanic ash, jut out from the sea in spectacular fashion. Some of the locals believe they are shaped like Buddhist saints, giving this small stretch of scenic coast an air of spiritual grandeur.
Hotokegaura, which means “Buddha inlet” in Japanese, is located on the Shimokita peninsula and can be accessed via a short hike along a precipitous cliffside path, as well as by boat.
Hotokegaura Beach, Aomori
The beach here is more of a place to discover Japan’s wild nature rather than bask in the sunlight or lounge by the shore, as there aren’t too many sandy spots for typical beachside amusements.
That being said, Hotokegaura is a dream come true for photographers and anyone who wants a serene space to quietly contemplate the meaning of life while surrounded by dramatic littoral landscapes.
Ikumi Beach, Toyo
Ikumi Beach, Toyo
Japan has a surf culture and if you want to explore it further, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Ikumi Beach in Toyo, about two and a half hours east of Kochi Port.
Ikumi Beach is a must for anyone who loves catching waves or watching experienced riders tackle the surf. Known for its reliable waves and beautiful nature, Ikumi Beach is popular with surfers from all over Japan and abroad.
The water here is perfect for novice and advanced surfers. There’s also a lot of beach real estate to stroll along if you don’t plan on hitting the waves yourself. Ikumi exudes a relaxed and friendly vibe, and you’ll find some small cafés and surf shops nearby where you can stop for a bite to eat, rent equipment, or book a surfing lesson.
Zushi Beach, Tokyo
Zushi Beach, Tokyo
Located an hour or so south of Tokyo, Zushi Beach, in Kanagawa Prefecture, is where many residents from the Tokyo megalopolis flock to take a break from the rush of city life and enjoy some relaxing downtime at the beach.
This is a sandy shore with beautiful views of Mount Fuji to the west across Sagami Bay. Zushi is also a delightful spot for water sports like paddle boarding and kayaking. You’ll find some cafés and beach bars nearby as well.
The beach is also great for kids as the waves aren’t too harsh and the water is fairly shallow. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe and take a nap on the sand or else snag some booze or Japanese food at a local restaurant, Zushi Beach makes for a perfect day by the bay.
Okoshiki Beach, Kumamoto
Okoshiki Beach, Kumamoto
If geometrical patterns created by nature speak to your artistic soul, Okoshiki Beach, less than an hour south of Kumamoto and one of the loveliest beaches in Japan should satisfy you to no end.
The beautiful tidal flats here, which are meant for viewing rather than swimming across, are marked by their etched, rippled patterns carved into the sand at low tide.
The natural features of Okoshiki can be viewed during the day or later in the afternoon when the sun turns the sand into golden hues, further enhancing the distinctive shapes of these shallow water tidal pools.
If you’re a keen photographer or someone who appreciates natural beauty, head to Okoshiki Beach for some amazing photos. And even though this beach isn’t great for swimming, it’s a beautiful place for a stroll near the shore.
Iki Island Beaches, Near Fukuoka
Iki Island, near Fukuoka
Iki Island is about an hour’s ferry ride from Fukuoka by fast boat. Here, you’ll find some of Kyushu’s best beaches, with white sandy expanses and turquoise water, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
Some of the top destinations here include Tsutsukihama, Ohama, and Nishikihama beaches. The entire island gives off a natural vibe, with many areas in between the beaches featuring cliffs covered in greenery that serve as scenic backdrops while you swim.
The turquoise waters surrounding Iki Island are some of the clearest in Japan and are excellent for snorkeling and scuba diving, letting you check out the life and stunning coral beneath the waves.
Iki Island isn’t a big destination for tourists, which, for some, adds to its appeal as it’s less crowded compared to some of Japan’s other popular beaches closer to urban centers.
Shochu
Whether it is old Shinto shrines like Sumiyoshi or Ondake shrine, with the latter featuring stone monkey statues, or else the chance to sample fresh seafood or the local shochu, a Japanese distilled rice spirit, you can explore the island while enjoying its beaches at the same time.
Senjojiki Coast, Aomori
Senjojiki Coast, Aomori
West of Aomori, you will encounter the Senjojiki Coast, which is filled with dramatic rock formations and large coastal flats, making it the perfect place for anybody who wants to appreciate the area’s awe-inspiring splendor.
The name “Senjojiki” means “one thousand tatami mats” in Japanese, as the bedrocks here, created by an uplifting of stone during an earthquake in the late 1700s, are laid out like mats across the beach.
It’s a spectacular setting that is also highly rated for sea bathing in the tidal pools and small stony inlets scattered among the rock formations. Visit the Senjojiki Coast, and you will gain a whole new perspective of Japan’s ruggedly handsome beach scenery.
Suma Beach, Kobe
Suma Beach, Kobe
Suma Beach in Kobe is exceedingly easy to get to, which makes it a busy sliver of sandy shore due to its proximity to the city and clear water for swimming.
With cafés and restaurants along the coast here, you can spend the entire day eating and drinking while relaxing next to the shore.
Kobe’s Suma Sea World is also right next to the beach, so you can tour the aquarium or catch a marine show after stretching out on the sand. Suma Beach is an ideal beach day for anyone who wants a seaside locale packed with things to do.
Onjuku Beach, Chiba, Tokyo
Onjuku Beach in Chiba, Tokyo
Onjuku Beach, less than two hours from Tokyo, is a hassle-free, family-friendly beach where surfers and sunbathers hang out.
This large, white beach, which fronts the Pacific Ocean, is lined with cafés and restaurants where you can emjoy some fresh seafood while you watch the waves roll in.
Onjuku Beach in Chiba, Tokyo
The shoreline here is also known for the historic San Francisco shipwreck, a Spanish and Mexican galleon that ran aground in the early 1600s, back when Mexico was still part of Spain. Locals aided the survivors, who eventually returned to Mexico, although their story lives on.
Another unique sight along the beach is a pair of statues depicting camels carrying Arabian royalty on their backs, which is an unexpected but intriguing feature that adds to Onjuku’s quirky charm.
Read: Three Days in Tokyo
Nokonoshima Island, Fukuoka
Nokonoshima Island, Fukuoka
Nokonoshima Island, only a ferry ride away from Fukuoka, is located smack dab in the center of Hakata Bay and offers a tranquil beach getaway with amazing vistas and abundant natural beauty close to this Japanese city.
The island’s water is crystal clear and the sand is soft. If the mood strikes, you can indulge in water-based activities like swimming and kayaking. This is a quiet, unfussy island where cars aren’t allowed, making it a favorite for anyone looking for a calming refuge away from the big city.
Nokonoshima Island Park, Fukuoka
In addition to the beach and coastal walks, you can also visit Nokonoshima Island Park, where you catch sight of all kinds of seasonal flowers, including sunflowers and daffodils.
If you adore seafood, you can feast on daily catches along with fresh produce from the island. Cafés serve local cuisine, including the famed “Noko burger”, an island specialty, while you can also pick up arts and crafts at shops at the Noko no Ichi market.
Chiringashima Island, Kagoshima
Chiringashima Island, Kagoshima
Chiringashima, a lovely island south of Kagoshima, which is close to the coastline, will offer you a unique beach walk and outdoor experience—assuming you get your timing right.
The trick is strolling out to Chiringashima on foot during low tide. This small island is connected to the much larger Kyushu island by a sandbar that rises out of the water like a sea serpent in waiting as the tide recedes, offering a sandy footpath to the uninhabited island.
This vanishing beach “road” is something to behold, and the fact that you can’t always access it gives it a bit of a sandy mystique. Walk along this sandbar beach, marvel at the panorama of Kagoshima Bay, and then explore Chiringashima, so full of greenery. Just make sure you check the tidal schedules so you can walk back in time as well.
Chigasaki Southern Beach, Near Tokyo
Chigasaki Southern Beach, near Tokyo
Chigasaki Southern Beach, an hour outside Tokyo, is a cool beach destination with swells for surfing, views of Mount Fuji in the distance, surf schools, and long stretches of sandy beach.
Chigasaki is an absolute must-visit for surfers or anyone who wants a lazy day by the sea. The beach is also celebrated for Eboshi Rock, a jagged shark tooth-shaped rock protruding from the water offshore, which is a favorite photo op for anybody with a camera.
While in town, check out Chigasaki’s local cafés and seafood restaurants, which further enhance the beach town vibe. Whether surfing, stopping for a meal by the shore, or watching the waves roll in, Chigasaki Southern Beach is a brilliant place to soak up Japan’s seaside culture.
Read: Expert Tips for Traveling to Japan
Tokyo
Discover more of Japan’s beautiful beaches on a cruise with Celebrity. Browse our cruises to Japan and plan your next exotic vacation.
