Japan has incredibly beautiful shores which make it a beach lovers’ paradise for all types of vacationers. Whether you want powdery soft white sand for sun tanning, clear water for swimming and snorkeling or a scenic backdrop to laze around on the beach, the Land of the Rising Sun won’t disappoint you.
Here’s our list of the top 10 beaches in Japan, catering to diverse interests
1. Yonaha Maehama Beach, Miyako Island: Tropical beaches where one can see white sand that goes on for miles and clear water that touches the shore. Yonaha Maehama Beach on Miyako Island is a beautiful beach that tourists can use for swimming, sunbathing and sightseeing. Relax along the sandy coast that stretches as far as the eye can see or take up the challenge of constructing sand buildings to compete with the formidable Miyakojima Mangrove Forest structures.
2. Kondoi Beach, Taketomi Island: To make your trip magical, make sure to visit Kondoi Beach located on the island of Taketomi. This beach features a strange thing called the “phantom island” which appears and disappears with the ebb and tide. For instance, you could hire a bicycle and tour the scenic island roads featuring the old Ryukyu houses or even go for a horse-drawn carriage ride on the sugar cane plantation. Savor the fiery colors of the sunset and experience the tranquility of Taketomi Island.
3. Nishihama Beach, Okinawa: When it comes to Okinawa, many people think about beautiful shores, and Nishihama Beach is no exception. This is a vibrant beach presenting various water activities such as snorkeling, parasailing, and banana boat riding. Enroll yourself in scuba diving to immerse in the lush colourful coral reef or ride the small waves for surfing. For the culinary experience, it is recommended to eat fresh seafood at a restaurant on the water’s edge and then watch the sunset.
4. Shirarahama Beach, Wakayama: Looking for a luxurious touch on your beach vacation? Shirarahama Beach has fine white sand besides luxury hotels and hot spring facilities. Take it easy and absorb the stunning scenery. Relax at one of the many spas or go for a dip in an authentic onsen, a hot spring that is a must-visit attraction in Japan.
5. Sunayama Beach, Miyako Island: Sunayama Beach is beautiful and natural. The beach is made up of fine sand, clear water, and a beautiful bridge between the island and the beach. Go diving or snorkeling to discover the bottom of the sea or just sunbathe on the beautiful coast. Swim in the clear waters or go for a glass-bottom boat ride to see the colorful fishes without being in the water.
6. Katsurahama Beach, Kochi: Katsurahama Beach is a place where ancient history and stunning nature merged together. This beach holds a grand statue of legendary samurai Sakamoto Ryoma coupled with amazing scenery and activities like swimming and tanning. Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum is worth visiting to discover more about the life of Ryoma, while history enthusiasts might find value in exploring Kochi Castle – a large castle with history.
7. Emerald Beach, Okinawa: The name Emerald Beach does not fail to deliver the expected impression. It has clear blue-green water making it ideal for scuba diving whereby visitors get to discover the colorful coral gardens and marine life. Go for a boat ride to the nearby Ishigaki Island where you might come across huge manta rays or rent a kayak and explore deserted bays and mangrove groves.
8. Miho-no-Matsubara Beach, Shizuoka: This beach has a different kind of view. Coastal pines soar from the land side, setting a striking contrast with the white sand and aqua-blue water. Take a nature trail walk or sunbathe on the sand while admiring the surroundings. It is advisable to rent a paddleboard and discover the coast from the water level or to visit the nearby Miho Shrine; a UNESCO site with a vermilion-painted gate rising majestically amidst cedars.
9. Yurigahama Beach, Kagoshima: Are you seeking for a beach with a difference? Yurigahama Beach on Yoron Island is definitely a wonder. At low tide, the sand bar appears to be broader and makes a connection to a neighboring island possible. Enjoy the specific beach and the sea area adjacent thereto. Take a walk on the sandbar which emerges and submerges with the tide or explore the shallow rocky bottom of the sea for shells.
10. Odaiba Beach, Tokyo: For a beach feel with a twist of modern lifestyle, visit Odaiba Beach situated in Tokyo. This beach gives a great view of the Rainbow Bridge and the Tokyo skyline and is perfect for a walk or picnicking. A bike rental facility is available and there are numerous attractions nearby; go to the artificial island of Odaiba for entertainment or the Palette Town Ferris Wheel for stunning views of the city. Have a tasty dinner at a seaside restaurant and behold the view of buildings all lit up at night.
From the beautiful paradises of Okinawa to the historic coast of Kochi, there is a beach for everyone out there. Therefore, grab your swimsuit, your sunscreen, and your spirit of discovery, and let’s explore the eastern coastline of Japan. Indeed, the versatility of products, vistas, and opportunities for fun in the water and on the sand will help you create unforgettable beach memories in Japan.
