Brilliant white sand. Azure waters. Samurai statues. We’re heading to Japan and we’re hitting the beach.
Whilst your time in Japan might be taken up with joining the throngs of people in Tokyo or wandering around ancient shrines and temples, make some time for the beach too. These are the best beaches in Japan.
The jewels of Japan
Discover Japan’s beaches
With more than 400 inhabited islands you know Japan will be packed with beautiful beaches. From spots easily accessible from Tokyo by train to the subtropical Okinawa Prefecture famous for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters and warm climate, Japan beach holidays are always worth the trip. Especially when you combine it with time spent in its famous cities, soaking yourself in its hot springs and taking in its jaw-dropping scenery. A trip to Japan has everything, including some of the best beaches in Asia.
What to expect on the beach in Japan
Customs, culture and cuisine
Japanese culture is unique. Locals have their own traditions and ways of doing things, and that extends to the beach too. Head to a local beach in Japan and you’ll see people swimming in the sea, playing with balls on the sand and gathering in groups for barbeques at the end of the day. There’s not too much lounging on the sand and sunbathing going on though.
For tourists, some of the beaches close to Tokyo (like Zushi Beach) are packed with locals but aren’t necessarily top sunbathing spots. But travel further afield to see the likes of Shirahama’s white sand, Jodogahama’s rock formations (a must-visit in Japan), the sunsets at Sunset Beach and the waves and chilled setting of Yuigahama, and you’ll find everything you’re looking for in a Japan beach holiday.
Whilst you’re here tuck into traditional Japanese cuisine. We’re talking beach barbeques, yakisoba (Japanese fried noodles) and kakigori (shaved ice dessert with a sweet flavouring). And remember, the beaches in Japan are wonderful natural settings, so leave no trace once you leave.
8 of Japan’s best beaches
Whether you want white sands, surfing or sunsets, these are some of the best beaches in Japan.
Shirahama
White beach
Approximately 9km from Nanki-Shirahama Airport
This well-developed onsen (hot spring) resort is one of the three biggest in Japan. Of course, it’s famed for its natural hot springs, but its beach is beautiful too. Shirahama means ‘white beach’ in Japanese and the sands are befitting of the name. The 500m long beach is actually made up of quartz sand with 90% silicic acid – it’s super smooth underfoot. The water is crystal clear and there are fireworks on the beach on summer nights.
Jodogahama Beach
Impressive rock formations
Approximately 30km from Iwate Hanamaki Airport
Close to Miyako City in Iwate Prefecture in the north of Japan, Jodogahama Beach is picture-perfect. The name means ‘pure land beach’ and it’s known for its beautiful rock formations – it’s part of the Sanriku Fukkō National Park. The crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming, whilst you can hike on the tracks around the bay or hire boats in summer. Don’t miss the boat trip to the Blue Cave in the bay.
Katsurahama Beach
Samurai statue
Approximately 15km from Kochi Ryoma Airport
One of the most scenic spots in all of Kochi Prefecture, Katsurahama Beach has azure waters set against a backdrop of green pine trees. In fact, the beauty of the beach has been immortalised in a regional folk song. Locals have been heading onto the sands to view the moon in all its glory, and there’s a statue of samurai hero Sakamoto Ryoma gazing out onto the Pacific Ocean. There’s no swimming due to strong currents and big waves.
Yuigahama Beach
Earthy surfing spot
Approximately 60km from Haneda Airport
Just an hour on the train from Tokyo, you’ll feel a world away from the neon cityscapes of Japan’s capital. The seaside city of Kamakura has a selection of beaches, with the main stretch of sand being Yuigahama. The vibe here is all laid-back and earthy, with surfers hitting the waves, sunrise meditation on the sands, organic restaurants and summer beach shacks. Come in the week to avoid the big crowds.
Yonaha Maehama Beach
Slice of paradise
Approximately 20km from Miyako Airport
This pristine 7km stretch of shoreline is one of the best sandy beaches in Japan. You’ll find these picture-perfect sands on the little-known island of Miyakojima in Okinawa (only accessible from the mainland by plane). Sit on a deckchair, lounge under a parasol and while away the day in paradise. The snorkelling and scuba diving are world-class and the sunsets are spectacular.
Amanohashidate
Spectacular sandbar
Approximately 120km from Itami Airport
This breathtaking pine-covered sandbar spanning the mouth of Miyazu Bay in the beautiful coastal region of northern Kyoto Prefecture is one of the three most scenic views in Japan. Translating to ‘bridge in heaven’, the best place to view it is from the mountains on either side. The beaches on the sandbar itself are basic and wild, whilst boat trips will take you out to admire the awe-inspiring setting.
Emerald Beach
Japan’s only lagoon beach
Approximately 90km from Naha Airport
Located in the northern corner of Ocean Expo Park in Okinawa, Emerald Beach is simply sublime. Amongst the top 100 bathing beaches in Japan, it has clear and inviting waters and the whitest of sand. It’s the only beach in Japan surrounded by a lagoon and has separate areas for play, rest and viewing. Come for the Ocean Expo Park Summer Festival, with its sunset concert and 10,000 fireworks lighting up the sky.
Sunset Beach
Watch the sun go down
Approximately 10km from Ishigaki Airport
At the northwest end of Ishigaki-jima in the Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa, you’ll find Sunset Beach. As the sun drops and the skies turn bright red and orange, take in the delightful views across the East China Sea. During the day, the sand is golden, the water is turquoise and the views are dreamy. Swim in the calm clear waters which are protected by nets from box jellyfish.
Insider tips:
Be aware of potentially dangerous marine life (like box jellyfish).
Try local delicacies including yakisoba and kakigori.
Respect local customs and rules: Don’t eat on the move or have loud phone calls in public.
Tropical treasures. White sand. Turquoise water. Beach barbeques. Hitting the beach in Japan is always a treat for the senses. Sounds like it’s time to book a beach holiday to Japan.
Visiting Japans’ beaches? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car rental deals.
