Japan is an island country with a rich diversity of beaches along its coasts. From white sandy beaches to rocky shores, this country offers a wide variety of landscapes for all tastes.
Japan’s Most Beautiful Beaches, Coves and Coasts
Here is some detailed information to help you make the most of your vacation in Japan’s paradisiacal beaches.
Ogasawara Beaches (Ogasawara)
The Ogasawara beaches, also known as the Bonin Islands, are a group of volcanic islands located about 1,000 kilometers south of Tokyo.
Shikoku Beach, Naoshima (Kagawa)
Shikoku Beach is located on the island of Naoshima, in the Seto Inland Sea, Japan. This small but charming beach is part of the attraction of Naoshima, an island famous for its impressive collection of modern art and architecture.
Maehama Beach (Okinawa)
Maehama Beach is located on the island of Miyako, in the archipelago of Okinawa, Japan.
Shirahama Beach (Wakayama)
Shirahama Beach is located in Wakayama Prefecture, on the southern coast of Japan. With its white sands and turquoise waters, this beach is a popular spot for travelers.
Izu Shirahama Beach (Shisuoka)
Izu Shirahama Beach is located on the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture.
Takahama Beach (Nagasaki)
Takahama Beach, located in Nagasaki Prefecture, is known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning coastal scenery.
Yurigahama Beach (Nagoshima)
Yurigahama Beach is located on Yoron Island, Kagoshima Prefecture, and is famous for its white sands and crystal clear waters.
Kurasaki Beach (Kagoshima)
Kurasaki Beach is located in Kagoshima Prefecture, Kyushu Island, and is a hidden treasure for beach lovers.
What to do on the beaches of Japan?
Japan’s beaches offer a wealth of activities to suit all tastes. From snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Okinawa to surfing on the popular beaches of Shonan, there are options for everyone. Don’t forget to visit the beautiful island of Miyakojima and enjoy a kayak ride.
| Activity | Recommended number of people | Approximate price | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snorkeling | 1-2 | $30-$50 | Okinawa |
| Surfing | 1-2 | $40-$60 | Shonan |
| Kayaking | 2-4 | $20-$40 | Miyakojima |
Hotels and apartments near the beaches of Japan
In Japan, you will find a wide variety of hotels and apartments to enjoy your beach vacation. From luxury resorts in Okinawa to cozy apartments in Miyakojima, there are options for all budgets and preferences.
| Hotel | Stars | Approximate price | Location | Main amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beach Resort Okinawa | 4 | $120-$150 | Okinawa | Swimming pool, Wi-Fi, restaurant |
| Shonan Beach Hotel | 3 | $80-$100 | Shonan | Breakfast included, Wi-Fi, parking |
| Miyakojima Seaside Apartment | N/A | $70-$90 | Miyakojima | Kitchen, Wi-Fi, air conditioning |
Where to eat on the beaches of Japan?
The cuisine on Japan’s beaches is as diverse as its landscapes. Enjoy delicious seafood in Okinawa, tasty burgers in Shonan or exquisite sushi in Miyakojima.
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Approximate price | Location | Best dishes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ocean’s Bounty | Seafood | $30-$50 | Okinawa | Tuna sashimi, shrimp tempura |
| Shonan Burger House | Burgers | $10-$15 | Shonan | Beef burger, french fries |
| Miyako Sushi | Sushi | $20-$40 | Miyakojima | Nigiri, maki, tempura |
Weather on Japan’s beaches
Japan’s beaches have a varied climate, from subtropical in Okinawa to temperate in Shonan. The average temperature in summer ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, while in winter it varies from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. Humidity tends to be high, especially in summer.
OGASAWARA WEATHER
Best beach parties and festivals in Japan
- Okinawa Fireworks Festival (August): A spectacular annual event celebrating the culture and beauty of Okinawa with fireworks and live music.
- Shonan Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival (July): A traditional Japanese festival celebrating the stars and love, with colorful decorations and events in the streets of Shonan.
- Miyakojima Matsuri (October): A lively festival in Miyakojima that includes traditional dances, music and local food.
How to travel to Japan’s beaches
To get to Japan’s beaches, you can take a direct flight from several international cities to Tokyo airport (Narita or Haneda) or Kansai airport (Osaka). From there, you can take internal flights, trains or buses to reach the different beaches.
- Okinawa: Flights from Tokyo to Okinawa (Naha Airport) take approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. There are also flights from Kansai Airport.
- Shonan: From Tokyo, you can take a train from Shinjuku Station to Hiratsuka Station. The trip takes about 1 hour. From there, local buses will take you to the beaches of Shonan.
- Miyakojima: You can take a direct flight from Haneda airport in Tokyo to Miyakojima airport, which takes about 3 hours.
Prices for flights and trains vary according to season and demand, so it is advisable to book in advance to get the best rates.
Best time to visit Japan’s beaches
The best time to visit Japan’s beaches depends on your preferences and the local climate. In general, the summer months (June to August) are ideal for enjoying the sun and water activities, but it is also the peak and busiest season.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making them attractive options for those looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more temperate climate.
In short, Japan’s beaches are an incredible destination for your next vacation. With a wealth of activities, accommodations, gastronomy and cultural events, there is no doubt that you will fall in love with this beautiful island nation. Don’t wait any longer and plan your trip to the wonderful beaches of Japan!
