Whether you’re looking for sun, sand, surf, or a mix of all three, our guide to 15 of the country’s best beaches provides everything you need to plan your perfect coastal getaway.
It includes travel advice, the best times of year to visit, and crucial safety information for the ultimate beach experience.
And while you're soaking up the sun, bringing an iRoamly Japan travel eSIM is a smart idea—it’ll keep you connected while you explore the coast and let you share your favorite beach moments instantly.
Hokkaido’s Coastal
1. Shirahama Beach, Shakotan:
Famous for its brilliantly clear azure waters, this remote beach is a diver and snorkeler’s paradise, teeming with underwater life.
How to get there: Take a bus from Sapporo to Shakotan. For a ride to the beach, taxis are convenient, and Uber also operates in Japan.
Tip: Optimal snorkeling conditions (and a chance to see the Shakotan Blue natural phenomenon) are typically June to August.
2. Otaru Dream Beach:
Easy to reach from the quaint port town of Otaru, this quiet beach offers shallow, safe waters for kids and plenty of space on the sand to picnic.
How to get there: JR train from Sapporo to Otaru, then a local bus service that stops by the beach.
Tip: In winter, you can see the rare sight of a snow-covered beach.
Tokyo’s Waterfronts
3. Yuigahama Beach, Kamakura:
With its pristine golden sands, this lively beach is popular with surfers and sunbathers alike, while summer festivals bring Yuigahama further to life.
How to get there: An easy 20-minute walk from Kamakura Station, which is a one-hour direct train ride from Tokyo Station.
Tip: Visit during the Kamakura Fireworks on the beach in August.
4. Kujukuri Beach, Chiba:
Japan’s second longest beach at 60 kilometers. Look for the surf schools using the consistent break, or bring the family to paddle in the shallows.
How to get there: From Tokyo, take a bus to Chiba, then transfer to a local bus and another bus to the area.
Tip: There are surf competitions through the summer – a great way to experience Japan’s surf scene.
Kansai Swims
5. Suma Beach, Kobe:
A clean and vibrant local favorite. Every summer, the beach becomes a hive of activity with live music, concerts, and the longest beach bar in Kansai.
How to get there: A train on the subway line connecting Kobe Station to Suma and a short walk.
Tip: The annual beach party in July is when Suma really comes to life.
6. Shirahama Beach, Wakayama:
It might not be real but, yes, the sand on this beach was shipped in from Australia. Shirahama is a paradise of sun, sand, surf, and even the option of hot springs nearby.
How to get there: A direct train from Osaka to Shirahama gets you close, with local buses for the rest of the transfer.
Tip: An evening soak in the ridge-top hot springs is particularly atmospheric with the sun setting over the sand.
Shikoku
7. Katagai Beach, Kochi:
An empty coastline, where calm waters and tranquility welcome solitary swimmers seeking a respite from the hustle.
How to get there: Bus from Kochi Station to Katagai, where buses also stop near the beach.
Tip: A delayed summer is a perfect time to snorkel here, with warm temperatures and few people around.
8. Karatsu Beach, Saga:
A beach known for more than its shimmering sands, hosting the annual Karatsu Kunchi festival of massive parade floats and traditional dances.
How to get there: Train from Fukuoka to Karatsu, then a local bus to the beach.
Tip: The festival, held at the beginning of November in Japan, is the best time to explore the local culture.
Kyushu’s Shores
9. Nijigahama Beach, Hagi:
A tranquil, bayside beach, popular with those seeking solace. Turtles sometimes nest nearby.
How to get there: Buses from Hagi Station route straight to Nijigahama.
Tip: Turtles arrive on this beach during June to lay their eggs.
10. Komatsu Beach, Ehime:
Crystal waters and soft, shoaling waves make this a great spot for family fun or the water sports-inclined.
How to get there: Local train from Matsuyama to Komatsu, then a short taxi or bus ride to the shore.
Tip: Spring edges of calmness make this a fantastic spot for kite surfing, playable in the gentle breezes of the season.
Okinawa’s Escapes
11. Naminoue Beach, Naha:
A city beach that offers great views of Naha city and crystal-clear waters, perfect for visitors looking to combine sightseeing with sunbathing.
How to get there: Walk from downtown Naha or take a local bus.
Tip: Visit Naminoue Shrine nearby for a further cultural experience once you’ve had your beach fix.
12. Sunayama Beach, Miyako Island:
Renowned for its natural arch and soft sand, Sunayama is a romantic spot that’s especially beautiful at sunset.
How to get there: Rent a car from Miyako Airport and drive to the beach.
Tip: The sunset view through the arch is unmissable, perfect for silhouette photos.
13. Furuzamami Beach, Zamami Island:
Shallow waters and colorful coral make this a perfect beach for snorkeling.
How to get there: Ferry from Naha to Zamami, then local bus or rental bike to the beach.
Tip: Plan your snorkeling trip for April to June, when visibility is at its best.
14. Maehama Beach, Miyako Island:
Praised as one of the best beaches in Japan, Maehama features super-fine sand and turquoise water perfect for swimming or sunbathing.
How to get there: A 15-minute drive from Miyako Airport, reach the beach by taxi or rental car.
Tip: The beach is much quieter on weekdays, avoiding the weekend crowds.
15. Emerald Beach, Okinawa:
Located in Ocean Expo Park, this beach is famous for its crystal-clear waters and protected marine park status.
How to get there: Direct bus from Naha to the Ocean Expo Park.
Tip: Visit the park's aquarium after your beach day for the full marine experience.
Conclusion:
From the serene shores of Hokkaido to the vibrant beaches of Okinawa, Japan offers a stunning variety of coastal experiences.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, these 15 beaches provide a perfect gateway to explore the rich diversity of Japan's coastline.
Pack your beach gear and get ready to discover the incredible beauty of Japanese beaches!