Summer is peak beach season in Japan. After seeing the beautiful cityscapes of Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, you might be feeling the need to get out of the bustling cities for a bit. As temperatures and humidity skyrocket, you may be desperate to cool off in the ocean. Look no further! We've got you covered for a quick day at the beach along the coast of the Sea of Japan between Fukui and Kanazawa!
Uchinada Beach - Close to Kanazawa
The closest beach to Kanazawa, and very accessible from Kanazawa Station is Uchinada Beach. To get here, simply take the Hokuriku Tetsudo Asanogawa Line to Uchinada Station. There's a bus that runs from the station to the beach. Alternatively, it's a 15-minute walk from the station. The summer heat is nothing to scoff at, but a dip in the ocean is the perfect reward for toughing it out! There are a few convenience stores and shops along the way where you can pick up drinks and snacks for your day out, as well.
Chirihama - Japan's Driving Beach
Chirihama is famous for being the only beach in Japan where cars are legally allowed to drive on the sands. If you've rented a car, this is a perfect spot to stretch your metaphorical legs while also taking in the sights! The 8km-long beach is a beautiful backdrop while you drive.
Those with a keen memory might remember that this beach was used in an episode of Top Gear! The episode began here, as the three presenters raced a car against the efficiency of Japan's public transport system.
Mikuni Beach - The Sunset View
Mikuni Beach is in a perfect spot whether you're staying in Kanazawa or Fukui. It's around an hour from both cities. The water doesn't hit its famous vivid blue until a bit further south, but Mikuni Beach has a bit of everything. There are stalls to get food and drink, seating areas to get out of the heat, plenty of shops, restaurants and a few convenience stores just a short walk away. You can also enjoy a stroll through the town to places like Takidanji Temple or Mikuni Port.
Mikuni is known as the "Sunset Beach" for its picture perfect sunset. The unobstructed view over the Sea of Japan as the sun sets on the horizon is a serene way to end a day at the beach.
Mizushima - An Island Paradise
Mizushima is often called "the Hawaii of Hokuriku" for its tropical vibe. This uninhabited island off the tip of the Tsuruga Peninsula is only accessible by a small ferry and has nothing on it (except a few port-a-loos). To get here from Tsuruga Station, take the community bus No.2 Togami Line to Tachiishi for about 30 minutes. Get off at the "Irogahama" bus stop, walk for 3 minutes to Irogahama Pier, then it's a 10-minute boat ride to the island. Make sure to bring plenty of water and anything you need while you're on the island, as there are no shops or attractions on the island. It's just the island, the sapphire-blue water and the fun of swimming! When you're done, hop back on the ferry for the return journey.
Suishohama - A Beach of Diamonds
Suishohama is, undoubtedly, Fukui's best beach. Nicknamed "Diamond Beach" for the way the sand seems to sparkle in the sun, Suishohama is a fantastic summer day out. You can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters against the backdrop of the Tsunegami Peninsula. There are also stunning rock formations; whether they're safe to play on is up to you, but you'll see plenty of locals diving off. Either way, they also add some natural beauty to add to the scenery! There are a few stalls that set up along the beach entrance so you can fill up after a swim.
To get here from Tsuruga Station, take the Sugahama-sen line to the Suishohama Bus Stop. It takes around 43 minutes each way, so be sure to plan ahead and not miss your train!
Kehi no Matsubara - Near to Tsuruga Station
This is the most accessible beach near from Tsuruga Station, taking simply 20 minutes. The sandy beach is perfectly placed for people looking to take a quick dip in the ocean. The short walk from the bus stop is incredibly atmospheric; the path leads through a pine grove listed as one of the three best in Japan. As you walk through, the smell of the ocean starts to hit you, then the blue of the water almost looks too good to be true!
To get here from Tsuruga Station, leave the station and walk outside to the JR Tsuruga Station bus terminal. Take the Wakasa Line for about 13 minutes to the Tsuruga-Koko-Mae bus stop. The bus costs JPY 200 per person. From Tsuruga-Koko-Mae, walk five minutes through the pine grove to reach the waterfront. The beach is also just a short walk from convenience stores, so don't worry if your supply of refreshments begins to dwindle!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I'd like to go to one of these beaches, but I don't want to drive. Can I charter a bus?
Based in Central Japan and operating all-year-round, we offer highly entertaining group-tours of Central Japan and the surrounding areas that are sure to please. All tours are led by locally-based guides and will take you around the must-see sights in the region, as well as some lesser known gems. Our tours are fun, interactive and family-friendly. For more information, or to book a tour, click on the banner.
Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Nagoya area, and other regional destinations. Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going.
We can arrange both private tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter. With door-to-door service, we can pick up you up from where you are and take you to where you want to go anywhere in Central Japan and the neighbouring regions. For more information, please click HERE to check availability and pricing for your trip. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!
What do I need to prepare for a day at the beach in Japan?
If you're planning a day at the beach in Japan, don't forget the following: towels, swim wear, and sun cream/ sunscreen. It's common practice in Japan (but not necessary) to bring a tent so you can get out of the sun. It is also vitally important that you bring plenty of water. As temperatures in the Fukui and Kanazawa areas have been known to hit 36 degrees (98F) repeatedly over the peak summer season in the last few years. It is also very humid, so staying hydrated and having shade is a must to avoid headstroke.
Some places, particularly Mikuni and Suishoma beaches, may have stalls where you can rent tents and floats to use in the water.
Are there any rules around drinking alcohol at beaches in Japan?
In Japan, it is legal to drink alcohol in public and you will see plenty of locals doing so, especially at the beach in summer! It is also perfectly legal to take a drink into the ocean with you. However, we strongly advise anybody doing so to be respectful of the area and the people there. Please do not litter and throw your trash away at appropriate locations. During peak season, there are usually garbage bins located along the beach, but this may not always be the case. If so, please take it back with you when you leave.
When is the best time to visit the beach in Japan?
Local wisdom says the temperature of the water is about a month behind the temperature outside, so the best time to go to the beach is from late June to the end of August. The water starts getting cooler in September, but locals will caution you away from swimming after September 1st, as jellyfish breeding season is said to begin. If you do go in early September, take care!
What else is there to do in Kanazawa and Fukui?
Kanazawa is filled with great things to do. Your first point of call should be our "Things to do around Kanazawa" page. If you're into museums, check out our guide on "Best Museums in Kanazawa" to see what the City of Culture has to offer. If you collect, or would like to begin collecting, goshuin (the unique red stamps at shrines and temples) - "Best Goshuin Near Kanazawa" has everything you need to fill some pages in your book.
Meanwhile, Fukui is a true hidden gem in Japan. As you've probably seen, most of the beaches on this list are in Fukui Prefecture. We've got a handy guide on Things to Do in Fukui to get you started. We've also got a list of the Best Goshuin near Fukui for stamp collectors. Fukui also houses the vast majority of the charming PokeLids in the region. To catch 'em all, have a look at our guide on the Pokemon Manhole Covers - Kanazawa, Toyama and Fukui! If Tsuruga has charmed you into exploring more between your train transfer, why not check out our page on "Things to do in Tsuruga" to learn more about the town that many people visit, but few ever explore?
