If you reside in Tokyo or its vicinity, you might find yourself amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Taking some time out for yourself is crucial for both your physical and mental well-being. One of the most rejuvenating activities amidst nature is a visit to the beaches near Tokyo.
Japan boasts abundant natural beauty, and owing to its distinctive geographical positioning as an island nation, there are numerous beaches waiting to be explored. If you’re longing for a beach day getaway, here are 8 incredible beaches that are conveniently located not far from the city.
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Find out some nature spots in Japan, day trip ideas from Tokyo, campsites in Japan and hiking spots in Japan.
8 Stunning Beaches Near Tokyo
1. Moriya Beach (守谷海水浴場)
Moriya Beach, situated in Katsuura, stands out as one of the premier spots near Tokyo for a refreshing swim. Here, you’ll discover pristine waters and immaculate sands, offering an exceptional swimming experience. Despite its popularity among both Japanese locals and international visitors, Moriya Beach boasts ample space, ensuring you’ll find a comfortable spot to relax.
Nestled within the Minami Boso National Park, Moriya Beach has earned its place among the “100 Best Beaches in Japan” for its remarkable water clarity. During the summer season, amenities such as first aid stations, beach houses, paid parking lots, showers, and changing rooms are conveniently available.
Beyond Moriya Beach, there’s a wealth of attractions to explore in the surrounding area, including Moriya Cave, Myokaku Temple, and Okitsu Beach. Accessing Moriya Beach requires approximately a 1.5-hour drive from central Tokyo or a 2.5-hour train journey.
2. Isshiki Beach (一色海水浴場)
You may well be familiar with Isshiki Beach, as it has garnered attention from various media outlets, including CNN, for being one of the world’s finest beaches.
Isshiki Beach boasts tranquil waters and a captivating sunset view, often enhanced by the sight of Mount Fuji across the bay. During the bustling summer months, the beach comes alive with live music performances, drawing music enthusiasts to relax and enjoy the vibes.
Even during peak seasons, Isshiki Beach tends not to get overly crowded, making it an ideal spot for individuals or couples seeking some privacy. Swimming is permitted in designated areas, with lifeguards on duty to ensure safety. While surfing is less common here due to the calm waves, it’s still a delightful place to unwind.
If you find yourself at Isshiki Beach, be sure to indulge in the local cuisine. Hayama, the beach’s locale, is renowned for its culinary delights, with Hayama beef being a standout option. Known for its rich marbling, Hayama beef offers a succulent and flavoursome taste.
Reaching Isshiki Beach is a breeze, with a car journey taking approximately 1.5 hours, while the train ride clocks in at around 2 hours.
3. Morito Coast (森戸海岸)
Another beloved destination for ocean enthusiasts is Morito Coast in Hayama. This coastal stretch is a haven for water-based activities, offering opportunities for sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, diving, and more. With gentle waves, Morito Coast is suitable for individuals of all ages to enjoy.
Facilities are somewhat limited at Morito Coast, so it’s advisable to bring along your own refreshments. However, you may be treated to occasional live performances by local artists and musicians, adding to the laid-back atmosphere. Similar to Isshiki Beach, Morito Coast also boasts views of Mount Fuji and hosts various fireworks festivals during the summer months. Be sure to check the official website for details on upcoming events.
Reaching Morito Coast from central Tokyo is convenient, with a car journey taking approximately 1.5 hours and a train ride around 2 hours.
4. Onjuku Beach (御宿)
Onjuku Beach, situated in the Sotobo area of Chiba prefecture, is a picturesque destination facing the Pacific Ocean. With its white sandy shores and stunning blue waters, Onjuku Beach enjoys a warm climate all year round. The addition of palm trees along the coastline enhances the tropical ambiance, creating a perfect vacation setting. However, during the summer months, the beach can be quite sunny, so it’s wise to apply plenty of sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
Positioned at the heart of the coastline, Onjuku Beach boasts excellent infrastructure and sandy expanses, along with superb surf conditions. It’s a summertime paradise for surfers, with a range of facilities catering to enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Onjuku is famed as the setting for the nursery rhyme “Moon’s Savage,” offering visitors the chance to experience a tropical resort atmosphere on its pristine sands. The beach hosts various events, particularly during the summer, including arm wrestling and beach volleyball competitions, as well as fireworks displays. With a permanent beach volleyball court onsite, Onjuku Beach appeals to individuals with diverse interests. For those keen to stay active, surfboard rentals are available for a nominal fee.
Accessing Onjuku Beach is convenient, with a car journey taking approximately 1.5 hours, while a combination of train and bus transportation requires just under 3 hours.
5. Okitsu Beach (興津海水浴場)
Okitsu Beach, within the Okitsu Prefectural Natural Park, boasts a stunning expanse of white sands and azure waters stretching approximately 2km from east to west. With its shallow sandy shores, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely swim.
Recognised as one of the “100 Best Beaches in Japan” by the Ministry of the Environment in 2007, Okitsu Beach also holds the distinction of being designated as the Okitsu Youth Travel Village. Accommodation options abound, ranging from bungalows to mobile homes and seaside houses. For those seeking an overnight stay, a camping area is available, popular among snorkelers and scuba divers thanks to the crystal-clear waters.
Facing Okitsu Port, which serves as an evacuation point for small boats, Okitsu Beach offers tranquillity and privacy. It’s a perfect destination for families with young children, couples, and groups of friends alike.
Exploring the rocky shore areas during low tide adds to the allure of Okitsu Beach, while the verdant hillsides, adorned with lush greenery, provide a picturesque backdrop to the small village by the sea.
Reaching Okitsu Beach is convenient, with a drive from central Tokyo taking just under 2 hours, while a train journey requires approximately 3 hours.
6. Chojagasaki and Ohama Beach (長者ヶ崎・大浜海水浴場)
Chojagasaki and Ohama Beach area have been recognised as one of the “50 scenic spots in Kanagawa.” On a clear day, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Enoshima, the Izu Peninsula, and, especially at dusk, the iconic silhouette of Mt. Fuji.
During low tide, take a leisurely stroll along the rocky shore to the cape’s tip, a unique experience not offered by other beaches. Witness the majestic cape jutting into the ocean, with the sky ablaze in the hues of the setting sun.
Chojagasaki Beach boasts a designated marine sports area where you can partake in various activities such as sea kayaking, jet skiing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) just off the coast. And if hunger strikes during your beach outing, rejoice! There’s a barbecue course available, because let’s face it, BBQ is quintessential beach fare.
Reaching this picturesque locale requires approximately 3 hours by car or 2.5 hours by train from central Tokyo.
7. Shirahama Beach (白浜大浜海水浴場)
Shirahama Beach stands out as one of Izu’s liveliest beaches, boasting a vast expanse of beautiful sandy shores stretching up to 700 meters. Fronting the national highway, the beach offers a sense of spaciousness, drawing visitors from across the nation, including many surfers and young enthusiasts. Despite its popularity, Shirahama Beach remains generously spacious, ensuring you’ll have ample room to enjoy the ocean and sand, even during peak seasons.
The striking contrast between the pristine white sand and the shimmering emerald sea captivates countless visitors. The smooth white sands retain their beauty year-round, making Shirahama Beach a delightful destination regardless of the season. A highlight of the summer calendar is the sea festival held on the third Saturday of July, featuring events such as fireworks displays. Along the beachfront, you’ll find an array of restaurants, accommodations, shops, and activities to enhance your beach experience.
Reaching Shirahama Beach from Tokyo is convenient, with a drive of about 3.5 hours or a train journey lasting approximately 3 hours.
8. Sarushima Beach (猿島)
Sarushima Beach offers a unique experience among the beaches near Tokyo, as it’s located on Sarushima Island itself. Easily accessible by ferry from Mikasa Pier in Yokosuka, just a short 10-minute ride away, this scenic spot provides opportunities for swimming, beachside barbecues, fishing, and simply hanging out. What sets it apart is the stunning view it offers of Yokosuka on the opposite shore.
During the Edo period, Sarushima served as a battery for the Tokugawa shogunate, later undergoing development as part of the Yokosuka Navy Yard following the Meiji Restoration in 1868.
As the only natural island in Tokyo Bay, Sarushima remains uninhabited, sparking curiosity about its atmosphere. Is it mysterious, eerie, or perhaps enchanting? Despite its uninhabited status, Sarushima attracts a considerable number of visitors, around 150,000 annually, drawn by its pristine sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and the allure of hidden treasures.
Reaching Mikasa Pier in Yokosuka is relatively straightforward, with a journey of approximately 1 hour by car or train from Tokyo.
Diving Into Tokyo’s Coastal Gems
There you have it, the 8 beaches near Tokyo that we would like to recommend for you to visit. Looking at Japan from the map, it might not be surprising to know that there are lots of beaches where you can enjoy the seaview. Each beach has its own charm and attracts many tourists all year long.
Without a doubt, now is the best time to go to a beach and enjoy the breath of summer. But make sure to double check there is no typhoon warning as the waves can become really rough due to the typhoon. What do you think about these beaches near Tokyo? Which one(s) is your favourite? Do you find beaches in Japan different from other countries you have been to?
Find out some nature spots in Japan, day trip ideas from Tokyo, campsites in Japan, and hiking spots in Japan.
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