Discover Japan's most beautiful beaches: complete guide and practical tips

Although Japan is better known for its fascinating culture and vibrant cities than for its seaside destinations, this country of thousands of islands actually hides some magnificent coastlines. With almost 30,000 km of coastline, the Japanese archipelago offers a wide variety of beaches, accessible in all seasons, depending on the region. From stretches of white sand bordered by lush tropical vegetation to wild rocky coves and famous surf spots, there's something for everyone. Follow the guide to discover Japan's most beautiful beaches, along with practical advice on how to make the most of your trip.

When is the best time to enjoy Japan's beaches, depending on the region?

Stretching almost 3,000 km from north to south, the Japanese archipelago crosses several climatic zones, and thus presents significant seasonal variations. In summer, from June to August, the climate is hot and humid in most of the country, with temperatures exceeding 30°C. This is the peak tourist season, especially on the beaches. For more tranquility and milder weather, opt for northern regions such as Hokkaido or mountainous areas. Temperatures remain pleasant for swimming until September.

From October to April, it's cooler in most of the archipelago, but the subtropical beaches of Okinawa in the south still enjoy mild temperatures, with water at 20-25°C. This is the ideal time to enjoy the diving spots and white sand, while avoiding the crowds of Japanese tourists. Spring and autumn are pleasant shoulder seasons, with fewer crowds than in summer.

What are Japan's beaches like, and what facilities do they offer?

From one end of the archipelago to the other, seaside landscapes are extremely varied: immense stretches of fine sand, small intimate coves, indented coasts, pebble beaches, dramatic cliffs... While some places have remained very natural and wild, others are more popular and havefacilities for the comfort of bathers: lifeguards, sanitary facilities, equipment rentals, changing cabins, etc.

On popular beaches such as Shirahama near Kyoto or Rising Sun in Okinawa, you'll even find straw huts serving meals and refreshments, as well as parasols and deckchairs for hire. But overall, Japanese beaches are far less developed and artificial than in the West. There are no endless deckchairs or concrete infrastructures, just the raw beauty of the place.

What are the customs and unspoken rules to be aware of on Japanese beaches?

While the relationship with nudity is very relaxed in the onsens, the famous traditional Japanese baths, it's quite different on the beaches. Bathing suits are the order of the day, and toplessness is outlawed, although monokinis are tolerated in some places. Tattoos are also frowned upon, as they are associated with the yakuza. Better to hide them under a T-shirt or a special bandage if you have them.

Another surprising custom is the "official season" for swimming. Most beaches only open from July to August, with an opening ceremony called "umi biraki". Few Japanese bathe outside this period, even if it's still hot in September! One last point to note: take your garbage with you, as there are hardly ever any garbage cans on the beaches.

Our 15 must-see Japanese beaches

From the tropical shores of Okinawa to the wild coves of Tohoku and the trendy spots of the Izu peninsula, here's our selection of Japan's most beautiful must-see beaches. Practical advice is given for each one.

Paradise beaches of Okinawa and the southern islands

• Yonaha Maehama on Miyako-jima: 7 km of immaculate sand and crystal-clear water. Ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Umbrella rental and horseback riding on the beach.
• Nishihama on Hateruma-jima, Japan's southernmost island: a tropical beach to dream of, frequented only by a handful of locals. Turquoise waters, coral reefs, turtles...
• Emerald Beach on theOkinawa mainland: a large white-sand beach with numerous water sports (jet-skiing, banana boat towing...) Perfect for families.

Relaxed atmosphere on the beaches of the Izu peninsula and around Tokyo

• The beaches of Shimoda, a trendy seaside resort 2h30 from Tokyo. Lively, vintage atmosphere on the beaches of Tatadohama and Iritahama. Surf spots and numerous beach bars.
• Miura Kaigan: a long, wild beach in the Miura Hanto Quasi-National Park, not far from Tokyo and Yokohama. Magnificent views of Mount Fuji on a clear day. Lush vegetation, bamboo forests.
• Jougashima beach on a small island near Izu, accessible on foot at low tide. Deep blue water, cliffs and sea caves to explore. Canoeing and kayaking available.

Further information

• Japan's beaches
• The sea in Japan
• Miho beach
• Ichinomiya beach
• Suma beach
• Hiroshima beaches
• Katsurahama beach
• Japan's beaches: Hayama
• Masuhogaura beach
• Japan's beaches: Kozushima
• Tattonohama beach
• Lake Biwa beaches
• hirizo beach
• hakuto beach