Visitors to Japan are increasingly going beyond the ‘Golden Route’ in search of authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. Sustainability also has become top of mind for many travellers, who have become increasingly cognizant of their travel footprint and seek to engage with the culture of their chosen destination organically.
In the summer, Japan comes alive with festivals, and the summer heat entices locals and travellers alike to flock to the scenic seaside. The coastal areas of Japan are rich in culture and nature, including historic fishing villages, sweeping cliffs, rich blue waters, and novel, summer-specific activities.
We invite you to beat the heat this summer and explore the best of Japan’s coastal prefectures. Pack your sunscreen as we explore the adventurous Japanese experiences you’ll want to add to your upcoming itinerary.
Sea and Sand in Shimane and Tottori
The Oki Islands of Shimane Prefecture offer the best geo-kayaking in Japan. Glide through crystal-clearwater in intrepid, sturdy kayaks that are perfect for observing and photographing the marine life below. Explore geological formations along the rocky coast, paddle through sea caves, stop at deserted beaches, and try traditional spearfishing. The truly bold will want to set out on a Kannagi fishing expedition: battling with this titanic, black grouper makes for a thrilling experience.
In neighbouring Tottori Prefecture, the Tottori Sand Dunes make you question where you are in the world. As visitors ride camels through this oasis of sand, a major draw is sand boarding into the sea. This is the only place in Japan where you can experience this eclectic joy. The Tottori Sakyu Sand Board School offers lessons for those who seek the exhilaration of sliding down the steep, soft sand with increasing speed toward the vista of endless sky and sea.
Hot Water and Coastal Culture in Hyogo and Kyoto
The northern coast of Hyogo Prefecture is a magnet for those who want to relax in the renowned Kinosaki Onsen area. A diverse range of tattoo-friendly hot springs await in this 1,300-year-old town, in which visitors love to stay in traditional ryokan and stroll along the riverside streets in comfortable and beautiful yukata. Steeped in culture, Kinosaki offers the freshest seafood, local sake and mouth-watering Tajima beef.
The northern coast of Kyoto Prefecture offers a spectacular panorama of rugged rocky cliffs and gorgeous sandy beaches. Located in the Tango Peninsula, the charming fishing village of Ine is admired for its funaya (traditional two-story boathouses) that date back hundreds of years. Ine Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a rewarding cultural destination for boat tours, cycling, and experiencing the uniqueness of this remote destination.
Journey by Car and Boat in Ishikawa and Niigata
Coastal drives are extraordinary in Japan, and none more so than in Ishikawa Prefecture, where Chirihama Nagisa Driveway allows cars to drive along the beach with the gentle waves just lapping at the side of your car. The drive along the Noto Peninsula is a stretch of beauty that is simply mesmerizing. This 100-kilometre stretch of panoramic driving juts out into the sea with so many places to stop along the way, from picture-perfect beaches to quaint fishing villages.
Farther up the coast is Niigata Prefecture, home to some of the most elegant and refined sake in the world. Sado Island is the place to be for the most delicious seafood, sake and rice. Take a hydrofoil to the island, and experience a unique Tarai-Bune (tub boat) ride. These traditional fishing boats are made from half-barrel wash tubs. Try your hand at paddling one—it’s more challenging than it looks! Sado Island is also home to the Sado Island Taiko Centre where visitors can try their hand at these iconic drums.
Beach Bliss and Sweet Treats in Akita and Aomori
Akita Prefecture boasts Kamayahama Beach, one of the most beautiful swimming beaches in all of Japan. The beautiful sunset beach in Mitane town is also recognized for its annual summer event called “Sand Craft in Mitane” in which colossal sculptures are constructed from the dense sand with seemingly impossible detail. At night, the sculptures are lit up to create one of the prettiest settings imaginable.
At the top of the Tohoku region is Aomori Prefecture. This lush region of mountains and forests, perfect for hiking and forest bathing, is home to 60% of Japan’s apple production. Here you can discover 80 different varieties of apples and indulge in the Apple Pie Trail. The apples are so tropically sweet, you’d swear they’re infused with sugar. The apple pies, with uniquely intricate latticework and flaky crusts, reflect the imagination of each local pâtissière. Apples here can be found in entrées, desserts, soy sauce, wine, brandy, honey, and even floating in the hot springs at Tsugaru Minamida Onsen!
