Japan offers some of the most beautiful spectacles, whether in the form of mountains, plains, or rivers. However, when you think of a beach destination, Japan is not the first name that comes to mind. The fact of the matter is that this country has some of the most gorgeous beaches, especially in Okinawa and the region of southern islands. The country offers a lively and chilled-out surf scene on these beaches, which is something recommended by many international travelers. However, if you prefer a relaxing beach destination, you can also experience true bliss in the various beach resorts. Let us explore the top 8 underrated beaches of Japan!
If you are looking for the best beach destinations in Japan, we have picked some of the most underrated Japanese beaches. Check out this list to plan your next beach holiday.
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1. Yonoha Maehama Beach
This beach is located in the southwest corner of Miyako Island and is widely considered one of the best beaches in Japan. It stretches across 4 miles and has beautiful clear water. The shallow water makes it ideal for water sports and swimming. If you want to spend an evening watching the sunset, then the Yonoha Maehama beach is the best spot to catch it. Although this beach can be visited all year round, if you come in the off-season, you will be able to experience a private beach.
2. Kondoi Beach
This beach is located on Taketomi Island, widely known for its lifestyle, aesthetics, and traditional Ryukyu architecture. It is spread across 2 miles. You can easily reach the beach on foot or using a bike. However, there is a much more exciting experience that should not be missed. A great way to reach the Kondoi beach is by taking a water buffalo cart ride, which will take you through the Taketomi village. Once you reach the beach, you can relax in the turquoise blue waters and take a trip to Kaiji beach, which is located close by.
3. Minna Beach
This Okinawa beach is located on a crescent-shaped island known as the Minna-Jima. It is located in the Motobu town of Okinawa and is only a 15-minute ferry ride from the Toguchi Port. The Minna beach is a favorite of the local beach lovers, scuba divers, and snorkelers because of its underwater visibility and easy accessibility. It is also one of the less populated beaches compared to the ones on Okinawa mainland. In addition, the beach offers a wide variety of food stalls and jet ski rentals.
4. Kabira Bay
This beach is located on one of the biggest Yaeyama islands, the Ishigaki island, popular for its sandy beaches and ideal for sunbathing and swimming. If you want to swim, you can head to the Yonehara and Sukuji beaches. Kabira Bay is one place that does not allow swimming, but it is a sight to behold. It is located in the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park and is also the site of black pearl cultivation. It offers a view of beautiful white sands and emerald-green water. You can also go for a glass-bottom boat tour, which will allow you a glimpse into the underwater ecosystem of the bay.
5. Nishihama Beach
This beach is located on Hateruma island, which is also popular for its stone monument. If you do a loose translation of Hateruma, it means ‘Edge of the Coral’ or ‘The Last Reef.’ The name of this island is derived from uruma, the Okinawan word for coral. The best part about Nishihama beach is the soft and blindingly white beach, which offers many options for offshore snorkeling too. The Nishihama beach is also a great spot for catching the Southern Cross constellation because of the lack of light pollution in this region.
6. Aharen Beach
Located on Tokashiki Island, Aharen Beach shares the same climate found in the Bahamas. As a result, this is one of the best places to spot humpback whales and sea turtles, which usually migrate to this region in the winter. In addition, Aharen beach is great for snorkeling and swimming in the aquamarine waters.
7. Hatenohama Beach
This beach is found on the Kume island and can be easily reached using boats in the Tomari Fisherina. The specialty of the beach is that it does not have any trees and is surrounded by rock outcroppings and a ring of corals. Hatenoma beach was built because of years of tidal action.
8. Nishibama Beach
This beach is located on the northeast coast of the Aka island and stretches over 1 mile. The island itself has no shortage of picturesque beaches. However, if you are looking for a fairly empty beach in Japan, Nishibama is the best choice. You can relax on the white sands or snorkel in the transparent waters.
Conclusion
We have covered some of Japan’s best beaches that are worth visiting if you love the sun and the sand. Whether you enjoy relaxing in the beach resorts or experiencing the thrill of water sports, these beaches offer something for everyone. Make sure when you book your next trip to Japan you come back to this list or ask the Travel Wise community for other hidden treasures in Japan.
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