Tokyo has more charms to it than just city life. Many people believe that they would need to travel an excessive amount to reach a shoreline, but this isn’t true.
Tokyo itself sits in a bay, which was formerly known as one of the best port cities of once named Edo. Now, most of the beaches have been developed or washed away by typhoons, but there is still plenty of white sands just a short journey from the city center.
In this article, we will be sharing 10 of the best beaches that you can easily reach from Tokyo to escape the megacity and skyscrapers. Some can be reached from a short train journey, and others will take some more forward planning.
Either way, to do this it helps to have some insider knowledge of the area so that you can enjoy your experience in Tokyo to the fullest. Luckily, we’re here to help you out so that you can discover the best sandy shores loved by locals and tourists alike.
Note: Beaches in Japan may vary from your local beaches back home. They have strict regulations that must be followed and respected at all times.
It is commonly known that in Japan a lot of beaches have a no swimming policy, so if you want to swim you will need to look up beaches where this is allowed beforehand. Generally, these are beaches that have lifeguards.
It is also very important to keep beaches clean and not litter or leave any mess behind you when you leave. You are allowed to bring your own refreshments, as long as you do so responsibly.
Tokyo has a population of over 14 million people, but despite the crowds, beaches are held to a high standard of behavior from visitors which must be respected.
Kasai Kaihin Park Beach
This beach is centered on an artificial island in the middle of an adventure park. About a third of the park is home to a bird sanctuary, and it is also home to the Diamond and Flower Ferris wheel, which is the second tallest Ferris wheel in Japan. One of the main attractions of this beach is that it is in central Tokyo, and it’s free.
Kasai Kaihin Beach Park Via Tripadvisor
How to get there:
Kasai Kaihin Park is a half-hour drive from the center of Tokyo, or alternatively, it can be reached by train with the final station being Kasai Rinkai Koen, from there it’s a five-minute walk. Bear in mind you may need to do a train transfer.
Southern Beach Chigasaki
Southern Beach is small and cozy but only open during the summer months from July to August. It is definitely worth a visit if you are in Tokyo at the right time of year.
It was originally a private beach for celebrities who owned villas in the nearby area. The beach features the iconic rock, Eboshi Iwa which is thought to bring fortune to a romantic relationship. While swimming is allowed, surfing and BBQs are strictly prohibited.
How to get there:
It can be reached by train on the JR Sagami line to Chigasaki station, from there it’s around a 20-minute walk. The total journey is just over two hours. There are also two buses every hour.
Southern Beach Chigasaki Via Tripadvisor
Akiya Beach
Located in Yokosuka, Akiya Beach is the perfect combination of white sands and rocky landscapes. It is listed as the 50th top tourist spot in Kanagawa. This beach hosts the 39 foot tall, round rock called Tateishi.
On a clear day, it offers good views of Mount Fuji. It benefits from a large car parking lot, although this does fill up fast, so it is recommended to arrive early. It also has restrooms and vending machines.
How to get there:
By train, this journey can take up to 1 and a half hours ending at Zushi station. You can also take a bus heading towards Nagai, ending at the Tateishi bus stop.
Isshiki And Zushi Beach (see video below)
Isshiki Beach is the smaller, slightly more remote version of Zushi Beach which often attracts the majority of beachgoers. Isshiki is a good option for a slightly quieter beach day, with a bit more traveling put in to get off the beaten path. In 2013, it was selected as one of the best beaches in the world by CNN.
Isshiki And Zushi Beach Via Tripadvisor
How to get there:
Take a train down to Zushi station, then from there, take a short bus journey heading towards Hayama then get off at the beach bus stop.
Tatadohama Beach
Stretching about 1500 feet long, this beach is a popular destination for surfers and marine sports fanatics. There is also a separate area for swimming only. Several competitions are held here each year which attracts professional surfers from all around the world.
Tatadohama Beach Via Tripadvisor
How to get there:
Can you board the special JR express line which takes you directly to Izukyu Shimoda station, then take a bus from stop 3 or 4 and get off at Tatadohama.
From here it is a five-minute walk, but all in all, it’s around a 3-hour journey from central Tokyo.
Odaiba Beach
This is another beach near the heart of Tokyo that doesn’t require much travel time. It is yet another artificial beach, but it stretches for 2600 feet and is lined with white sand from the Izu Islands. It is prohibited to swim in the water, but you are allowed to enjoy other activities such as kayaking.
It also has some symbolic landmarks such as a replica of the Statue of Liberty. It benefits from coin lockers so that you can keep your belongings safe, as well as showers and restrooms.
How to get there:
The beach can be reached by car in 25 minutes from central Tokyo, or you can take a train to Tokyo Teleport station where it is a 15-minute walk away.
Onjuku Beach
Onjuku is located in Isumi city and is a peaceful spot to visit. It attracts a lot of visitors during the summer months including skilled surfers. Onjuku Beach is known for having good waves, and you’ll find many beach stores to rent surfboards to take surfing lessons.
There are two iconic statues of Arabic persons riding camels along the beach, and the beauty of the beach is described in a children’s song translated to ‘Moon Desert’.
How to get there
Take the Keiyo Line to Chiba station, then transfer to the Sotobo Line leaving the train at Onjuku station. From there it is a 10-15 minute walk. Alternatively, you can take an express bus to Wakashio in less than 90 minutes.
Shirahama Beach
This beach is recognized as one of the most popular in the Shizuoka prefecture, especially amongst young people and surfers.
It is close to several convenience stores and restaurants, and visitors are allowed to pitch up a small tent to relax in. The water is very clean which attracts a lot of visitors.
Shirahama Beach Via Tripadvisor
How to get there:
Take a special express called Odoriko which drops you directly at Izukyu Shimoda station, then from there, board the bus from stop 9 and stay on for a further 10 minutes until you arrive at the beach.
Atami Beach
A great location for beginner swimmers, Atami almost always has lifeguards watching over the beach to make it a safe location to swim at. It also typically has very tranquil waters.
It is surrounded by trees that offer shade in the hotter months and gives a great viewpoint of the blooming Jacarandas during the right season. It is a slightly more isolated beach so there are limited services available nearby.
How to get there:
It will take several rail transfers from central Tokyo to reach Atami station (unless you walk to Tokaido Sanyo station), but from here it is only a pleasant 10-minute walk to the beach.
Ubara Beach
Located in the Chiba prefecture, this beach stretches through coastlines with beautiful geographical features. It is a peaceful place that allows for plenty of sunbathing.
It houses the symbolic sculpture, the White Torii Gate which signifies the transition from the mundane to the sacred. In this setting, it makes for a beautiful backdrop for watching the sunset. There is also an adventurous forest trail to be explored.
How to get there:
The easiest way to get there is to take the Keiyo line to Katsuura station, then transfer to the Sobota line and get off at Ubara station. It is only a five-minute walk to the beach after that.
