10 stunning beaches near Tokyo to visit this summer

As Chiba’s longest beach and the second longest in Japan, Kujukuri Beach offers plenty of space, so you won’t have to fight for the perfect spot on the sand to set up for the day. Spanning an impressive 66 kilometres from Cape Gyobu to Cape Daito, the beach is ideal for a range of water activities, including swimming and surfing. Unlike many of the area’s rockier beaches, Kujukuri boasts long stretches of soft sand and gentle shoreline, making it especially popular with beachgoers.

Getting there: Just a couple of hours from central Tokyo, Kujukuri can be reached by car or public transport. Take the JR Sobu Line from Tokyo Station to Togane Station, then transfer to a bus or taxi for a 20-30 minute ride to the coast.

What Araihama Beach lacks in size, it more than makes up for with its crystal-clear water, lush surroundings and sweeping views of Mt Fuji and Sagami Bay. Located on the southern tip of the Miura Peninsula, the beach stretches for roughly 150 metres and draws visitors during the warmer months for swimming, fishing and beach barbecues.

Getting there: Araihama Beach is just under two hours from central Tokyo. Take the Keikyu Main Line from Shinagawa Station to Misakiguchi Station, then hop on a bus to Seaborina Iriguchi. From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the beach.

The Miura Peninsula is known for its numerous seaside resorts, but they can get pretty busy during the warmer months. If you’re looking to escape the crowds, Miura Beach is a great option. Sitting on the southeastern side of the peninsula, this low-key beach offers calm waves ideal for families with children. It’s also a quick six-minute walk from Miurakaigan Station, and there are plenty of beach shops and food options in the area.

Getting there: Miura Beach is about 70 minutes from central Tokyo. Take the Keikyu main line from Shinagawa Station to Miurakaigan Station. From there, the beach is about a six-minute walk away.

While most people alight at Zushi Station for the eponymous Zushi Beach, it’s worth taking a 15-minute bus ride from the station to Hayama’s Isshiki Beach, where it’s less crowded and more beautiful. This stunning seaside retreat is surrounded by rock formations and plenty of greenery, and its proximity to Tokyo makes it one of the most convenient weekend escapes. On clear days, you may even see Mt Fuji across the sea.

Getting there: Isshiki Beach is about 90 minutes from central Tokyo. Take the Yokosuka line from Tokyo Station to Zushi Station, then hop on a 15-minute bus ride and stop at Isshiki Kaigan.

You’ll know you’ve reached Onjuku Beach once you see the Tsuki No Sabaku statue of camel riders. The installation depicts two Arabian knights on camelback as a tribute to an old folk song that’s inspired by the beach. Situated in Isumi city on Chiba's Boso Peninsula, this beach offers soft white sand and waves ideal for surfing. There are plenty of shops in the area if you wish to rent a surfboard or sign up for lessons.

Getting there: Onjuku Beach is about 90 minutes from central Tokyo. Take the Wakashio 13 Limited Express Katsuura from Tokyo Station to Onjuku Station. From there, the beach is a ten-minute walk away. 

This idyllic beach in Yokosuka, tucked away along Sagami Bay, features a mix of both sandy and rocky shores. Make your way to the northern end of the coast and you’ll discover Tateishi Park, home to the giant 12m-tall rock formation that looks stunning against the rolling waves. You’ll definitely want to stick around until sundown as this beach boasts one of the best sunsets in the area.

Getting there: Akiya Beach is about an hour and 40 minutes from central Tokyo. Take the Yokosuka line from Tokyo Station to Zushi Station, then hop on a 20-minute bus ride to the Tateishi stop.

This beach in Katsuura is worth the trek out to Chiba to marvel at the Ubara Yasaka Shrine that sits along the turquoise water. Despite being so close to the city, this beach has extremely clear water and the sand is very clean. You won't have to travel too far to reach the beach, either. You'll be dipping your toes in the sand after a quick seven-minute walk from JR Ubara Station.

Getting there: Ubara Beach is about an hour and 40 minutes from central Tokyo. Take the Wakashio 13 Limited Express Katsuura from Tokyo Station to Katsuura Station and switch to the local Sotobo line to Ubara Station. The beach is about a seven-minute walk away.

This serene beach in Ibaraki prefecture offers shallow waters and a wide sandy shore for sunbathing. It’s also ideal for swimming as there are lifeguards on patrol. Free bathrooms and showers are available as well as boat and parasol rentals. Come here if you want an active day on the beach – you could partake in surfing, jet skiing and other water activities. Otherwise, grab your friends for an outdoor feast at the lively barbecue area.

Getting there: Oarai Sun Beach is just over two hours from central Tokyo. Take the Hitachi 19 Limited Express Sendai to Mito Station and switch to the local Kashimarinkai Tetsudo Oarai-Kashima line to Oarai Station. The beach is a 20-minute walk from the station.