Kanto’s Coastal Charms: 3 Beaches to Visit Near Tokyo!

Tokyo (東京), a bustling metropolis known for its cutting-edge technology and vibrant culture, also offers some stunning beach destinations just a short stone-throw away. 

Whether you’re looking to relax on soft sands, enjoy water sports like surfing, or explore scenic coastal landscapes, these beaches in the Kanto Region nearby Tokyo provide the perfect escape during the blazing summer months.

1. Kamakura Beaches: Yuigahama and Zaimokuza

©photoAC

Located just an hour south of Tokyo by train in Kanagawa Prefecture (神奈川県), Kamakura (鎌倉) is a historic city celebrated for its ancient temples and beautiful beaches, including Yuigahama (由比ヶ浜海岸) and Zaimokuza (材木座海岸). 

From Tokyo Station (東京駅), you can board the JR Yokosuka Line (横須賀線) to Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅), followed by a pleasant 15-minute walk to Yuigahama Beach or an additional 10 minutes to Zaimokuza Beach further south. 

Yuigahama Beach offers a range of amenities for the perfect beach day, including rental options for beach umbrellas and chairs, as well as surfing with equipment and lessons available.

For a quieter retreat, Zaimokuza Beach is a sea-bathing spot with a history of more than 130 years, ideal for leisurely swims and enjoying the picturesque backdrop. During the summer, beachside cafes and stalls offer refreshing snacks and beverages, making it a delightful spot to unwind after exploring Kamakura’s cultural treasures.

Yuigahama Beach (由比ヶ浜海岸)
Address: 4-Yuigahama, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0014
Access: 15-minute walk from Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅). Alternatively, the entire stretch of the beach is also a 5-minute walk from Wadazuka Station, Yuigahama Station, and Hase Station on the Enoden.

Zaimokuza Beach (材木座海岸)
Address: 5-Zaimokuza, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0013
Access: From Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅), board the Keikyu Bus to Izu and get off at Zaimokuza Bus Station. It is a 2-minute walk to the beach.

2. Shonan Beaches: Enoshima and Katase Kaigan

©Fujisawa City Tourist Association

Enoshima (江ノ島) and Katase Kaigan Beach (片瀬海水浴場), located just a short journey from Tokyo, offer a delightful blend of island charm and seaside relaxation. Due to its close proximity to busy cities like Tokyo and Yokohama, it is a popular destination amongst locals and international tourists alike.

To get to Enoshima, board the JR Tokaido Line (東海道線) to Fujisawa Station (藤沢駅) and transfer to the Enoden (江ノ電), arriving at Katase-Enoshima Station (片瀬江ノ島駅 Katase-Enoshima-eki), a short walk from the beaches. 

Enoshima Beach is renowned for its water sports facilities, including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, with rental shops providing equipment and lessons. 

Katase Kaigan Beach, adjacent to Enoshima, offers a tranquil setting with soft sands perfect for sunbathing and enjoying views of Enoshima Island. Both beaches boast beachfront cafes serving local seafood specialties and refreshing drinks, adding to the coastal allure enhanced by Enoshima’s shrines, gardens, and occasional views of Mount Fuji on clear days, creating a unique beach experience near Tokyo.

Katase Kaigan (片瀬海水浴場)
Address: 1-15-1 Katasekaigan, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 251-0035
Access: 4-minute walk from Katase-Enoshima Station (片瀬江ノ島駅)

3. Chiba Peninsula: Onjuku and Katsuura Beach

©photoAC

For those looking to escape the urban hustle and bustle, Onjuku (御宿) and Katsuura Beaches (勝浦海水浴場), situated on the Chiba Prefecture (千葉県) southeast of Tokyo, offer tranquil escapes with distinct charms. 

To reach Onjuku Beach, take the JR Sobu Line (総武線) to Onjuku Station (御宿駅), followed by a short 15-minute walk to the beach, renowned for its clear blue waters and clean sandy shores ideal for swimming and sunbathing. 

Onjuku is also a paradise for surfers of all levels, with surf schools and rental shops lining the coast. The beach also features designated swimming areas and beach volleyball courts, perfect for families and groups. 

Close by, Katsuura Beach is another gem, known for its picturesque setting and excellent surfing conditions, making it a favourite among surf enthusiasts. Both beaches feature a quaint, nostalgic atmosphere with charming beachside cafes and shops serving local seafood delicacies and refreshing beverages. During the summer months, these beaches host beachside events and festivals, adding to its allure as a coastal getaway.

Visiting in late summer of early autumn? This area is also known for its annual spiny lobster (伊勢海老 ise ebi) festival in September and October.

Onjuku Beach (御宿海岸)
Address: Hama, Onjuku, Isumi District, Chiba 299-5107
Access: 15-minute walk from the Onjuku Station (御宿駅)

Katsuura Beach (勝浦海水浴場)
Address: Kushihama, Katsuura, Chiba 299-5226, Japan
Access: 9-minute walk from the Katsuura Station (勝浦駅)

Planning your beach escape nearby Tokyo

Summer is also the season for fireworks! | ©photoAC

When planning your beach escape near Tokyo, consider these essential tips:

• Weather: Summer (June to August) offers warm temperatures and ideal beach conditions in Tokyo’s nearby coastal areas. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers and high humidity. Check weather forecasts and pack accordingly with sunscreen, hats, and light clothing.
• Accommodation: While day trips are feasible, consider staying overnight to fully enjoy each beach destination. Coastal towns like Kamakura and Enoshima offer a range of accommodations from guesthouses to seaside resorts, providing a relaxing base after a day at the beach.
• Stay hydrated: Summer in Japan can be hot and humid, so staying hydrated is crucial. Carry a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially if you’re spending time under the sun. Beachside cafes and vendors often offer refreshing beverages, but it’s a good idea to have water with you at all times.
• Crowds: Keep in mind that summer holidays in Japan, especially during weekends and national holidays like Obon (mid-August), can attract large crowds to popular beaches near Tokyo. Plan your visit early in the day or consider less popular times to avoid peak congestion and enjoy a more serene beach experience.

With its blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, these beaches near Tokyo offer a refreshing contrast to the city’s dynamic urban landscape. Whether you seek adventure on the waves or relaxation by the shore, these destinations promise an unforgettable summer beach experience just a short trip away from Japan’s bustling capital.

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Header image credit: photoAC