Japan's longest beach has loggerhead turtles and stones that end up on Go boards
Shichiri Mihama Beach is covered with gravel and stretches for 22 kilometers, making it the longest beach in Japan. You'll appreciate the views and spacious surroundings here along the coast of Kumano-nada Sea.
If you're here in the right season, you'll see loggerhead turtles laying their eggs.
Don't Miss
- Loggerhead turtles lay their eggs on the beach from May to September
- Kumano Fireworks Festival on August 17
- An ancient shrine with mysterious rocks holding spiritual meaning
How to Get There
You can get to the beach by train and then on foot, or drive here.
Renting a car would be the most convenient way to access and tour this remote part of Mie, but you can also take the JR Kisei Main Line to Kumanoshi Station, then stroll south across the Ido River and onto the beach. A tourist information center with some information in English is across the street from the station.
Plenty of space for strolls, photography and viewing wildlife
Although swimming is not allowed due to the large waves and powerful currents, walking along the shore is highly recommended.
You might be interested to know that the beach stones find their way beyond the coast to serve as pieces for the ancient board game of go, as garden stones, and as accessories.
Loggerhead turtles laying eggs
Nature fans and kids especially will be excited to see the loggerhead turtles that come to lay their eggs on the beach every year. The best time to see the aquatic reptiles is between May 1 and September 30.
To protect them, restrictions on cars and motorcycles are in effect at this time.
Get the lofty shot
If you're hunting for a panoramic photo opportunity, head over to the Matsumoto Pass along the Ise Route, a trail for pilgrims that offers picturesque views of the beach.
The Kumano Fireworks Festival
The Kumano Fireworks Festival happens right on the beach on August 17, where you can watch boats offshore launch prismatic rockets into the sky and the spectacular result.
* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.