Shirahama Beach

Shirahama Beach is one of Japan's most famous beaches, known for its pristine white sand and crystal clear waters. The 640-meter stretch of white sandy beach is a popular summer destination located on the Kii Peninsula in Wakayama Prefecture. Beyond the beach, Shirahama is also known for its onsen (hot springs), with several public baths right along the coast where you can soak while watching the ocean. Saki-no-yu, a cliffside onsen by the sea, is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. The area features dramatic coastal scenery including Sandanbeki Cliffs and Senjojiki, a plateau of sandstone carved by ocean waves. Adventure World, a combined theme park, zoo, and aquarium famous for its pandas, is located nearby. Shirahama is accessible by JR limited express from Shin-Osaka in about 2.5 hours or by a short flight from Tokyo.