Shiga Prefecture

Japan is not one of the first countries that spring to mind when you think of beach culture, but in fact, the country has plenty of beautiful coastlines, with the Kansai region boasting many memorable beaches consisting of pale sand and lush turquoise water. Fancy a dip this summer? Here are a few suggestions on where to head to. Nishikinohama (Osaka) One of Kansai’s most spectacular outdoor spaces, this beach gets its name from the contrast between the white sand and surrounding green pine trees that make for postcard-perfect pictures. This is because nishiki means “two colors” in Japanese. One of the region’s most popular beach resorts during the hottest summer months, Nishikinohama is located within a larger park area less than an hour’s journey from central Osaka. Great for swimming and sunbathing, there are also BBQ facilities and various watersport opportunities onsite. Website: https://nishikinohama-park.com/ (in Japanese) Amanohashidate (Kyoto) In northern Kyoto prefecture, Amanohashidate is famed as one of Japan’s three most scenic spots. This coastal wonder consists of a 3.5 km natural sand bridge, best viewed by taking the chairlift to neighboring Kasamatsu Park and heading to the 400 ft-high observatory. You can see the bridge in all its…