Hatsuneura Beach, Ogasawara

Hatsuneura Beach is located on Chichijima, the main island of the Ogasawara archipelago, approximately 1,000 kilometers south of Tokyo. The Ogasawara Islands were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2011 due to their exceptional biodiversity and unique ecosystems that evolved in isolation over millions of years. The islands were uninhabited until the early 19th century and came under Japanese administration in 1876.

This beach is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white sand composed largely of coral fragments. The surrounding waters are part of the Ogasawara National Park, established in 1972, protecting rare endemic species both on land and in the marine environment. The area serves as an important habitat for green sea turtles, which nest on the beach during summer months, and visitors may observe these creatures during nesting season from May to August.

The beach offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and swimming in calm, shallow waters where colorful tropical fish and coral formations are visible just meters from shore. The marine life includes species found nowhere else on Earth, making it particularly valuable for nature enthusiasts and researchers. Kayaking is popular along the coastline, allowing exploration of nearby coves and rock formations. From December to April, humpback whales migrate through the surrounding waters, and whale-watching tours operate from Chichijima's port.

Reaching Hatsuneura Beach requires traveling to the Ogasawara Islands, which are accessible only by the Ogasawara Maru ferry departing from Tokyo's Takeshiba Terminal. The journey takes approximately 24 hours each way, with sailings typically operating once every three days to one week depending on the season. Once on Chichijima, the beach is located about 2 kilometers from Futami Port and can be reached by rental car, bicycle, or taxi in roughly 10 minutes.