Chichibugahama Beach

Chichibugahama Beach stretches for 1 kilometer along the coast of Mitoyo City in Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku Island, in western Japan. The name translates literally as "father-mother beach", and the beach originally gained recognition when it was selected as one of Japan's "100 best sunsets". Around 2017, it became nationally known as a photography destination, drawing comparisons to Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni salt flats for its mirror-like reflections. The beach now attracts more than 200,000 visitors per year.

The beach's natural significance stems from its unique geographical features. The shallow beach extends up to 400 meters wide, and during low tide, the shallow waters recede several hundred meters, creating numerous mirror-like tide pools along the wide sandy beach. These reflections, known as the "mirrors of the heavens" or the "Heavenly Mirror of the Seto Inland Sea," occur when specific conditions align: low tide must coincide with calm weather. The winds tend to die down in the evening due to a local phenomenon known as Seto-no-Yunagi, creating perfectly still water surfaces that reflect the sky above.

The primary visitor experience centers on photography, particularly during the 30 minutes before and after sunset, often called the "Magic Hour." During this window at low tide, visitors can capture reflections of themselves appearing to float on the water's surface when photographed from low angles. Local volunteers who keep the beach tidy will happily help take photos, and there is a free photo service available during good weather conditions. Beyond photography, the beach functions as a swimming spot during summer months, with beachside cafes and coffee stands lining the shore. The sands remain smooth and virtually trash-free thanks to the efforts of local residents who clean Chichibugahama daily throughout the year.

Chichibugahama Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. The beach is accessible at all times as a natural coastal area. To reach Chichibugahama, take the JR Yosan Line from Takamatsu Station for approximately one hour to Takuma Station. From Takuma Station, the beach is a 20-minute taxi or bus ride away. Taxis from Takuma Station cost approximately ¥1,200 one way on weekday shuttle services. Visitors driving can reach it in approximately 20 minutes from the Sanuki Toyonaka or Mitoyo-Tossaka exits on the Takamatsu Expressway. Facilities include shower rooms and terrace seating at the general information center at Chichibugahama Port, and parking is available near the beach.