What is the legend behind Goshikihime Seaside Park?

The park is named after the legend of five princesses of the Heike clan who threw themselves into the sea at this location during the Genpei War (1180-1185) following their clan's defeat. According to local folklore, these princesses were transformed into five colored stones representing red, green, yellow, black, and white. This tragic tale from one of Japan's most significant historical periods gives the beach its name "Goshikihama" (Five-Color Beach) and cultural importance.

When is the best time to visit for swimming and activities?

The beach is officially open for swimming from June through August, making summer the peak season for water activities. Beach volleyball tournaments run from May to September, offering extended opportunities for sports enthusiasts. For those interested in cultural events, the Festival of the Five Princesses takes place each March, featuring local women portraying the legendary figures in a ceremonial boat procession.

How do I get to Goshikihime Seaside Park?

The park is located approximately 10 minutes from Iyoshi Station in Iyo City, Ehime Prefecture. Local transportation connects the station to the park, and parking facilities are available for those traveling by car. The park provides easy access to both the beach area and recreational facilities.

What facilities and activities are available at the park?

Goshikihime Seaside Park features a white sand beach lined with Washington palm trees, creating a tropical atmosphere. Facilities include an outdoor pool, basketball courts, spacious lawn areas for relaxation, restrooms, and shower facilities. The park regularly hosts hula picnics and beach volleyball events. Visitors can enjoy swimming, beach sports, sunset viewing over the Seto Inland Sea, and scenic walks along the coastline.

Is there an admission fee to enter the park?

Entry to the park grounds is free, allowing visitors to access the beach, lawn areas, and basic facilities without charge. However, specific amenities like the outdoor pool may require separate admission fees during peak season. Parking is available on-site, and the park provides essential facilities including restrooms and showers for beach users.

Ehime

Goshikihime Seaside Park, Iyo

4.3 (3)ParkPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Goshikihime Seaside Park offers a distinctive blend of natural beauty and historical legend on the western shores of Ehime Prefecture. Located in Iyo City, this coastal attraction transforms a beach steeped in ancient folklore into a modern seaside destination with tropical ambiance. The park was established in 1996 through renovations that enhanced the original Goshikihama beach while preserving its cultural significance.

The park's name and significance derive from a poignant legend surrounding five princesses of the Heike clan, who met their fate here during the Genpei War (1180-1185). According to local tradition, these royal women threw themselves into the sea at this location and were transformed into five colored stones representing red, green, yellow, black, and white. This historical narrative connects visitors to one of Japan's most tumultuous periods, when the Heike clan faced defeat by the Minamoto forces, effectively ending their dominance.

Visitors experience a carefully cultivated tropical atmosphere featuring Washington palm trees lining the pristine white sand beach. The park provides panoramic views across the Seto Inland Sea, where floating islands create ever-changing seascapes throughout the day. Sunset viewing stands as a primary attraction, with the western orientation offering spectacular evening displays over the water. The beach serves as an active swimming area during summer months, operating from June through August, while beach volleyball tournaments occur regularly from May to September.

The park incorporates both natural and recreational elements, including spacious lawn areas, basketball facilities, and an outdoor pool that attracts families with children. Annual events include hula picnics that enhance the tropical theme, and the Festival of the Five Princesses held each March, featuring local women portraying the legendary figures in a ceremonial boat procession.

Goshikihime Seaside Park is accessible from Iyoshi Station, located approximately 10 minutes away by local transportation. The park provides essential amenities including parking facilities, restrooms, and shower areas for beach users. Entry to the park grounds is free, though specific facilities like the pool may require separate admission fees during peak season.

The area

Address

696 Osaki, Iyo, Ehime 799-3127, Japan

What other travelers are saying about Goshikihime Seaside Park, Iyo

This is Goshikihama Square. I'm curious about the origin of the name, but the photos I took there turned out beautiful.

齋藤たけし

Oct 1, 2024

The sunset after the rain was beautiful!

CENDRILLONplus

Oct 31, 2025

This plaza features an art installation representing the five princesses, the origin of the name Goshikihime Seaside Park, using rocks of five different colors. You can also enjoy a panoramic view of the sea from here.