Kisami Ohama Beach

Kisami Ohama Beach is located in Shimoda City on the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. This 770-meter-long white sand beach stretches along the Pacific coast and has been recognized as one of Japan's most beautiful beaches. The area gained prominence during the Edo period when Shimoda served as one of Japan's first ports opened to foreign trade following Commodore Perry's arrival in 1854.

The beach's natural significance lies in its pristine coastal environment, characterized by clear turquoise waters and fine white sand that contrasts dramatically with the surrounding green mountains. The water quality consistently earns high ratings, and the beach has received the Blue Flag certification, an international eco-label awarded to beaches meeting strict environmental and safety standards. Kisami Ohama faces the open Pacific Ocean, creating conditions favorable for surfing and bodyboarding, particularly during the summer months when waves are moderate and consistent.

Visitors can engage in various water activities including swimming in a designated safe zone marked by buoys, snorkeling near the rocky outcrops at either end of the beach, and stand-up paddleboarding. The beach offers equipment rentals for water sports and maintains facilities including showers, changing rooms, and lockers. During the official swimming season from mid-July through August, lifeguards are stationed on duty. The beachfront area features several cafes and restaurants serving fresh seafood and local cuisine. Evening visits are popular for watching sunsets over the Pacific horizon.

The beach is accessible from Izukyu-Shimoda Station, the terminus of the Izukyu Line, which connects to Tokyo via the Odoriko limited express train in approximately two and a half hours. From Shimoda Station, the Tokai Bus bound for Kisami Ohama takes roughly 10 minutes. Visitors driving from Tokyo can reach the beach via the Tomei Expressway and Route 135 in approximately three hours. A paid parking lot accommodating several hundred vehicles is available near the beach, with fees varying by season.