Aomori Beaches You Need to Visit This Summer

Source: Amazing AOMORI

When you think of beaches in Japan, Okinawa and Kanagawa probably come to mind first. But what if you want to skip the crowds and find a place that’s refreshingly different? Travel up north to Aomori, a northern gem where beaches aren’t just stretches of sand but breathtaking landscapes full of rugged cliffs and wild meadows. If you are seeking an authentic Japan beach experience that feels like a hidden treasure waiting to be uncovered, look no further than Aomori’s stunning coastline.

Senjojiki Coast (Senjojiki Kaigan)

Source: Amazing AOMORI

Senjojiki Coast is a geological marvel born from a powerful earthquake in 1792, featuring a vast, flat bedrock that extends dramatically into the Sea of Japan. Instead of soft, sandy shores, you will discover natural stone terraces resembling giant tatami mats, hence the name “Senjojiki,” meaning “1,000 tatami mats.” At sunset, the coast glows in golden hues, creating one of the most mesmerising seascapes in all of Japan.

Swimming might not be on the cards here, but the unique rock formations and tidal pools at Senjojiki Coast offer some of the most striking seaside views in Aomori. And did you know that the scenic Resort Shirakami train actually slows down as it passes this coast, just so passengers can fully take in the stunning ocean view?

Tanesashi Coast (Tanesashi Kaigan)

Source: Amazing AOMORI

Tanesashi Coast offers a unique mix of scenery you won’t find at most beaches in Japan. The 12-kilometre stretch combines grassy plains, rocky shorelines, and small sandy areas, making it a diverse spot to explore. Designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty in 1937, it was later incorporated into Sanriku Fukko National Park in 2013.

It’s a popular destination for visitors who enjoy walking or cycling along the well-marked coastal paths, including part of the Michinoku Coastal Trail, which runs through the Tohoku region.

Hotokegaura

Source: Amazing AOMORI

Hotokegaura is not your typical beach, it’s a dramatic stretch of coastline lined with towering green volcanic cliffs, sculpted over thousands of years by crashing waves and wind. The massive rock formations resemble seated Buddhas and mythical creatures, which is how the area earned its name, meaning “Buddha’s Cove.”

While it’s not suitable for swimming, the striking coastal scenery makes it a memorable stop for anyone exploring northern Japan’s shoreline.

Sabishiro Beach (Miss Veedol Beach)

Source: NAVITIME JAPAN

If you are after a more traditional beach experience, Sabishiro Beach, also known as Miss Veedol Beach, in Misawa offers a wide stretch of white sand lined with pine trees. It’s a great spot for families and day-trippers to enjoy picnics, beach walks, and the coastal air.

While it doesn’t have the dramatic cliffs found at other beaches in Aomori, it’s historically notable as the takeoff point for the first successful trans-Pacific flight in 1931. With its open shoreline and laid-back vibe, it’s the kind of place where you can simply unwind and take it easy.

Aomori may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Japan’s beaches, but that’s exactly what makes it special. From dramatic coastlines and natural rock formations to sandy shores, Aomori offers a summer escape that’s a little quieter, a little wilder, and a lot more memorable. So if you’re ready to swap the crowds for wide-open views and fresh sea air, Aomori’s coastline might be your perfect next getaway.

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