Chirihama Beach

Located on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, Chirihama Beach is unlike any other in Japan. Stretching for eight kilometers along the Sea of Japan, it’s famous for one thing: you can drive on it. Cars, buses and even motorbikes are allowed to cruise right along the water’s edge. Whether you’re behind the wheel or on foot, Chirihama offers stunning, wide-open coastal scenes and natural, golden sands. 

Chirihama Nagisa Driveway

Photo by: PIXTA/ ばりろく

Chirihama has firm, compacted sand that is dense enough to support the weight of cars. This unique surface is naturally formed by fine sediment carried from the Tedori River, creating a stretch of beach that feels more like a coastal highway than soft sand.

The beach forms part of the Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, an official public road that anyone can enter (no need for a 4WD or special permit). It’s the only beach in Japan where you can legally drive directly along the shoreline.

Driving along the beach in the early morning or at sunset is especially beautiful, with golden light reflecting off the sand and a gentle sea breeze drifting in from the Japan Sea. While the thrill of driving on the beach is the main attraction, it’s also popular with people wanting to walk, swim and enjoy the coastal scenery.

In summer, parts of the beach open up for swimming and local vendors set up food stalls selling fresh grilled seafood, ice cream and cold drinks. Chirihama is also a popular beach for collecting seashells. 

Chirihama Rest House

Photo by: PIXTA/ akey

At the southern entrance of the Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, you’ll find a well-equipped rest stop. Here, you can sample local Noto Peninsula specialties like manjugai (white clams), pick up regional souvenirs, or rent a bike.

One of the most popular souvenirs is Hamaguri Senbei. These crispy crackers are made by pressing and frying local clams. Another local favorite is Ika Dango, savory dumplings made with fish and squid from the nearby waters.

The on-site restaurant, Hamayaki Noto Fudo, serves fresh seafood meals including kaimeshi (shellfish rice), kaisendon (seafood rice bowls) featuring ingredients sourced from the Japan Sea. The set meals are especially popular with road trippers looking for a hearty, local lunch.

The rest stop also features the SSTR Cafe, a favorite among touring motorcyclists and digital nomads. Grab a drink or light meal and relax on the deck overlooking Chirihama Beach.

If a day trip isn’t quite enough, a small campground near the beach is open from May to September.