Kikugahama Beach

Kikugahama Beach in Yamaguchi Prefecture offers a mix of serene coastal beauty and deep historical roots. Just a five-minute walk from Hagi Castle, this stretch of white sand runs east to west along Hagi Bay, framed by distant mountains, pine trees and small volcanic islands that dot the sea. It’s a popular summer destination but what makes Kikugahama truly special is how it blends everyday leisure with stories of feudal Japan and coastal defense.

Kikugahama and Hagi’s History

Photo by: PIXTA/ zak

Kikugahama Beach is the perfect place to unwind, with calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming during the summer season. The beach is especially photogenic thanks to the scenic backdrop of Mount Shizuki, the site of the former Hagi Castle and Mount Kasayama, a forested volcano rising to the northeast. Several small islands visible from shore were a result of volcanic eruptions from the Abu Volcano Group.

Lined with uniquely shaped pine trees and clean white sand, Kikugahama is a beloved part of local life in Hagi. Residents stroll along the beach and families gather here for swimming, beach picnics and fireworks.

Just inland from the western end of the beach is Onagodaiba, or “the women’s fortress”. This historical site was built by the townsfolk of Hagi in 1863 as a coastal defense. With most samurai away fighting in Shimonoseki, local women in traditional kimono helped construct the defensive mound while singing Otokonara (“If I Were a Man”), a song still sung in Hagi today. Whilst a naval attack on Hagi never occurred, the mound remains tucked behind the beachfront in a quiet, leafy park.

Things to Do 

Photo by: PIXTA/ kazukiatuko

From August 1, the beach becomes the site of Hagi’s Summer Festival, one of the city’s most anticipated annual events. The highlight is a vibrant fireworks display over the bay, with colorful reflections from over 7000 fireworks.

Hagi Castle Ruins (Shizuki Park)

This peaceful park, built on the site of the former Hagi Castle and features moats, stone walls and beautiful plum blossoms in spring. It is open 24 hours and admission is free.

Hagi Meiringakusha Visitor Center

Nearby is Hagi’s World Heritage Visitor Center, where you can explore Hagi’s volcanic past and Meiji-era history. There is also a tourist information center, a cafe and a gift shop on site.

Mishima Island

Visible just offshore from Kikugahama Beach is Mishima Island, home to the cattle that produce Kenran beef, a Yamaguchi delicacy. The island can be visited via ferry from Hagi Harbor, with 2–4 round trips daily depending on the season.