Miho Beach

Miho Beach in Shizuoka Prefecture is one of the most iconic coastal destinations in Japan. It’s famous for its postcard-perfect views of Mount Fuji, long stretches of black volcanic sand and the centuries-old pine grove known as Miho no Matsubara.

From the shore, you can see Japan’s most iconic peak rising above the horizon, often reflected in the sea on calm days. The contrast of black volcanic sand, deep blue water, and the snow-capped summit creates one of the country’s most striking natural scenes.

Miho no Matsubara

Photo by: PIXTA/ barman

Framing the beach is the legendary Miho no Matsubara, a 7-kilometer stretch of pine forest with over 30,000 trees. One of the reasons Miho no Matsubara is so famous across Japan is because of the legend of the Hagoromo, a story passed down through generations in this coastal area.

According to the tale, a fisherman from Miho was walking along the beach when he spotted a shimmering golden robe (hagoromo) hanging from the branch of a pine tree. As he went to take it home, a maiden appeared and explained that she needed the robe to return to the heavens. The fisherman agreed to give it back on the condition that the maiden perform a dance for him. The pine tree where she is said to have hung her robe, known as the Hagoromo no Matsu, still stands at Miho no Matsubara today. Visitors can find a monument and shrine nearby that commemorate the story, making it a must-see for those interested in local folklore and traditional Japanese legends.

Miho Shrine

Photo by: WikiCommons/ Twilight2640

Just inland from the beach and pine grove, Miho Shrine is a small but culturally important shrine deeply tied to the Legend of the Hagoromo. The shrine’s peaceful atmosphere and traditional architecture make it a nice addition to your visit.

• Opening Hours: Daily from 9 A.M. – 4 P.M.
• Admission: Free
• Access: About a 5–10 minute walk from the Miho no Matsubara trail entrance or bus stop

Summer Activities

During summer, the beach becomes a popular swimming spot for locals and day-trippers. While the volcanic sand can be coarse, the gentle slope and relatively calm waters make it a safe place for a dip, especially on warm, sunny afternoons.

Beyond swimming, the Miho Peninsula is a well-loved destination for water sports, especially windsurfing, kayaking, diving and shore fishing. The coastline also remains a favorite for long, reflective walks throughout the year, with scenic views in every season. Whether you come for sunrise, sunset or just to stretch your legs along the forested paths, it’s a peaceful place to slow down and take in the natural beauty of Japan’s coastline.