Matsushima Bay

Shobutahama Beach

菖蒲田浜 | Shobutahama Beach

With sun, sand, waves, music, and food, a trip here will make your summer a memorable one

Photo by Tyler Gilbert

  • Tyler Gilbert

    Writer

    Last Update
    August 8, 2019

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  • Shobutahama isn't just an ordinary beach―with festivals and concerts on the sand and surfers challenging the waves in all seasons, Shichigahama's largest beach is a lively destination for those looking to soak up some sun and summertime vibes year round.

    Shobutahama, the third oldest swimming beach in Japan, was once visited by the likes of author Kenji Miyazawa. It continues to attract flocks of beachgoers to soak in the sun and enjoy the mild waters of the Pacific. While it incurred heavy damage from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami, Shobutahama has since been completely reconstructed, protected by a new seawall. Not only does it guard the town of Shichigahama from tsunami, but it also offers an open public space for outdoor performances and recreation. During the summer swimming season it is open daily and offers amenities including lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, and toilets.

    While the seawall may obstruct views of the ocean from inland, I love the wall as a place for recreation. My favorite place to jog or walk is at the top of the wall, and you can even bring a lunch and enjoy a picnic with a stunning view of the Pacific. Plus, just next to the wall is a chic and delicious restaurant called Sea Saw, which offers refreshing and colorful drinks.

    WEBSITEhttps://www.facebook.com/visitshichigahama/

  • Matsushima Bay

    Tags

    Do & See Matsushima Bay Outdoor Sports & Activities Summer

Details

ADDRESS

Nagasuka Hanabuchihama, Shichigahama, Miyagi District, Miyagi Prefecture 985-0803

ACCESS BY PUBLIC TRANSIT

Access: About 30 minutes by bus from Tagajo or Hon-Shiogama Stations. From Tagajo Station (多賀城駅) or Hon-Shiogama Station (本塩釜駅), board Gururinko (ぐるりんこ) bus bound for Shichigahama Kokusai Mura (七ヶ浜国際村). Alight at Shobutahama Kaisuiyokujo-mae (菖蒲田浜海水浴場前) bus stop. Tagajo Station bus timetable here. Hon-Shiogama Station bus timetable here.

ADMISSION

Free

LANGUAGES

Japanese only

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

No

HOURS

Official swimming hours are mid-July to mid-August 9:00–16:00

CLOSED DAYS

In cases of inclement weather

PHONE

022-766-8205

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