菖蒲田浜 / Shobutahama Beach
Swimming, surfing and music
Photo by Tyler Gilbert
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.
Last Update
August 8, 2019
Area Matsushima Bay
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
OFFICIAL URL
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