Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Yuigahama is one of the most famous beaches in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is attractive for its long sandy beach close to Kamakura Station. There are various theories about the origin of the family name, including "the beach where ships were pulled up" and "yui (to tie)," but it has long been used as a place related to maritime traffic and fishing, and has been popular with people from the Kamakura period to the present day. Facing Sagami Bay, on clear days you can see Enoshima in the distance, and it is also known as a famous spot for sunsets. In the summer, it is bustling with activity, with people enjoying swimming, marine sports, and the rows of beach huts. From spring to autumn, it is a popular place to take walks and take photos, and in winter, it is a place to enjoy the gentle sea breeze.
Highlights
- Long sandy beach: A spacious sandy beach where you can take a leisurely stroll along the water's edge. Perfect for taking photos and picnics.
- Sunset and Enoshima View: Sunsets on clear days are popular, and you can take photos with Enoshima across the sea in the background.
- Beach huts and marine activities (seasonal): In the summer, you can eat and rest at the beach huts, and enjoy beach volleyball, SUP, bodyboarding, and more.
- Historical background: Located close to place names and historical sites from the Kamakura period, you can enjoy the combination of the seaside and the ancient capital of Kamakura.
- Nearby walking paths: If you walk along Yuigahama Street and Wakamiya Oji Street, you will come across temples, shrines, cafes, and old-style shops.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: About 10-15 minutes on foot from Kamakura Station on the JR Yokosuka Line or Shonan-Shinjuku Line (the easiest route is towards the sea from the East Exit/Komachi-dori area).
- Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden): Accessible from Wadazuka Station, one stop from Kamakura Station, or Hase Station, a little further away. From Wadazuka Station, it's about a 5-10 minute walk.
- By car: Although the property is located along National Route 134, we recommend using public transportation due to the heavy traffic and crowded parking lots in the summer. There are coin parking lots nearby, but the number of spaces is limited.
- Bus: There are bus routes from Kamakura Station to Yuigahama (bus stops vary depending on the route, so please check before boarding).
- Bicycles: There are many rental bicycles in Kamakura, and it is a pleasant experience to rent one near the station and ride along the coast. However, be aware that it can get crowded in the summer.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walks and photography: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Leisurely stroll + cafe break: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- If you plan to include swimming and marine activities: Half a day to a full day (in summer, it is common to stay longer at a beach hut)
- If you also want to visit the surrounding temples and shrines (Tsuruoka Hachimangu Shrine, Hasedera Temple, Great Buddha, etc.): A full-day course is recommended
Nearby spots
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: A representative shrine of Kamakura. A popular tourist spot within walking distance of Yuigahama Beach.
- Hase (Hasedera Temple and Kamakura Daibutsu): This historic temple and the Great Buddha are popular with families. Just a few stops away on the Enoshima Electric Railway.
- Komachi-dori: A street lined with souvenir and gourmet shops. Perfect for a stroll near Kamakura Station.
- Zaimokuza Beach: This beach stretches out next to Yuigahama Beach. You can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Enoshima: Accessible by car or train. Plenty of seafood and observation spots.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area is especially crowded during the summer (July to August), weekends, Golden Week, and the Obon holiday period. Roads and parking lots are also congested, so we recommend using public transportation.
- Swimming season safety: Swimming areas are set up seasonally and lifeguards are on duty at set times. Avoid swimming outside of beach huts or playing in deep waters, and be mindful of waves and rip currents.
- Garbage and Cleaning Up: Please be sure to take any trash you bring with you home or dispose of it in a designated area. Barbecues and open fires are generally prohibited, so be sure to check local rules.
- Noise and Manners: Noise at night, loud music, and fireworks are prohibited, and please refrain from any behavior that may cause a nuisance to others.
- Dogs and pets: In the summer, restrictions may be placed on pets being allowed on the beach. Please check in advance.
- Weather and tide levels: Swimming is prohibited in strong winds and high waves. Do not push yourself in bad weather.
- Managing your valuables: Be careful of theft and leaving things behind at the beach. If you plan to swim for a long time, take precautions such as using a locker or beach hut.
Yuigahama Beach is conveniently located for combining sightseeing in Kamakura, and is a spot where you can enjoy both the seaside scenery and the historical townscape. Please dress appropriately for the season and time of day, and be sure to follow proper etiquette to have a pleasant stay.
