TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Chigasaki Southern Beach (Southern Beach Chigasaki) is one of the best beach spots on the Shonan Coast in Chigasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Characterized by a coastline overlooking Eboshi Rock and beautiful sunsets, it is popular with locals and tourists alike. The name "Southern" symbolizes the image of "South" and Chigasaki's seaside culture, and the area is often associated with music culture such as Southern All Stars. In the summer, swimming, marine sports, and beach events are held, and from spring to autumn it is a popular spot for strolling and watching the sunset.
Highlights
- The scenery with Eboshiiwa Rock in the background: The small island floating in the sea is a great photo spot. If the weather is good, you can even see Mt. Fuji.
- Sunset: The sun setting over the horizon is a spectacular sight that represents Shonan. It is especially recommended on sunny days from summer to autumn.
- Marine activities: Enjoy surfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), bodyboarding, and more (seasonal and area restrictions apply).
- Beach Events: Summer fireworks displays, food festivals, beach sports competitions, and more are sometimes held. Please check the official website for details on the years they are held and the details of the events.
- Walking and cycling along the sea: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy beach and promenade.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Chigasaki Station on the JR Tokaido Line or Sagami Line (the south exit is convenient).
- Walking: Approximately 15-25 minutes on foot from the south exit of Chigasaki Station (this may vary depending on the route and walking speed).
- Bus: From the south exit of Chigasaki Station, take a bus bound for the coast to Southern Beach or a nearby bus stop, which takes about 5 to 10 minutes (depending on the route).
- Car/Bicycle: Located along National Route 134. Paid parking and bicycle parking available nearby (may be full during peak hours).
- From the Greater Tokyo Area: From Tokyo, take the JR Tokaido Line for approximately 40-60 minutes (depending on your boarding location).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walks and photography: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Sunset viewing: 1 hour (including before and after sunset)
- Stay including swimming and marine activities: Half a day to a full day
- If you include visiting nearby cafes and strolling around: Half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Around Chigasaki Station (Yuzo-dori, etc.): Plenty of restaurants and souvenir shops.
- Yanagishima Beach: Located close to Southern Beach, this area is easy to get to for strolling and swimming.
- Enoshima/Shonan area: Sightseeing is possible with a short car or train ride.
- Cycling and seaside cafes: We recommend visiting the cafes scattered along the coastline or renting a bicycle to get around.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The park is especially crowded on summer weekends, public holidays, fireworks festivals, and long weekends. Parking lots fill up quickly, so we recommend using public transportation.
- Ocean safety: Be sure to check swimming areas and ocean conditions. Due to the dangers of rip currents, please avoid swimming in unsafe areas and entering the water at night. Swimming is at your own risk except when lifeguards are present (mainly in summer).
- Manners: Please take your trash with you, use fires (BBQs, etc.) in designated areas, and be considerate of other users. Noise and nuisance behavior can cause trouble.
- Pets: Rules regarding dogs vary depending on the season and location. Please observe proper etiquette, such as keeping dogs on a leash and cleaning up their waste.
- Seasonal precautions: In summer, be careful of strong sunlight and high temperatures. Take measures against sunburn and drink plenty of water. In winter, the sea breeze is strong and the temperature feels lower, so you need to dress warmly. Depending on the weather, visibility may be poor and you may not be able to enjoy the scenery.
Before you visit, be sure to check the official websites of Chigasaki City and Southern Beach, as well as the latest information on transportation. Enjoy your trip!
