Setoda Sunset Beach: A Coastal Paradise
Experience stunning sunsets, clear waters, and sandy shores at this idyllic beach in Onomichi, Hiroshima.
Setoda Sunset Beach is a picturesque coastal retreat on Ikuchijima Island in Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture. This 800-meter-long beach is celebrated as one of Japan's top 88 swimming beaches, boasting soft, white sands and clear, calm waters perfect for swimming and various water sports. The beach offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea, especially during sunset when the sky transforms into vibrant colors. Visitors can relax on the beach, partake in beach volleyball, paddleboarding, and sea kayaking. The beach also features camping sites and BBQ facilities, making it ideal for family outings and gatherings. Contemporary art installations are scattered around Sunset Beach as part of the island-wide Shimagoto Art Museum, blending art with the natural scenery. The Shimanami Kaido cycling route passes by the beach, making it a convenient rest stop for cyclists. A bicycle rental terminal is available for those who wish to explore the scenic coastal paths. Setoda, the town where the beach resides, has a rich history as a port that prospered during the Edo period. Today, it is known as Japan's top producer of lemons, sometimes called "Shimanami Lemon Beach".
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for the most stunning views and perfect photo opportunities.
- Bring your own picnic supplies to enjoy a meal on the beach.
- Check the local weather forecast for the best beach experience.
- Consider renting a bike to explore the scenic coastal paths around the beach.
A brief summary to Setoda Sunset Beach
- 1506-15 Setodacho Tarumi, Onomichi, Setodacho Tarumi, Hiroshima, 722-2404, JP
- +81845-27-1100
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Ferry and Walking
From Onomichi Station, take a ferry to Setoda Port on Ikuchijima Island. Ferries depart regularly, and the journey takes approximately 40 minutes. From Setoda Port, it's about a 3.5km walk to Setoda Sunset Beach, or about 15 minutes. Alternatively, take the bus from Setoda Port to Sunset Beach Iriguchi. Ferry cost: Approximately ¥1300. Bus fare: Approximately ¥200.
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Driving
From the Ikuchijima-kita interchange of the Nishi-Seto Expressway (Shimanami Kaido), turn left and follow Prefectural Highway 81. Turn right at the T-junction in front of Setoda Port, passing the Hirayama Ikuo Museum of Art. Drive 200m from the T-junction to Setoda Sunset Beach. Parking is available on-site, with a small fee depending on the time of year. Tolls apply on the Nishi-Seto Expressway.
