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Kehi no Matsubara: A Coastal Pine Paradise

Discover Kehi no Matsubara: A scenic coastal escape with stunning pine forests, sandy beaches, and serene walking trails in Tsuruga, Fukui.

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Kehi no Matsubara is a nationally designated scenic beauty spot in Tsuruga, Fukui, renowned as one of Japan's three most beautiful pine groves. This coastal haven features approximately 17,000 Japanese red and black pine trees stretching along a 1.5-kilometer beach, offering a picturesque landscape of white sand and green pines. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, swimming in the summer, and the serene atmosphere of this historic site.

A brief summary to Kehi no Matsubara

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer for swimming and beach activities, but be prepared for larger crowds.
  • Explore the walking trails for year-round views of the pine forest and coastline.
  • Attend the Floating Lanterns and Fireworks Show on August 16th for a spectacular evening event.
  • Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
  • Check the tide times if you plan to swim, especially if visiting with children.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From JR Tsuruga Station, take the Matsubara-sen line Community Bus to the Kehi no Matsubara Bus Stop. The bus ride takes approximately 12-18 minutes. The fare is around ¥200-300 [INFORMATION UNABLE TO BE FOUND]. Alternatively, take the Tsuruga Excursion Line Bus (Tourism Route) to the Matsubara Coast Bus Stop, which takes about 15 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available outside JR Tsuruga Station. A taxi ride to Kehi no Matsubara takes approximately 7 minutes and costs around ¥1,000-¥1,500.

  • Walking

    From Kehi Jingu Shrine, it is approximately a 30-minute walk to Kehi no Matsubara. Follow the signs and enjoy the scenic route through the town.

  • Driving

    If driving, take the Hokuriku Expressway to the Tsuruga IC, from which Kehi no Matsubara is approximately a 9-13 minute drive. Parking is available near the park, but spaces are limited, especially during peak season and events. Parking costs vary, with some lots offering free parking for the first hour and charging ¥100 for each additional 30 minutes. Maximum daily charges range from ¥700.

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Discover more about Kehi no Matsubara

Kehi no Matsubara, located in Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture, is celebrated as one of Japan's three most stunning pine groves, alongside Miho no Matsubara in Shizuoka and Niji no Matsubara in Saga. This scenic area, designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty, spans approximately 1.5 kilometers and covers 400,000 square meters. It boasts around 17,000 Japanese red and black pine trees, creating a striking contrast between the white sandy beach and the verdant pines. The park offers well-maintained walking trails, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the pine forest. In the summer, the beach becomes a popular destination for swimming and relaxation, with amenities such as showers and changing rooms available. The clear, shallow waters are ideal for families with children. Kehi no Matsubara is not only a place of natural beauty but also rich in history and legend. According to local lore, during the reign of Emperor Shomu (724-749), foreign invaders were deterred by the sudden appearance of thousands of pine trees overnight, with white herons perched atop resembling battle flags. The park has also been visited by notable historical figures, including Emperor Meiji, Katsu Kaishu, and Takahama Kyoshi. Each year on August 16th, Kehi no Matsubara hosts a Floating Lanterns and Fireworks Show, creating a magical spectacle against the backdrop of the natural landscape. Red, blue, and yellow lanterns float on the sea, while fireworks light up the sky, drawing large crowds.

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