Kotohikihama Beach, Tango Travel Guide

4.2 (794)

Discover Kotohikihama Beach in Kyotango: Pristine sands, clear waters, and the unique 'singing' phenomenon await!

Home
Travel Guides
Japan
Tango
Kotohikihama Beach

Kotohikihama Beach, nestled in Kyotango, Kyoto, is renowned as one of Japan's largest 'singing sand' beaches, stretching 1.8 km. Its unique squeaking sound, produced by the quartz-rich sand, signifies the area's pristine environment. The beach is also known for its clear waters, scenic beauty, and commitment to preservation as the world's first non-smoking beach.

A brief summary to Kotohikihama Beach

網野町掛津, Kyotango, 網野町, Kyoto, 629-3112, JP
Click to display
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kotohikihama Beach.

Listen for the 'singing sands' – the squeaking sound made when walking on the beach, a sign of its purity.
Visit the open-air hot spring bath on the beach; remember to wear a swimsuit.
Adhere to the beach's rules: no smoking, open barbecuing, or fireworks, to help preserve its natural state.
Check out the Kotohikihama Singing Sand Museum to learn more about the beach's unique sand composition.
Take a photo from the parking area with the 'Kotohikihama' sign for a recommended scenic shot.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Nanayo Falls

Tango Matsushima

Tashirojima

Ryujin Waterfalls

Asukayama Park

Explore Kotohikihama Beach on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Kotohikihama Beach, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Amino Station on the Kyoto Tango Railway's Miyatoyo Line, take the Tankai bus (bound for Kyogamisaki or Tango Government Office) for approximately 15 minutes. Get off at the 'Kotohikihama' bus stop, and walk for 5 minutes to the beach. The local Tankai bus fare is a maximum of ¥200 for adults.
Car

From Kyotango Omiya Interchange on the Sanin Kinki Expressway Nodagawa Omiya Road, follow National Highways 312, 482, 663, and 178, following the signs for Kotohikihama Beach. Parking is available near the beach. Parking fee is typically ¥1,000 per day, but may increase to ¥2,000 during July and August.
Walking

If arriving by bus, disembark at the 'Kotohikihama' bus stop. Head south towards the beach area, following the path lined with local shops and eateries. You will see signs directing you to Kotohikihama Beach. It's a short 5-minute walk.

Discover more about Kotohikihama Beach

Kotohikihama Beach, located in Amino-cho, Kyotango City, Kyoto Prefecture, is a captivating destination celebrated for its natural beauty and unique 'singing sands'. Stretching 1.8 kilometers along the coast, this beach is a designated Natural Monument and Place of Scenic Beauty. The name 'Kotohikihama' alludes to the sound of playing the koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument.The beach's fame stems from the squeaking sound produced when walking on its sands. This phenomenon is due to the high quartz content and the cleanliness of the sand. Environmental conservation is a priority, and Kotohikihama was the first beach in the world to ban smoking. Open barbecuing and fireworks are also prohibited to maintain the purity of the environment.Visitors can enjoy the clear waters for swimming during the season, typically from mid-July to mid-August. A unique feature is the open-air bath with natural hot spring water, available for free, where swimsuits are required. The beach also hosts events like the annual 'Barefoot Concert' in early June. Nearby attractions include the Kotohikihama Singing Sand Museum and various dining and shopping options.