Makino Sunny Beach (マキノサニービーチ)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A beach with a stretch of white sand along the shore of Lake Biwa. Because the water is shallow and the waves are gentle, it's the perfect spot for young children's first experience playing in the water. It's also proud of its excellent water quality, selected as one of Japan's 88 Best Bathing Beaches - the clear lake water feels so good you'll want to dip your feet in right away. Unlike the ocean, it's freshwater and not sticky, which is a welcome point for families since cleanup after playing is easy. Behind the sandy beach, a pine grove continues, where you can spread out a leisure sheet in the shade and relax. In summer there's lake swimming, and in other seasons you can enjoy playing in the sand, skipping stones, and walking along the lakeshore. Since an auto campsite is right next door, it's also a great idea to combine your visit with a day camp or barbecue.

Tips

About a 10-minute walk from JR Kosei Line Makino Station (マキノ駅), so it's easy to access by train as well. By car, note that parking becomes paid during the summer lake-swimming season and gets crowded on weekends, so allow extra time. Since there are areas of the lakebed mixed with small pebbles, water shoes are reassuring for children. Restrooms and showers can be used at the facilities on the adjoining campsite side.

Best time to visit

About 1.5 hours. In the afternoon, the water warms up, making it ideal for playing in the water, and as evening approaches, the lake surface is bathed in soft light.

Access & map

Shiga Prefecture, Takashima City, Makino Sunny Beach