Stunning Scenery Where Shakotan Blue Dazzles Beyond a Dark Tunnel; A Scenic Shore in Japan's Top 100 Beaches
About this spot
Selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Scenic Shores, this is a representative scenic spot of Shakotan Peninsula. Pass through a dark, hand-carved tunnel from the parking lot barely wide enough for one person to squeeze through, and the entire vista opens to a cove with exceptional transparency—this dramatic curtain-raising is the essence of Shimotai Beach. The sea viewed from the observation platform displays a stunning gradient, shifting from emerald shallow waters to deep indigo depths, instantly making clear what the term "Shakotan Blue" means. Descending a steep path leads to a beach strewn with round stones, and the sea's transparency up close is breathtaking. Legend has it the tunnel was once carved for herring fishing transport, a remnant of Shakotan's history as a thriving fishing community.
Tips
About 50 minutes by car west of Yoichi on Route 229; a free parking lot is available. The path down to the beach is steep, so wear comfortable walking shoes. The tunnel is dark, so watch your footing carefully, and yield courteously when passing others. The observation platform can be reached in just a few minutes from the parking lot.
Best time to visit
Approximately 50 minutes required. The sea's blue is most vivid in bright daylight.
Access & map
〒046-0327 Hokkaido, Shakotan-gun, Shakotan-cho, Irikeshi-cho
Model course featuring this spot
Shakotan Peninsula Kamui Cape and Yoichi: Shakotan Blue Scenic Drive
Hokkaido
Explore features & model courses
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