Swim until evening on shallow white sand — one of Japan's 100 finest beaches

About this spot

A swimming beach inside Kita-Nagato Kaigan Quasi-National Park (北長門海岸国定公園), spreading right beside the Hagi castle town (萩城下町). In 2026 it is open from Saturday 18 July to Sunday 23 August, with swimming hours from 9:00 to 17:00. Chosen as one of Japan's 100 finest bathing beaches (快水浴場百選), it is known for white sand and gentle waves, and the beauty of the setting against the greenery of Shizuki Park (指月公園) adds to its appeal. There are 70 parking spaces (1,000 yen per visit), and swimming itself is free. Bonfires, barbecues and fireworks are prohibited, so this is a beach for relaxed time built around sandcastles and splashing at the water's edge. Soak up summer to the full until evening.

Season & hours

Tips

Its position right by Shizuki Park (指月公園) and the castle town makes it easy to flow straight on from the morning's sightseeing. Swimming is free, but parking costs 1,000 yen per visit during the open season, so bring change. Summer sand gets hot, so beach sandals are a must. Swimming ends at 17:00, so allow time to change and wrap up 15 minutes beforehand.

Best time to visit

From just after 14:00, the sun eases a little and you have plenty of swimming time through to 17:00

Access & map

Kikugahama Beach, Hagi City (萩市 菊ヶ浜海水浴場)