Shirarahama

What it is

• A resort beach in Wakayama Prefecture composed of white quartz sand.
• A sister beach of Waikiki Beach in Hawaii.
• One of Japan's Top 100 Beaches protected by local anti-littering ordinances.
• A popular summer destination that receives approximately 600,000 annual visitors.

What to see

• White sand imported from Australia to maintain the shoreline.
• Shirasuna, a mixed-gender open-air bath located directly on the beach.
• Shark prevention nets installed in the water during the summer months.

When to go

• The swimming season begins early starting from May 3rd.
• Fireworks festivals are held annually on July 30th and August 10th.

Getting there

• The beach is accessible by bus from Shirahama Station.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.