Mochiishi Beach, also known as Sanrigahama, is a beautiful coastal area in Masuda City, Shimane Prefecture. It forms part of an approximately 13-kilometer-long crescent-shaped coastline stretching from Tōda Beach to Kohama Beach.
The coastline was formed by sand carried from the Takatsu and Masuda Rivers and gradually deposited by seasonal winds and waves from the Sea of Japan. The result is a distinctive sandy beach and dune landscape that has long been recognized as one of the scenic highlights of the San’in region.
The section between Takatsu and Kiyami is particularly impressive, with spectacular views from along National Route 191. White sands contrast beautifully with the deep blue waters of the Sea of Japan, while long lines of white waves roll toward the shore.
Because of its scenic beauty, the area has been affectionately known for generations as Sanrigahama.
During summer, Mochiishi Beach becomes a popular destination for swimming and enjoying the seaside.
The long sandy shoreline and relatively shallow waters create an open, spacious atmosphere. The combination of broad beaches and the blue Sea of Japan makes this one of the particularly scenic coastal areas in the San’in region.
Sanrigahama Beach House and Mochiishi Swimming Area provide facilities for beach visitors. Showers are available during July and August, while restrooms can be used 24 hours a day, making the beach convenient for families as well as individual travelers.
Mochiishi Beach is not only a place for swimming. Walking paths and small shelters have been provided along the coast, allowing visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in views of the sea.
The promenade also features colorful mosaic artworks, including Peter Pan. Discovering these artworks along the way adds an enjoyable element to a seaside walk.
Rocks and rocky areas are scattered along parts of the coast, giving different sections of the beach their own character. Visitors can enjoy changing views of the shoreline as they explore.
At sunset, the scenery becomes especially beautiful. As the sun sinks over the Sea of Japan, the sky and water are bathed in warm colors, creating an atmospheric coastal landscape.
Sanrigahama was once known for its classic Japanese coastal scenery of white sand and pine trees. Over time, however, waves caused sections of the sandy beach to gradually retreat.
To protect the coastline, various measures have been introduced, including the construction of T-shaped groynes and offshore breakwaters, as well as beach nourishment projects that replenish sand.
These efforts help preserve the natural beauty of the coastline while maintaining a comfortable environment where visitors can enjoy the beach.
By public transportation: From JR Masuda Station on the San’in Main Line, take a bus for approximately 20 minutes and get off at the Mochiishi bus stop. The beach is immediately nearby.
By car: Mochiishi Beach is approximately 10 minutes by car from JR Masuda Station.
Mochiishi Beach offers a striking combination of white sandy beaches and the deep blue Sea of Japan. The landscape is beautiful in every season, while summer swimming, coastal walks, photography, and sunset viewing each offer a different way to experience the area.
For travelers exploring Masuda and western Shimane, Mochiishi Beach is a relaxing place to experience the natural beauty of the Sea of Japan and enjoy the spacious atmosphere of the San’in coast.