Quietly stretching along the Kumano Sea , Shichiri Mihama is Japan’s longest shingle beach , extending about 22 km. The contrast between the blue sea and black pebbles is striking, and in summer, sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, making it a special place to visit. The sound of waves along the shore welcomes every traveler.
This article introduces Q&A to help you enjoy Shichiri Mihama with ease, along with suggestions for your next destination. It is designed to be simple and practical, especially for first-time visitors to Japan or solo travelers.
Why not take a walk through Kumano, where nature and history meet, and discover unforgettable scenery? Here, we’ll share the experiences you can have at Shichiri Mihama.
Contents
Shichiri Mihama Access Guide for First-timers
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
By Train
Nagoya Station
Take the JR Kisei Line limited express “Nanki” to “Kumano-shi Station” (about 3 hrs 20 min)
From Kumano-shi Station, walk to Shichiri Mihama
Total travel time: about 3 hrs 30 min
Osaka Station
Take the JR Loop Line to “Tennoji Station” (about 20 min)
From Tennoji, take the JR Limited Express “Kuroshio” to “Shingu Station” (about 4 hrs)
Transfer to the JR Kisei Line to “Kumano-shi Station” (about 30 min)
From Kumano-shi Station, walk to Shichiri Mihama
Total travel time: about 5 hrs
One Point Advice
Shichiri Mihama Visitor Information
Shichiri Mihama Highlights & Itinerary
Shishi Rock｜Lion-shaped Sea Guardian
At the northern end of Shichiri Mihama in Japan stands Shishi Rock, a 25-meter-high natural rock that resembles a lion roaring toward the sea. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Shaped by years of waves and wind, the massive formation symbolizes Kumano’s rugged strength. At sunrise, the rock glows golden, offering a mystical view that makes it a popular photo spot.
Time required: 15–20 min
Admission: Free
Matsumoto Pass｜Panoramic Kumano Kodo View
Part of the Kumano Kodo Iseji route, Matsumoto Pass offers one of the best viewpoints of Shichiri Mihama. After a 20-minute climb on a stone-paved trail, you’ll reach a spot overlooking the entire 22 km coastline stretching to the horizon. Walking the preserved Edo-period stone path on the famous Kumano Kodo adds historical depth to the natural scenery, letting you feel both history and nature at once.
Time required: 40–50 min
Admission: Free
Hana no Iwaya Shrine｜Sacred Rock Worship Site
Next to Shichiri Mihama, Hana no Iwaya Shrine is said to be Japan’s oldest shrine. Its deity is a 45-meter-high sacred rock itself, worshipped since ancient times. Twice a year, in February and October, the Great Festival is held, where a giant rope is suspended across the rock in a powerful ritual. Visiting this ancient Japanese shrine alongside a walk at Shichiri Mihama allows you to feel the deep connection between nature and faith in Kumano.
Time required: 30 min
Admission: Free
Side Trips from Shichiri Mihama｜Afternoon & Next Day
Onigajo｜Sea-carved Rock Formations
North of Shichiri Mihama lies Onigajo , a coastal area shaped by wave erosion into caves and dramatic rock formations. Walking along the seaside path feels like stepping into a natural maze. Local legends of demons are tied to the rocks’ shapes and names, adding depth to the scenery. It is only about a 15-minute walk away, making it an ideal extension to your beach stroll.
See also this article
Explore Onigajo｜Top Sights, Scenic Walks & Tips
The rugged coastline dotted with unique rock formations and caves creates a majestic landscape that embraces every visitor—this is Onigajo, a UNESCO World He…
Shingu Castle Ruins｜Samurai-era Stone Walls
About 30 minutes by JR Kisei Line from Kumano-shi Station , Shingu Castle Ruins stand in the city center. Once the residence of the Mizuno clan, rulers of Kumano during the Sengoku and Edo periods, today only stone walls and moats remain, forming a peaceful park. From the hilltop, you can see the Kumano River and the town below, contrasting with the natural seascapes of Shichiri Mihama.
Nachi Falls｜Japan’s Tallest Waterfall
About 70 minutes by train and bus from Shichiri Mihama, Nachi Falls plunges 133 meters in a single drop, making it the tallest and most famous waterfall in Japan. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is paired with Seiganto-ji Temple and Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, offering a profound sense of Kumano as a land of nature and faith. The view from the basin is breathtaking, contrasting the vast horizontal stretch of Shichiri Mihama with the vertical power of cascading water.
Shichiri Mihama Travel Q&A
What are the highlights of Shichiri Mihama?
Along with being Japan’s longest shingle beach, this popular destination is home to UNESCO World Heritage spots such as Shishi Rock and Onigajo.
Can I see sea turtles lay eggs?
From May to September, loggerhead turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs.
What makes the Kumano Fireworks Festival special?
Held every August 17, the massive fireworks can be seen along the 22 km coastline.
Is Shichiri Mihama good for walking?
Yes. The sound of waves makes for a soothing walk, though sturdy shoes are recommended due to the pebbly ground.
Are there rest areas nearby?
Yes. The roadside station “Park Shichiri Mihama” offers dining, souvenir shops, and rest facilities.
Shichiri Mihama Travel Summary
Shichiri Mihama is one of Kumano’s signature Japanese coastal landscapes, with endless coastline and soothing waves. Summer brings sea turtles and fireworks, while each season reveals a new face of this remarkable shore.
With easy access from Kumano-shi Station , even first-time visitors can enjoy it with confidence. Blending grand scenery with cultural history, it’s a place where even solo travelers can create lasting memories.
Next, why not visit Hana no Iwaya Shrine, a symbol of Kumano’s faith, or Onigajo, where dramatic rock formations await?
