Enjoy Yuigahama Beach!

Published on 04.27.2016 Surrounded by the sea on all sides, Japan is an archipelago of almost 7,000 islands. This translating into a coastline of more than 29,000 km makes it always possible to find a beach nearby to escape the heat and the humidity when summer arrives.
For those living in Tokyo and Yokohama, the nearest escape is an hour’s train ride away in the city of Kamakura. This small city, also called the Little Kyoto of Eastern Japan for its historical monuments, offers several sand beaches to those living in the nearby cities. One of such popular beaches is Yuigahama Beach.
Yuigahama Beach has a rather surprising history, not associated with swimming at all. It has been the place of many prominent battles in 1180, 1333, and in 1416. Most of these battles took place during the Kamakura Period (1185-1333), which was ruled by Japan’s first shogun, Minamoto no Yoritomo. This is, also, where the shogun of Kamakura would purify his soul before visiting the shrines. As such, this used to be a sacred place for Minamoto Clan.
Fast forward to the current century, the area still draws big crowds, however for a different reason. From July to August those wishing to unwind from work and relax at the beach make their way here to sunbathe, swim or surf. Although September is also a good month for visiting the beach, there are less visitors which give it a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.
Among all the beaches in Kamakura, Yuigahama beach is famous for its beach huts and rental shops. There are many kinds of restaurants such as Thai and Turkish, several bars, and even nail painters. Live entertainment is also on during Sundays. Visitors can also rent bikes and cycle along the coast. Overall, the beach offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Opening hours: 09:00-17:00
How to get there:
By train:
From Kamakura Station (on JR Yokosuka Line or Enoden)- 15 minutes on foot
From Wadazuka Station, Hase Station or Yuigahama Station- 5 minutes on foot
By car:
As the place gets very busy during summer, parking space gets filled up very quickly and is also expensive. So it is best to use public transport to get there. Otherwise take the Asahina IC of Yokohama Yokosuka Road, take the 204 highway.


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Source: Japan Travel
http://en.japantravel.com/