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Sunset Japan

The 5 Best Sunset Locations to Enjoy During Autumn in Japan

By Aika Kaise Nov 11, 2022

Have you seen a Japanese sunset in the autumn in Japan? The scenery is breathtaking, and it’s sure to become an important memory you look back on! The skies in autumn are beautifully clear, making for a brilliantly clear sunset, and the angle of the sun during fall contributes to the vividity of the sunset!

Autumn Sunset Locations in Japan

Sunset Japan

Photo Credit: Canva

Although sunsets can be experienced anywhere, there are a few especially picturesque locations in Japan that will blow you away. This article introduces 5 of the best spots to view the sunset in Japan.

1. Yuhigaoka Observation Platform

Located in Hokkaido prefecture, this observation deck has become famous for having been used as filming location for many TV dramas. After all, a sunset by the beach is quite the romantic setting! The location is right next to the ocean, so you are able to enjoy the sunset with an unobstructed view. Being located at the coast, you can also enjoy the refreshing feeling of being blown in the wind! Although you need to climb up a hill, it only takes 15 minutes to get to the top. It is recommended to try to arrive before the start of sunset. Also, sunrises and sunsets are equally beautiful at this location!

Google Map

2. Unosaki Coast

This coastline in Akita prefecture has been chosen as one of the 100 best beach spots in Japan. As this observation location is also right next to the ocean, the view at sunset is incredible. In addition to the unobstructed views and cooling breeze, the color of the sea is emerald green which is sure to add a pop of color when the sunset reflects off the water! What’s more, because the depth of the ocean is shallow, there are many living creatures such as small fish, crabs and hermit crabs. Children are sure to enjoy searching for ocean life!
There is a parking lot near the area, and it only takes 1 minute to get to there. However, there are very few shops around there, so preparing necessities before visiting the beach is recommended.

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3. Godzilla Rock

Also in Akita prefecture, is a boulder named “Godzilla Rock.” The scenery of the sunset combined with the silhouette of Godzilla Rock is both beautiful and striking. As you may guess from the name, the rock is shaped like Godzilla’s head with an open mouth. If you visit the rock towards sunset, the backlit rock appears as if Godzilla is roaring to the ocean!
We recommend you enjoy the sunset views from a distance as the figure of Godzilla will appear more realistic than when it is observed from close. Here’s a challenge: can you capture a picture of Godzilla Rock with the sun inside Godzilla’s mouth?

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4. Oarai Isosaki Shrine

This shrine is located in Ibaraki prefecture. The most prominent feature of the shrine is the “torii,” which is a traditional Japanese gate that stands at the entrance to a shrine. This gate is set on a rock just in front of the ocean. The Oarai Isosaki Shrine is a major shrine in Ibaraki prefecture, and there are many accommodations near it as well. The area is steeped in history. According to one of the classical Japanese history texts, the shrine was built in 856 after a deity descended in the area.
The scenery of a wave crashing against the coast behind the torii is stunning, especially during sunrise and sunset. Many people visit this location to watch the sunset every day! After it was introduced as a “power spot” in Japan, many more people began to visit the shrine. A power spot is a sacred placed that is enveloped in natural beauty and also believed to draw in positive energy as a result of geography and mineral composition. Please come visit the area to enjoy the traditional scenery that cleanses and rejuvenates your mind!

Google Map

5. Kujukurihama Beach

Kujukurihama Beach is located on a coastline that spans around 66 km. It is the second-longest coastline in Japan! The scenery of the seemingly never-ending coastline is so amazing, you will definitely feel the grandeur of nature overwhelming your presence. Because the depth of the ocean is shallow near the coast, children will enjoy their time hunting down living creatures in the warmer months. People visiting the beach come for a variety of reasons, not only to see the sunset. For instance, marine activities including surfing are quite popular there. In addition to that, you can also enjoy barbeque if you visit the beach between July 1st and August 31st. There are also various accommodations where you can stay in a room with an ocean view!

Google Map

Enjoy a Memorable Sunset in Autumn

Sunset Autumn

Photo Credit: Canva

In conclusion, there are many recommended spots to view the sunset in Japan, but the best locations are definitely near the coast! Please try to arrive before the start of sunset, and you will be able to enjoy the entirety of the event with artistically changing colors playing with the clouds and the water. While there may be many special activities during the summer, the heat and the crowds may ruin your experience, so it is recommended to visit these places in the autumn. Depending on the location, there may still be festivals! And of course, tiny little sea creatures will be waiting for you to find them all year round. Visit these locations with friends and family, and it will surely become a memorable experience.

Aika Kaise / Japan

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