About
Cars driving on the firm sand of Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, the only beach in Japan where vehicles can drive alongside the Sea of Japan waves. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Chirihama Nagisa Driveway (ειζ΅γͺγγγγ©γ€γγ¦γ§γ€) is Japan's only drivable beach, an extraordinary 8-kilometer stretch of sandy coastline along the Sea of Japan where vehicles can drive directly on the sand alongside the waves. Located on the western edge of the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, this unique attraction offers an unforgettable driving experience that combines scenic coastal beauty with the novelty of beach driving. π
The beach's sand possesses extraordinary characteristics that allow it to support vehicles ranging from bicycles and motorcycles to full-size tour buses. The sand particles are exceptionally fine - measuring only 0.2mm in diameter, approximately one-quarter the size of ordinary beach sand - with uniform, angular shapes. The firmness of the driving surface results from continuous capillary action that keeps the sand moistened with seawater, creating a hardened surface under vehicle weight. π
Cultural & Historical Significance
The driveway's history began serendipitously in 1955 when a local bus company employee, observing fishermen driving their trucks across the beach to transport freshly caught fish, decided to test whether a passenger bus could make the same journey. The experiment succeeded, and Chirihama Nagisa Driveway was born, eventually becoming an official public road open to all vehicles. π
Today, the beach has evolved into a cherished cultural landmark and serves as the goal destination for the SSTR (Sunrise Sunset Touring Rally), Japan's largest motorcycle touring event. Created by world-renowned adventurer Fukashi Kazama, the SSTR challenges riders to start from Japan's East Coast at sunrise and reach Chirihama Beach by sunset. Participation has grown from 127 riders in 2013 to over 12,000 by 2023, transforming the beach into a cultural gathering point for motorcycle enthusiasts across the nation. π
Visiting Information
Access: Approximately 40 minutes driving from Kanazawa via Noto Satoyama Kaido expressway. Exit at Imahama Interchange (southern entrance) when approaching from Kanazawa, or Chirihama Interchange (northern entrance) when approaching from Noto Peninsula direction. Both exits lead directly to the beach entrances. π
Hours: Open 24 hours daily, year-round. Weather-dependent closures during high tides, heavy rain, or stormy weather. Always check road conditions before visiting via "Ishikawa Michi Joho Net" (η³ε·γΏγ‘ζ ε ±γγγ). If "Chirihama Nagisa Driveway" shows "θ¦εΆγͺγ" (no restrictions) = open; "θ¦εΆγγ" (restrictions) = closed. π
Route Context: Detour time from main Takayama-Kinosaki route: approximately 40 minutes each way from Kanazawa. Total detour including beach drive experience: 1.5-2 hours recommended.
Seasonal Considerations: Late October is an excellent time to visit - food stalls remain open through fall, offering grilled seafood specialties. Weather is typically mild, though the beach may close temporarily during stormy conditions or high tides. The sunset views are spectacular during this season, and autumn crowds are lighter than summer swimming season. π
The Experience
Beach Driving: Drive any vehicle (no 4WD required) - cars, motorcycles, bicycles all permitted. 30 km/h speed limit enforced. Bidirectional traffic along the 8km stretch. Stop anywhere to park (away from traffic flow) for photos, shell collecting, or wading in the water. The 8km beach drive takes approximately 15-20 minutes at the speed limit, but most visitors spend additional time stopping for photos and experiences. π
Safety Considerations: Avoid white, dried-out sand areas where tires can get stuck. Never park in the surf zone - tires will sink. Watch for soft spots that are difficult to identify visually. Drive cautiously near the water's edge. π
Rest Stops:
Michi-no-Eki Noto Chirihama (Southern entrance) - Well-equipped roadside station with local Noto Peninsula specialties including manjugai (white clams), regional souvenirs, bicycle rentals, and restaurant serving fresh seafood meals. π
Noto-Chirihama Resthouse (Northern exit) - Renovated in 2021 with beachfront cafeteria, ocean views, cafe produced by SSTR, and souvenir shop. π
Food Stalls: Seasonal vendors (spring through fall) at the southern end specialize in grilled clams, grilled turban shells, and fresh seafood. Close for winter: Early December to mid-March. π
Scenic Experience: The driveway offers breathtaking coastal scenery, particularly renowned for its spectacular sunset views over the Sea of Japan. Drivers can experience the unique sensation of traveling directly alongside ocean waves, with an unobstructed panorama stretching for kilometers. The scenery transforms with changing tides and weather conditions. π
Practical Visiting Tips
Driving Considerations: Any standard vehicle acceptable - no special equipment needed. Rental cars permitted (check rental agreement). Ensure vehicle in good mechanical condition. π
Route Integration: Morning departure from Takayama β Drive main route toward Kanazawa β Afternoon detour to Chirihama β Arrive for late afternoon/sunset experience β Continue toward Kinosaki. Time budget: 2-2.5 hours total (40 min detour each way + 1 hour beach experience).
Budget Considerations: Completely free experience - no admission fees. Free parking at beach and rest areas. Bring picnic supplies instead of purchasing from stalls (though supporting local vendors recommended).
Cultural Etiquette: Drive courteously with 30 km/h speed limit strictly observed. Pull completely out of traffic lanes when parking. Take all trash with you. Be mindful of other visitors when parking for photos. Heed closure signs and warnings; never attempt to drive during prohibited conditions. π
Best Photo Spots: Park along the beach facing west 30-45 minutes before sunset for optimal sunset photography. Southern entrance areas with Sea of Japan backdrop for vehicle-on-beach shots. Northern sections with unobstructed coastline vistas for panoramic views. Areas where waves approach the driving surface (maintaining safe distance) for wave interaction shots.
Weather Preparation: Check "Ishikawa Michi Joho Net" road status before visit. Monitor tide schedules. Bring rain gear in October (unpredictable weather). Windbreaker recommended for beach conditions. Camera equipment for photography. Sunglasses and sun protection. Comfortable shoes for beach walking. Small towel for sand/water exposure. Cash for food stalls (may not accept cards).
Location: View on Google Maps
Source: attractions/takayama-to-kinosaki-main-route/chirihama-nagisa-driveway.md