Japan is having a record-breaking hot summer. The scorching temperatures are hovering over 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) and every day authorities are issuing heat stroke warnings.

Amid the unbearable heat, nothing beats a trip to the beach for some relief.

Just south of the Kanto Plain, near Yokosuka Naval Base, the Miura Peninsula is home to dozens of scenic beaches with a casual, residential vibe perfect for a laid-back day.

The peninsula is home to Zushi and Hayama beaches which are some of the most popular and busy spots during the season. If you want to avoid the crowds, catch some cool waves and a nice sea breeze, the region is home to many other beaches like Miura Beach and Tatara Beach to spend the day relaxing.

Check out these beaches and plan your escape from the steamy summer!

Tatara Beach in Cape Kannonzaki, Godzilla and Gulliver landing spot

Tatarahama, or Tatara Beach, in Cape Kannonzaki is on the eastern end of the peninsula. This tiny but beautiful crescent-shaped beach boasts crystal-blue water and pristine white sand. The dark rocks create rock pooling, so you can enjoy observing the sea life up close.

Taking a dip in the sea and splashing in crystal-clear water lets you enjoy the panoramic view of the breathtaking deep blue ocean against the backdrop of the black mountains of Boso (Chiba) Peninsula.

Tatara Beach and Cape Kannonzaki are also famous as these are where both Gulliver and Godzilla first landed in Japan.

In “Gulliver’s Travels” written by Jonathan Swift, the title character steps at “Xamoschi,” a port in Japan. Today, the port is thought to be modeled after Kannonzaki (you can see how close the two names are!). This reference is also why every year in November the city of Yokosuka hosts a Gulliver-Kannonzaki Festa. During the event, American sailors from Yokosuka Naval Base dress up as Gulliver and parade around the district.

In the first Toho “Godzilla” movie released in 1954, the monster landed on this very beach and then led a path of destruction towards Tokyo. To commemorate the monster’s landing, there was a large Godzilla-shaped waterfront slide on the beach but was demolished in 1973. Don’t worry, you can still take a ride down Godzilla’s back at Kurihama Flower Park where the slide was relocated and reconstructed in 1999. Tatara does still pay homage to its Godzilla lore with a stone monument of the giant’s footprint at the beach entrance.

Godzilla enjoyed the beach, so why not you?

Tatarahama (Tatara Beach)

• Location: 4 Kamoi, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture (about a 15-minute drive from Yokosuka Naval Base)

• URL

• Tel: 046-822-8294

Miura Beach, peninsula’s largest, another great spot

Miura Kaigan or Miura Beach is the largest and widest beach of Miura Peninsula. The shore spreads over a kilometer and offers beachgoers a panoramic view of Tokyo Bay and Miura and Boso Mountains.

The waters off the beach are relatively calm during the summer season and the spacious area easily accessible by train or car makes it a great spot for families. There is a big parking lot and shower and dining facilities available, too.

Throughout the year, there are various sports and art events held at this sprawling beach. Lifeguards are on duty throughout the summer swimming season (until Aug. 31).

You can rent a frescoball or beach volleyball court for 500 yen ($3.50) per hour on the beach. And Fresh Miura fish and vegetables can be sampled at the beach houses, such as Mozu and Rokks.

Enjoy a whole day on this spacious, family-friendly beach with a splendid view of Tokyo Bay!

Miura Kaigan (Miura Beach)

• Location: Kamimiyata, Minamishitaura Town, Miura City, Kanagawa Prefecture (about a 30-minute drive from Yokosuka Naval Base)

• URL

• Tel: 046-888-0588

Yokosuka Naval Base

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