The fact that Japan is an island nation explains the extensive coastline but how much of it is beach worthy? The thing about Japan is that almost every neighborhood that is near the sea has some kind of beach. The question is whether you can really get into the water or not. Okayama City is full of small neighborhood beaches and one that I like is Houden Beach. It is located on the Seto Inland Sea at the edge of the Saidaiji area, which is part of Okayama City’s East Ward.
From Okayama Station take the Ako line to Saidaiji Station. There is a bus that will take you there from Saidaiji Station but it only runs a few times a day so make sure you know when the last bus is if you are going to depend on that means of transportation. The schedule is posted on the bus stop, which is located steps from the entrance to Saidaiji Station. When you get to Houden there are signs pointing to the seaside, which is actually toward the right when you finally reach the heart of the village.
Houden is a quasi fishing village with a decent stretch of sand that is enough to attract people from the greater area. The water is fairly clean but don't expect Malibu. It's more like a little Coney Island without the hot dogs. On a hot and humid day nothing beats a jump into the water. You'll find families having picnics and couples on double dates, so it's an inexpensive way to spend a summer day.
Occasionally the local ruffian or two will show up but they usually keep to themselves. Houden Beach is one of many examples of the bursting of Japan's bubble economy. There was a great resort and camp area that has been allowed to become derelict. While it is sad that this has happened, the positive side is people continue to come to the beach and enjoy the view of Shodoshima and Inujima islands. I particularly like to go there in the fall and have a beach barbeque. In the summer it is a great place to set off fireworks. Just make sure to clean up after you are done. If you are in the area why not discover where locals go to beat the heat?
