Looking for the best scenic coastal drives in Japan? From dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters to island-hopping highways and sunset ocean roads, Japan offers unforgettable seaside routes perfect for road trips. Whether you’re planning a summer getaway or a year-round adventure, these top 10 coastal drives in Japan deliver breathtaking views, local culture, and hidden gems.
1. Shimanami Kaido (Hiroshima–Ehime)
The Shimanami Kaido is arguably the most famous scenic coastal drive in Japan, connecting Onomichi in Hiroshima to Imabari in Ehime across the Seto Inland Sea. This 60-kilometer route crosses six stunning bridges linking small islands with panoramic ocean views. Drivers enjoy smooth expressways, observation decks, and charming seaside towns. Stop for fresh seafood, citrus groves, and Instagram-worthy viewpoints along the way. While popular with cyclists, it’s equally spectacular by car. On clear days, the blue sea and green islands create postcard-perfect scenery, making it one of Japan’s most beautiful ocean road trips year-round.
2. Noto Peninsula Coastal Road (Ishikawa)
The Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture offers a rugged and less-crowded coastal drive ideal for travelers seeking authenticity. Highlights include dramatic cliffs at Noto Kongo and the famous Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, where you can actually drive on the beach. Traditional fishing villages and fresh seafood restaurants line the coast, giving visitors a glimpse into rural Japan. The changing scenery from sandy shores to rocky formations keeps the journey exciting. This route is especially stunning at sunset when the Sea of Japan glows gold. It’s a perfect addition to a Hokuriku road trip itinerary.
3. Nichinan Coast (Miyazaki)
The Nichinan Coast in Miyazaki Prefecture feels almost tropical, with palm trees swaying along the Pacific Ocean. This scenic coastal drive in southern Japan features dramatic rock formations, ocean cliffs, and the iconic Aoshima Island shrine. The road hugs the shoreline, offering uninterrupted sea views and relaxing driving conditions. Stop at Udo Shrine, built into a seaside cave, for a unique cultural experience. Warm weather and blue skies make this route especially popular in spring and summer. If you want a coastal drive that feels different from mainland Japan, Nichinan Coast delivers sunshine and serenity.
4. Sanriku Coast (Tohoku)
The Sanriku Coast in the Tohoku region is known for its dramatic rias coastline and towering cliffs. Stretching across Iwate and Miyagi, this route offers wild natural beauty and fewer crowds compared to Japan’s more famous coastal roads. Kitayamazaki’s cliffs provide jaw-dropping views over the Pacific Ocean. As you drive through Sanriku Fukko National Park, you’ll pass fishing ports and scenic lookout points. The area has rebuilt beautifully and now welcomes visitors with fresh seafood and peaceful landscapes. For travelers seeking raw, untamed coastal scenery, Sanriku is a hidden gem worth exploring.
5. Izu Skyline & Jogasaki Coast (Shizuoka)
Located just a few hours from Tokyo, the Izu Peninsula offers one of the most accessible scenic coastal drives in Japan. The Izu Skyline provides elevated ocean views, while the Jogasaki Coast features rugged lava cliffs and scenic walking bridges. The Pacific Ocean stretches endlessly on one side, with Mount Fuji sometimes visible on clear days. Hot spring towns along the way make perfect rest stops. This drive combines mountains, coastline, and resort vibes, making it ideal for weekend getaways. It’s especially beautiful in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the skies are clear.
6. Cape Sata Drive (Kagoshima)
Cape Sata, located at the southernmost tip of Kyushu’s main island, offers a remote and peaceful coastal drive. The Osumi Peninsula route features dramatic ocean views, subtropical vegetation, and quiet fishing villages. The drive toward Cape Sata Lighthouse feels adventurous, with winding roads and panoramic Pacific vistas. Few international tourists make it this far south, so it remains uncrowded and tranquil. The combination of lush greenery and deep blue waters creates a striking contrast. If you’re planning a Kyushu road trip, Cape Sata delivers one of Japan’s most off-the-beaten-path coastal experiences.
7. Otaru to Shakotan Peninsula (Hokkaido)
Hokkaido’s Shakotan Peninsula is famous for its crystal-clear “Shakotan Blue” waters. Driving from Otaru along the coastline reveals rugged cliffs, turquoise coves, and dramatic capes like Cape Kamui. The wide-open roads and cooler climate make summer an ideal time for this scenic coastal drive in northern Japan. Fresh sea urchin (uni) is a local specialty worth stopping for. The route feels expansive and wild, showcasing Hokkaido’s natural beauty at its finest. For travelers who love dramatic ocean scenery and fewer crowds, Shakotan Peninsula is an unforgettable destination.
8. Amakusa Islands Drive (Kumamoto)
The Amakusa Islands in Kumamoto Prefecture offer a scenic island-hopping coastal drive connected by elegant bridges. Overlooking the Ariake Sea, the route provides calm waters, fishing villages, and stunning sunsets. Dolphins can sometimes be spotted offshore, adding excitement to the journey. The relaxed atmosphere and mild climate make it perfect for a leisurely road trip. Seafood lovers will appreciate the fresh catches served in local restaurants. Compared to more famous destinations, Amakusa feels peaceful and authentic, making it an excellent choice for travelers exploring Kyushu’s coastal beauty.
9. Tango Peninsula (Kyoto)
The Tango Peninsula in northern Kyoto Prefecture combines coastal beauty with cultural heritage. Driving along the Sea of Japan reveals dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and traditional fishing villages. Highlights include Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s three most scenic views, and Ine’s famous funaya boathouses. The road curves along quiet seaside stretches, offering peaceful scenery away from Kyoto’s busy temples. Autumn brings crisp air and colorful foliage, enhancing the experience. This coastal drive is perfect for travelers wanting both natural landscapes and historic charm in one unforgettable journey.
10. Okinawa Main Island Coastal Road
Okinawa’s main island offers a tropical coastal drive unlike anywhere else in Japan. Turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and dramatic cliffs define this southern paradise. Routes near Cape Manzamo and along the western coast provide uninterrupted ocean views and spectacular sunsets. The relaxed island atmosphere makes driving easy and enjoyable. Stop for snorkeling, local Okinawan cuisine, or scenic lookouts along the way. Warm weather year-round makes this one of the best coastal road trips in Japan for winter travelers. If you crave tropical scenery without leaving Japan, Okinawa delivers unforgettable coastal beauty.
Final Thoughts: Best Coastal Road Trips in Japan
From Hokkaido’s rugged cliffs to Okinawa’s tropical shores, these top scenic coastal drives in Japan offer unforgettable road trip experiences. Whether you’re seeking hidden gems, island-hopping highways, or dramatic ocean views, Japan’s coastline delivers something for every traveler. Planning tip: Rent a car for maximum flexibility, check seasonal weather conditions, and allow extra time for scenic stops because you’ll definitely want to pull over for photos!