What is Yuigahama Beach in Kamakura? Recommended Tourist Spots and Cafes

Yuigahama in Kamakura, the birthplace of beach culture. Along with its popular swimming beach, the area is dotted with charming shops and cafes, making it a lively spot visited by many tourists. We’ll introduce some recommended restaurants near Yuigahama that are perfect for lunch or dinner. Please use this as a reference!

Yuigahama Beach Area

Yuigahama Beach, located in the southern part of Kamakura City in Kanagawa Prefecture, stretches along the shores of Sagami Bay. With a convenient 15-minute walk from Kamakura Station and just about 50 minutes from Tokyo Station, this beach is a favorite getaway for city dwellers.
Renowned as the birthplace of Japan's beach culture, Yuigahama buzzes with activity during the summer months, drawing countless visitors. Beyond the sandy shores, the surrounding area offers a variety of attractions, from seasonal sights to charming boutiques, ensuring there's always something to enjoy no matter the time of year.

How to Get There

By Train
The closest stations are Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line) and Yuigahama Station (Enoden Line).
● From Yokohama Station:
Take the JR Yokosuka Line or Shonan-Shinjuku Line, about 25 minutes to Kamakura.
● From Shibuya Station:
Take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line, approximately 52 minutes to Kamakura.
● From Kamakura Station:
Take the Enoden Line toward Fujisawa, just 3 minutes to Yuigahama.

By Car
The nearest highway exit is Asahina IC on the Yokohama-Yokosuka Expressway.

Yuigahama Beach and Its Beach Houses

Yuigahama Beach, a symbol of Shonan, is celebrated for its vibrant swimming season and dazzling fireworks displays. Outside the swimming season, it transforms into a haven for surfers. In the past, the beach faced challenges such as disputes among visitors, noise disturbances, and littering, which raised concerns about public safety. To address these issues, Kamakura City introduced the "Ordinance for Improving Beach Manners" in 2014.
The ordinance enforces regulations like prohibiting intimidating tattoo displays, banning alcohol consumption on the beach, and capping sound levels at 80 decibels. These measures have greatly enhanced safety and the overall atmosphere. Additionally, the beach features Kanagawa Prefecture’s first universal walkway, allowing wheelchair users to experience the shoreline with ease.

In 2019, 19 beach houses opened, bringing life and energy to the summer beach scene. Many of these establishments accept electronic payments and credit cards, and most are equipped with toilets and showers, providing modern conveniences for visitors. Yuigahama’s beach houses are also committed to sustainability, eliminating plastic straws in favor of eco-friendly paper alternatives.

Spots to Stroll Around [Kamakura Museum of Literature]

The Kamakura Museum of Literature is a treasure trove of literary history, showcasing handwritten manuscripts, letters, and personal items from over 300 authors with ties to Kamakura, such as Soseki Natsume, Ryunosuke Akutagawa, and Akiko Yosano.
In 2001, the main building earned recognition as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. Its architecture is an elegant blend of Western and Japanese styles, featuring gabled roofs and deep eaves that complement its Western-inspired design.
The museum’s grounds include a sprawling garden and a rose garden. Visitors can marvel at ancient trees, such as a 200-year-old Omurasaki Azalea and Castanopsis, while enjoying the fragrance of approximately 200 varieties and 250 bushes of roses from Kamakura and abroad, including France and Germany.

The rose gardens are at their peak from mid-May to late June and again from mid-October to late November. Seasonal events like the Spring Rose Festival and the Kamakura Museum of Literature Festival coincide with these blooming periods, offering a delightful experience for visitors.

Where to have lunch

While enjoying the summer vibes with a swim and a meal at a beach house is fantastic, the area around the beach also boasts numerous restaurants offering exceptional dishes. Be sure to explore these delightful dining options.

◆ Pizzeria GG Kamakura

Just a 7-minute walk from Kamakura Station’s east exit, along the road leading to Yuigahama Beach, you’ll find Pizzeria GG Kamakura.
Renowned for its authentic Neapolitan pizzas, this pizzeria takes pride in its craft. Their pizzas, handmade by world-class artisans who have even won international awards, are a culinary experience you won’t want to miss. Plus, their takeout service makes it easy to grab a bite on the go.

Recommended Cafe

Yuigahama is known for its stylish and picturesque establishments that make it an appealing destination.
After exploring the scenic beachside area, why not take a break at a cozy café? Treat yourself to some delicious desserts while enjoying a relaxing chat.

◆ Café Saka no Shita

Famous as a filming location for a TV drama, Café Saka no Shita is a charming, retro-style café housed in a traditional Japanese home. Step inside, and you’ll be transported back in time by its nostalgic and warm atmosphere.

Their signature dish is their triple-stacked pancakes. Generous in size yet light and fluffy in texture, these pancakes are so tempting that visitors rave about them, even when they’re already full. Located about a 15-minute walk from Yuigahama, the stroll along the beach adds to the charm of your visit.

Top Dinner Spot in Yuigahama

Complete your visit to Yuigahama with a memorable dinner at one of its popular restaurants. Here, we highlight a must-visit spot known for its ambiance and thoughtfully prepared dishes.

◆AWkitchen GARDEN Kamakura

Situated on a spacious property next to the iconic Enoden railway crossing, AWkitchen GARDEN Kamakura offers Italian dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Specialties include vegetable-centric dishes and delightful pasta selections.

The restaurant’s open terrace garden allows you to enjoy the picturesque sight of Enoden trains passing by, creating a unique and serene dining experience. It’s an ideal setting to end your day in a calm and cozy atmosphere.

Nearby Hotel

Being a sought-after tourist destination, Yuigahama offers a wide variety of accommodations, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. You can easily find an option that suits your needs and preferences.

●WeBase Kamakura Hostel

WeBase Kamakura is a chic youth hostel featuring private rooms and dormitories. Its modern design, highlighted by muted tones of gray and brown, appeals to stylish and discerning travelers.

Just a 3-minute walk from Yuigahama Beach, it’s perfect for beach lovers. The property also includes a large public bath, allowing guests to unwind and recharge after a day of exploration.

◎ Parking Options Around Yuigahama

Parking near Yuigahama Beach can be limited, especially during the busy summer tourist season. Finding a spot might be a hassle, but with the growing availability of reservable parking lots, planning ahead can save you time and effort.

◆ Libri Kamakura Zaimokuza Parking

Located conveniently near Yuigahama Beach, this parking lot offers the advantage of advance reservations. Its prime location and reservation system make it a stress-free choice for visitors.

◆ Yuigahama Parking

This spacious parking lot is situated directly in front of Yuigahama Beach. With capped maximum fees on weekdays, it’s perfect for a day of swimming or relaxing at nearby cafés.

◆ Yuigahama Underground Parking

Another convenient option located right in front of Yuigahama Beach, this underground parking lot ensures comfort by being unaffected by weather conditions.