Opening Day at the Beach

At beaches, the opening period is usually set, and within that period, safety measures such as the placement of observers and life savers, the installation of shark protection nets, jellyfish prevention nets and oil fences, and parking lots are provided. In addition, there are provided convenient facilities such as changing rooms, showers, toilets, etc., and operating stores and restaurants such as seaside houses. Opening a beach every year is called sea opening, and many events are held on the first day of the sea opening.

Why?

The opening of the sea as an event where people offer prayers for prosperity and safety during the season, and often hold priesthood ceremonies and safety prayer festivals.

You Can Go to the Beach Outside of This Time

Regardless of the timing of swimming at the beach, it is possible to swim outside the sea opening period unless there are special regulations. However, there are many cases where the above safety measures are not taken or convenience facilities are closed except during the sea opening period.

Beware of Different Times and Check if You Are Worried

Beaches become available at different times across Japan because of the differences in weather between the northern and southern ends of the country. Please use the below Japanese and the name of the beach that you want to go to to find out when the opening times are.

海開き

Reference

https://ja.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/海開き

---

---