Miyazaki Prefecture is often called the “Hawaii of Japan,” and nowhere is this vibe more palpable than at Aoshima Beach Park. Located just south of Miyazaki City, this stylish, family-friendly destination offers a perfect blend of relaxed seaside atmosphere, safe swimming waters, and convenient amenities that make traveling with children a breeze.
For families visiting Kyushu, Aoshima is a must-visit stop. Unlike many wilder beaches in the region, Aoshima Beach Park is specifically designed with comfort in mind. It features a curated selection of container cafes, manicured grassy areas for picnics, and direct access to the iconic Aoshima Shrine via a bridge. Whether you are looking to let the kids splash in the shallow waves or simply want to enjoy a cold drink while watching the sea, this guide covers everything parents need to know.
If you are planning a broader trip to the region, be sure to read our comprehensive pillar guide: The Ultimate Guide to Miyazaki with Kids: Sun, Sea & Myths. It covers logistics, accommodation, and other key stops along the Nichinan Coast.
Why Aoshima Beach Park is Perfect for Families
Traveling with kids often means trading “cool” locations for “convenient” ones, but Aoshima Beach Park manages to be both. The park itself is a seasonal installation (though the beach is accessible year-round) that transforms the beachfront into a stylish hub of activity.
The Atmosphere
The vibe here is distinctly laid-back. The “park” consists of wooden decks, parasols, and stylish container shops set back slightly from the sand. This means you can escape the intense sun and sand without having to leave the beach area entirely. For toddlers who might get overwhelmed by the vast ocean, the grassy areas provide a safe, clean space to run around.
Safe Swimming Conditions
The waters at Aoshima are generally calm and shallow, making them ideal for young children. During the summer season (usually July to August), lifeguards are on duty, and designated swimming areas are marked off to separate swimmers from surfers. The gentle slope of the beach means kids can play in ankle-deep water safely.
Facilities: Toilets, Showers, and Changing Rooms
One of the biggest stressors for parents at the beach is the lack of clean facilities. Aoshima Beach Park excels here.
- Toilets: There are clean, well-maintained public restrooms located right next to the beach park area. You won’t need to trek far with a desperate toddler.
- Showers & Lockers: Coin-operated showers and lockers are available. This is a game-changer for families; being able to rinse off the salt and sand before getting back into the car or train makes the return journey much more pleasant.
- Shade: While the beach itself is sunny, the Beach Park area provides ample seating with umbrellas and shaded tent areas.
Eating at Aoshima: Cafes and Kid-Friendly Food
You don’t need to pack a heavy picnic lunch when visiting Aoshima. The Beach Park hosts several vendors selling food that appeals to both adults and children. You can typically find:
- Burgers and Fries: Easy finger food for kids.
- Pizza: Often available from food trucks or nearby stalls.
- Shaved Ice and Ice Cream: Essential for cooling down in the humid Kyushu summer.
- Coffee and Craft Beer: For the parents who need a pick-me-up.
If you prefer a sit-down meal, there are several restaurants just across the pedestrian bridge in the main Aoshima village area, offering everything from seafood bowls to udon noodles.
Exploring Aoshima Shrine and the “Devil’s Washboard”
Aoshima isn’t just about swimming. It is geologically and culturally unique, offering a great mini-adventure for kids who get bored of just sitting on the sand.
The Bridge and Jungle
To reach Aoshima Shrine, you walk across the Yayoi Bridge. The island of Aoshima itself is covered in a subtropical jungle, which looks like something out of a dinosaur movie. Walking through the tunnel of trees to reach the bright red shrine in the center is a magical experience for children.
The Devil’s Washboard (Oni no Sentakuita)
Surrounding the island are unique rock formations known as the “Devil’s Washboard.” These natural, straight rock ridges look man-made and appear at low tide.
- Activity: At low tide, this is a fantastic place for rock-pooling. Kids can spot small crabs, fish, and shellfish trapped in the pools.
- Safety Note: The rocks can be slippery, so water shoes or sandals with straps are highly recommended over flip-flops.
Getting There and Logistics
Miyazaki is best explored by car, but Aoshima is one of the few spots that is also easily accessible by train.
By Car
Aoshima is about a 25-30 minute drive south from Miyazaki City center. There is a large public parking lot near the entrance to the Aoshima area.
- Parking Tip: The main station parking is paid, but it’s affordable. During peak summer weekends, it fills up fast, so try to arrive before 10:00 AM.
- For families debating transportation options for their wider trip, checking our guide on Do You Need a Rental Car for a Family Trip to Fukuoka? might offer some useful general insights on driving in Kyushu, even though it focuses on Fukuoka.
By Train
The JR Nichinan Line runs from Miyazaki Station to Aoshima Station. The ride takes about 30 minutes. From Aoshima Station, it is a flat, stroller-friendly 10-minute walk to the beach park.
- Note: Trains can be infrequent (sometimes once an hour), so check the schedule in advance.
Best Time to Visit
- Swimming Season: Early July to late August is the official swimming season when facilities are fully open and lifeguards are present.
- Shoulder Season: May, June, September, and October are lovely for playing on the sand and visiting the shrine, though the water might be a bit cool for swimming.
- Winter: The Beach Park shops may close, but the shrine and rock formations are accessible year-round.
What to Bring: A Family Packing List
To make your day at Aoshima stress-free, consider packing the following:
- Sun Protection: The sun in Miyazaki is intense. High-SPF sunscreen, hats, and rash guards for the kids are non-negotiable.
- Water Shoes: Essential for exploring the Devil’s Washboard rocks.
- Picnic Sheet: Even with the tables at the Beach Park, having a waterproof sheet allows you to set up base camp on the grass or sand closer to the water.
- Towels and Change of Clothes: For the showers afterward.
- Small Bucket: For kids to collect shells or observe crabs (catch and release!).
Combining Aoshima with Other Miyazaki Sights
Aoshima typically takes about half a day (3-4 hours) to enjoy fully. If you are planning a longer itinerary, you can easily combine it with a drive further south to see the Sun Messe Nichinan (Moai statues) or Udo Shrine.
For help structuring your days in Kyushu, take a look at our guide: Kyushu Family Itineraries: The Complete Guide to Planning Your 3 to 7-Day Trip.
Final Thoughts
Aoshima Beach Park is a rare gem in Japan: a beach destination that feels hip and modern while remaining completely accessible and safe for families with young children. Whether you are walking through the jungle to the shrine, hunting for crabs on the Devil’s Washboard, or just enjoying a mango soda by the waves, it is a highlight of any trip to Miyazaki.
Don’t forget to check out our main pillar article for more regional context: The Ultimate Guide to Miyazaki with Kids: Sun, Sea & Myths.