Guide
Chirihama Nagisa Driveway is a stunning 8-kilometer stretch of coastal scenic road extending from Hakui City to Hatajima Town in Ishikawa Prefecture. Its most remarkable feature is that it is the only place in Japan where ordinary cars and buses can drive directly along the water's edge. The sand here is exceptionally fine and stays firm when wet, allowing vehicles to drive without sinking—a stark contrast to typical soft-sand beaches. Driving your car or a rental car through this landscape, with the vast Sea of Japan and the blue sky right beside you, is a truly unique experience found nowhere else in the country.
The history of this driveway dates back to around 1955. It gained popularity as a tourist destination after sightseeing bus drivers discovered how smooth and comfortable the drive was. The unique texture of the sand is a gift of nature; fine sediment carried by the Tedori River and shaped by seasonal winds and ocean currents has created a hard, stable surface perfect for driving. In recent years, continuous maintenance, including the installation of artificial reefs and sand replenishment, has been undertaken to protect this precious landscape from coastal erosion.
The biggest draw is the sensation of driving right at the shoreline. You do not need a 4WD vehicle; standard cars with normal tires can drive on the sand without issue. The coastline offers breathtaking views, and depending on the season, you can spot various coastal plants. It is also a wonderful place to enjoy leisure activities or simply relax by the water. Furthermore, it is a famous spot for watching the sunset, where you can witness the sun dipping below the horizon in a spectacular display of light.
While beautiful year-round, the area becomes lively during the summer months with beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. For a more serene experience, we recommend visiting during the early morning hours. You may encounter a peaceful, misty atmosphere that adds a sense of mystery to the scenery. For a dramatic experience, visit in the late afternoon to witness the changing colors of the sky as the sun sets over the horizon.
Beyond just driving, there are many ways to enjoy this area. You can pull over to take photos with the ocean as your backdrop or enjoy a picnic. During the day, it is a great spot for water play and leisure. However, please note that for safety reasons, the Ishikawa Prefecture authorities may implement traffic restrictions based on weather conditions or wave height. Always check the latest status before heading out.
The driveway is surrounded by the rich natural beauty of the Noto Peninsula Quasi-National Park. It is common to combine this drive with visits to nearby attractions or to stop at facilities like the 'Michi-no-Eki Noto Chirihama' (roadside station) to rest and enjoy local flavors.
When driving, ensure your vehicle is in good condition (standard tires are fine). Because the road can be closed due to weather or high waves, we highly recommend checking the 'Ishikawa Michi Information Net' website for real-time traffic updates. If you plan on enjoying water activities, bring a change of clothes and sandals. As a matter of etiquette, please ensure you take all trash home with you to preserve the natural environment. There are no specific entrance or parking fees for the driveway itself.