Guida
Chirihama Nagisa Driveway is a scenic coastal road stretching approximately 8 kilometers from Hakui City to Hodatsushimizu Town in Ishikawa Prefecture. Its most distinctive feature is that it is the only place in Japan where general automobiles and buses can drive directly along the shoreline. The sand here is exceptionally fine and stays firm due to the moisture from the seawater, allowing vehicles to drive without sinking—a stark contrast to typical soft sandy beaches. Driving your own car or a rental car through this landscape, with the blue sky and the waves of the Sea of Japan right beside you, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The history of this driveway dates back to around 1955. It gained popularity as a tourist attraction after tour bus drivers began utilizing the route for its smooth and scenic driving conditions. The unique texture of the sand is a gift of nature; fine sediment carried by rivers like the Tedori River has been shaped by seasonal winds and ocean currents to create a firm, stable surface suitable for driving. In recent years, continuous maintenance, including the installation of artificial reefs and sand replenishment, has been conducted to preserve this precious natural landscape and protect the coastline from erosion.
The absolute highlight is the sensation of driving right at the water's edge. You do not need a 4WD vehicle; standard tires are perfectly fine for this route. The coastline offers breathtaking views, and depending on the season, you can spot beautiful coastal flora. It is also a popular spot for enjoying water activities and leisure. Furthermore, it is famous as a spectacular viewpoint for watching the sunset, where you can witness the sun dipping below the horizon in a dramatic display of light.
While enjoyable 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 before dawn. You may witness a mystical atmosphere with morning mist and very few people around. In the evening, the area transforms into a romantic setting as the sunset paints the sky in vibrant colors over the horizon.
There is much more to do than just driving. You can pull over to the side of the beach to take stunning photographs with the ocean as your backdrop. During the day, the area is suitable for enjoying water play and leisure activities. However, please be aware that depending on the weather and wave height, the Ishikawa Prefecture authorities may implement traffic restrictions for safety. It is essential to check the latest information before your visit.
The driveway is surrounded by the rich natural beauty of the Noto Peninsula Quasi-National Park. During your drive, you can stop at facilities such as 'Michi-no-Eki Noto Chirihama' to rest or enjoy local specialties. It is commonly visited as part of a larger driving tour through the Noto Peninsula.
Please ensure your vehicle is equipped with standard tires suitable for driving. Since traffic restrictions may occur due to weather or high waves, we highly recommend checking the 'Ishikawa Michi Information Net' website for real-time updates. If you plan to enjoy water activities, bring appropriate clothing and sandals. As a matter of etiquette, please ensure you take all trash home with you and respect the natural environment. Note that there are no specific admission or parking fees for this facility.