Miho no Matsubara
Chubu Region
Miho no Matsubara is a picturesque natural area located on the Miho Peninsula in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, Japan. It features a seven-kilometer stretch of shoreline lined with distinctive green pine trees and black volcanic sand, offering spectacular views of Mount Fuji and the Izu Peninsula across Suruga Bay. The site is famous for the ancient pine tree called Hagoromo no Matsu, linked to the traditional Japanese legend of Hagoromo, a celestial maiden who danced after retrieving her feathered robe. This legend inspires an annual Hagoromo Festival held every October, including performances of the Noh drama 'Hagoromo' by firelight. Designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty since 1922, the pine groves are part of the Fujisan World Heritage Cultural Site. The area is also recognized as one of Japan's New Three Views and among the top 100 white sand beaches and green pine groves, although the beach's sand is now predominantly black due to natural volcanic origins and historical changes in sand supply. Miho no Matsubara continues to be a cultural and natural treasure, celebrated for its scenic beauty, folklore, and ongoing preservation efforts.
Plan your trip to Japan with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Miho no Matsubara is in early October to experience the Hagoromo Festival and Noh drama performances near the legendary pine tree. Visitors are encouraged to check the official website for updates on preservation activities and events. While the beach is open year-round, autumn offers pleasant weather and cultural festivities. Advance reservations are recommended for group visits or guided tours. Discounts may be available for seniors, students, or groups, so inquire locally. Comfortable walking shoes are advised to explore the seven-kilometer shoreline and pine groves fully.
Interesting facts
- •Miho no Matsubara's seven-kilometer shoreline is lined with pine trees that are part of one of Japan's New Three Views.
- •The legendary Hagoromo pine tree is estimated to be around 650 years old.
- •The site inspired the Noh drama 'Hagoromo', which is performed annually during the Hagoromo Festival in October.
- •The beach's sand changed from white to black due to the depletion of white sand from the Abe River and volcanic origins of the peninsula.
- •A monument to French ballet dancer Hélène Giuglaris, who loved the Hagoromo story, stands overlooking the pine grove, with a lock of her hair buried beneath it.
History
Miho no Matsubara was designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty in 1922, recognizing its unique landscape and cultural importance.
The pine grove has been celebrated for centuries in Japanese art and literature, notably associated with the Hagoromo legend.
In 2013, it was inscribed as part of the Fujisan World Heritage Cultural Site, highlighting its connection to Mount Fuji and its cultural heritage.
Historically, the beach featured white sand sourced from the Abe River, but due to construction and natural changes, the sand has become black volcanic sand.
The area has remained a significant site for traditional arts and festivals, preserving its cultural narratives through annual events and conservation efforts.
Place Guide
Hagoromo no Matsu (Hagoromo Pine Tree)14th century
The ancient pine tree linked to the Hagoromo legend, estimated to be 650 years old, standing as a symbol of the site's cultural heritage.
Hagoromo Festival Site
The area near the Hagoromo Pine where the traditional Noh play 'Hagoromo' is performed by firelight each October, along with creative dances honoring Hélène Giuglaris.
Monument to Hélène GiuglarisMid-20th century
A monument overlooking the pine grove and sea dedicated to the French ballet dancer who cherished the Hagoromo tale, containing a lock of her hair beneath it.
Miho Shrine and Torii Gate
A nearby Shinto shrine preserving a piece of the celestial maiden's plumage from the Hagoromo legend and featuring a traditional torii gate marking the sacred area.
Contact
Phone: 054-340-2100