Chichibugahama Beach

Background

Originally an ordinary swimming beach, 'Chichibugahama' is said to take its name from 'father's grave' and 'mother's grave' that once stood nearby; today it's a model of 'community-led regional revitalisation' — cafés, volunteer photography services and whole-house rentals have grown up around the flats, and its sunset has been chosen as one of 'Japan's 100 sunsets'.

Local customs

• On the flats at low tide go barefoot or wear sandals that can get wet — leather shoes will sink into the mud
• take turns for photo spots and don't monopolise a pool for long
• take your rubbish with you and don't disturb creatures on the flats.

Religion & beliefs

None. Fishermen of the Seto Inland Sea have long worshipped at Kotohiragū (guardian of the sea), which you can visit on the way.

Travel tips

• The key is a day when 'low tide coincides with sunset'
• spring and autumn are best (summer is often cloudy, and winter light is weak)
• the Mitoyo City Tourism Exchange Bureau website lists daily low-tide times
• access: from JR Takuma Station by community bus (weekdays) or by car (about 20 minutes from Zentsūji or Mitoyo-Torisaka IC on the Takamatsu Expressway)
• the 'magic hour' before sunset is most beautiful — shoot from a low angle close to the water.