Shirahama: A Tropical Slice of Japan with Ocean Views and Affordable Hot Spring Living

Shirahama combines white sandy beaches, relaxing hot springs, and a peaceful oceanside lifestyle. One of Japan’s oldest resort towns, it’s also a place where you can live or invest—often for less than you’d expect.

White Sands, Palm Trees, and the Pacific—No, This Isn’t Okinawa

The name “Shirahama” literally means white beach—and that’s exactly what you’ll find here: soft, white sand beaches framed by palm trees and turquoise waters. Add glowing sunsets over the ocean, and it’s hard to believe this tropical setting lies just south of Osaka, in Wakayama Prefecture.

Thanks to bullet trains and regional flights, Shirahama is easy to reach and offers all the comfort of a resort town—without the tourist crowds of Japan’s more famous coastal destinations.

Once a retreat for Japan’s aristocrats and poets, Shirahama today attracts tourists, remote workers, retirees, and investors looking for a quieter, more scenic side of Japan.

The Heart of Shirahama: Natural Hot Springs by the Sea

While Shirahama’s beaches are beautiful, its true claim to fame lies underground: natural hot springs (onsen) that have soothed visitors for centuries.

Don’t miss:

Sakinoyu – an open-air hot spring built into seaside rocks, where you can soak just meters from the crashing waves,
Shirahama Onsen – a network of historic baths and public spas rich in minerals,
Modern hotel spas with ocean-view pools and wellness centers open to day guests.

There’s nothing quite like relaxing in 40°C water while watching the sun melt into the Pacific.

Perfect for Families and Nature Lovers Alike

Shirahama isn’t just for honeymooners and retirees—it’s also family-friendly and packed with attractions:

Adventure World – a unique blend of zoo, safari, and aquarium (home to Japan’s most famous pandas),
Senjojiki – breathtaking rock formations along the coast that resemble stacked books,
Sandanbeki Cave – a dramatic seaside cave with a waterfall and tales of pirates and smugglers.

Whether you're walking along coastal trails, watching the stars from a cliffside, or exploring quiet bamboo groves inland, Shirahama offers year-round nature without sacrificing convenience.

Own a Property with an Ocean View—and a Built-in Hot Spring

Despite its long-standing popularity, Shirahama's real estate remains surprisingly accessible—especially compared to beach resorts elsewhere in Japan.

What you can find:

Compact apartments in older buildings starting from just a few thousand dollars,
Resort-style condominiums with pools, saunas, and shared onsen facilities,
Detached homes with sea views and enough space to work remotely in comfort.

Many properties include access to private hot spring water for your own bath—so your spa day can begin right at home.

Is Shirahama the Place for You?

It might be, if you dream of:

Waking up to ocean views and salt air,
Living in a place that promotes health, calm, and nature,
Investing in a Japanese property with long-term rental and resale value,
Escaping the noise and stress of city life without losing access to essentials.

Then yes—Shirahama could be exactly what you're looking for.

Conclusion

Shirahama isn’t just a resort—it’s a complete lifestyle package. Beauty, tranquility, wellness, and comfort—plus ocean air, onsen baths, and nature in every direction. And best of all, you don’t need a fortune to make it your own.

Browse the listings in our real estate section and discover that a beachside apartment—with an onsen and a view—doesn’t have to be a fantasy. It can be your new everyday.