The City of Kobe has announced the official opening dates for the 2026 swimming season at its two main beaches, Suma Beach and Azur Maiko. Both beaches will be open from 9 July to 23 August 2026, with swimming permitted daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm.
Located along Kobe’s western coastline, the two beaches offer different experiences. Suma Beach is known for its lively atmosphere and family-friendly facilities, while Azur Maiko provides a more relaxed setting with spectacular views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, one of the world’s longest suspension bridges.
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Suma Beach
A special Smile Beach Area will be set up in front of JR Suma Station to create a safe and enjoyable environment for families and children. To maintain a family-friendly atmosphere, alcohol is prohibited within this area, and visitors are not permitted to bring or consume alcoholic beverages.
The Smile Beach Area will also feature a designated swimming zone protected by jellyfish prevention nets, helping swimmers enjoy the water with greater peace of mind.
Visitors will have access to showers, toilets, lockers and shaded rest areas near JR Suma Station and Kobe Suma Sea World. A barrier-free facility equipped with accessible showers and toilets will also be available near Suma Seaside Park.
Three traditional Japanese beach houses (“umi no ie”) are scheduled to operate during the season. Lifeguards, beach patrol staff and security personnel will be on duty throughout the summer to help ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors.
Suma Beach Access
- Immediately south of JR Suma Station and Sanyo Suma Station
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Suma Kaihin Koen Station
- Short walk from the Kobe Suma Sea World bus stop
Azur Maiko
Located beneath the impressive Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Azur Maiko is one of Kobe’s most scenic beaches. The wide sandy beach offers panoramic views across the Akashi Strait and is particularly popular with families and visitors looking for a quieter alternative to Suma Beach.
During the swimming season, visitors can make use of showers, toilets, lockers and beachside facilities. Lifeguards will monitor the designated swimming area, while some sections of the coastline remain reserved for exploring tide pools and observing marine life.
Azur Maiko Access
The beach is also within easy walking distance of JR Maiko Station and Sanyo Maiko-koen Station, making it one of the most accessible seaside destinations in the Kansai region.
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from JR Maiko Station
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Sanyo Maiko-koen Station
- Directly beneath the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
Heatstroke Precautions
With increasingly high summer temperatures becoming the norm across Japan, visitors are encouraged to take precautions against heatstroke.
Beachgoers should:
- Rest regularly in shaded areas
- Drink plenty of water
- Replenish salt and electrolytes
- Bring a small pop-up tent (under 4 square metres) for additional shade
2026 Beach Season Information
Dates: 9 July (Thursday) – 23 August (Sunday), 2026
Swimming Hours: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
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