Kobe City announced that Suma Beach and Azur Maiko Beach will be officially opened for swimming on July 11th.

This year, the results of the water quality survey conducted in early May are the highest ranked “AA” for both beaches. Suma’s AA grade has not been reported since 2007, and the city analyzes that the water quality is getting better year by year.

The swimming period is scheduled for only 46 days until August 25th. Last summer, the season was interrupted due to the heavy rain and typhoons. Hopefully this year will be disaster free.

In Suma, there will once again be a family area setup which prohibits alcohol so children can play safely. This will mainly be on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. The family swimming area will also have a net to keep the jellyfish out.

At Azur Maiko, a “sea opening event” will happen on July 13th. A few events are planned including yoga and hula dance classes.

Original article: Kobe Shinbun (Japanese)