Bentenjima Seaside Park, Hamamatsu

Bentenjima Seaside Park sits on the shores of Lake Hamana in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, offering visitors a unique lakeside beach experience just 15 minutes from Hamamatsu city center. This location was historically connected to the mainland but became an island due to sea erosion and earthquakes, creating the distinctive geography that defines the area today.

The park's most striking feature is its iconic red torii gate, standing 18 meters tall in the waters of Lake Hamana. This lakeside red torii gate serves as the park's famous landmark, creating spectacular photographic opportunities especially during sunset when the gate's vermillion color contrasts dramatically with the lake's calm blue waters. The Symbol Tower (red torii gate) provides a spectacular view, while the sunset scenery is particularly memorable.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities throughout the year. The park offers activities such as clam digging and swimming, along with pleasant seaside strolls on the promenade. The swimming area features a wide and shallow beach with gentle waves, making it suitable for families. The location is also popular as a fishing spot, and visitors can enjoy taking a slow stroll for 500 meters toward east or west along the shoreline.

The park is conveniently accessible by public transportation, located just a 3-minute walk from JR Bentenjima Station. For those traveling by car, it is approximately 25 minutes from the Tomei Expressway Hamamatsu West Interchange. The park offers free admission, making it an affordable destination for all visitors. Nearby, Bentenjima Onsen (hot springs) can be found, allowing visitors to combine their beach experience with traditional Japanese bathing culture.