AT A GLANCE
Why go?
Nishikinohama Beach Park is Osaka Prefecture's only Blue Flag–certified beach, a rare distinction that places this stretch of white sand on the coast of Kaizuka City among the world's recognized shoreline destinations. The name "Nishikinohama" — meaning "beach of two colors" — comes from the striking contrast between the kilometer-long white sand and the deep green pine groves that line the coast. Selected as one of Japan's 100 Best Sunsets, it draws roughly one million visitors each year and sits just 30 minutes by train from central Osaka.↗↗↗
A Beach Recognized Worldwide
In May 2024, Nishikinohama became the first beach in Osaka Prefecture to earn the Blue Flag — an internationally established environmental certification run by the Foundation for Environmental Education. The award reflects rigorous standards in water quality, safety management, environmental responsibility, and visitor accessibility. The beach has maintained its certification for three consecutive years (2024–2026), backed by daily cleanups, environmental education programs, and partnerships between the local community, government, and businesses.↗
