I will definitely going to go back to Japan next year in one way or another. One of those options will likely be a solo trip in next July. So – eventually – in more or less exactly one year. Heat doesn't bother me anyway, and I can handle the humidity as well, so I'd be fine. If I decide to do that, I definitely want to stay a decent amount of time on the sea for 2 to 4 days, since it's midsummer. Which also should serve as a little retreat from the big cities to a smaller coastal town possibly.
On my radar I already have either the coastal section of Kamakura, Fujisawa and Chigasaki. Or some places on the east coast of Izu: Atami, Usami, Itoo or Shimoda. But I would be very grateful for further recommendations in this regard. Can be anywhere on the coast of Honshu between Tokyo and Hiroshima, as long as it's accessible by train and meets those criteria:
- Have at least one konbini (and/or supermarket)
- A nice looking and bustling sand beach. Preferably with a small beach house / snack bar. If it's going to be a "beach episode" cliche, then I at least want to get it right. 😀
- A nice, relaxed inn or guest house to stay in.
- Izakaya/s, where I could socialize with the locals in the evening (if they are up to it). Preferably near the beach as well.
- Bonus points for: summer festival (matsuri) at the time*.
*When I go at this time, I also wanna visit the "Tenjin Festival". But thats in Osaka. So, neither small town, nor really beach side. Possibly also the Atami Fireworks Festival, if it happens to be in that time frame.
by Doc_Chopper