Matama Coast – Oita, Japan
While planning my time in Oita Prefecture, one place kept popping up over and over again: Matama Coast. It’s known as the only beach in the prefecture where you can see the sun set directly over the horizon—a rare view in this part of Japan. Since I was already nearby after visiting Futagoji Temple, and it was more or less on my way back toward Nakatsu, I figured it was worth a stop. I just needed the weather to cooperate.
Matama Coast stretches along the northern edge of the prefecture, facing the calm waters of the Suonada Sea. In the summer, it’s a popular spot for families thanks to its shallow, gentle waters. But what really sets it apart is what happens during low tide. The sea pulls back, revealing wide mudflats that act like a mirror—reflecting the colours of the sky, the clouds, and the setting sun. It’s this effect that has earned it a place among Japan’s “Top 100 Sunset Views.”
When I started the day, the weather wasn’t great—and unfortunately, it hadn’t improved by the time I left the temple. Still, as I drove toward the coast, I held onto a bit of hope that the sky might clear just in time. After parking, I began wandering around the area. Almost immediately, I noticed signs promoting the coast as a romantic destination—clearly a popular spot for couples, especially at sunset.
There’s a small rest area here with a restaurant, café, and even paddleboard rentals during the summer months. Despite arriving during low tide, the heavy cloud cover meant the reflective mudflats didn’t quite have the same magic I had seen in photos. Still, I took my time walking along the shoreline.
Following a small path, I came across a tiny shrine—and right beside it, a bright pink door standing alone against the landscape. It felt a bit out of place at first, but it was clearly designed as a photo spot. I couldn’t resist taking a few photos before continuing on. I passed through the small shrine area and eventually made my way toward a soba restaurant nearby.
At this point, I was still holding onto the idea that the sky might clear. So instead of rushing off, I decided to stay for dinner.The seating at the soba restaurant faces the ocean. Even without a proper sunset, I sat there watching the mudflats, the tide slowly moving, and the grey horizon. It wasn’t the dramatic golden sunset I had imagined but it had its own quiet atmosphere.
As sunset time approached, the clouds remained stubbornly in place. I took one last walk along the beach, just in case something changed. It didn’t. And that was my cue to head out and start the drive back toward Nakatsu.
Not every stop turns out the way you picture it—but sometimes, it’s still worth going just to see what you get.
Background
Matama Coast (真玉海岸) is located along the northern coastline of Oita Prefecture, facing the Seto Inland Sea. It is widely recognized as one of Japan’s top sunset viewing locations and is often included in lists of the country’s “100 best sunsets.”
What makes this coastline unique is its expansive tidal flats. During low tide, the retreating water reveals smooth, reflective mudflats that mirror the sky, creating dramatic visual effects—especially during sunset.
The coast has also developed into a leisure destination, particularly in the summer months, when its shallow waters make it ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and family-friendly beach activities.
In recent years, the area has gained popularity as a scenic and romantic destination, with designated photo spots and coastal facilities enhancing the visitor experience.
Getting There
Matama Coast is located in Bungotakada City in northern Oita Prefecture. The most convenient way to access the coast is by car. From Oita, the drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. From Nakatsu, it is about a 40-minute drive.
Public transportation options are limited, with infrequent bus services that may not align well with sunset viewing times. For flexibility—especially when timing your visit with tides and sunset—a rental car is highly recommended.
Parking is available near the beach and rest area.
Route Overview
Distance: 1 km out & back (Matama Coast Parking Lot)
Total elevation gain: 2 m
Duration: 15 min (with breaks 40 min)
Difficulty: Easy
Cost Breakdown
Car Rental: Car Rental: Toyota Rent-a-Car — ¥7,920
Food: ¥1,115
