Shima-machi

Shima-machi is an absolutely gorgeous coastal town about a half-an-hour south of Fukuoka City by car. Those who want a real beach with surfable waves, clean water, and relatively deserted stretches will definitely want to come here. Futamigaura is perhaps the most famous beach in the town. Out in the ocean are two enormous rocks (about 30m tall) which are linked by a rope weighing over a ton. In Shinto belief, the two rocks are wed. Bolder swimmers and divers can plunge from one side of the rocks. On the over-looking hillsides are a couple of facilities, including a well-patronized cafe and bar called Sunset. As autumn approaches, so do the larger waves, and surfers turn out en masse not only along this beach, but other spots further south along the jagged coast. If you are lucky enough to have a car, explore the winding roads along the cliffs. The views at anytime of the day are breathtaking. If you do not have a car, then you may be a little inconvenienced. You could take a Showa Bus for Nishinoura (getting off at the last station) from the stop in front of Fujisaki Station, but even then, you will have to walk another 20 minutes.