Monthly event! Beach cleanup experience in Takahama Town~To protect the beautiful Wakasa Wada Beach~

2026.07.03

This article is about a beach cleanup experience at Wakasa Wada Beach, the first beach in Asia to receive the international environmental certification "Blue Flag."

• Table of Contents
• Volunteer activities held on Fukui's most beautiful coastline.
• Additional information about Wakasa Wada Beach

Volunteer activities held on Fukui's most beautiful coastline.

Along the coast of Wakasa Wada Beach, the rhythm of people's daily lives is deeply intertwined with the sea. Known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil seaside atmosphere, Wakasa Wada Beach was also the first beach in Asia to receive the international environmental certification "Blue Flag." The Blue Flag is a global eco-label awarded to beaches that meet stringent international standards for water quality, environmental protection, safety, and accessibility.

This certification demonstrates not only the beauty of the coastline itself, but also the high level of environmental awareness and community commitment to protecting its environment throughout the year. To preserve its natural beauty and maintain the clean and safe environment symbolized by the Blue Flag, this coastline becomes more than just a scenic spot on the fourth Sunday of every month.

Participation in beach cleanups is free and open to everyone. Most of the monthly cleanup activities do not require prior registration; participants simply need to gather in front of the Wakasa Wada Campsite reception area before 3 PM on the fourth Sunday of each month. Work gloves and garbage bags are usually provided, so locals and tourists alike can easily participate.

Even first-time participants can easily join in the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. A brief explanation at the campsite reception will cover the areas to be cleaned that day, as well as the types and amounts of trash that have recently washed ashore. For example, some days there may be a lot of microplastics, while other days there may be a lot of PET bottles, fishing gear, and driftwood. Afterwards, participants walk along the beach at their own pace, picking up the washed-up trash. The charm of this activity lies in its calm and friendly atmosphere, where you can interact with local people and nature.

Many visitors to Takahama believe that most of the trash that washes ashore is left by local businesses or tourists. However, in reality, much of it is marine debris carried by ocean currents from all over Japan and even overseas. When participating in beach cleanups, it's not uncommon to see labels and packaging written in various languages, which makes you realize that the Sea of ​​Nihon Sea connects a wide area and that marine pollution is a common issue that transcends national borders.

Participating in a beach cleanup offers visitors a special opportunity to experience rural Japan more deeply. Rather than simply visiting tourist spots, participants become part of the community's efforts to preserve the local landscape and share in the quiet tradition of protecting the coastline alongside local residents. Through this experience, a side of Takahama that many travelers are unaware of emerges. It's a place supported not only by its beautiful scenery, but also by a deep respect for nature and a strong community-wide commitment to protecting the sea.

The deep connection between Wakasa Wada Beach and the sea has been attracting nationwide attention in recent years. In 2025, this beach was used as one of the main filming locations for the coming-of-age film "Lifesaver!", which depicts life by the sea in Takahama Town and the growth of young lifeguards. This film portrays not only the beautiful scenery of Wakasa Wada Beach, but also the strong bonds and sense of responsibility of the community as people protect the sea and support each other. For more details about the film, trailers, and the latest information, please visit the official website. Click here for the official "Lifesaver!" website.

Additional information about Wakasa Wada Beach

The official swimming season at Wakasa Wada Beach is usually from mid-July to late August. (Note: In 2025, the swimming season was from July 12th to August 24th.) During this period, lifeguards and rescue staff are stationed at the beach, and beach huts and various seasonal facilities are open. In addition, sea conditions are monitored and safety management is carried out to ensure that visitors can enjoy swimming safely.

Please note that the opening and closing dates of the swimming season may vary slightly each year depending on the weather and sea conditions. For the latest information on swimming seasons and facilities, please contact the Wakasa Takahama Tourism Association (phone number below).

Wakasa Wada Campsite
104 Wada, Takahama-cho, Takahama Town, Fukui Prefecture 919-2201
TEL: 0770-621-777 Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Wakasa Takahama Tourism Association, 77-1-8 Miyazaki , Takahama Town, Fukui Prefecture Prefecture 919-2225 (Inside JR Wakasa Takahama Station)
TEL: 0770-72-0338 FAX: 0770-72-0774 Business Hours: 8:30 - 17:15
Official website: https://wakasa-takahama.jp/