Key Facts
• Safety prayers were held on July 18 at Takata Matsubara Beach.
• Approximately 20 participants attended the ceremony ahead of the July 19 opening.
• The beach was heavily damaged during the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
• Restoration efforts led to its reopening in 2021.
• Last year, visitor numbers dropped by over 3,000 to around 16,000 due to poor weather.
• The beach has retained its international Blue Flag certification for safety and environmental standards.
• The beach will be open from July 19 to August 17, aiming for 20,000 visitors.
• Kumagai Masafumi, head of the Rikuzentakata Tourism and Products Association, highlighted the beach’s comfort and cooling sea breeze.
Summary
Ahead of the July 19 opening, safety prayers were conducted at Takata Matsubara Beach in Rikuzentakata City, with around 20 participants attending the ceremony on July 18. The beach, which suffered significant damage during the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, reopened in 2021 following extensive restoration. Despite a drop in visitors last year due to unfavorable weather, the beach continues to hold the prestigious Blue Flag certification, ensuring safety and environmental standards. Open until August 17, the beach aims to attract 20,000 visitors this season. Kumagai Masafumi, head of the Rikuzentakata Tourism and Products Association, emphasized the beach’s unique appeal, offering a comfortable environment and refreshing sea breeze.
