The Moon Desert Monument and Memorial Museum
The Moon Desert Monument
One of the most recognizable symbols of Onjuku Beach is the Moon Desert Monument, inspired by the famous Japanese children’s song Tsuki no Sabaku, meaning “Moon Desert.”
The monument depicts a prince and princess riding a camel and stands in Moon Desert Memorial Park near Chuo Beach. The original monument was erected in 1969, while the bronze statue seen today was created in 1990.
During summer, the monument is illuminated at night, creating a particularly atmospheric scene against the seaside surroundings. The combination of the white beach, evening sky, and illuminated figures makes the area a popular photo spot.
Moon Desert Memorial Museum
Near the monument is the Moon Desert Memorial Museum, where visitors can learn about the history and background of the children’s song Tsuki no Sabaku.
Opened in 1990, the museum also introduces the history and culture of Onjuku. It provides an opportunity to understand the cultural connection between the town and the famous song before exploring the surrounding beach.
Three Beaches of Onjuku
Iwawada Beach
Iwawada Beach is located in the Iwawada area of Onjuku Beach and attracts many families during the summer swimming season.
A nearby historical landmark is the Monument Commemorating the Origin of Japan-Spain-Mexico International Relations. This monument recalls an important episode in the history of relations between Japan and Mexico and adds a historical dimension to a visit to the beach.
Chuo Beach
Chuo Beach is the main swimming beach in the central part of Onjuku and is particularly convenient to access from the town and railway station.
The beach becomes lively with visitors during summer and is also used as the launch area for local fireworks displays. Its convenient location makes it one of the most popular sections of the Onjuku coastline.
Hama Beach
Hama Beach is located in the Hama area and is especially popular with surfers. Compared with the busier central areas, it offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural coastal environment at a more relaxed pace.
Onjuku Water Park
Near Onjuku Beach is Onjuku Water Park, a municipal leisure pool that operates during the summer season.
The facility features attractions such as a lazy river-style pool and water slides, providing an alternative to swimming in the ocean. It is particularly suitable for families who want to enjoy a variety of water activities during their summer visit.
Fishing and Local Specialties
Onjuku has a long history as a fishing community, and seafood remains an important part of the town’s local culture and cuisine.
Abalone and spiny lobster are among the area’s best-known specialties. These high-quality seafood products are recognized as part of the “Sotobo Brand,” referring to the distinctive seafood associated with the Sotobo coastal region of southeastern Chiba.
Iwawada Fishing Port
Iwawada Fishing Port is an important fishing port in the Iwawada district. The port also serves as a venue for local events.
Every March, the Fishing Kinmedai Festival celebrates kinmedai, or splendid alfonsino, while the Iwawada Minato Festival is held in November. These events offer visitors a chance to experience the community’s strong connection with the sea and fishing industry.
Onjuku Fishing Port and Onjuku Port
The ports in the Hama district, including Onjuku Fishing Port and Onjuku Port, are also important centers for the local fishing industry. They are used not only for fishing-related activities but also as venues for community and tourism events.
A Historic Connection with Mexico
The San Francisco Shipwreck of 1609
Onjuku is also known for an important historical event involving Japan, Spain, and Mexico. In 1609, the Spanish galleon San Francisco was stranded off the coast of Onjuku after being caught in a powerful storm.
Local residents took part in rescue efforts and helped save survivors from the ship. This event became an important part of Onjuku’s history and later contributed to the town’s long-standing relationship with Mexico.
Monument Commemorating Japan, Spain, and Mexico
To commemorate this historic event and the beginning of international relations involving Japan, Spain, and Mexico, the Monument Commemorating the Origin of Japan-Spain-Mexico International Relations was erected in 1928.
The historical connection remains an important part of Onjuku’s cultural identity, and exchanges between Onjuku and Mexico continue today.
Seasonal Events
Onjuku Beach hosts a variety of events throughout the year, particularly during the warmer months.
Summer highlights include fireworks displays and beach volleyball tournaments, while an autumn crossing swimming event provides another opportunity for participants to enjoy the area’s coastal environment.
These events add a lively atmosphere to the beach and provide visitors with opportunities to experience local community life alongside the natural scenery.
Access to Onjuku Beach
By Train
The main attractions around Onjuku Beach are within walking distance of Onjuku Station on the JR Sotobo Line.
From the station, it takes approximately 15 minutes on foot to Iwawada Beach, about 7 minutes to Chuo Beach, and around 10 minutes to Hama Beach.
The convenient access from the station makes Onjuku Beach an easy destination for travelers exploring the Boso Peninsula by public transportation.
Enjoy Nature, Culture, and History by the Sea
Onjuku Beach is more than a beautiful stretch of white sand. Its crescent-shaped coastline, shallow waters, and three distinct beach areas make it an attractive destination for swimming, surfing, and relaxing by the Pacific Ocean.
At the same time, visitors can discover the cultural world of Tsuki no Sabaku, explore the Moon Desert Monument and Memorial Museum, enjoy fresh local seafood, and learn about the historic connection between Onjuku, Spain, and Mexico.
With its combination of beautiful scenery, seaside activities, local food, cultural attractions, and international history, Onjuku Beach is a memorable destination for travelers visiting Chiba’s Boso Peninsula.