Kehi no Matsubara is officially recognized as one of the 'Three Great Pine Groves' of Japan alongside Miho no Matsubara and Niji no Matsubara.
The forest contains approximately 17,000 pine trees, primarily composed of Japanese black pine and Japanese red pine.
The beach is one of the oldest recorded swimming areas in the Fukui Prefecture, dating back to the late 19th century.
The sand in the park is famously fine and white, contrasting with the dark needles of the pine forest.
The area is a popular site for viewing the moon, a tradition established during the Edo period.
The park's topography includes stabilized sand dunes that were formed over centuries of coastal wind patterns.
Matsubara Park is located along the shores of Tsuruga Bay, adjacent to the Kehi no Matsubara pine grove. The site is a designated National Place of Scenic Beauty due to its expansive forest of red and black pine trees covering approximately 40 hectares. The park serves as a primary access point for the public beach, which features calm, shallow waters protected by the bay's geography. Historically, the area was a significant port town, and the park maintains the historical landscape of the coastal dunes. The beach area is recognized as one of Japan's best swimming destinations for its clear water quality. A paved promenade runs along the coastline, facilitating walking access between the forest trails and the sandy shore. The park is managed as a public recreational space with designated areas for picnicking and seasonal beach activities.
The elevated viewing area at the edge of the pine grove looking toward the sunset over the bay.
Bring insect repellent during warmer months, as the pine forest can harbor mosquitoes.
The sand can get extremely hot in midday summer sun; wear sandals even when walking toward the water.
Check the tide charts before visiting if you plan to walk the full length of the shoreline.
Do not attempt to walk through dense, unpaved areas of the forest to avoid damaging the protected pine root systems.
Beach swimming facilities and lifeguard services are seasonal, typically operating only during summer months.
Carry out all trash; smoking is restricted to designated areas near parking lots to prevent forest fire risks.
