Jodogahama Beach — White Pebbles & Pine-Covered Rocks

Jodogahama (浄土ヶ浜, 'Pure Land Beach') is one of Tohoku's most scenic coastal landscapes — a protected cove with pure white pebble beaches, crystal-blue water, and dramatic volcanic rock formations covered in wind-sculpted pine trees. The name derives from an 18th-century monk who declared the view resembled Buddhist Pure Land paradise. The white pebbles are composed of rhyolite, a volcanic rock that weathers to brilliant white. The contrast between white stones, blue water, dark pine, and gray volcanic rock creates a striking color palette. The cove is sheltered from rough Pacific waves, making the water remarkably calm and clear. Visitors can walk along the beach, wade in the shallow water, or take sightseeing boats to explore sea caves and rock arches along the coast. The area is part of Sanriku Fukko National Park, established after the 2011 tsunami to support coastal recovery.