MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Japan is host to many islands and wilderness locations packed with recreational activities.
There are several beautiful camping sites available for Station residents to enjoy in the summer time, said Takeda Taka, Information Tours and Travel tour guide.
"Two of Japan's most famous camping places are Iwami Sea Side Park and Oshima Island," added Taka.
Iwami Sea Side Park is located approximately three hours away from the Station by car. The park has cabins, tennis courts and parks for additional recreational activities. Cabins are available with prices ranging from ¥3,190 to ¥5,760. Auto campgrounds are also available, but a reservation is required.
"The Iwami park has a very nice beach and offers a chance to be in the middle of a beautiful natural environment," said Taka.
In addition to the Iwami Sea Side Park, Japan offers Oshima Island for camping.
Just 40-minutes away, Oshima Island is the closest camping site to the Station.
Katazoe and Zushigahama Beach and camping locations are available on Oshima Island. The prices for camping sites vary from ¥2,500 to ¥25,830 for a cabin that can fit up to six people. Auto camping for day time use is ¥2,500 and the night fare jumps to ¥5,000.
"Oshima Island is kind of a resort location," said Taka. "Nearby, a hot springs bathing house is available for anyone camping. The camping sites on location are also very clean with beautiful beaches available."
For those interested in camping in the traditional mountainside terrain, Seven Falls and Yasaka are available.
"Seven Falls is a very beautiful location that offers, like its name says, seven different water falls," explained Taka. "Yasaka is also located in a mountainous location around two to three hours away from the Station by car."
Seven Falls offers more of a nature experience since it is in the mountains, added Taka. The beach is open now and will close from November until April.
Yasaka Camping Grounds also has auto camping sites available. On location is a river for paddleboating and canoe riding as well.
"Yasaka is more for people that do not mind being on a mountain with a river instead of a beach," said Taka.
To avoid unnecessary costs, Marine Corps Community Service's outdoor recreations at the Ironworks Gym provides gear for camping.
"We offer almost everything that is needed to go camping," said Damon S. Rauh, outdoor recreations manager. " We can also help provide directions, maps along with reservations and directions. There are also trips available to go canoeing and kayaking."
"Since reaching the campsites can be complicated, directions can be provided to any of them, added Taka. We have maps available with directions to help reach your destination."
For more information or directions on how to reach camping locations around Japan, contact ITT at 253-4377.