Chichibugahama, the «Uyuni of Japan»: Shooting Kagawa's Tidal Sunset Reflections

Chichibugahama in Mitoyo City, Kagawa Prefecture, became internationally famous on social media as «Japan's Uyuni Salt Flats.» When the tide retreats, a thin layer of water remains on the tidal flats, becoming a mirror that reflects sunset skies and silhouetted figures.

【Three conditions】Three conditions must align simultaneously for the miracle shot: (1) low tide coinciding with sunset; (2) near-zero wind (under 2 m/s); (3) clear skies with vivid sunset. Only a few days each month meet all three. Mitoyo City Tourism publishes a monthly «Best Conditions Calendar» — always check it.

【Techniques】(1) arrive 30 minutes before sunset; (2) shoot kneeling or ground-level (maximize the mirror); (3) for subjects, backlit silhouettes work best; (4) jump shots need continuous burst at 1/500 s or faster; (5) the magic hour (10–30 minutes after sunset) delivers the most dramatic colors.

【Exposure】Meter for the sky to preserve sunset color. Manual mode at f/8, 1/60–1/125 s, ISO ~200. Bracket 3–5 frames in HDR for post-balance between sky and ground. Always shoot RAW.

【Gear】Wide-angle lens (16–35 mm or 14–24 mm) is essential. A camera with a tilting LCD helps for ground-level compositions. A tripod works, but ground-level shots are easier handheld or with a mini-tripod. Bring extra clothing and a tarp/mat for kneeling or lying on wet sand.

【Access】1 hour by car from Takamatsu Airport; 15 minutes by taxi from JR Takuma Station. Parking is paid (¥500) and weekends fill 3 hours before sunset. During crowded periods, check nearby Ariake-hama or Tsuda no Matsubara on spring-tide days as alternates.