Tidal flat digging, more captivating than expected, is an outdoor activity that both adults and children can enjoy comfortably.

The Futtsu Coast clam digging grounds are well-equipped and easily accessible. While you might think clam digging is for kids, it's actually an outdoor activity that adults can get really into. The next day, the dining table will be lively.

Tidal flat digging is a weekend activity

we arrived at "Futtsu Coast Tidal Flat Digging Area" in Futtsu City, Chiba Prefecture. This outdoor tidal flat digging can be enjoyed from spring to early summer, but I was surprised by the level of facilities, the spacious beach, and the unexpectedly engaging experience.

When you think of tidal flat digging, you might associate it strongly with elementary school field trips or family leisure, and it may not seem like something just for adults. However, after actually trying it, you might find yourself thinking, "Isn't this actually more enjoyable for adults?" as you become engrossed.

With a rake in hand, I calmly search for clams. This simple task surprisingly becomes addictive, and when I find a good-sized clam, I can't help but exclaim "Oh!" with delight. It’s not about competing with anyone or fighting anything… as I quietly move my hands, I lose track of time and become absorbed.

Visiting as a family of four, it’s just right for a "weekend getaway to experience nature." A report on an extraordinary outdoor experience that I would especially recommend to adults.

The Futtsu Coast's clam digging site was more comfortable than I imagined

About 20 minutes across the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line. The Futtsu Coast clam digging site is a gently sloping beach located right next to Chiba Prefectural Futtsu Park.

What surprised me first was how well-equipped it was. There is a free parking area for about 1,200 cars right next to the clam digging site.

They also provide foot washing stations, seawater for rinsing off sand, simple toilets, coin-operated showers (for a fee), and resting areas (for a fee).

Additionally, the adjacent Futtsu Park features a campground, a jumbo pool, and tennis courts, making it popular with families. The freedom to enjoy nature is very high, creating a comfortable environment for both adults and children.

Head out to the beach, aiming for low tide.

The most important thing about clam digging is the low tide time. On this day, according to the tide chart on the official website, the best time to enter the sea is around 12 o'clock. Our family (2 adults and 2 children) arrived at the site at 10 o'clock.

There was already a long line, which made me a bit anxious, but when I asked the staff, they said, "You don't have to wait in line; you'll be able to enter when it's time," so I felt relieved.

First, purchase an entrance ticket (2,200 yen for adults / 1,100 yen for children). At this time, an adult-sized 2kg mesh bag and a child-sized 1kg mesh bag will be handed out, which will serve as the limits for taking shellfish home. It’s fine as long as it fits in the bag, but if it exceeds the limit, an additional fee will be required.

While waiting until the scheduled time, we played at the adjacent Futtsu Park. That day, the line started moving around 12:20, and we finally headed to the beach.

I entered the shallow sea at low tide with a rake in one hand and began searching for shellfish.

The children were searching for hermit crabs, while the adults were engrossed in clam digging.

Once we started, the adults were passionately digging for clams with rakes, while the children were focused on finding hermit crabs and small crabs. It seemed that the moving creatures were more fun than clams, and everyone had a chance to enjoy their time freely.

In addition to clams, we also found some surf clams, which felt like a little bit of luck.

After about an hour and a half, since the children started to get a little fussy, we decided to wrap it up with two bags for the two adults (2kg×2 bags).

When I filled the bag to the brim, it had enough volume to take home.

Finally, I washed off the sand at the foot washing area, quickly changed, and headed home. It was great that the facilities were well-equipped, so we didn't have to rush around with the kids.

The clams we caught became the star of the dining table the next day.

The clams and manila clams were thoroughly purged of sand on the same day. They were soaked overnight in water in a dark place and cooked the next day.

The clams were used in miso soup and steamed with white wine. Both dishes were plump, and the umami of the broth was rich. Even without using many seasonings, they turned out surprisingly delicious, just from the natural flavors of the ingredients.

The harvested clams were simply grilled with a net. The moment the shell opened, the aroma of the sea rose up, and the firm texture was irresistible, allowing me to experience a flow of satisfaction from tidal flat digging to the dining table.

Tidal flat digging is an outdoor activity that adults can enjoy

Stepping a little away from the hustle and bustle of the city, quietly searching for something in nature. This kind of tidal flat digging was an outdoor experience I would highly recommend to adults.

The Futtsu Coast tidal flat digging site offers easy access, excellent facilities, and an environment conducive to spending time freely, making it a comfortable place to enjoy. Even though it was an extraordinary experience, no extravagant preparation was necessary. Just casually heading out in light attire, getting engrossed, and bringing home results... that time was more pleasant than I had imagined.

Futtsu Coast Tidal Flat Digging Site
2307-2 Futtsu, Futtsu City, Chiba Prefecture (Directly Managed Seaside House at Futtsu Tidal Flat Digging Site)
TEL / Weekdays: 0439-87-2121 or 0439-87-5561, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: 0439-87-2233 (Directly Managed Seaside House at Tidal Flat Digging Site)
Event Period / Until July 31, 2025

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