Issue No. 07, Spring 2009:Clam Digging at Bentenjima Beach
Boat to Sand Island
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Being so close to the ocean and Lake Hamana, swimming and sunbathing by the water is a common weekend pastime for the Hamamatsu resident. One more activity that attracts large groups of people is
shiohigari, or clam digging. Whether you’re looking to experience something new or just looking for tonight’s dinner, clam digging is a surprisingly relaxing and fun way to spend a sunny spring or summer afternoon. With a perfect location so close by, clam digging is a great outdoor activity to try out if you have the time.
My personal clam digging spot of choice was the easily accessible Bentenjima beach. Located at the point where Lake Hamana and the Pacific Ocean meet, the Bentenjima island was formed around the early 1500s by splitting from the neighboring town due to earthquakes and harsh weather.
After gathering your beach wear and a bucket to carry the clams home, you can start your day of clam digging by visiting the
shiohigari office just across the street from the Bentenjima train station. From there, you can borrow a small rake for digging and get on a boat that takes you to the nearby sand island. Once you arrive, you will receive a small bag for clams, and you are ready to start digging! While even the most inexperienced digger can easily leave with a bagful after a relatively short time, many people stay for hours in hopes of finding that one big clam hidden deep in the sand. Since clams tend to live in clusters, you’ll also notice people moving around trying to find the best place to start pushing back the sand. While it may take several minutes before coming across your first clam, the sound of excited children around you as they hold up their findings gives you motivation to search for a clam of your own.
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After about an
Hour of Digging
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The official clam digging season starts from April 1st and goes through to the end of August. While many people like to get an early start and enjoy the cool spring air, going later in the season gives the clams time to grow before digging them up. After taking their clams home and soaking them in salt water, Japanese people usually prepare the clams by adding them to a bowl of miso soup, pasta, or frying them up with garlic butter.
Fireworks Festival
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Aside from clam digging, Bentenjima is a great spot for spring and summer recreational activities. On a hot day you will find the water filled with swimmers trying to beat the heat with a lovely view of Shinto style
torii in the middle of the bay. You can also enjoy the quaint park, eating area, and the fireworks display in July that attracts thousands of people each year.
