Air Show at Shirarahama Beach in Wakayama Prefecture — The Air Race World Championship Winner Yoshihide Muroya Takes to the Skies for His First Flight of 2026 (April 25)

Published: April 18, 2026
Air Show at Shirarahama Beach in Wakayama Prefecture — The Air Race World Championship Winner Yoshihide Muroya Takes to the Skies for His First Flight of 2026 (April 25)

An air show featuring aerobatic flight performances is set to take place at Shirarahama Beach — one of the most iconic spots in Nanki Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture — on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

Performing at the event is Yoshihide Muroya, one of Japan's foremost aerobatic pilots and the first Asian to claim an overall annual championship in The Air Race World Championship. The show marks Muroya's first flight performance of the 2026 season, set against the expansive backdrop of sea and sky at this beloved coastal destination.

For event details, visit the official event page.

Highlights

First Flight of the 2026 Season

This air show is Yoshihide Muroya's first flight performance of 2026, marking the start of a new season. Visitors can expect to see his highly refined piloting skills on full display right from the outset of the season.

Yoshihide Muroya, the first Asian overall champion in The Air Race World Championship

Aerial Art Merging with the Scenery of Shirarahama Beach

Against the contrast of turquoise water and white sand, the aircraft traces smoke trails across the sky. The combination of the beach's natural setting and the aerial performance creates a truly distinctive visual experience.

Flight performance against a backdrop of white sand and sea

An Immersive Open-Air Experience

With the performance unfolding over the shoreline, spectators can take in the full impact of the show — from the roar of the engine to the aircraft's surprising maneuvers — in a dynamic, three-dimensional experience.

An unforgettable 15 minutes on the beach — a moving experience to share with family and friends

About Yoshihide Muroya

Yoshihide Muroya is a Japanese aerobatic pilot who has earned recognition as one of the finest in the country. He became the first Asian pilot to win the overall annual championship in The Air Race World Championship and has since been active in competitions and air shows both in Japan and abroad.

Known for his precise control and consistent flight quality, Muroya uses events and performances across Japan to share his passion for aviation with wider audiences.

About Shirarahama Beach

Shirarahama Beach is one of the defining landmarks of Nanki Shirahama in Wakayama Prefecture, and has been selected as one of Japan's "100 Best Beaches." Renowned for its white sand and clear blue water, the beach draws visitors from across the Kansai region year-round.

Event Details

Event Name: The 7th Nanki Shirahama Air Show 2026

Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026

Times:

  • Session 1: 11:00 AM–11:30 AM (approximately 15-minute flight)
  • Session 2: 2:00 PM–2:30 PM (approximately 15-minute flight)

Venue: Above the waters off Shirarahama Beach, Nanki Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture

Backup Date: Sunday, April 26, 2026 (same times)

Note: The event may be cancelled or altered due to weather conditions.

Access

Venue: 864 Shirahama-cho, Nishimuro-gun, Wakayama Prefecture

By Train: Approximately 15 minutes by car from JR Kisei Main Line "Shirahama Station"

By Car: Approximately 15 minutes from the "Nanki Shirahama IC" exit on the Kisei Expressway

By Air: Approximately 10 minutes by car from Nanki Shirahama Airport

Nearest Bus Stop: Alight at "Shirarahama" — just a short walk away

Public transportation is recommended, as traffic and parking are expected to be congested on the day.

View location on Google Maps