Volunteers from the Japan Society of Ocean Policy and the Japan Association for Coastal Zone Studies worked together to compile a proposal for improving the integrated management of Japan's oceans and coastal zones. The proposal covers the marine area which extends from the coastal zone, considered to be an integral part of the land and sea, to Japan's territorial waters and exclusive economic zones, the sixth largest in the world, as well as the continental shelf and beyond. We hope that readers of this article will discover how the recommendations relate to their own lives, and feel inspired to take action so they can enjoy the benefits of the ocean and achieve sustainable lifestyles into the future.