Outdoor Japan's Surf Guide

IBARAKI

Chiba

NIIJIMA

kanagawashizuoka

aichi

Chiba

Ibaraki

Kanagawa

AichiShizuoka

Tokyo Islands

B AI

RESOURCES — JAPAN SURF SPEAKReef

5mm

Boardies

Toilet

Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Shower Car park

Bikinis Boots Gloves Head cap

3mm Short john Spring suitSemi-dry

Sand Rocks River mouth

ICONLEGEND

Nearly every island nation has surf, and Japan is no different. There is literally surf from Hokkaido down to Kyushu, as well as the far-flung islands. OJ’s Surf Guide doesn’t cover everything. What it does cover is the areas most accessible to most of us, namely in and around the Kanto and Chubu regions. The east coast of Japan gets waves, good waves, and if you are brave enough to challenge getting wet in winter, you are in for a treat. We haven’t included everything; after all, surfing is all about adventure and discovery. There are plenty of breaks accessible by train, but to get to the good stuff you’ll want your own vehicle so you can explore new breaks, and take in the natural surroundings at your own pace. So, what are you waiting for? Roll up this mag, throw it in your back pocket, and go surfing!

The incomplete guide to surfing in Japan.

outdoor japan’s

Surf Guide

45J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

Wetsuit

Wetsuit

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesFutatsujima NW B 1 2 3 4 5 AUG – NOVTakahagi W / NW A 1 2 3 4 5 OCT – NOVIbuki Beach W B 1 2 3 4 5 OCT – DECIshi Beach W B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARKawajiri W / NW A 1 2 3 4 5 OCT – DECHaka-shita W I A 1 2 3 4 5 OCT – NOVHotel-shita W / NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 OCT – NOVHitachi Station W / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 OCT – NOVKawarago W / SW B 1 2 3 4 5 OCT – NOVHitachi Lighthouse W A 1 2 3 4 5 OCT – NOVHitachinaka Beach W B 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOVAjigaura SW B 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOVOarai W I A 1 2 3 4 5 FEB – APROnuki W / SW B 1 2 3 4 5 FEB – NOVTsurukame W / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARResort Hotel-mae W / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARUmi-no-ko W / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAR

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesCosmo W / SW B 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – SEPTosante-shita W / SW B 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – SEPAkashi SW B 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – SEPHaka-shita SW B 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – SEPHirai SW B 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – SEPHasaki Seaside Park W / SW B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – OCTShari Beach W / SW B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – OCTHasaki Kanekyu SW B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – OCTHasaki Main Beach SW B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – OCT

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N orth Ibaraki’s long, straight stretch of coastline from Futatsujima to the powerful breaks at Oarai is cold in winter, requiring even the

keenest surfer to wear a spring suit through summer. If you don’t mind the chill, you are in for a real treat, with consistent sand and reef breaks although, because it is so open, it is easily affected by wind. Northerly and northeasterly swells are best, but be careful, as the area is known to have strong currents. Locals demand respect, especially at Kawarago, so take care, and everyone can enjoy the waves.

T he breaks stretching along the coastline from Kashima to Hasaki are consistent and pack a good punch when the swell hits. The big

windmills along the coast indicate the area gets a lot of wind, so be sure to check the weather before you go so you can time your surf just right. With the right wind and northeasterly or southeasterly swells, you are in for some great waves.

NORTH IBARAKI

KASHIMA AND HASAKI

Just north of Chiba, Ibaraki faces the open ocean, thus receiving good swell and boasting many year-round surf spots. The warm water current stops in the South Chiba area, meaning the water temperature in Ibaraki is generally much colder than the rest of Kanto. As a result, winter waves are reasonably uncrowded despite easy highway access from Tokyo. The exposed location does mean the area cops a lot of wind and, for best conditions, you want to be out there early morning or late afternoon, although the winds die down in winter.

Ibaraki

Futatsujima

Takahagi

Kawajiri

Kawarago

AigauraOarai

Onuki

Topsanteshita

IBARAKI

Kashima

Hasaki

By K

uni Takanami

46 J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

With more than 500 kilometers of coastline facing the Pacific Ocean, Chiba has some of the most consistent surf in Japan and a variety of waves from fun beach breaks and river mouths to more challenging reefs.

Its convenient proximity to Narita Airport and Tokyo and relatively cheap land prices make it a popular alternative to the city.

ChibaSURF GUIDE

WetsuitPoint Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesShingo-shita N B 1 2 3 4 5 DEC – APRIiokaso N B 1 2 3 4 5 DEC – APRShop-mae N B 1 2 3 4 5 DEC – APRMain N B 1 2 3 4 5 DEC – APRAmeya-mae N I A 1 2 3 4 5 DEC – APRRiver Mouth N B 1 2 3 4 5 DEC – APRPipe-shita N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 DEC – APRShiinauchi N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 DEC – APR8

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I ioka has consistent waves to suit all levels and the mostly sandy beach breaks work better on northerly and southerly swells. It’s an easy one-

day trip from Tokyo, so weekends can be crowded, but not as bad as Ichinomiya or Shonan. Water temperatures are much cooler than the southern areas, meaning you will need a 5-mm. semi-dry wetsuit right through to Golden Week.

IIOKA

North ChibaNorth Chiba’s black sands may not be the most inviting and will certainly test your bare-foot mettle in the middle of summer, but year-round consistent waves make up for it. The area covers the breaks from Iioka down to the white sand beach at Onjuku, giving surfers plenty of options with offshore winds and good swells.

CHIBA

Iioka

Katakai

Ichinomiya

OnjukuHebara

KamogawaWada

ChitoseChikuraHeisaura

By K

uni Takanami

47J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

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Wetsuit

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesSakuta W / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOVKatakai Fishing Port NW B 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOVKatakai Shintei (Breakwall) NW B 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOVKatakai Chuo (Middle) NW B 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOVMigigawa (Rights) NW B 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOVToyoumi NW B 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOV

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesIwawada W B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – AUGOnjuku Main Beach W B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – AUGOnjuku Fishing Port W I A 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOV

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesKuso-shita NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARHebara NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARObachan NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARMalibu N I A 1 2 3 4 5 AUG – NOV

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A lthough it’s popular with long boarders, the Katakai area has consistent surf for all levels. Most of the waves develop off break walls

and tetra pods breaking over a sandy bottom, working best on northwest winds with northeasterly or southeasterly swells. Katakai is particularly busy on the weekends, thanks to easy access from Tokyo and abundant parking and showers.

O njuku is a quiet beachside town nestled around a large, crescent white-sand beach. The area needs a decent-sized southeast swell to

turn on good waves, but the main beach break is a mellow wave perfect for beginners. The huge white sand and clear water lure many beach lovers who lounge about the umi no ie (beach houses) in July and August.

T he Hebara area is for the more advanced surfer. Breaking over both sand and reef, good waves here need a southerly, easterly or northerly

swell. The area gets many big swells that can get solid and heavy and has been home to world-class big wave contests in the past. The car park is always full on weekends, so drive safely around this area.

KATAKAI AREA

ONJUKU

HEBARA & MALIBU

South Chiba

OnjukuHebara

128

413 2

WetsuitPoint Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesMaruki N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – JUNRoyal Hotel-shita N / NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – JUNGrand Hotel-shita NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARMachizaki River Mouth NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARSeaside W / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAR

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K amogawa is another area that gets decent swell, particularly in the typhoon season. Maruki is perhaps the best point in the area and is

home to the Chiba leg of the Japan Pro Surfing Association (JPSA) short board tour. Locals here don’t like you messing around in the water, so surf safe and sensibly. Works best on northerly or southerly swells.

KAMOGAWA AREA

48 J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

WetsuitPoint Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesIchinomiya Beach W B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – AUGUma / Sunrise W B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – AUGTorami W I A 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOVShida-shita W / SW I A 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOVTaito SW B 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOV5

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I chinomiya gets some of Japan’s most consistent surf. It has a laid-back beachside atmosphere and is home for a number of Japan’s pro

surfers. Weekends and holidays are especially crowded, but locals are friendly and, providing you surf safe and abide by the rules, you’ll enjoy no shortage of waves. Works best on easterly and southerly swells.

ICHINOMIYA AREA

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Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesHaka-shita NW B 1 2 3 4 5 DEC – MARJ's NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARShirasuka NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAROhara Car Park-mae NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARHanakago NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAR

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesMaruyama W / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – AUGChitose W / NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 APR – AUGSatohama NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – AUGChikura SW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – AUG

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesTomoe E I A 1 2 3 4 5 JUL – NOVIkoino-no-mura-mae NE B 1 2 3 4 5 JUL – NOVNanpara NE B 1 2 3 4 5 JUL – NOVFamily Park-shita NE B 1 2 3 4 5 JUL – NOVHotel Action-mae N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 JUL – NOV

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W ada has been a whaling town since the 1600s. Unfortunately, today you won’t be able to enjoy any waves with these magnificent

creatures, although whale does still show up on some local menus. Surfing-wise, there are a bunch of excellent beach and reef breaks with fewer crowds than the rest of Chiba. Most spots work best on a northerly or easterly swell.

W hen the swell picks up, this area can hold powerful waves without big crowds. The breaks are well spaced apart and vary between

beach and reef, breaking best on northerly or easterly swells. Chikura is home to one of Chiba’s two JPSA long board contests, the Real B Voice Pro.

A lthough the waves here are a little fickle, usually needing a big westerly swell, when Mother Nature supplies the right combination,

you are in for a treat. The water temperature here is the warmest in all of Chiba, and the beach is clean with brilliantly clear water. The breaks are mostly beachies friendly to all surfers, but there is also one outer reef point for advanced riders, packing a good punch during the typhoon season. Most spots need a good-sized easterly or southerly swell.

WADA

CHITOSE TO CHIKURA

HEISAURA

SURF GUIDE

49J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

People are often surprised to hear you can surf in Tokyo. There are actually two groups of islands that technically fall under the jurisdiction of Tokyo. The Izu Islands (Izu Shoto) are a group of volcanic islands stretching south and east from the Izu Peninsula. Although traditionally referred to as the "Izu Seven" (Izu Shichito), there are actually more than a dozen islands and islets. The Ogasawara Islands (also known as the Bonin Islands) are a stunning archipelago of more than 30 islands similarly administered by Tokyo, although it takes more than 25 hours to get there in good weather (approx. 1,000 kilometers) from Tokyo Bay. The Izu Islands, however, are a great weekend (or longer) surf trip destination for those seeking crystal clear waters, warmer water temperatures and spectacular scenery without actually leaving Tokyo. The Islands have a friendly local vibe, fresh local food and, of course, a variety of surf from easy beach breaks to top-class reefs.

WetsuitPoint Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesAwaiura W A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARHabushiso NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARHabushiura W B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARHeli-shita W B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARSecret W I A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARMissile-shita W A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARMama-shita-ura E / NE I A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARKurone E B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARB-tei E B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARMama-shita-ura E B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAR10

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N iijima is the most popular Tokyo island for surfing and is home to local and international surf contests. There is a variety of consistently

good waves with breaks that can handle everything from easterly, northeasterly, southeasterly, westerly and southwesterly swells. The eastern coast is a long white sand beach break that gets some powerful tubes. To the north is an experts-only point due to the strong currents. The western coast has some popular spots but does not get as much swell. Be sure not to miss the island’s natural outdoor hot spring.

NIIJIMA

Tokyo

TOKYO

Izu Oshima

Niijima

Kozushima

Miyakejima

Hachijojima

By K

uni Takanami

50 J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

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Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesFudeshima W A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARSanohama N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARJunkame N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARKeta Reef NE A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARMotomachi-mae E A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARNaganehama N / NE A 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOVIzumihama E A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAR

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesSunset E I A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – NOVGyokou N / NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – NOVSchool N / NW A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – NOVMiera W / NW A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – NOVIruka / Dolphin W / NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – NOVTurtle W / NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – NOV

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesKaesuhama SW B 1 2 3 4 5 JULY – NOVHashiri NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 JULY – NOVTakouwan W A 1 2 3 4 5 JULY – NOVMaihama Tsumari E B 1 2 3 4 5 DEC – JUNEMaihama Mouri E B 1 2 3 4 5 DEC – JUNEMaihama Nagasawa E A 1 2 3 4 5 DEC – JUNENagahama E / SE A 1 2 3 4 5 JULY – NOV

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesKaizer's NW A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARSantos NW A 1 2 3 4 5 NOV – FEBTacos NW A 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – NOV

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I zu Oshima, known simply as “Oshima,” is the closest of the Izu Islands and has clear waters and a stunning landscape which includes a giant

volcano in the center of the island. Good waves make Oshima a great surf trip destination for the hardcore surfer. Most reef breaks perform all year round, handling swells from the northeast, south, southwest and west.

F amous for dolphins, a (very) active volcano, diving and rare nature and wildlife, Miyakejima also turns on reasonable waves. Although not

nearly as consistent as most of the other islands, there are a good number of challenging reef breaks for the advanced surfer that handle swells from almost any direction. The high cliffs of neighboring Mikurajima are home to wild dolphins and thus attract dolphin-swimming tours. Visitors often stay on Miyakejima where the dramatic landscape is a harsh reminder of the power of nature.

K ozushima, known for its stunning scenery and white sand beaches, is a local island, and respect must be given in and out of the water.

The breaks are quite consistent and work best on northerly, easterly, southeasterly and westerly swells. If for some reason the surf falls flat, there is plenty to keep the keen outdoor lover busy with four hiking trails, onsen and good campsites.

H achijojima is the most southern of the Izu Islands and is known for spring temperatures year-round. A volcanic landscape, onsen and

year-round consistent surf await the expeditionary surfer. Its open ocean location means it gets swells from every direction, but the main breaks particularly feed off northerly or southerly swells. It breaks all year but is best in winter. The water is usually warmer than the Kanto area due to the Black Current. Don’t expect sandy beaches; there are many rocks that will be difficult for beginners, but great for intermediate and advanced surfers. Tourist surfers are welcome but, as anywhere, respect the locals, and you will catch more waves. Make sure to drop into the Aussie-run Anchor Pub to get the lowdown.

IZU OSHIMA

MIYAKEJIMA

KOZUSHIMA

HACHIJOJIMA

SURF GUIDE

51J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

Kanagawa’s Shonan area is said to be the home of surfing in Japan and, with easy access to Tokyo and Yokohama, it is one of the most popular (and populated) surfing communities in the country. In general, Shonan covers everything from Zushi and Kamakura to the east all the way to Oiso and Yoshihama to the west. The area from Zushi to Enoshima has the most spots, although Kugenuma is most popular with longboarders with waves rarely getting overhead high. Weekends and holidays are crowded but, if you can get up early, you’ll find a fair number of offshore days and some nice waves.

Wetsuit

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesOsaki N A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – NOVKabune N A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – NOVTamishi NE A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – NOVYuigahama N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARVenus Café-mae N / NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – NOVInamura N / NE A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – NOVUbagaya N I A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARHenoji N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARShichirigahama N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARLoa N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – NOVMinegahara N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARKojiki N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARKamakura High School-mae N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARKeifu-mae N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARKoshigoe Fishing Port N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAREnoshima Harbor NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAR16

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(you might need boots JAN and FEB)

A lmost all the breaks in the Zushi and Kamakura areas are within walking distance from the train lines and Route 134. During typhoon season, expect the reef breaks to be turning on some good

waves, some surfable for beginners, but others for experts only, so check first. The water is a bit cleaner on this side of Enoshima, as there are fewer rivers, but it is also more sheltered, so waves are a bit smaller. Yuigahama is good for beginners, although it may be closed to surfers in July and August when the umi no ie (beach house) opens.

Shichirigahama is a one-kilometer beach with sand and reef bottom. The reef is covered with kelp, so it’s fairly safe, although you might want to be careful at low tide and wear booties. The spots in front of First Kitchen and the parking lot are most crowded. The area takes anything from south, southeast, west and southwesterly swells. Best to talk to the locals for the best spots when typhoon swell is pumping, but they are notoriously unforgiving here, so obey the rules and definitely don’t drop in.

ZUSHI & KAMAKURA

Kanagawa

KANAGAWA

Zushi

Kamakura

Fujisawa

Chigasaki

West Shonan

By K

uni Takanami

52 J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

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Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesDairoku E I A 1 2 3 4 5 AUG – OCTSuizokukan-mae NE B 1 2 3 4 5 AUG – OCTMac Donald's-mae N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARHikichigawa River Mouth N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARSkate Park-mae (Pool Garden-mae) N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARHanchan-mae N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARSuehiro-mae N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARShoyocho-mae N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARTsujidou N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARHashi-mae N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAR2nd Car Park N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAR

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesKuso shita N I A 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARChisan N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARChiipa N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARPark N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEART-bar N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARShirakaba N B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – MAYShop shita N B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – MAYKabocha N B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – MAY

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesNamakon N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARSurf 90 N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARSodegaura N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARPool-shita N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARNijigahama N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARHanamizu-gawa River Mouth N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARResthouse-mae N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARIso Kou-mae (Iso High School) NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARTunnel’s NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAROiso NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARGenji NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARYoshihama NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAR

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M ost of the surf spots in Fujisawa are within walking distance from the station, making it popular with city surfers. It’s mostly sandbar beach

breaks that work best on west to southwesterly swells. The main area is Kugenuma, with a big clubhouse, showers, café and beach volleyball courts. Longboarders flock to the mellow consistent waves and expect to be shoulder-to-shoulder with surfers, bodyboarders and swimmers on summer weekends, so be careful. Down the beach, Tsujido is a less-crowded option, although a much farther walk from the station.

C higasaki is home to Outdoor Japan’s new office. Lucky for us, the surf community is home to some decent beach breaks. There’s no

shortage of surf shops or laid-back bars and cafés to kick back in after a day at the beach or hang out at the Umi no Ie at Southern Beach in July and August. It’s similar to Tsujido, but with a bit less swell. There is a bit of localism, but not to the extent of Kamakura or neighboring Hiratsuka. Chigasaki works best on south, southeast and southwesterly swells.

O n the west side of the Sagami River, Hiratsuka, Oiso and Yoshihama get some consistent swell and, on a good south-west swell, can

produce some epic waves. Hiratsuka can get crowded with some unforgiving locals, so a better bet might be heading down to Oiso where the beach is closer to the station anyway, and surf around the Hanamizu River. There are some other locals-only points near Hiratsuka, but access is tricky, and it can be dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing.

FUJISAWA

CHIGASAKI

WEST SHONAN

271255

Yoshihama

Oiso1

Hiratsuka

4123

6 5789

10

11

SURF GUIDE

53J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

A warm climate and consistent surf in summer puts Shizuoka on Japan’s surf radar. Beginner-friendly beach breaks are abundant, while there are plenty of reefs and river mouths to keep more experienced surfers happy. Getting slotted inside the green room (surf speak for getting barrelled) is common during the peak swell season from June to September. Beautiful landscapes with ocha (green tea) plantations cover the coastline and there are numerous onsen with oceanfront views in which to relax after a day in the water.

Shizuoka

Wetsuit

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Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesYoshida Kou (Yoshida Port) NW B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – DECBros-mae NW B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – DECBenjyo-mae (Toilet-mae) NW B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – DECMegami-mae NW B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – DECTeibou-yoko NW B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – DECKatsumata Kawaguchi (Katsumata River Mouth)

NWB I A

1 2 3 4 5 JAN – MAR

Kashima NW B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – DECKatahama NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARSakai-kou (Sakai Port) W B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – DECSusuki W / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – NOV

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesMelon N / NE I A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – DECMain N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – DECSaka-shita N B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – DECOdaka N I A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – DECButagoya-mae NE I A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – DECPension-mae NE B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – DECSecret NE B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – DECSharkret NE B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – DECKawaguchi (River Mouth) NE B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – DECShark NE B 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – DECSakukawa (Saku River Mouth) N / NE I A 1 2 3 4 5 MAY – DEC

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P opular with beginners, Shizunami has a number of fun beach breaks within walking distance from the beachside campground. You will

need a car to access Yoshida Kou up north and the southern breaks below Katahama. Most breaks prefer northwesterly winds and an easterly swell teamed with good sand banks.

S trong winds blow between October and April, making Omaezaki a popular windsurfing destination. The next few months give way to

great surfing conditions at a variety of sand and reef breaks backed by scenic mountain views. Turtles breed on the shores and locals ask visitors to be wary of their eggs and always keep the beach clean. The local sashimi is incredible, and you won’t regret treating your friends with a bag of Omaezaki locally grown green tea as omiyage (souvenirs).

SHIZUNAMI AREA

OMAEZAKI AREA

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SHIZUOKA

Shizunami

Usami

Omaezaki

Nakatashima

Maisaka

By K

uni Takanami

54 J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

Wetsuit

Wetsuit

Wetsuit

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesDori N B 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – NOVToyohama N I A 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – NOVNishihama N I A 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – NOVSamejima N / NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – NOVKomaba N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – NOVGodo N / NE I A 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – NOVGodo Kawaguchi (Godo River Mouth)

NE I A 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – NOV

Nakatashima N / NE I A 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – NOVIchijyo N / NE B 1 2 3 4 5 JUN – NOV

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesMaisaka Toudai-mae (Maisaka Lighthouse)

N I A 1 2 3 4 5 AUG – NOV

Maisaka Main N I A 1 2 3 4 5 AUG – NOVArai N I A 1 2 3 4 5 AUG – NOVOkurato N B 1 2 3 4 5 AUG – NOVToilet-mae N B 1 2 3 4 5 AUG – NOVKenzagai N B 1 2 3 4 5 AUG – NOV

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesUsami W / NW I 1 2 3 4 5 SEP – NOVImaihama NW I 1 2 3 4 5 OCT – FEBKawazu W B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – OCTPrince-mae W B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – SEPJinja-mae W B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – SEPChuo (middle) W B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – SEPResteru-mae W B 1 2 3 4 5 MAR – SEPTatadohama N B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAR Iritahama Main NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAR Ohama Main NW B 1 2 3 4 5 AUG – MAR Toji W / NW A 1 2 3 4 5 NOV – MAR

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T his long stretch of coastline is picturesque both in and out of the water, with good waves throughout the year except winter. A good mix

of sand banks and river mouths, some you will have to explore on your own. Good eateries and onsen scatter the coast as well as a beachfront auto-campground, so take a couple days to enjoy this friendly area.

G ood beach breaks with consistent swell; the main Maisaka breaks are strictly local breaks and much respect must be given when surfing

here. Don’t bother trying to learn at these breaks; instead make your way down to Okurato to enjoy fun waves free from heavy locals. All of these breaks like north winds and a good sand bank to perform best.

T he east side of the Izu Peninsula is home to white sandy beaches and clear warm water. The mountainous interior which overlooks the

coastline is full of the area's other popular attraction, onsen (hot springs). A nice mix of reefs and sand breaks provide a variety of waves for every surfer. Izu is also one of the largest producers of wasabi in Japan; be sure to try it with the fresh, local seafood for a kick!

IWATA / NAKATASHIMA AREA

MAISAKA / SHIOMI AREA

IZU AREA

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(boots during the coldest months)

SURF GUIDE

International Licence for

SURF LESSON

www.real-surf.com

IZU SHIMODA

55J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

Irago is Aichi Prefecture’s diamond-in-the-rough surf destination. It’s not far from Nagoya, one of Japan’s major industrial cities, yet it has a combination of consistent quality waves, sparse crowds and a welcoming inaka spirit. The Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) must agree, as they have chosen Irago’s Akabane/Longbeach area to host world-class events here. Irago’s speciality Pork Rice Bowls are some of the best in the country and fill up an empty stomach after a long surf session. Irago has mainly sandy beach breaks that favor northwesterly winds, and the swell is consistently quite good all year except in winter.

Aichi

WetsuitPoint Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesKojima N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTTerasawa N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTTakatsuka N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTIkobe N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTPoporo N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTAranami N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTMutsure N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTDodo N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTSekihi N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTKominkan N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCT

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A westerly swell will give the Terasawa/Dodo area’s breaks more size than Akabane/Longbeach, but the quality of the surf here depends on

the perfect match of light offshore winds and a decent sand bank. Waves tend to break all year, apart from winter, but the banks are quite shifty and change often. Highway access has improved, making the area popular on weekends.

TERASAWA / DODO AREA

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APR – MAYLATE OCT – NOV:

JUN – OCT:

(gloves JAN and FEB)

AICHI

SentanLongbeach

DodoTerazawa

By Todd W

ilkes

56 J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

E-mail: [email protected] Tel: (0467) 81-3212

Wetsuit

Wetsuit

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesChicken N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTSarimano N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTMirror NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARYahachi NW A 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTAkabane / Longbeach N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEARLoco NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTMinato Hidarigawa (left side of the port)

N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCT

Minato Migigawa (right side of the port)

N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCT

Zen-nihon (All Japan) N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTShin-nihon (New Japan) N / NW B 1 2 3 4 5 ALL YEAR

Point Name Offshore Winds Level Wave Consistency Bottom Peak Season FacilitiesHorikiri N / NW I A 1 2 3 4 5 JUL – OCTSekimon N / NW A 1 2 3 4 5 JUL – OCTKoijigahama N I A 1 2 3 4 5 APR – OCTSentan E I A 1 2 3 4 5 JUL – OCTKaisuiyokujyo E B 1 2 3 4 5 JUL – OCT

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L ongbeach is the best-known break in Irago, put on the map thanks to the World Qualifying Series (WQS) contest held here. The surrounding

beaches and water are clean and the waves consistent. Aside from Yahachi, all the breaks are sand banks and, when good swell hits and the banks are in good shape, expect to get barrelled with just you and the locals to see it. A little more crowded on the weekends, but you’ll have no problems getting your share of waves.

T he consistency of the swell around Sentan isn’t great, but when it does hit, you get some of the best waves in Japan. Big swells bring

strong currents, which make the difficulty level high, and along with hollow barrels when the waves are pumping around here, you need to know what you are doing. Otherwise, just enjoy watching the locals ripping from the beach.

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SENTAN AREA

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SURF GUIDE

57J U L / A U G 2 0 1 0

Documents

Outdoor Japan's Surf Guide