Surfing in Japan: Ultimate Surf Travel Guide
Japan isn’t just sushi, temples, and neon lights – it’s also a hidden surf gem.
From gnarly typhoon swells to mellow reef breaks, the Land of the Rising Sun has a little something for every surfer. Whether you’re chasing barrels or cruising on longboards, the surf scene here is as diverse as the country itself.
Before we get into this Japan surf guide, let’s get something straight: if you’re going to travel to Asia for a surf trip, Japan probably shouldn’t be at the top of your list (rather look towards somewhere like Bali or Sri Lanka). However, if you’re interested in travelling to an awesome, fun, interesting country where you can catch some waves at the same time, Japan is the ideal place.
So, grab your board, ditch the crowds, and let’s dive into the surf spots Japan’s keeping on the down-low.
What’s Special about Surfing in Japan?
Surfing in Japan is like unlocking a secret spot that’s been hiding in plain sight.
Sure, it’s not as famous as Hawaii or Indonesia, but with nearly 30,000 km of coastline, there’s plenty to explore.
Typhoon season (August – November) turns sleepy beaches into world-class breaks, serving up everything from rippable point waves to heavy, triple-overhead barrels.
The stoke is real, and so is the variety – whether you’re cruising mellow reefs in Miyazaki or charging Chiba’s beach breaks, Japan delivers waves with a side of culture and adventure.
But surfing in Japan isn’t just about the waves – it’s about the experience. Imagine paddling out at sunrise with Mount Fuji in the background or finishing a cold winter session with a soak in an onsen? Nowhere else does it like this.
The surf scene is growing fast, with passionate locals, Olympic-level talent, and an increasing number of surf shops and schools (even English-speaking ones).
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or looking for an offbeat surf trip, Japan is full of surprises.
Where to Surf in Japan: An Overview
Japan’s coastline is a playground for surfers, stretching over 29,000 km and offering a huge variety of waves.
The country has four main islands – Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku – each with its own surf culture and conditions.
The Pacific side gets the most consistent swell, especially from typhoons between August and November. The Japan Sea side can fire too, especially in winter when storms send in powerful waves.
The variety of surf zones means you can chase warm summer peaks in the south or winter barrels up north.
Planning a surf trip here depends on the season and what kind of waves you want.
Honshu is the heart of Japan’s surf scene, with Chiba and Shonan offering easy access from Tokyo.
Kyushu and Shikoku have warmer waters, fewer crowds, and long, rippable waves. Hokkaido is a cold-water frontier for those who don’t mind surfing with snow on the beach.
With reliable train systems and rental car options, getting around is easier than you might think. Just bring the right wetsuit, respect the locals, and you’ll have a unique surf adventure.
7 Best Surf Spots in Japan
Ready to explore the diverse waves in Japan? Here are our top choices of breaks to surf.
Izu Shirohama: Japan’s Tropical Escape
Conditions: Izu Shirohama is one of Japan’s most stunning beach breaks, offering clean, punchy waves that resemble the kind you’d find in Australia. The sandy bottom makes it a great spot for all levels, from beginners to experienced surfers looking for fun peaks. It’s especially good when a typhoon swell lines up with the sandbars, producing fast and hollow waves.
Best Time to Surf: August to November (typhoon season brings the best swells).
Vibe: Relaxed and welcoming. The beach attracts both local and visiting surfers, giving it a friendly yet competitive atmosphere when the waves are good. It’s a popular summer getaway for Tokyo residents, so expect crowds on weekends.
Getting There: About a 3-hour train ride from Tokyo. Take the JR Limited Express Odoriko to Shimoda, then hop on a short bus ride to Shirohama Beach.
Niijima (Habushi Beach): Crystal Clear Perfection
Conditions: A true hidden gem off the coast of Tokyo. Niijima boasts powerful, crystal-clear barrels breaking over a sandy bottom. The raw ocean energy here can deliver fast, hollow waves that are perfect for advanced surfers when the swell is right.
Best Time to Surf: August to November (typhoon season for the best barrels).
Vibe: Quiet and uncrowded compared to mainland spots. You’ll find a mix of dedicated locals and travelling surfers looking for an adventure. The island itself has a laid-back, small-town feel.
Getting There: Take a ferry from Tokyo (around 10 hours overnight) or a quick 45-minute flight from Haneda Airport.
Miyazaki: Japan’s Surfing Capital
Conditions: Miyazaki is one of Japan’s most consistent surf regions, offering a mix of beach breaks, river mouths, and reef setups. Ichiyumi Point is a standout, with peeling walls and occasional barrel sections. Typhoon swells bring the biggest and best waves, but it’s surfable year-round.
Best Time to Surf: September to November for the most reliable swells.
Vibe: Super friendly and welcoming. The surf community here is strong, and the atmosphere is way more relaxed than the busier surf zones near Tokyo.
Getting There: Fly into Miyazaki Airport from Tokyo or Osaka, then rent a car to explore the coastline.
Chiba (Wada, Ohara): Tokyo’s Go-To Surf Zone
Conditions: Chiba is Japan’s most famous surf area, thanks to its close proximity to Tokyo. Wada and Ohara offer fun, consistent beach breaks that work well in most conditions. When typhoon swells roll in, the waves can get heavy, producing long barrels and powerful sections.
Best Time to Surf: August to October for typhoon-powered waves.
Vibe: Chiba is busy! Expect lots of Tokyo surfers, weekend warriors, and some competitive vibes in the water. That said, locals are generally respectful if you follow surf etiquette.
Getting There: A short train ride from Tokyo (about 1.5 hours) makes it one of the easiest surf destinations in Japan.
Amami Oshima (Kagoshima): Japan’s Pipeline?
Conditions: Bira Reef on Amami Island is one of Japan’s heaviest waves. It’s a powerful A-frame slab that breaks over a rock shelf, producing steep takeoffs and thick barrels. This is an advanced-only wave that requires solid experience.
Best Time to Surf: October to March, when the biggest north swells hit.
Vibe: Quiet and off-the-beaten-path. The island isn’t a major surf destination, so you won’t find crowds—just a handful of hardcore surfers chasing perfect waves.
Getting There: Fly to Amami Airport from Tokyo or Osaka, then rent a car to explore.
Shikoku (Kaifu River Mouth): Japan’s Answer to Bali
Conditions: Shikoku’s Kaifu River Mouth is one of Japan’s best point breaks. When the conditions align, it offers long, powerful rights with multiple sections for turns and barrels. A solid typhoon swell can turn this place into a world-class wave.
Best Time to Surf: August to October for typhoon swells.
Vibe: Chilled-out and welcoming. Shikoku has a slower pace of life, and the local surfers are generally friendly to visitors who respect the lineup.
Getting There: Fly into Tokushima Airport, then drive along the coast to Kaifu.
Okinawa: Japan’s Tropical Reef Breaks
Conditions: Okinawa is home to some of Japan’s best reef breaks, offering hollow, Indo-style waves over sharp coral. The water is warm year-round, and when a good typhoon swell arrives, it can get seriously heavy.
Best Time to Surf: July to October for peak typhoon swells.
Vibe: Laid-back but with a tight-knit local surf community. Crowds are smaller than in mainland Japan, but you still need to respect the locals.
Getting There: Fly into Naha Airport, then rent a car or boat to explore different reef breaks.
Best Time of Year to Surf in Japan
Japan has waves all year round, but not all seasons are equal. If you want the best surf, timing is everything.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season so you can plan your next surf trip like a pro.
Autumn (Best Season)
If you want the best waves, this is your time to shine.
Autumn, from September to November, is Japan’s prime surf season. The summer rains have shaped the sandbars, and typhoon swells are rolling in from the Pacific.
Morning offshore winds are common, and the water is still warm enough for a comfortable session.
Plus, most of the summer surfers disappear on September 1st, leaving you with cleaner lineups.
Winter (Cold, but Can Be Good)
By November, typhoon season fades, and winter swells take over. It gets cold – really cold – especially in northern Japan.
The wind can be brutal, and swells are often short-period wind chop. That said, if you don’t mind the chill, you can still score some decent waves, especially in Kyushu and Okinawa.
Most Japanese surfers escape to Hawaii or Australia, so lineups are emptier. Just bring a thick wetsuit!
Summer (Hot, Humid, and Waiting for Typhoons)
Summer in Japan is a mixed bag. Early summer is rainy and humid, with weak, mushy waves. But once typhoon season kicks in (late July to early October), things get exciting.
If a typhoon spins up just right, Japan gets world-class waves. The downside? Everyone knows it, so popular breaks get crowded fast.
If you’re in Okinawa, though, you’ll find surf year-round without the crowds.
Spring (The Worst Time to Surf)
Spring is rough for surfing. The water is still freezing from winter, and the waves are small and weak.
The rainy season starts in late spring, bringing weeks of soggy, miserable conditions. Unless you’re heading to offshore islands like Niijima, you’re better off waiting for Autumn.
Local Tips for Surfing in Japan
Keep these tips in mind before heading to Japan for a surf trip.
Seasons Matter More Than You Think
Japan’s surf changes wildly by season. Winter (Dec–Feb) is for hardcore riders chasing big, cold barrels on the Pacific side.
Spring and fall offer cleaner conditions, with typhoon season (Aug–Oct) bringing epic swells.
Summer? Small waves, crowded lineups, and unpredictable winds.
Typhoon Chasing Requires Skill
The best waves in Japan come from typhoons, but reading the forecast is key.
Too close, and it’s a stormy mess. Too far, and you get nothing. Aim for when the system is 800 – 1000 km offshore for solid, clean swells.
Keep an eye on Windy and Magicseaweed, but locals use Japan’s JMA (Japan Meteorological Agency) for the most accurate updates.
Crowds? Play It Smart
Japan’s popular spots – Shonan, Chiba, Shizuoka – are packed, especially on weekends.
If you’re surfing close to Tokyo, dawn patrol is your best bet. Better yet, explore lesser-known spots in Ibaraki, Kyushu, or Shikoku.
And always respect locals – Japan has an unspoken but serious hierarchy in the water.
Tides and Local Winds Are Everything
Many Japanese breaks only work at certain tides. For example, Ichinomiya (Chiba) is best on a mid-incoming tide, while Shikoku’s reefs light up at dead low tide.
Also, morning offshore winds often turn into brutal onshores by mid-morning. Early birds get the barrels.
Reef Breaks? Watch Your Feet
Japan has some sick reef breaks, especially in Okinawa and Kyushu. But many reefs here are sharp and shallow.
Booties aren’t a bad idea, especially if you’re not used to navigating coral bottoms.
Vending Machines and Konbinis Save You
Forget lugging a ton of snacks. Japan’s 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and vending machines are everywhere.
Grab an onigiri (rice ball) and a Pocari Sweat post-session. Even in the middle of nowhere, you’ll find something good.
Hot Springs = Post-Surf Heaven
After a cold winter surf, find a local onsen (hot spring). Some beaches even have natural hot spring spots nearby. Just rinse off before you go in – Japanese bath culture has strict rules.
Your Board? Bring It or Plan Ahead
If you’re bringing your own board, check airline fees – some charge a fortune for oversized baggage. If renting, Tokyo and major surf hubs have shops, but rural areas? Good luck. Plan accordingly.
Respect and Learn Some Local Lingo
Japan is chill, but etiquette matters. A simple “yoroshiku onegaishimasu” (a polite greeting) goes a long way.
Don’t snake, don’t drop in, and don’t be loud in the lineup. If you respect the vibe, you’ll have an amazing time.
Travelling to Japan for a Surf Trip
In case we haven’t made it clear yet, Japan is an awesome destination for a surf trip. Here are some final things to help you make the most of your adventure.
Country Overview
Japan is an island nation in East Asia, famous for its unique blend of tradition and cutting-edge modernity. It has a thriving surf scene with thousands of kilometres of coastline and a variety of surf spots.
While not as famous as places like Indonesia or Hawaii, Japan has world-class waves, especially during typhoon season.
The country is also known for its rich culture, friendly people, and incredible food, making it an amazing destination for surf travellers.
Getting to Japan for a Surf Trip
Most international flights arrive at Narita (NRT) near Tokyo or Kansai (KIX) near Osaka. If you’re lucky, you might land at Haneda (HND), which is closer to the city.
Bringing a surfboard? Check airline baggage fees – some charge a fortune.
Once in Japan, trains and rental cars are the best ways to reach surf spots. The Japan Rail Pass is great for general travel, but if you’re chasing waves in remote areas, renting a car is the way to go.
Japan Travel Attractions
Between surf sessions, there’s a lot to see. Kyoto has beautiful temples and old streets, while Tokyo is a high-energy mix of neon and tradition.
Love nature? Check out Mount Fuji or explore Okinawa’s tropical islands.
If you’re into history, Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial is a must-visit.
Food in Japan
Japanese food is next-level. From fresh sushi to steaming bowls of ramen, there’s something for everyone.
Konbini (convenience stores) like 7-Eleven have cheap and tasty options – onigiri make a great post-surf snack. Try okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), and fresh seafood in coastal towns.
If you’re on a budget, conveyor belt sushi spots are fun and affordable. Just be ready to eat a lot of rice!
Surfing in Japan: FAQs
Does Japan get good surf?
Yes, Japan has good surf, with consistent swells from the Pacific Ocean. Typhoon season (July–October) brings some of the best waves.
What is the surf capital of Japan?
Chiba is considered the surf capital of Japan, with numerous quality breaks and consistent waves. It hosts international surf competitions and is close to Tokyo.
Where is the best surf in Tokyo?
The best surf near Tokyo is in Shonan, particularly around Kamakura and Enoshima. Chiba, just east of Tokyo, offers even better waves.
When can you surf in Japan?
You can surf year-round, but the best waves come during typhoon season (July–October). Winter also brings consistent swells, but it’s much colder.
Is Okinawa good for surfing?
Yes, Okinawa has good surf, with warm water and reef breaks. The best waves come from typhoons, mainly in summer and autumn.
Are there big waves in Japan?
Yes, Japan gets big waves, especially during typhoon season. Some spots, like Miyazaki and Chiba, can see waves over 10 feet.
Do you need a wetsuit to surf in Japan?
Yes, in winter and early spring, a wetsuit is necessary due to cold water. In summer, boardshorts or a thin wetsuit are enough.
Wrapping Up
Surfing in Japan is like hitting the jackpot with a side of culture. With killer waves, stunning coastlines, and a vibe all its own, it’s a trip every surfer should have on their radar.
So, pack your wetsuit, check the forecast, and get ready to ride some epic waves – Japan’s got more to offer than you think.
