The Surf Window

Hamasaka

Hyogo, Japan

Beach breakIntermediate

On Hyogo Prefecture's San'in Coast, Hamasaka faces the Sea of Japan where consistent winter swells deliver beach break along one of Japan's most underrated coastal national parks, a beautiful, rock-pinnacled coastline largely unknown to foreign visitors.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–W 1.5–2.5m at 10–14s

Wind

SE

Light to E under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Nov–Mar

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Multiple peaks along the coast

Length

60–120m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: Consistent Sea of Japan winter surf in cold conditions

Hazards

  • •Cold water, 6–14°C
  • •Sea of Japan winter weather is consistently harsh
  • •The San'in coast is remote, limited services

Local Tips

  • •The San'in Kinki National Park coastline here has extraordinary rock formations and sea caves
  • •Kinosaki Onsen (30 minutes inland) is Japan's most famous hot spring town, pure post-surf luxury
  • •The crab (matsuba-gani) season November–March overlaps perfectly with the best surf season

Location

Map showing the location of Hamasaka in Hyogo, Japan

35.6333, 134.5167