The Surf Window

Ichinomiya

Chiba, Japan

Beach breakIntermediate

A charming beach break town on Chiba's Kujukuri coastline that gained international prominence when it hosted the 2020 Tokyo Olympics surfing competition, Japan's most famous surf beach.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalE (90°)
WindowNNE–SSE (30°–150°)
Size4-8ft

Wind

NW

Offshore

Tide

Any

LowMidHigh

Season

September–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Quality beach break with hollow sections, the Olympics showcased its world-class potential on a solid Pacific typhoon swell

Length

30–80m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate
  • •Why: The Olympics were held here for a reason, the beach break is powerful and consistent, requiring solid surfing ability.

Hazards

  • •Strong rip currents
  • •Cold water outside summer months
  • •Heavy local surf community protective of the break

Local Tips

  • •Ichinomiya hosts the JPSA (Japan Professional Surf Association) Tour, watching professional Japanese surfing here is worthwhile.
  • •The town is charming and traditional, a beautiful contrast with the modern surf culture scene.

Location

Map showing the location of Ichinomiya in Chiba, Japan

35.3728, 140.3687