Where Waves and History Meet: The Kamogawa Surfing Story
Located in the southern part of Chiba Prefecture, Kamogawa is a premier surfing destination blessed with rich nature and a diverse range of waves.
Among its many spots, Seaside Point (Maehara Beach) and Maruki Point (Tojo Beach) are nationally renowned, attracting surfers of all levels, from absolute beginners to seasoned experts.
Why Choose Kamogawa?
Year-Round Surfing: Enjoy a mild climate that makes surfing possible throughout all four seasons.
Beginner-Friendly: Abundant beach breaks and professional surf schools make it the perfect place to start your journey.
Featured Spot: Seaside Point (Maehara Beach)
The Ultimate Playground for Beginners
With its vast sandy shoreline and shallow waters, Seaside Point is the ideal environment for those new to the sport. The waves here break gently, making it easy to paddle out and perfect for practicing your take-off.
Wave Quality: Mostly "mushy" and slow-breaking waves—very forgiving for beginners.
Best Swell: South-East to East.
Tide Tip: It can become "dumpy" (closing out) at very low tide. Aiming for mid-to-high tide is highly recommended.
Pro Tips for Seaside Point
Orientation: East-facing.
Best Wind: A Westerly wind provides the perfect offshore conditions to groom the wave faces.
Golden Hours: Early morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM) usually offers the calmest winds and cleanest waves.
The Heritage: Where Japanese Surfing History Began
Kamogawa holds a special place in history as the birthplace of modern surfing in Japan.
The story dates back to around 1960, when U.S. soldiers from the Yokosuka Naval Base brought surfboards to Kamogawa. The local youth were captivated, and the sport quickly spread through the community.
Historical Milestones:
July 11, 1966: The 1st All Japan Surfing Championship was held right here on the shores of Kamogawa.
A Professional Legacy: Since that first historic competition, numerous surf clubs have been established. Many young locals trained in these waters have gone on to become successful professional surfers, cementing Kamogawa’s reputation as a cradle for world-class talent.
