Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach is one of Japan’s most famous surf spots. Located in the Chiba Prefecture, this beach has gained international recognition, especially after hosting the surfing events for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Tsurigasaki offers great waves, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for surfers of all levels. Let’s dive into more details about this amazing beach.
Location of Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach
Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach is located in the city of Ichinomiya, which is in the Chiba Prefecture. This prefecture is on the eastern side of Japan’s Honshu Island, near the Pacific Ocean. The beach is easily accessible from Tokyo, which is about a 1.5-hour drive away. It can also be reached by train from Tokyo Station, with a change at Chiba Station or Funabashi Station.
Tsurigasaki is particularly famous for its beach break, with waves that attract surfers from both Japan and around the world. It’s located along the coastline of the Pacific Ocean, and the beach stretches for several kilometers, offering various spots with different wave conditions.
How to Get to Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach
Getting to Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach from Tokyo is quite easy. Visitors can take a train from Tokyo Station on the JR Sobu Line or the JR Keiyo Line. After a transfer at Chiba Station, you can take a local train that stops at the closest station, the Ichinomiya Station, which is about 3 kilometers away from the beach. From the station, you can either take a taxi or walk to the beach, which should take about 10 minutes.
If you prefer driving, you can take the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line Expressway or the Higashi-Kanto Expressway. Once you get off the highway, follow the signs to Ichinomiya, and you’ll reach the beach in no time.
Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics
One of the key reasons Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach is well-known is because it hosted the surfing events during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. This was the first time surfing was included in the Olympic Games, and Tsurigasaki Beach was chosen due to its reliable surf conditions. The beach provided the perfect waves for Olympic surfers, making it a historical location for the sport.
During the Olympic Games, the beach was carefully prepared for the world’s best surfers, with facilities set up for the athletes and spectators. The event brought global attention to the area, and since then, Tsurigasaki has become a popular surfing destination for both locals and international visitors.
Surfing Conditions at Tsurigasaki
Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach is known for its consistent and moderate waves, making it ideal for surfers of various skill levels. The waves here are not as powerful as some of the bigger surf spots around the world, but they offer a steady and enjoyable ride. This makes it a great place for beginners and intermediate surfers to practice and improve their skills.
The best time to surf at Tsurigasaki is during the summer months, especially from June to August. This is when the waves are typically at their best, and the water temperature is warm. However, Tsurigasaki can be surfed year-round, with spring and autumn offering some good swells as well.
Facilities and Amenities at Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach
Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach is well-equipped with various facilities to make your visit more enjoyable. The beach has several surf shops and rental places where you can rent surfboards, wetsuits, and other gear. Whether you are a first-timer or an experienced surfer, you will find everything you need to enjoy the waves.
There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops near the beach, offering a variety of food and drinks. Many of these establishments offer views of the ocean, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery after a long day of surfing.
For those who want to stay overnight, there are hotels and guesthouses in the nearby area. Ichinomiya, the town where Tsurigasaki is located, offers a range of accommodation options from budget to more luxurious choices.
Best Time to Visit Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach
The best time to visit Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach depends on what kind of surfing experience you are looking for. Summer (June to August) is the peak season for surfing, as the waves are consistent and the water is warm. This is also when you’ll find the most surfers on the beach, making it a lively and bustling time to visit.
If you prefer a quieter surfing experience, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are excellent times to visit. The weather is mild, and the waves can still be quite good. The beach is less crowded during these seasons, making it perfect for those looking for a more peaceful surf experience.
Winter (December to February) can also be a good time to visit, especially for advanced surfers who are looking for bigger waves. However, the water can get quite cold, so a thicker wetsuit is recommended.
Things to Do Near Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach
While surfing is the main attraction at Tsurigasaki, there are plenty of other things to do in the area if you want to take a break from the waves.
Explore the Local Nature
Tsurigasaki is surrounded by beautiful nature, including parks and hiking trails. You can take a stroll through the nearby forests or enjoy a hike along the coastline to see some stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The area is also home to various bird species, so nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy.
Visit the Tsurigasaki Shrine
The Tsurigasaki Shrine, located just a short distance from the beach, is a peaceful and serene spot where you can learn about local culture and history. The shrine is dedicated to the Shinto gods and is a great place to take a break and enjoy some tranquility.
Enjoy Local Seafood
Being on the coast, Tsurigasaki and the surrounding areas offer fresh seafood. After a day of surfing, you can try local delicacies such as sashimi, sushi, and grilled fish. The nearby fishing port of Choshi is famous for its seafood, and you can find many restaurants offering the freshest catches from the sea.
Relax at the Beach
If you want to take a break from surfing, simply relaxing on the beach is a great option. The beach has areas for sunbathing, picnicking, and enjoying the view. Whether you’re watching the surfers or just soaking up the sun, Tsurigasaki offers a great place to unwind.
Surfing Culture at Tsurigasaki
Surfing has a long history in Japan, and Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach plays a significant role in the country’s surfing culture. Surfers from across Japan and the world come to Tsurigasaki to enjoy its waves. The area has a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, where surfers of all levels come together to share their passion for the sport.
The local surf community is welcoming to beginners, and there are plenty of surf schools offering lessons for those new to the sport. Surf competitions are also held at Tsurigasaki from time to time, with both local and international surfers participating.
Conclusion
Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves surfing. Located in Chiba Prefecture, this beautiful beach offers great waves, friendly surf culture, and easy access from Tokyo. Whether you are a beginner looking for a calm spot to practice or an experienced surfer seeking consistent waves, Tsurigasaki has something for everyone.
The beach’s history as the venue for the surfing events in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics adds to its charm and allure. With great facilities, local attractions, and the stunning Pacific coastline, Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach is a perfect spot for anyone looking to experience Japan’s surfing culture.