Surfing in Japan
2 surfing spots in Japan. The colours show each month: the stronger, the better for surfing.
Updated October 2026 · weather data 2022–2026
In short
- Best waves in Japan: August–October (around 0.9 m, water 26°C, no wetsuit).
- Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: August–September (around 0.9 m, water 27°C, no wetsuit).
- Top picks: Kamakura – Yuigahama & Chiba – Ichinomiya.
Kamakura – YuigahamaKanagawa, Japan · best August–OctoberIntermediate and up · 26°C water in season, no wetsuit · ✈ HND 35 km
Wave height: average daily maximum.
Month by month in Japan
| Month | Waves | Water | Wetsuit | Air |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JanuaryJan | 0.9 m | 17°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 11°C |
| FebruaryFeb | 1 m | 16°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 11°C |
| MarchMar | 1.1 m | 16°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 15°C |
| AprilApr | 1.1 m | 17°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 19°C |
| MayMay | 1 m | 19°C | 3/2 wetsuit | 22°C |
| JuneJun | 0.9 m | 22°C | shorty | 26°C |
| JulyJul | 0.8 m | 26°C | no wetsuit | 30°C |
| AugustAug | 0.9 m | 28°C | no wetsuit | 31°C |
| SeptemberSep | 0.9 m | 26°C | no wetsuit | 28°C |
| OctoberOct | 0.8 m | 24°C | shorty | 23°C |
| NovemberNov | 0.9 m | 21°C | 3/2 wetsuit | 18°C |
| DecemberDec | 1 m | 19°C | 3/2 wetsuit | 13°C |
Averages of the 2 spots on this page. Best months highlighted. Air: average daytime high.
Questions
When is the best time for surfing in Japan?
Best waves in Japan: August–October (around 0.9 m, water 26°C, no wetsuit). Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: August–September (around 0.9 m, water 27°C, no wetsuit).
What wetsuit do I need in Japan?
It depends on the month: about 28°C water in August (no wetsuit) and about 16°C in February (4/3 wetsuit).
Is Japan good for beginners?
The spots here suit intermediate and advanced riders more than beginners.
Which airport is closest?
Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND), 35 km from Kamakura – Yuigahama; Narita International Airport (NRT), 43 km from Chiba – Ichinomiya.