For adventurous surfers seeking both perfect waves and stunning scenery, Japan offers a coastal journey like no other. From the Pacific shores of Honshu to the southern tip of Kyushu, Japan’s surf scene is diverse, welcoming, and still relatively undiscovered by the global surf community. The best way to experience it all? Hit the open road in an RV, where every stop offers a new break to ride and a new view to admire. In this article, we’ll provide you with an unforgettable itinerary to guide your surf road trip through Japan.
Catch the Perfect Waves With an RV Road Trip Across Japan
From the bustling surf scene of Chiba to the tropical shores of Kyushu, Japan’s coastline offers a diverse and unforgettable surf road trip. When travelling by motorhome, Tokyo is just the start as it allows you to experience it all at your own pace, discovering hidden beaches, meeting local surf communities, and soaking up Japan’s natural beauty along the way. With the waves calling and the road ahead, one thing is certain: Surf’s up!
*During the summer months (July – August), many beaches separate swimming and surfing areas. Surfing outside of the restricted areas are prohibited, so make sure to check for any signage designating where it is safe to surf.
Many beaches also prohibit people with tattoos, so make sure to check beach rules, or wear a rash guard to keep your tattoos covered.
Starting Point: Chiba
Day 1-2
If you’re travelling by campervan rental, Tokyo will likely be where your journey begins. From here, Chiba, to the east, is home to Japan’s modern surf culture. The Bōsō Peninsula’s Pacific coastline is dotted with accessible beaches offering consistent waves throughout the year.
Start your adventure at Onjuku, a charming beach town known for its reliable beach breaks and mellow atmosphere, perfect for warming up and settling into the rhythm of your trip. From there, you can head to Ichinomiya, one of Japan’s most famous surf spots and the host of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic surfing competition. Here, you’ll find powerful, consistent waves and a vibrant community of surfers, with plenty of surf shops, cafes, and local seafood eateries lining the beach.
For RV travellers, Chiba is well-equipped with Michi-no-Eki roadside stations offering parking, restrooms, and local produce markets. You’ll also find campgrounds with ocean views, allowing you to wake up just steps from your next session.
Onward to Shizuoka
Day 3-4
From Chiba, begin your journey by heading south to Shimoda. Tatadohama Beach offers a more tropical vibe with its clear waters and consistent swells. The scenic drive along the Izu Peninsula to reach Shimoda is an attraction in itself, winding through coastal cliffs and charming fishing villages. RV-friendly campgrounds are plentiful in this area, many of them located right by the beach or near soothing onsen hot springs, which are perfect for relaxing after a long day on the water.
From there, continue traveling southwest along the scenic Pacific Coast to Shizuoka, where the sight of Mount Fuji towering in the distance creates a surreal surfing backdrop. Shizunami Beach is a popular choice here, particularly for longboarders and intermediate surfers, thanks to its smooth, rolling waves. The beach has a laid-back atmosphere, with plenty of rental shops and beginner-friendly breaks.
Cruising Through Aichi and Mie
Day 5-6
Leaving Shizuoka, continue along the coast toward Aichi and Mie Prefectures, where you’ll discover quieter, less crowded surf spots. In Aichi, Irago Long Beach offers a gorgeous stretch of sand with smooth, consistent waves that are ideal for a leisurely surf session away from the crowds.
Crossing into Mie Prefecture, you’ll find the serene Kouno Shirahama Beach, offering pristine sands and beginner-friendly waves. This beach remains off the beaten path, allowing for a peaceful, intimate surf experience. RV travellers will appreciate the nearby easy-access parking areas where you can enjoy spectacular sunrise views over the Pacific.
Surf, Hot Springs, and Hidden Beauty in Wakayama
Day 7-8
As you continue your journey into Wakayama Prefecture, you’ll find some of Japan’s most underappreciated surf spots. Isonoura Beach near Wakayama City is a favourite among locals for its gentle, rolling waves that cater well to both beginners and seasoned surfers looking for a laid-back session.
Further down the coast, Shirahama Beach in Wakayama offers a livelier seaside town atmosphere, complete with white sands, vibrant resorts, and the famous Shirahama Onsen hot springs. After a day of surfing, soaking in the natural hot springs is the perfect way to unwind, and several beachfront campgrounds make this area ideal for RV travellers seeking both comfort and convenience.
Crossing to Shikoku
Day 9-10
Crossing the impressive Onaruto Bridge brings you into Shikoku, often regarded as Japan’s hidden surfing paradise. Here, the crowds thin even more, but the quality of the surf remains world-class. Ikumi Beach in Tokushima is widely considered one of Japan’s premier surf destinations, with consistent waves and a welcoming local surf community.
For those looking for a bit more challenge, the rivermouth breaks of Yasuda and Kaifu in Kochi Prefecture offer powerful, glassy waves that attract experienced surfers from around the country. With plenty of Michi-no-Eki stations and beachside camping options, Shikoku is perfectly suited for RV travel, and its local seafood markets provide all the ingredients you need for a fresh beachside BBQ after a day on the waves.
Kyushu’s World-Class Breaks
Day 11-12
The final leg of your journey brings you to Kyushu, where volcanic landscapes, subtropical climate, and warm waters create ideal surf conditions year-round. Miyazaki Prefecture stands out as the crown jewel of Kyushu surfing. Aoshima Beach, with its iconic ‘Devil’s Washboard’ rock formations, offers consistent, fun waves for surfers of all levels, while nearby Kisakihama provides more powerful breaks that attract competitive surfers from around the world.
Before concluding your journey, head north to Itoshima in Fukuoka Prefecture. With its relaxed vibe, scenic coastline, and accessible beach breaks, Itoshima offers a perfect final session to wind down your epic road trip.
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