South Chiba (Minami-Boso) offers the most powerful and varied waves in the greater Tokyo area. The coastline around Kamogawa, Katsuura, and Hebara faces the open Pacific, receiving direct swells without the filtering effect of the Kujukuri sandbars. Here you'll find reef breaks, point breaks, and beach breaks — more variety than anywhere else within 2 hours of Tokyo.
Hebara is the standout spot — a right-hand reef break that produces hollow, tubing waves on solid swells. It's one of the few spots in the Kanto region that barrels consistently. Kamogawa has multiple beach and reef breaks that handle different swell directions. Katsuura offers coves and points that light up during larger swells.
The local community here is tight-knit. Many surfers have been riding these waves for decades. Respect is earned through consistent presence, politeness, and not snaking waves. First-time visitors should observe from the shoulder and work their way in. On smaller days and at less famous spots, the atmosphere is friendly.
Water temperature is slightly warmer than North Chiba due to the Kuroshio Current influence. Winter still requires a 5/3mm suit, but spring and fall are comfortable in a 3/2mm. Summer brings warm water and the possibility of trunks surfing.
South Chiba has a rural, fishing-village feel. Fresh seafood is exceptional — some of the best sashimi in the Kanto region comes from Katsuura's morning market. Accommodation is limited compared to Shonan or Ichinomiya, so booking ahead is advisable.
Quick Facts
Price Guide
Accommodation (per night)
Accommodation Guide
South Chiba accommodation is centered around Kamogawa and Katsuura. Options include seaside minshuku (Japanese guesthouses), small hotels, and a few surf lodges. The area is more spread out than Shonan, and many surfers stay at their favorite minshuku near their go-to breaks. Long-term surfers sometimes rent houses by the month. Booking in advance is recommended year-round as options are limited.
Budget
Mid-range
Luxury
Monthly Wave Forecast (WeWave Data)
Wave Seasons
Religion & Culture
South Chiba has a strong fishing culture with Shinto shrines dedicated to ocean safety. Katsuura has several shrines where fishermen pray for safe seas. The Katsuura Big Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival) in February-March is a major local event with thousands of hina dolls displayed on the shrine steps.
There are no religious restrictions on surfing. Be respectful of shrines near the coast and fishing port areas. Local fishermen have absolute priority in harbor areas.
Getting There
From Tokyo, drive via the Aqua-Line and Tateyama Expressway to Kamogawa (about 2 hours). By train, take the JR Sotobo Line limited express Wakashio from Tokyo Station to Awa-Kamogawa (about 2 hours, 3,500 yen) or Katsuura (about 90 minutes). From Narita Airport, drive about 1.5 hours. Haneda Airport is about 2-2.5 hours by car.
A car is essential for South Chiba. Spots are spread along a rocky, winding coastline with limited public transport between them. Car rental at Tokyo, Narita, or local stations is the best option.
Surf Shops & Infrastructure
South Chiba has functional but less concentrated surf infrastructure compared to Shonan or Ichinomiya. Board rentals are available at select shops in Kamogawa (3,000-5,000 yen/day). Ding repair is available but may take 3-5 days. Surf lessons focus on the safer beach break spots. Bring your own equipment if possible — shops are fewer and farther apart here.