Tokyo is not your typical destination for kiters and windsurfers. However, due to the sheltered bay, access to the Pacific Ocean, and consistent winds, it's the right place to practice kiteboarding year-round. Even though there is a wind at any season in Tokyo, the colder period from September to May is a more appropriate time to try kitesurfing and windsurfing. In the summer, most beaches in Japan are quite crowded, and kites are banned to ensure the safety of beachgoers.
Tokyo Bay has few favored spots both by kitesurfers and windsurfers. Kemigawa Beach is located in Chiba City and consists of two parts sheltered by concrete breakwaters. Windsurfers own the east end of the beach, and kiters—the west. Waters are quite flat and shallow.
Cape Futtsu is located at the mouth of Tokyo Bay, near the Tokyo-Wan Aqualine tunnel. Here, kiters occupy the east side of the beach while windsurfers flock to the west. The spot boasts strong onshore southerly winds. Cape Futtsu has a large park and plenty of amenities. If you get closer to the Pacific, Kamogawa also has a few beaches with big waves and SW winds. To the north, the sandbanks at Shirasato are also appealing to kitesurfers.
Practical info
When is the best time to practice kitesurfing and windsurfing in Tokyo?
While Tokyo has winds throughout the year, enthusiasts usually go kitesurfing and windsurfing between September to May due to more consistent winds. Beaches in Japan are crowded during summer, making it less suitable. During September to May, enthusiasts indulge in kitesurfing and windsurfing, thanks to Tokyo's bay location and access to the Pacific Ocean. Show more
Where are the best spots for kitesurfing and windsurfing in Tokyo?
Kemigawa Beach, Cape Futtsu, Kamogawa, and Shirasato are known for kitesurfing and windsurfing near Tokyo Bay. Kemigawa has a west part for kitesurfers and east part for windsurfers. Cape Futtsu located near the Pacific has strong southerly winds- ideal for both kitesurfers and windsurfers. Kamogawa and Shirasato, situated along the Pacific, have big waves, particularly attracting kitesurfers. Show more
Are kitesurfing and windsurfing allowed in Tokyo during the summer?
Though allowed in summer, kitesurfing is banned in most beaches to ensure other beachgoers' safety. Summer is not ideal due to crowds and less consistent winds. However, Kamakura and Hirizo beach, being less known and following local rules, allow kite enthusiasts to indulge despite the restrictions. Show more
What is the average wind speed in Tokyo for kitesurfing and windsurfing?
Around 15 to 26 knots is the average speed during the kitesurfing and windsurfing from September to May. Tokyo's proximity to the Pacific Ocean makes it an ideal place for kitesurfing and windsurfing year-round- winds blowing primarily from the southwest. Cape Futtsu witnesses strong onshore southerly winds, making it an ideal destination for wind sports. Show more
Are there any rental shops near the kitesurfing and windsurfing spots in Tokyo?
Kemigawa Fishing Port and Kite School, Nii-jima, and 463ya.kite are resources for renting necessary gear. Cape Futtsu and Kamogawa have shops with the latest equipment and lessons. A shop exists in Hirizo beach, but limited inventory. Renting where available is advisable. Show more
