BETA
Chapter 1
The birthplace of Japanese surf culture
Chapter 2
Subtropical escape in Okinawa
Chapter 3
The seasonal magic of beach huts
Chapter 4
Sacred shores and rugged coasts
YOUR GOAL
Master of Laid-back Japanese beaches
Ch 1 · The birthplace of Japanese surf culture
yuki Steer your surfboard along the Shonan coast to discover Japan's laid-back beach towns.
yuki Enoshima Island features sacred caves, panoramic views of Mount Fuji, and a dedicated shrine to the goddess of music.
yuki Kamakura blends 800-year-old samurai history with a thriving, laid-back beach town atmosphere.
Fun Fact
Shonan black sand: Volcanic ash from Mount Fuji gives Shonan beaches their distinctive dark, glittering sand.
Glossary
shonan (noun)
A coastal region in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, situated along the shore of Sagami Bay. Local youth and American military personnel popularized wave-riding along its beaches during the 1960s.
A coastal region in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, situated along the shore of Sagami Bay. Local youth and American military personnel popularized wave-riding along its beaches during the 1960s.
Quiz
In which decade did American soldiers first introduce modern surfing to the Shonan coast?
Quiz
Which historic Japanese city served as the nation's capital in 1185 and is famous for coastal temples?
Quiz
Which iconic Japanese mountain is visible across the water from Enoshima Island on a clear day?
Quiz
What is the name of the wave-carved caves located on the southern cliffs of Enoshima Island?