Last October, we spent ten days on the road tracing the southeast coastline of Japan—through the lush, subtropical Miyazaki peninsula, with a final layover in Chiba.

This photo journal captures the mix of surf, culture, and contrast that defined the trip. It’s less about chasing world-class waves and more about experiencing Japan’s striking scenery and coastal rhythm. An atypical beauty: concrete tetrapods, turquoise water, warm rain, and the soft glow of morning sun.

Mostly shot on 35mm across a variety of film stocks (with one rogue iPhone moment), this is our attempt to capture a feeling—to offer a glimpse, a flavour, a visually immersive journey.

If this photo journal left you dreaming of your own surf trip to Japan, we’ve put together a guide with everything we wish we knew before we went—from practical tips to local insights, including the best-kept board rental secret in Japan.

→ Surfing Japan: A Cultured Guide for the Curious Surfer

Surf, travel, design, ritual—we share stories from the edge of the ocean. Join us when you feel like drifting.