The Pacific coast of Kochi Prefecture on the island of Shikoku is known as the best surfing region in Japan. It’s important set expectations especially for travellers from Australia, the United States and other countries with notable surf spots. Japan isn’t about to rival those however Shikoku’s Pacific Coast experiences some good surf, especially in typhoon season from June to November. Actually located in Tokushima Prefecture at the mouth of the Kaifu River, the ‘Japanese Pipeline’ is one such spot while you’ll continue to spot points, rivermouths and beach breaks as you move west along the coast and into Kochi Prefecture with the areas around Tosa and Susaki boasting the best beaches.

Whether you or not you surf, driving along the coast is a lovely experience and one that can be easily with exploration of the Shimanto River area when renting a car. Accommodation on the surf coast is mostly limited to basic guesthouses targeting surfers and beach lovers, meaning you’ll find some reasonably-priced accommodation offering great views and a friendly atmosphere dotted along beaches.