Katsuura, Chiba: Exploring the Isumi Region’s Surfing Coast

Along the eastern coast of Isumi region, everyday life is intertwined with the sea. The area boasts a laidback, Japanese beach town atmosphere, showcasing independent cafes, casual seafood eateries and a thriving surf culture. In Katsuura, surfers brave the waves throughout the year, with a coastline characterized by rocky promontories, hidden coves and expansive stretches of sandy beaches.

The coast's allure extends beyond the water, attracting swimmers, hikers and casual visitors who come to admire the landscape. The Ubara district, in particular, showcases breathtaking scenery with its towering cliffs, verdant forests, and turquoise waters gathering in rocky inlets. Forested trails wind along the headlands, shrines stand beside the sea, and an underwater observation tower provides a glimpse into the ocean's depths.

Surf spots have long been a draw for generations of riders, and their influence has shaped the relaxed, ocean-centered culture of Katsuura. There is no shortage of activities to partake in during a day out — from surfing, hiking, swimming to simply taking in the stunning Pacific views. For those seeking a seaside hike, Ubara Utopia, located in the Ubara district of Katsuura city, offers a scenic route through hand-carved tunnels from the parking lot to a series of viewpoints.

From there, visitors can explore forested walking paths leading to a Bell of Happiness at the cliff top, offering expansive views across the Pacific Ocean, or descend to the rocky shores of Kedo-ura, a small cove with crystal-clear tide pools. The scenery at each viewpoint is awe-inspiring, but the hikes themselves are pleasant and not overly demanding, taking in the leafy wooded areas.

Near the Bell of Happiness, a mysterious white structure emerges from the sea — Katsuura Marine Park, featuring an underwater observation tower just an 18-minute walk away. Crossing a suspended walkway between rock formations and the churning sea below, visitors arrive at the observation spot, descending 8 meters into the tower's spiral staircase.

The 24 portholes on the tower's lower level offer a rare opportunity to observe the marine ecosystem without getting wet, paired with panoramic views of the sun-kissed Pacific Ocean's intricate coastline. Ubara Beach, one of Japan's top 100 beaches, is only about a seven-minute walk from the observation tower. Beyond its pale sand and turquoise waters, the beach is distinguished by a striking white torii gate at the water's edge, serving as the ichi-no-torii, or first shrine gate, of Ubara Yasaka Shrine.

For surfers, Katsuura's Malibu Point is a must-visit destination. However, the multipurpose marine sports facility is more than just a surf shop. Michihiro "Mitch" Takanashi, who opened Malibu Point 14 years ago, describes it as a marine leisure destination, providing visitors with various ocean-based activities, including stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, fishing, and surfing.

The goal is to offer as many ways as possible to enjoy the sea. The facility, located just 150 steps from Malibu Beach, a popular surfing spot, features a small shop, a cafe, outdoor showers, and ocean-facing rooms on the second floor with windowfront baths. Takanashi, a lifelong ocean enthusiast, opened Malibu Point to share Katsuura's coastal attractions with others and facilitate connections among locals and visitors.

On the last Sunday of every month, a beach cleanup takes place, emphasizing the community's commitment to preserving the shores' cleanliness and safety.