Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline)
Kaifu River is nicknamed the Japanese Pipeline, and when typhoon swells funnel into this rivermouth in southern Tokushima, the name is justified. The wave produces grinding right-hand barrels over a sandbar formed by the Kaifu River's outflow, located in the scenic Muroto-Anan Quasi-National Park. Access to the peak is reserved for experienced surfers, and localism runs deep—but those who earn respect are rewarded with some of Japan's heaviest tubes.
Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline) surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SE (130°)
- Direction range
- 90° - 180°
- Size range
- 1m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.9m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (320°)
- Offshore range
- 280° - 360°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.4m
Water temp
23°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
6/10
Access: Car essential. Limited public transport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline)?
The Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline) profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.4m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline)?
The Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline) profile uses wind from NW (320°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 280° to 360°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline)?
The Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline) scoring profile favors swell from SE (90° to 180°), a swell-height range of 1m to 3m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline)?
The main season at Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline) is Jun-Nov. A secondary window runs Dec, Jan, Feb. Typhoon season Jun-Nov produces world-class waves.
How do I get to Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline)?
The spot profile lists TKS as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 90 minutes. Car essential. Limited public transport.
What kind of wave is Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline)?
Kaifu River (Japanese Pipeline) is a beach break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Jun-Nov
Secondary: Dec, Jan, Feb
Typhoon season Jun-Nov produces world-class waves.