When I first moved to Nagoya, I was pretty happy because it was right near the coast. I had visions of the sorts of beaches one sees in Thailand or Okinawa. Unfortunately, though the Ise and Mikawa bays are meccas for fishing, they are not exactly the most picturesque of spots, and the beaches can be a little bit pedestrian.
However, what it lacks in beauty, it makes up for in water sports. If you head down towards Irago and Gamagori, you will find some of the best surfing in the region, but if you want to get the wind in your sails a little closer to home, Shinmaiko is a fantastic place to try all manner of ocean-based activities.
What can you do at Shinmaiko?
Wind Surf
Combining elements of sailing and surfing, windsurfing allows riders to glide smoothly with the wind, using a sail attached to a mast on the board to catch and control the breeze. It can be enjoyed in various conditions, from gentle breezes ideal for beginners to strong winds that challenge experienced riders. The windsurfing conditions are so perfect at Shinmaiko, that every August it holds a national tournament which sees 200 competitors battle it out for the Isewan Cup.
SUP
SUP, or Stand-Up Paddleboarding, is a versatile and accessible water sport that involves standing on a large, stable board and using a paddle to move through the water. Originating from surfing, SUP is popular for its simplicity and the unique vantage point it offers, allowing paddlers to explore and enjoy nature up close.
Relatively easy to get started, SUP can be a serene, meditative experience, and at Shinmaiko you can even take part in SUP Yoga. However, if a more intense, full-body workout is something you are after, you can take part in one of the many SUP races that occur throughout the year.
Wing Foil
Wing foiling is a relatively new water sport that combines elements of windsurfing, kiteboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding. It involves riding a board equipped with a hydrofoil while holding a handheld inflatable wing. This wing captures the wind, propelling you across the water and even lifting you above it, creating a sensation of flying.
Wing foiling started gaining popularity around 2019 and due to its versatility and the unique feeling of gliding effortlessly over the waves, it has become one of the most popular water sports at Shinmaiko. It’s accessible to beginners yet thrilling enough for experienced water sports enthusiasts.
Rental Stores and Schools
The stores below both have various renal options. In addition, they also have schools at which newbies can learn the winter sport of their choice.
Air Born Surf & SUP & Wind Shop
Where: 7 Banchi EST.2F, Oose, Shinmaiko, Chita City, (map)
Website: airborn.co.jp
Wind Space
Where: Godo-96-1 Shinmaiko, Chita City (map)
Website: windspace.jp
Shinmaiko Marine Park
Even if you are not the sporty type, Shinmaiko Marine Park still makes for a nice day out. While it is an artificial beach, it is pleasant enough, and it is convenient, being the closest beach to Nagoya and easily accessible on the Meitetsu Train line. There is a sizable barbecue area that you can rent out, and charcoal can be supplied at a small additional cost.
However, if the barbecue isn’t your thing, there are food stands selling refreshments. For those who don’t like the feeling of sand between the toes, there is a large grassy area on which to lounge, and for the more energetic of you, you can take advantage of the extensive beach volleyball courts.
Image: By Ib Aarmo via flickr.com [CC BY-NC-ND 2.0]
Image: By m01229 via flickr.com [CC BY-NC-ND 2.0]
Image: By Kirt Edblom via flickr.com [CC BY-NC-ND 2.0]
