The Rise of Skateboarding in Japan

If I asked you where the home of skateboarding was, you might say America. More specifically California. But there is a new home from home emerging in the skate scene, which might seem quite surprising, but as we delve more into the culture and history, we start to see why.

Japan, the land of the rising sun, is fast becoming the land of the rising skateboard, proven by the line-up of both male and female competitors for Paris 2024. Looking back at Japan 2020 when skateboarding was first introduced as an event, it appears the sport has been recognised for it’s athleticism and high skill requirement, which has only fuelled the rise in popularity. Japan won medals in the women's street skateboarding event with Momiji Nishiya winning the gold medal, becoming the youngest-ever gold medallist in skateboarding at the age of 13. Additionally, Funa Nakayama, also from Japan, secured the bronze medal in the same event.

These historic achievements marked a significant moment for skateboarding in Japan and demonstrated the country's prowess in the sport on the global stage.

The History of Skateboarding in Japan

Skateboarding began to gain traction in Japan in the late 1970s and early 1980s, coinciding with its rise in popularity in other parts of the world. Initially, skateboarding in Japan was heavily influenced by American culture, with Japanese youth emulating the styles and techniques seen in skateboarding videos, magazines, and movies from the United States.

During the 1980s, skateboarding in Japan experienced significant growth, with the establishment of skate shops, magazines, and communities dedicated to the sport. Skateboarding competitions and events also began to emerge, further solidifying its presence in Japanese youth culture.

However, it was during the 1990s and early 2000s that skateboarding truly began to take off in Japan. The sport became more mainstream, with increased media coverage and the construction of skate parks and facilities across the country. This period also saw the emergence of talented Japanese skateboarders who gained recognition on the global stage, helping to popularize the sport further within Japan.

Since then, skateboarding has continued to grow in Japan, becoming deeply ingrained in the country's cultural landscape and attracting a diverse community of enthusiasts across different age groups. The sport's inclusion in other major international events such as the X Games, further elevated its profile in Japan and around the world.

Skate Spots in Japan

Tokyo: Shibuya Crossing - Known as one of the busiest intersections in the world, Shibuya Crossing offers an urban landscape with a variety of ledges, stairs, and gaps, providing skaters with endless creative possibilities.

Tokyo: Tokyo Dome City - This area features smooth ground, ledges, and stair sets, making it a favorite spot for street skaters to practice tricks.

Tokyo: Hikarigaoka Skatepark - While primarily a skatepark, Hikarigaoka also features surrounding street spots, including rails and ledges, attracting skaters of all skill levels.

Osaka: Umeda Sky Building - The Umeda Sky Building's unique architecture includes ramps and ledges that appeal to street skaters looking for creative lines and challenges.

Osaka: Osaka Castle Park - This historic park offers various skateable elements, including banks, stairs, and ledges, against the backdrop of Osaka Castle.

Kyoto: Arashiyama Station - Skateboarders come here for the smooth ground and ledges around Arashiyama Station, providing opportunities for technical tricks and lines.

Nagoya: Sakae District - The Sakae District features plazas and open spaces with skateable architecture, attracting skaters with its diverse terrain.

Fukuoka: Tenjin District - Tenjin is a bustling urban area with numerous spots, including plazas, stairs, and ledges, offering challenges for street skaters.

Japanese Skateboarders to look out for

Yuto Horigome - One of the most prominent Japanese skateboarders, known for his exceptional skills in street skateboarding. He has won multiple competitions, including X Games events, and clinched the gold medal in the men's street skateboarding event at the Tokyo 2020.

Yoshi Tanenbaum - Although born in the United States, Yoshi Tanenbaum has Japanese heritage and has become well-known in the skateboarding world for his technical prowess and smooth style. He's sponsored by major skateboarding brands and has competed in numerous contests globally.

Shinpei Ueno - A respected skateboarder and filmmaker from Japan. He's known for his innovative approach to skating and his contributions to the Japanese skateboarding scene through his films and projects.

Kento Yoshioka - A talented street skateboarder who has gained recognition for his progressive style and technical tricks. He's been featured in skateboarding media and has competed in various international contests.

Aori Nishimura – A highly skilled female skateboarder who competes in the street discipline. She has achieved success in both national and international competitions and has played a significant role in promoting women's skateboarding in Japan.

Issey Yumiba - Known for his smooth and stylish approach to skateboarding, he's gained attention for his video parts and performances in competitions, representing Japan on the global stage.