How is the Skate culture in Japan?

Skateboarding in Japan has a fascinating history, blending global influences with unique local cultural characteristics. While it is not as popular as other sports, such as ice skating, skateboarding has rapidly grown and carved out its space, especially with the visibility provided by the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

In Japan, skateboarding is not just a sport or a form of leisure; it has become a subculture full of complexities and challenges that reflect social and cultural aspects of the country.

The Culture of Skate in Japan: Tradition and Modernity

Skateboarding in Japan is both similar and different from anywhere else in the world. Japanese skateboarders follow the same essence of the sport: adrenaline, tricks, freedom, and the pursuit of new challenges. However, the Japanese social context, with its emphasis on respect and order, influences how the practice develops in the country.

1. The Relationship of Japanese People with Skateboarding

Although there are no specific laws prohibiting skateboarding in Japan, the practice faces resistance in public spaces. The Japanese police often intervene, especially if skateboarders are in crowded areas or in locations that may pose a risk to pedestrian safety. This is largely due to the desire to maintain public order and safety, characteristics that are highly valued in Japanese society.

Curiously, the stigma of skateboarding related to delinquency and drugs, which is common in some places, is quite different in Japan. Japanese skateboarders, in general, are known for their politeness and discipline. They care about not disturbing others and often respect rules such as wearing helmets. This shows a significant contrast with the "rebellious" image of skateboarding in other countries.

2. Challenges for the Popularization of Skateboarding

The practice of skateboarding in Japan still faces some obstacles, such as the high prices of equipment and the difficulty in finding quality replacement parts. Clothing, decks, wheels, and trucks can be expensive, and many skateboarders need to import materials, making the sport financially challenging for beginners. Furthermore, the limited space and high population density in large cities like 東京 (Tōkyō) make it difficult to practice skateboarding freely without concerns.

Another point of emphasis is how skateboarding is expanding across Asia. With the growth of urban culture and Western influence, the 日本のスケートボード culture has attracted new followers, but it still has a long way to go before reaching the popularity it has in North America or Europe. Even so, the skate community in Japan is extremely creative and innovative, contributing tricks and styles that impress the global community.

Where to Skateboard in Japan?

If you are a skateboarder and are thinking about exploring Japan, there are several amazing places to practice. While Tokyo is a bustling city full of people, there are parks and specific areas where skateboarding is accepted and even encouraged.

1. Best Places in 東京

Tokyo offers well-paved streets and some of the best skate parks in the area. Among the most popular places are:

• Miyashita Park: Located in the heart of Shibuya, Miyashita Park is one of the most well-known skate spots. Recently renovated, it offers modern infrastructure and is perfect for skateboarders of all levels.
• Shin-Yokohama Skate Park: Located in Yokohama, about 30 minutes from Tokyo, it is the largest outdoor skate park in the region. It features a variety of obstacles, including half-pipes and bowls, that attract both beginners and professionals.

If you prefer to explore the streets, the best time to skateboard in urban areas is between 1:00 and 4:00 in the morning, when pedestrian and car traffic is significantly lower. This gives skaters more freedom to perform tricks without disrupting the constant flow of the city.

2. The Interior of Japan: A Different Adventure

If you go to the countryside, smaller towns offer a more tranquil and less monitored environment. The streets can be almost deserted, which is perfect for exploring labyrinths of alleys, staircases, and other natural obstacles. However, it's important to be aware of local rules and to practice with respect for the residents and the environment.

In addition, Japanese skateboarders often skate in groups, especially in secluded areas or at night, as a way to avoid trouble with the police or local residents. This group culture reinforces camaraderie within the skate community, promoting and collaboration.

Skate Vocabulary in Japan

If you want to dive deeper into the skate culture in Japan, it's helpful to know some in Japanese. Here is a small guide for you:

• Skate: Skate (スケート Sukeeto) ou Skateboard (スケートボード Sukeetoboodo)
• Skating: Skating (スケーティング)
• Skater or Rollerblader: Skater (スケータ)
• Skateboarding: Skateboarding (Sukeetoboodingu), often abbreviated to スケボー (Sukebo)

Japanese skateboarders have been standing out in international competitions, which helps to further boost the sport in the country. The rise of athletes like Yuto Horigome, who won the gold medal at the Olympics, has brought a new wave of excitement for skateboarding in Japan.

• デッキ (Dekki) - Deck (Forma)
• ホイール (Hoiiru) - Wheel
• トラック (Torakku) - Truck
• グリップテープ (Guripputēpu) - Griptape
• トリック (Torikku) - Maneuver/Trick
• フリップ (Furippu) - Flip
• オーリー (Ōrī) - Ollie
• グラインド (Guraindo) - Grind
• スライド (Suraido) - Slide
• ハーフパイプ (Hāfu Paipu) - Half-pipe
• ボウル (Bōru) - Tigela
• スケートパーク (Sukeeto Paaku) - Skate Park
• ニーパッド (Nīpaddo) - Knee protector
• ヘルメット (Herumetto) - Helmet
• リストガード (Risutogādo) - Wrist protector
• フィンガーボード (Fingābōdo) - Fingerboard
• ランプ (Ranpu) - Ramp
• レール (Rēru) - Handrail
• オブスタクル (Obusutakuru) - Obstacle
• スケートセッション (Sukeeto Sesshon) - Skate Session
• スタンス (Sutansu) - Stance (スタンス)
• レギュラー (Regyurā) - Regular (左足を前に)
• グーフィー (Gūfī) - Goofy (Right foot in front)
• ファキー (Fakī) - Fakie
• スイッチ (Suicchi) - Switch

The Future of Skateboarding in Japan

With the growing interest of the youth and the global recognition of Japanese skateboarders, the future of skateboarding in Japan looks promising. Cities have started to invest more in dedicated infrastructure, and skate events are becoming more common. International visibility has also helped reduce the stigma associated with the sport, although there is still work to be done to make it more accepted in urban areas.

To finish, if you want to see skateboarding in action in Japan, check out some videos of local skaters in the videos below: