Kanoa Igarashi Brings Japan’s Surf Scene to Life in Upcoming Film No Contest Tokyo
In January 2025, Japanese professional surfer Kanoa Igarashi will return to Japan to promote the upcoming documentary film “Red Bull Surfing ‘No Contest Tokyo.'” This film, part of Red Bull Surfing’s popular “No Contest” series, will spotlight Igarashi and delve into Japan’s vibrant surf scene.
To celebrate the film’s release, a special advance screening is scheduled for January 20, 2025, at TOHO Cinemas Nihonbashi in Tokyo. Fans have the opportunity to attend by entering a lottery, with 40 pairs (80 individuals) being selected to receive invitations. Additionally, Red Bull Japan is offering a limited number of tickets through a first-come, first-served campaign on their official Rakuten page, ensuring more enthusiasts can participate in this exclusive event.
During his visit in the fall of 2024, Igarashi participated in a “super session” at Shidashita Beach in Chiba Prefecture. He was joined by his younger brother, Keanu Igarashi, legendary Japanese surfer Osamu “Octopus” Takao, and prominent surfers Kaito Ohashi and Tenshi Iwami. The session also featured promising young surfers, highlighting the depth of talent in Japan’s surfing community.
This gathering at Shidashita Beach, a renowned surf spot that hosted surfing events during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, underscores the collaborative spirit and camaraderie among Japanese surfers. The event was documented by colorsmagyoge, providing fans with an inside look at the dynamic session.
Kanoa Igarashi, born in California to Japanese parents, has become a significant figure in both American and Japanese surfing circles. His achievements on the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour and his representation of Japan in international competitions have made him a prominent ambassador for the sport. His involvement in projects like “No Contest Tokyo” aims to elevate Japan’s presence in the global surfing community and inspire the next generation of surfers.
The “No Contest” series by Red Bull Surfing offers an insider’s perspective on surfing destinations worldwide, going beyond competitions to explore local cultures and surf scenes. The Tokyo edition focuses on Japan’s unique surfing landscape, traditions, and the individuals who contribute to its growing popularity.
The upcoming advance screening event in Tokyo will provide fans with an exclusive opportunity to engage with the film and its featured surfers. Such events play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community among surfing enthusiasts and promoting the sport’s cultural significance in Japan.
For those unable to attend the screening, the documentary is expected to be available through Red Bull’s official channels, allowing a broader audience to experience Japan’s surf culture as seen through the eyes of Kanoa Igarashi and his peers.
In summary, Kanoa Igarashi’s return to Japan for the promotion of “No Contest Tokyo” and his participation in the Shidashita Beach super session highlight the dynamic and evolving nature of Japan’s surfing scene. These events not only celebrate the achievements of Japanese surfers but also aim to inspire and cultivate the next generation of talent within the sport.