Chigasaki

Chigasaki is a city in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It lies on the coast of Sagami Bay in the southern Kantō region and is part of the Greater Tokyo Area. The city faces the Pacific Ocean and features a mix of beaches, residential neighborhoods, and green hills. It is bordered by Kamakura to the north, and by Hiratsuka and Zushi to the west and south. The climate is humid subtropical, with warm summers and cool winters.

Chigasaki is best known for its surfing heritage; it is commonly described as the birthplace of surfing in Japan. The coastal areas around Benten Beach and nearby beaches support surfing culture, schools, and events that celebrate the sport and ocean recreation. The economy combines services for residents with light manufacturing, retail, and tourism.

Transportation is provided mainly by the JR Tokaido Main Line, which connects Chigasaki with Tokyo, Yokohama, and Odawara. Local bus networks and road connections link neighborhoods to the city center and rail stations.

The city maintains parks, cultural facilities, and educational institutions that serve its residents. It also hosts cultural events and preserves its coastal character through planning and environmental initiatives. Chigasaki maintains international ties through sister-city relations and exchanges.