Japan stands apart in the skateboarding world. Eschewing the globally recognized “industry standard” style, they’ve cultivated their own unique approach to skating. This might stem from their geographical isolation and distinct cultural heritage, or perhaps there’s a secret ingredient in their instant ramen. Regardless, when envisioning “Japanese skateboarding,” one often pictures a style characterized by quick ollies, fluid power slides, and a focus on mini-spots. While the unique style is undeniable, understanding the key figures and influential videos within the Japanese skate scene can be challenging for outsiders.
To shed light on this vibrant subculture, we consulted Nino Moscardi, a dedicated Japanophile, to compile a definitive list (in no particular order) of the most important Japanese video parts. These descriptions will help you understand how these incredible skaters have shaped Japan’s skateboarding history. Prepare to learn something new, Jenkem-san!
Seimi Miyahara performing a stylish trick in an urban environment, showcasing his surf-inspired style.
“LENZII” – Seimi Miyahara (2014)
The entire “LENZ I” and “II” collection deserves recognition for its profound impact on Japanese skateboarding. However, Seimi’s standalone part is particularly noteworthy. His skating style evokes the fluidity of surf videos, and his exceptional control allows him to execute tricks that others wouldn’t even consider. This sets him apart from his peers, such as Koichiro Uehara and Hiroki Muraoka. With its focus on tight urban spots and stylish trick selection, this part became a major influence on Japanese skateboarding in the 2010s.
“Overground Broadcasting” – Gou Miyagi (2008)
Gou Miyagi’s part in Far East Skate Network’s (FESN) “Overground Broadcasting” played a crucial role in shaping Japan’s reputation for unconventional skateboarding. Released well before Heroin’s “Video Nasty,” which featured both Chopper and Gou, “Overground Broadcasting” didn’t gain significant international attention until YouTube’s rise. The “CRAZY JAPANESE SKATEBOARDER!!!” video catapulted him into a unique position of both popularity and relative obscurity. Gou’s skating was truly unprecedented. Japan’s history of isolationism seemed to influence Gou, as he skated as if he’d never seen a “normal” skate video, or perhaps he simply didn’t care about conforming to established norms.
“2nd to None” – Shin Okada (2001)
Shin Okada, affectionately known as “Oka-shin,” is a key figure in introducing Japan’s skate scene to the world. While he appeared in 411 while riding for Prime, his part in Deca’s “2nd to None” significantly boosted Japan’s presence on the skateboarding map. Although he never officially turned pro for Deca, this was among the first full-length parts by a Japanese skater for a major brand, showcasing both local spots and internationally recognized locations. For millennial Japanese kids transitioning from Playstations to skateboards, Shin Okada was a true inspiration.
Chatty Chatty 3 – Yoshiaki Toeda
Toeda, the most recognizable member of the Chatty Chatty crew from Shonan, deserves greater recognition from the international skate community. Active since the early 2000s, Toeda and the Chatty Chatty videos set a high standard for aspiring Japanese skaters. These were some of the first well-produced domestic videos, deeply connected to Japanese street culture through their ties to underground music and art. Chatty Chatty 3 represents the pinnacle of their work, and Toeda’s part foreshadowed his later moves to Western Edition and FTC in San Francisco.
“Goin’ Bananas” – Maru (2007)
For those familiar with the Japanese skate scene, Maru is a household name. He is an OG scene builder and one of Japan’s most authentic transition skaters. Although currently skating for Evisen, he initially moved from Sendai to San Francisco to ride for Consolidated. He is captivating to watch because he simply doesn’t care. Whether it’s a steep bank or a 12-foot deep pool, he’s ready to skate it. Had he been born in the United States, Maru would have been a perfect fit for the Anti-Hero team. Currently back in Sendai, running his own shop, Bridge, he continues to release full parts with Evisen and shred any curved surface he can find. Kickflips? Irrelevant.
“The Evisen Video” – Shinpei Ueno (2017)
Anyone with knowledge of Japanese skateboarding anticipates Shinpei’s inclusion on this list. He is a seasoned veteran of the Japanese skate scene, an OG frontman of the Tightbooth Production crew, and Evisen’s resident manual technician. While 4 minutes of manual to ledge combinations might sound monotonous, Shinpei’s style and confident demeanor keep viewers captivated. A back lip to nosegrind on a C-ledge? Absolutely. Few skaters can make pushes and power slides appear as stylish as Shinpei.
“Overground Broadcasting” – Takahiro Morita (2008)
Takahiro Morita is the founder of the Far East Skate Network (FESN), which has been championing the creative and artistic aspects of Japan’s skate scene for over two decades. While his current skating focuses on low-impact ingenuity, few Westerners are aware of his 30-year history of ripping. He deserves significant credit for increasing the visibility of Japanese skateboarding during the early internet era. Following the devastating earthquake and tsunami in 2011, his slogan, SKATERS MUST BE UNITED, united the domestic skate scene and continues to bring skateboarders together today.
“Video Nasty” – CHOPPER (2013)
If Gou’s FESN part established Japan’s skateboarding identity as an exercise in unorthodoxy and creativity, Chopper’s part in Heroin’s “Video Nasty” solidified it. Chopper also leads The Osaka Daggers, a band of merry outcasts based out of Osaka’s bustling Triangle Park. If his child-sized board isn’t indicative of Chopper’s fun and silly style, it becomes immediately apparent upon seeing him skate.
“In Relationen” – Toriotoko (2017)
Toriotoko, meaning “Bird Man,” is one of Japan’s most intriguing underground videographers. He’s a mild-mannered businessman by day, but when night falls and Tokyo’s crowds dissipate, he takes to the streets to film the gnarly and absurd. His videos resemble mini art pieces, blending the stranger aspects of Japanese culture with raw skating from OGs (Yuzo Kudo, Yuichi Ohara, and Deshi) and rising stars (Haruka Katagata, Shin Sanbongi, and Shogo Zama).
Conclusion
These video parts offer a glimpse into the unique and influential world of Japanese skateboarding. From the stylish urban skating of Seimi Miyahara to the unconventional creativity of Gou Miyagi and the raw transition skills of Maru, these skaters have shaped the landscape of Japanese skateboarding and inspired skaters worldwide. Exploring these videos provides a deeper understanding and appreciation for the vibrant and innovative Japanese skate scene.
