We are proud to invite teams from around the world to compete in the 5th JOCA CUP – All Japan Outrigger Canoe Championship, taking place on May 23–24, 2026, at beautiful Zushi Beach.
The JOCA CUP is Japan’s premier outrigger canoe championship, bringing together the nation’s top paddlers in a competitive yet culturally rich ocean racing environment. More than a race, this event serves as a platform for international exchange, shared learning, and the promotion of ocean safety.
In previous editions, teams from Guam and Hawai‘i joined us, elevating the competitive level and creating meaningful connections with Japanese paddlers. Their participation strengthened the spirit of vaʻa across borders, inspiring both emerging and experienced athletes.
We welcome crews from Youth to Masters divisions and look forward to hosting teams who are ready to compete hard, connect deeply, and experience Japan’s vibrant paddling community.
Join us in Zushi Bay for two days of high-level racing, cultural exchange, and true ocean spirit.
We look forward to welcoming you to Japan.
Event Supporting Organizations (TBC):
City of Zushi/City of Kamakura/Town of Hayama/Zushi Marine Association/NPO Coast
Club/Japan Lifesaving Association
Event Partners (TBC):
Wailea Canoe Club JAPAN / Ohana Hoe Outrigger Canoe Club /
Holokai Outrigger Canoe Club KANSAI /Suruga Bay Outrigger Canoe Club
Beach Hayama / Mokupuni Paddling Club / Sajima Paddling Connection / AMANICO
Outrigger Canoe Club / KOTSUBO Fisheries Cooperative Association / ZUSHI Marina /
HAYAMA Port
Event Sponsors (TBC):
Koyo Machinery Industry Co., Ltd., / Kamakura Beer Brewing Co., Ltd.
Race Divisions
*The Kids category is defined as elementary school aged students only
*The Masters category is defined as athletes aged 50 or above.
*The OC6 Mixed category is defined as a crew composed of 3 men andThe OC6 Mixed category is *defined as a crew composed of 3 men and3 Women,
*The OC4 category has no restrictions based on gender.
*Unlimited and V6 canoes are not allowed for competition.
*The race schedule is subject to change depending on entry status, weather conditions, or other factors affecting the race.
Day1：5mile
Day2：10mile
*The race schedule is subject to change depending on entry status, weather conditions, or other factors affecting the race.
*The race schedule is subject to change depending on entry status, weather conditions, or other factors affecting the race.
The event headquarters will be set up near the “Season of the Sun Monument” on the east side of Zushi Beach. All participants must check in at the headquarters.
OC6 5-mile ¥36,000 / OC4 5-mile ¥24,000 / OC6 10-mile ¥48,000
Kids 1-mile ¥12,000
*Canoe rental (OC6 only) ¥10,000 per race
In the event of cancellation due to inclement weather, 50% of the participation
fee will be refunded. Participation prizes will still be distributed.
*Safety management will be provided by the Japan Lifesaving Association, including ocean traffic guidance and safety supervision along the course.
*Each boat will be equipped with Personal Flotation Devices (PFD’s) for each paddler.
Capacity:
30 teams (maximum 180 paddlers)
Entry Deadline:
Sunday, April 19, 2026
Entries must be submitted separately for each race and for each team.
Due to limited boat availability, some categories may close before the deadline depending on the number of entries received.
Entries will open on February 27.
Tournament Organizer: Japan Outrigger Canoe Association info@joca.ne.jp
Representative Director: Mitsuru OBANA
Director: Kenji KINOSHITA
Director: Fujio KOBAYASHI
