Experience Frescobol at the Annual Beach Life Festival in Japan in 2025

Get Ready for Frescobol at the 2025 Beach Life Festival

The Japan Frescobol Association (JFBA) has announced that it will host a free Frescobol experience for the second consecutive year at the Beach Life Festival at Ajiro Coast in Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture, on Saturday, October 25, 2025. The association is dedicated to the promotion of Frescobol, a sport that emphasizes communication and collaboration, making it an enjoyable activity for people of all ages.

The Festival's Location: Ajiro Coast

Located at the now quieter Ajiro Coast, once known as the 'Naples of the East,' this area has a rich history of attracting visitors. However, as tourist numbers have declined, local citizens launched the 'Ibarakifornia Project,' designed to reshape the beach into a vibrant and happy coastal destination reminiscent of California. The JFBA aims to contribute to this revitalization by participating in the festival, enhancing the local community's interest in beach sports.

Engaging Activities for Everyone

Last year's festival saw a successful collaboration featuring Frescobol, Beach Molkky, and Flip-Flop Tossing. All activities were designed to be welcoming, allowing anyone—regardless of age or athletic background—to participate and enjoy. This year, the lineup includes Frescobol, Beach Clean-up, Kids Dance, and more, with collaborations with the Ibarakifornia Market adding exciting elements like a beach market and nighttime theater shows.

The Frescobol area will be open for experiences twice during the day: from 10 AM to 12 PM and again from 1:30 PM to 4 PM. It invites families and beachgoers to partake in this unique beach sport while contributing to community engagement.

Festival Highlights: Fun for All Ages

The 22nd Beach Life Festival at Ajiro Coast 2025 promises a variety of exciting events, including treasure hunts, Beach Molkky, Frescobol games, stage shows, and more, hosted by the Ajiro and Isozaki Beach Beautification Committee. The festival will run from 10:30 AM to 5 PM, and it will proceed rain or shine, only canceling in the event of severe weather.

Additionally, the collaboration known as IBAFORNIA MARKET 2025 AUTUMN will enhance the festival with over 70 vendors offering food and goods, outdoor movie screenings, and a spectacular fireworks display coordinated by the Ajiro Fireworks Committee. This marketplace will operate from 10 AM until 7:30 PM, providing ample shopping and dining opportunities for attendees.

What is Frescobol? A Unique Beach Sport

Originating from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Frescobol has captured the hearts of beachgoers worldwide since its invention in 1945 at Copacabana Beach. One of Frescobol’s defining characteristics is its cooperative nature, where players work together to keep the rally going instead of competing against one another. Matches are played over five minutes at a distance of 7 meters, showcasing both skill and teamwork. This sport fosters a sense of community among players, earning it the title of a “sport of compassion.” Currently, there are 28 JFBA-affiliated clubs and six recognized student organizations nationwide, contributing to the growth of community networks around Frescobol. The Japan Frescobol Association, established in 2013, dedicated itself to spreading awareness and appreciation for this distinctive sport across the country.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the spirit of Frescobol and join the community at the Beach Life Festival in Ajiro! Whether you are a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, all are welcome to join in the fun and festivity at this beautiful coastal event.