THE LAND OF RISING SUNS

It’s a dream confluence for any magazine editor: one of foiling’s most celebrated designers (Cyril Coste) invites one of foiling’s most exciting riders (Matahi Drollet) to test ride Duotone’s brand-new foil assist system, on a pan-Japan adventure, from the icy north to the tropical south…

 Words: Cyril Coste

Photos: Neil Armstrong & Thomas Bevilacqua

When Matahi Drollet, known for charging massive barrels in Tahiti, arrived in Japan for a winter foil assist mission, the goal was clear: explore the country from north to south, discover untouched spots, and test the recently developed Duotone Foil Assist in one of the most diverse and varied playgrounds for riders on earth. With unpredictable winter conditions in Japan, flexibility and the right gear were key. This is the story of our journey – chasing swells and immersing ourselves in Japan’s unique culture.

After picking up Matahi in Tokyo, our first stop was the iconic Mt. Fuji. With the help of the Assist system, we foiled at sunrise in front of the sacred mountain. Despite the freezing cold – frozen pads and ice in Matahi's hair – the session was nothing short of magical. A surreal contrast to the tropical waters of Teahupo'o, but equally powerful.

The feeling of riding in front of Mt. Fuji was so intense that we decided to explore more of the area. There are five lakes surrounding the mount, known as the ‘Fujigoko' – not all allow foiling, but the idea of quietly circling Mt. Fuji with the Assist, just the two of us, was irresistible. We felt completely immersed in nature – no sound, no crowds, just pure flow and silence. This connection to nature is something deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Their relationship with the environment isn’t just about enjoying it – it’s about respecting it, maintaining harmony with it. You feel that in every aspect of the country, and it added a profound layer to each session.

From Fuji, we headed toward Chiba in search of swell. Along the way, we dove deep into Japanese contrasts – drifting on famed Tokyo circuits, soaking in the mix of chaos and calm that defines the country. From samurai history, to manga, to neon-lit alleyways, Japan is a universe of opposites. It’s that balance – between ancient and modern, precision and spontaneity – that mirrors the feeling of foiling itself.

Chiba is one of the central hubs of Japanese surf culture, with a variety of spots. Some are extremely crowded, but thanks to the Assist, we had the freedom to ride away from the pack –  even near the most popular breaks. Being able to sneak off and find perfect foil conditions just a few minutes away felt like unlocking a secret. One of the things that struck us here was the incredible respect the local foilers had for their environment and gear. Everything from the way they handled their boards to how they maintained their equipment reflected a deep care and attention to detail. Coming from Europe or the US, where sometimes sessions can feel rushed or gear gets thrown around, the Japanese approach felt refreshing. They take their time, check everything twice, and ensure it’s all in perfect order before hitting the water. It’s not just about performance – it’s about ritual.

Before heading south, we squeezed in a cruising session in Yokohama’s harbor. Thanks to the lightweight Assist system, foiling became possible anywhere, anytime – even in the world’s most densely populated city. Just a harness, a small board, and an 850 foil – and you're riding. It was an exhilarating reminder of the limitless possibilities the Foil Assist offers. In a place where skyscrapers tower overhead and container ships glide past, we found a pocket of calm, gliding silently across the water.

Matahi’s passion for fishing surfaced quickly – rivaled only by his growing stoke for the foil. We wandered through surf shops and fishing villages, devoured sushi, and immersed ourselves in Japan's food culture. Though he hadn’t tried the Assist before the trip, Matahi was instantly hooked – logging long sessions daily and testing every board, mast, and foil configuration we had. His feedback was detailed, sharp, and always spot-on.

The simplicity of the Assist system allowed us to foil a wide variety of often untouched spots, and enjoy long, fun sessions with just the two of us. Even small or inconsistent conditions became a playground with the right setup. And every time we connected with the local foil community, their enthusiasm and hospitality stood out. They were always eager to share their favorite spots, exchange ideas, and talk gear. Whether it was an older rider with decades of ocean knowledge or a younger foiler pushing boundaries, their love for the sea ran deep. It was humbling to be welcomed so openly into their world.

With our R&D base located in Japan, it was the perfect chance to validate key details. Matahi is known for big wave surfing, but his style truly shines in smoother conditions too. One of the main goals of this trip was to finalize the Midfish – a mid-length fish board designed for the Foil Assist. From the first session, Matahi clicked with it: smooth carving, effortless takeoff, and flow for days.

Between sessions, he reflected on what struck him most about Japan: “There’s a real connection between Japan and Tahiti”, Matahi told us. “It’s in the respect people have – for the land, for each other, for the way they live and eat. You feel that same island mindset here, even with all the tech around. It’s something special.”

We continued south to Miyazaki, where the waves were small, but ideal for exploring with the Assist. We stopped at uncrowded beaches and remote fishing villages, enjoying the kind of foil sessions you can only get with the right setup. From Tokyo to Kyushu, Japan’s 29,000 kilometers of coastline offer endless possibilities. With the Assist, even the most unlikely days turn into golden ones.

Before flying to Taiwan for final production and R&D, we made one last stop in the southern Japanese islands. Warm water, tropical waves, and an entirely different vibe from the snow-covered north. That’s the magic of Japan – it’s one of the most diverse foil playgrounds on the planet. And with the final tests done, we headed into production with total confidence.

This was just the beginning. Matahi had to leave for other commitments, but the connection was real. The plan is already in motion for a typhoon chase mission – next time, we’ll swap the 900 Front wing for a 500 and let Mr. Drollet go full tilt…

Another unforgettable element of the trip was the connection with the local Japanese foil community. The riders were incredibly welcoming, always ready to share their spots and scout conditions with us. Their humility, knowledge of the sea, and willingness to share left a lasting impression. That openness and shared passion added a layer of meaning to every ride.

Japan reminded us one more time how powerful the intersection of culture, nature, and innovation can be. With the right tools, anything becomes possible. And with riders like Matahi, even the coldest, wildest sessions become unforgettable.