Welcome to Chiba: The Perfect Day Trip from Tokyo

Chiba Prefecture is a wonderful place just east of Tokyo, famous for its beautiful nature, delicious food, and rich history. Whether you love temples, beaches, or fresh seafood, Chiba has something for everyone. This guide will help you discover the best places to visit and things to do in Chiba, all in easy English for travelers.

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple 🛕

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is one of the most famous temples in Japan. It is over 1,000 years old and is located in Narita City, close to Narita International Airport. Many people visit the temple at New Year, but it is peaceful and beautiful all year round. You can see the big main hall, colorful pagodas, and lovely Japanese gardens. The temple grounds are large, so take your time to walk around and enjoy the calm atmosphere.

After visiting the temple, walk along Omotesando Street. This street is full of traditional shops and restaurants. You can try local snacks like grilled eel (unagi), sweet rice crackers, and Japanese pickles. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs and experience Japanese culture.

Katsuura: Seaside Town and Fresh Seafood 🦞

Katsuura is a small town on the Pacific coast, famous for its fresh seafood. The Katsuura Morning Market is one of the oldest in Japan. Here, you can see local fishermen selling their catch of the day, like splendid alfonsino (kinmedai) and spiny lobster (ise-ebi). Try some sashimi or seafood rice bowls for breakfast!

Katsuura is also known for its beautiful coastline. You can walk along the beach, enjoy the sea breeze, or relax in a seaside hot spring (onsen). If you like adventure, try hiking on the nearby trails or go fishing and surfing. Katsuura is perfect for people who love the ocean and nature.

Kujukuri Beach: Surf, Swim, and Relax 🏖️

Kujukuri Beach is one of the longest beaches in Japan, stretching about 66 kilometers. The sand is soft, and the waves are great for surfing. Many people come here to surf, swim, or just walk along the shore. In summer, you can enjoy barbecues and beach parties. There are also places to rent surfboards and take lessons, so even beginners can have fun.

Kujukuri is also a good spot for sea fishing. You might see local fishermen working or families enjoying a day by the sea. The sunsets here are beautiful, so don’t forget your camera!

More Things to Do in Chiba 🌸

• Mother Farm: A fun place for families. You can see animals, pick fruit, and enjoy flower fields.
• Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea: These famous theme parks are actually in Chiba! Great for kids and adults.
• Boso no Mura: An open-air museum where you can experience traditional Japanese life and crafts.
• Mount Nokogiri: Hike up this mountain for amazing views and see the giant Buddha statue.
• Sawara Historic Town: Walk along old canals and see traditional houses from the Edo period.

What to Eat in Chiba 🍣

Chiba is famous for its fresh seafood, but there are many other tasty foods to try:

• Peanuts: Chiba grows the most peanuts in Japan. Try peanut ice cream or peanut miso.
• Namerou: A local dish made from minced fish, miso, and herbs. It’s delicious with rice.
• Loquat (Biwa) Fruit: Sweet and juicy, in season from May to June.
• Soy Sauce: Chiba is one of the main places where Japanese soy sauce is made. You can visit a soy sauce factory and taste different kinds.

How to Get to Chiba 🚆

Chiba is very easy to reach from Tokyo. You can take a train from Tokyo Station to Chiba Station in about 40 minutes. Narita International Airport is also in Chiba, so it’s a good first stop for travelers arriving in Japan. Local trains and buses make it easy to visit different towns and attractions in the prefecture.

Tips for Travelers ✨

• Many places in Chiba accept credit cards, but it’s good to carry some cash for small shops.
• English signs are common at major tourist spots, but learning a few Japanese words will make your trip more fun.
• Try to visit on weekdays if you want to avoid crowds, especially at popular places like Disneyland or Naritasan Temple.
• Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat if you visit the beach in summer!

Final Thoughts: Why Visit Chiba? 🌏

Chiba is a wonderful place to experience the best of Japan—historic temples, beautiful beaches, delicious food, and friendly people. It’s close to Tokyo, but much quieter and more relaxed. Whether you want adventure, culture, or just a peaceful day by the sea, Chiba is waiting for you. Enjoy your trip!