Chiba
Chiba Prefecture, located east of Tokyo, is known for its coastal beauty and family-friendly attractions. It is home to Narita International Airport, Japan’s main gateway for international travelers. Chiba also features popular destinations such as Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea in Urayasu. The Boso Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, scenic countryside, and traditional fishing villages. Chiba’s famous local produce includes peanuts and loquat fruits.
Chiba Overview (2024)
Population
6,277,263 people
Area
5,156.48 km²
Density
1,217 people/km²
Temperature in Chiba (2023)
Explore Chiba: 23 Popular Sightseeing Spots
1. Tokyo Disneyland - Urayasu City
Tokyo Disneyland, located within the Tokyo Disney Resort®, is a magical theme park that delights visitors of all ages. Its iconic centerpiece, Cinderella Castle, stands at a height of approximately 51 meters and is surrounded by seven uniquely themed lands. The park features a wide variety of attractions, seasonal special events, parades, and stage shows, offering a rich entertainment experience. In 2020, a new area inspired by the enchanting world of Beauty and the Beast was unveiled, adding even more charm to this dreamlike destination.
Access | By Train: Take the JR Keiyo Line or Musashino Line to Maihama Station. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
2. Tokyo DisneySea - Urayasu City
Located within the Tokyo Disney Resort®, Tokyo DisneySea is a theme park where visitors can enjoy Disney's unique family entertainment, inspired by tales and legends of the sea. Experience a world full of dreams and adventure with attractions and shows, including the popular ride "Soaring: Fantastic Flight", which debuted in July 2019.
Access | By Train: Take the JR Keiyo Line or Musashino Line to Maihama Station. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
3. Ryugujo Spa Hotel Mikazuki - Kisarazu City
Located on an expansive site of approximately 56,000 tsubo (about 185,000 square meters) overlooking Tokyo Bay, this multi-purpose resort offers hot springs, indoor and outdoor pools, spas, ocean-view hotel rooms, and entertainment facilities. One of its highlights is the natural hot spring that flows from 800 meters underground. From the women’s open-air bath “Fuji no Yu,” you can enjoy stunning views of Mt. Fuji. The spa area features attractions like a dancing water fountain and laser shows, making it one of Chiba Prefecture's largest and most exciting resorts for hot springs, spas, and pools.
Admission |
Spa Area Day Use Fees: Adults (Middle school and older): Weekdays: ¥2,000 (after 6 PM: ¥1,400) Weekends/Holidays: ¥2,600 (after 6 PM: ¥1,800) Children (4 years and older): Weekdays: ¥1,300 (after 6 PM: ¥800) Weekends/Holidays: ¥1,800 (after 6 PM: ¥1,000) *Hotel guests enjoy free access to pools and the spa area on the day of check-in. Usage after check-out is charged. |
Access |
By Train: About 15 minutes from JR Uchibo Line “Kisarazu” Station via a free shuttle bus. By Car: About 5 minutes from Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line “Kisarazu Kaneda” Interchange. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
4. Kamogawa Sea World - Kamogawa City
Experience the wonders of the ocean at Kamogawa Sea World, an aquarium set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. The exhibits realistically recreate natural environments, ranging from river sources to the Arctic and Antarctic seas. With over 800 species and 11,000 marine and freshwater creatures, there’s plenty to explore. Don’t miss the world-class performances by killer whales, belugas, dolphins, and sea lions. Fun fact: Kamogawa Sea World is one of only two aquariums in Japan where you can see killer whales!
Opening Hours | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Hours may vary depending on the season or day of the week) |
Admission |
1-Day Ticket: Adults (High School Students and Older): ¥3,300 Children (Elementary and Middle School): ¥2,000 Toddlers (4 Years and Older): ¥1,300 Seniors (60 Years and Older): ¥2,700 2-Day Tickets and other options are also available. |
Access |
By Train: From JR Uchibo Line/Sotobo Line Awa-Kamogawa Station, take the free shuttle bus (approximately 10 minutes). By Car: From the Tateyama Expressway Kimitsu IC, take the Boso Skyline and Kamogawa Toll Road. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
5. Naritasan Shinshoji Temple - Narita City
Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is one of the Three Great Fudo Temples in the Kanto region and attracts approximately 10 million visitors annually. As the head temple of the Chisan School of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, it enshrines the Fudo Myo-o statue, which was consecrated by Kobo Daishi (Kukai). The temple grounds feature numerous highlights, including five structures designated as National Important Cultural Properties, such as the Three-Storied Pagoda built during the Edo period. Known for its divine blessings, the temple's Goma Fire Ritual, performed to fulfill prayers, has been conducted daily since its founding. Visitors can also participate in unique cultural experiences such as Sutra Copying and Esoteric Buddhist Meditation.
Access |
By Train: About a 10-minute walk from JR Narita Station (Narita Line) By Car: About a 15-minute drive from Narita Interchange (Higashi-Kanto Expressway) |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
6. Tokyo German Village - Sodegaura City
Tokyo German Village is a vast park filled with seasonal flowers and natural beauty, designed to replicate the scenic countryside of Germany. The park offers various attractions such as mini-golf, sledding on grass, and a petting zoo where visitors can interact with small animals. Children and families can also enjoy "Grandpa's Forest," featuring traditional Japanese games from older generations. In winter, the park hosts one of Japan’s best winter illuminations, recognized as a Japan Night View Heritage spot, making it a must-see destination during the colder months.
Opening Hours |
Regular Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:00 PM) Winter Hours (November to early April): 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM (Last admission at 7:30 PM) Open year-round. |
Admission |
Adults: ¥800 Children (4 years old to elementary school age): ¥400 |
Access |
By Train: From JR Chiba Station East Exit, take the high-speed "Kapina-go" bus (Chiba–Kamogawa Line) and get off at the "Tokyo German Village" stop. By Car: About 5 minutes from the Anesaki-Sodegaura IC on the Tateyama Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
7. Mitsui Outlet Park Kisarazu - Kisarazu City
Mitsui Outlet Park Kisarazu is one of the largest outlet malls in the Tokyo metropolitan area, featuring around 300 stores, including international brands and popular shops making their debut in Japan. Enjoy fantastic deals and indulge in a variety of trendy gourmet food options, which are also highly rated. Facilities include free stroller and wheelchair rentals, and the mall is pet-friendly. Convenient direct bus services are available from Tokyo, Yokohama, Kawasaki, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Tama Plaza, making access from the metropolitan area effortless. From global brands to Japanese specialty stores, this outlet has it all!
Opening Hours |
Shops: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Restaurants: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last Order: 8:30 PM) Food Court: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM (Last Order: 8:30 PM) Closed on irregular days |
Access |
By Train: Take the JR Uchibo Line to "Sodegaura" Station, then board a local bus and get off at the "Mitsui Outlet Park" stop. By Car: Approximately 5 minutes from the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line "Kisarazu Kaneda" IC. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
8. Umihotaru Parking Area - Kisarazu City
Umihotaru is a unique parking area situated on the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line, offering stunning views of Tokyo Bay. The facility includes:
1st to 3rd floors: Parking space
4th floor: Shopping area
5th floor: Dining area
Highlights include a foot bath overlooking Tokyo Bay, a free 360-degree ocean-view lounge, and attractions like "Umimegane - Aqua-Line Theater." The observation deck is also a popular spot for enjoying the night view. Experience the breathtaking scenery at this floating parking area in the middle of Tokyo Bay.
1st to 3rd floors: Parking space
4th floor: Shopping area
5th floor: Dining area
Highlights include a foot bath overlooking Tokyo Bay, a free 360-degree ocean-view lounge, and attractions like "Umimegane - Aqua-Line Theater." The observation deck is also a popular spot for enjoying the night view. Experience the breathtaking scenery at this floating parking area in the middle of Tokyo Bay.
Opening Hours | Open 24 hours (hours vary by facility), open year-round. |
Admission | Free entry and parking. |
Access |
By Car: Approximately 10 minutes from Kawasaki Ukishima JCT on the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line via Shuto Expressway. Approximately 5 minutes from Kisarazu Kaneda IC on the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
9. Mother Farm - Futtsu City
Located in the scenic rolling hills of Minami Boso Quasi-National Park, Mother Farm is a sprawling attraction where visitors can enjoy nature, flowers, and animals. The farm is home to a variety of animals, including cows, horses, sheep, and alpacas, offering interactive experiences like feeding and milking. Don't miss the lively Mother Farm Tour, which takes you around the grounds on a tractor train with cheerful guides. Other activities include fruit and vegetable picking, thrilling zip lines, an amusement park, and more—perfect for a full day of fun! The famous "Sheep Parade" is a must-see highlight.
Opening Hours |
9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Weekends & Holidays: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM) December to January: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Weekends & Holidays: 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM) Note: Hours may extend during spring break, summer vacation, and the New Year holidays. |
Admission |
Adults (13 years and older): ¥1,500 Children (4 years to 12 years): ¥800 Dogs (per dog): ¥700 Combo ticket (Mother Farm Tour + Admission): Adults: ¥2,900, Children: ¥1,500 |
Access |
By Train: Direct bus service available from JR Uchibo Line "Kimitsu" Station. By Car: About 30 minutes from "Kisarazu Minami" IC on the Tateyama Expressway via Route 127. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
10. Yōrō Valley - Ichihara City
Yōrō Valley, the largest hot spring resort in the Bōsō Peninsula, offers a variety of scenic attractions known as the "Yōrō Eight Views." These include the Awamata Falls, Kannon Bridge, and Kōbundō Cave Ruins. The valley is also a geologically significant site, recognized as one of Japan's "Top 100 Geological Sites" due to its unique fault formations. Visitors can enjoy fireflies, river activities, and fishing during summer, while autumn brings vibrant foliage that lasts longer than most other areas. The breathtaking beauty of the firefly and autumn foliage seasons is especially not to be missed!
Access |
By Train: Take the Kominato Railway to Yōrō Valley Station. By Car: Approximately 50 minutes from the Ichihara Interchange on the Tateyama Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
11. Shimizu Park - Noda City
Shimizu Park is a free-entry park with the theme "Friend of Nature." It features over 500 types of seasonal flowers, including cherry blossoms recognized in Japan's "Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots" and stunning azaleas known as one of the best in the Kanto region. The park is also famous for its Field Athletics course, which includes 100 challenge points with varying levels of difficulty, such as adventure and water courses. Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, and BBQ areas, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Opening Hours | Open 24/7 (Individual facilities may have specific operating hours.) |
Admission | Free entry (Some facilities may charge separate fees.) |
Access |
By Train: 10-minute walk from Shimizu Koen Station on the Tobu Urban Park Line. By Car: 20 minutes from the Nagareyama IC on the Joban Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
12. Hasunuma Water Garden - Sammu City
Hasunuma Water Garden is one of the largest pool facilities in Chiba Prefecture, offering a variety of water attractions such as lazy rivers, water slides, and rapids rides. The highlight is the Mega Slide "Splash Shaker", a three-person rubber boat slide. Starting from a height of approximately 20 meters, the slide features thrilling sharp inclines and drops at a maximum angle of 90 degrees. The twisting zone, with its intense side-to-side motion, guarantees an adrenaline rush! With shallow pools available, the facility is perfect for visitors of all ages, from adults to young children.
Opening Hours | Early July to mid-September: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
Admission |
Adults: ¥1,900 High School Students: ¥1,100 Junior High School Students: ¥450 Elementary School Students: ¥400 Preschoolers: ¥200 |
Access |
By Car: Approximately 15 minutes from Ken-O Expressway "Matsuo-Yokoshiba" IC. By Train: From JR Matsuo Station, take the airport shuttle bus for about 20 minutes. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
13. Andersen Park Funabashi - Funabashi City
Andersen Park is divided into five distinct zones: Wanpaku Kingdom (Adventure Zone), Fairy Hill, Children’s Art Museum, Nature Experience, and Flower Castle. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions such as athletic playgrounds, an animal interaction area, a mini-golf course, and wide open grass fields. With each zone offering unique features, there's always something new to explore, ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone. The park is particularly popular with families, featuring kid-friendly play areas and plenty of open spaces for parents and children to play together.
Opening Hours |
Standard Hours: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (hours may vary by season) Closed: Mondays (open on public holidays, and during spring, summer, and winter breaks) |
Admission |
Adults: ¥900 High School Students: ¥600 Elementary and Middle School Students: ¥200 Children (4 years and older): ¥100 |
Access | By Train: Take the Shin-Keisei Line to Misaki Station. From there, board a Funabashi Shin-Keisei bus to the "Andersen Park" stop. The park entrance is a 1-minute walk from the bus stop. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
14. Futtsu Beach Clam Digging Area - Futtsu City
The Futtsu Beach Clam Digging Area is a popular spot where visitors can enjoy clam digging from March to August. The facility is well-equipped, offering rest areas, foot washing stations, clam cleaning areas, and seawater for rinsing sand out of the clams. Nearby, you'll find camping grounds, a swimming beach, and tennis courts, making it a great location for a full day of outdoor activities. There's also a free parking lot with space for approximately 1,200 vehicles, so arriving by car is convenient. Clam digging is available for 4–6 hours a day during low tide, so be sure to check the tide schedule in advance to make the most of your visit!
Admission |
Adults (junior high school and older): ¥2,000 Children (elementary school students): ¥1,000 Kids (ages 4 and above): ¥800 |
Access | By car: About a 15-minute drive from the Tateyama Expressway, "Kisarazu-Minami" IC. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
15. Sakura-no-Yama Park - Narita City
Sakura-no-Yama Park, located near Narita Airport, is a free-entry park where you can enjoy spectacular views of airplanes from anywhere within the park. The park gets its name from the cherry trees planted throughout. During spring, various types of cherry blossoms, such as Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura, Shidarezakura, and Hikan-zakura, bloom beautifully. Its proximity to the airport makes it an ideal spot to visit if you have some spare time before your flight.
Opening Hours | 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
Access | By Train: From JR Narita Station, take the community bus to the "Sakura-no-Yama Park" stop. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
16. Ichihara Elephant Kingdom - Ichihara City
Ichihara Elephant Kingdom is a unique zoo featuring Japan's largest group of elephants, with 10 in total. This is not just a place to watch elephants but to interact with them, making it a must-visit destination. Experience one-of-a-kind activities like the "Elephant Ride," where you can sit on an elephant's back, or the "Elephant Lift," where you can hang from an elephant's trunk. Daily performances showcase the elephants' natural behaviors and abilities, offering unforgettable moments.
Besides elephants, the zoo is home to approximately 100 species and 400 animals. You can feed and interact closely with many of them, making it a fantastic experience for animal lovers.
Opening Hours |
Regular Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM (hours may vary by season) Closed: March to November: Thursdays December to February: Wednesdays and Thursdays (open during spring break, summer vacation, and public holidays) |
Admission |
Adults: ¥2,200 Children (3 years to elementary school): ¥900 |
Access | By Train: Free shuttle bus available from Kominato Railway's Takataki Station. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
17. Nokogiriyama Nihonji Temple (Jigoku Nozoki) - Futtsu City
Standing 329 meters above sea level, Mount Nokogiri (literally "Saw Mountain") is named for its saw-toothed ridgeline of jagged rock formations. Designated as a scenic beauty site, the southern slope of the mountain is home to Nihonji Temple, established in 725 by the Buddhist monk Gyoki under the imperial order of Emperor Shomu. It is one of the oldest imperial temples in the Kanto region.
Spread across a vast 10-hectare area, the temple grounds feature the largest cliff-carved Buddha in Japan (Yakushi Nyorai), a 100-foot-tall Kannon statue, and 1,500 hand-carved Rakan (arhat) statues. A must-see attraction is the "Jigoku Nozoki" (Peek into Hell) at the mountain’s summit. Here, visitors can step onto a protruding rock ledge and feel as though they are floating in mid-air. The panoramic views of the Boso Peninsula, Mount Fuji, and the Miura Peninsula are breathtaking, but glancing downwards provides a spine-chilling thrill reminiscent of staring into the abyss.
Visitors can easily reach the summit via ropeway or a winding mountain road. For the more adventurous, hiking trails lined with seasonal flowers offer a picturesque way to explore the mountain.
Opening Hours | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Last admission: 3:00 PM) |
Admission |
Adults: ¥700 Children (4–12 years old): ¥400 |
External Link | Google Map |
18. Chiba Prefectural Boso-no-Mura - Sakae Town, Inba
Boso-no-Mura is an interactive museum where you can experience Japan's rich history. With over 350 hands-on activities, demonstrations, and exhibits, the museum offers a unique opportunity to step back in time. The traditional Edo-period-style buildings and scenery make it a popular destination not only for learning about historical life but also for taking stunning photos. The museum hosts monthly themed events, ensuring there is always something new to enjoy year-round. Conveniently located less than 30 minutes from Narita Airport, it’s an excellent destination for both learning and leisure.
Opening Hours |
Open: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Closed: Mondays (open if Monday is a holiday, closed the next day), New Year holidays, and occasional temporary closures. |
Admission |
Adults: ¥300 High school and university students: ¥150 |
Access | By Train: From JR Anji Station, take the Chiba Kotsu Bus to the "Boso-no-Mura" stop. It’s a 3-minute walk from there. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
19. Ikspiari - Urayasu City
Located adjacent to Tokyo Disneyland®, Ikspiari is a multi-purpose shopping and entertainment complex. With over 140 shops and restaurants, as well as a large cinema, it offers an experience beyond that of a typical shopping mall. The facility is designed with high aesthetic appeal, featuring uniquely themed areas that transport visitors into a world of stories. It's an ideal destination for those seeking to enjoy shopping and dining in a dreamlike, extraordinary setting.
Opening Hours | 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM (Hours may vary by store) |
Access | By Train: Immediately accessible from JR Maihama Station. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
20. Katori Shrine - Katori City
Katori Shrine is the head shrine of approximately 400 Katori Shrines across Japan. Its Main Hall and Sakura Gate are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. The deity enshrined here is Futsunushi-no-Okami, a god featured in the myth of Izumo’s land transfer. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage along the approach to the shrine, as well as marvel at the mysterious Kaname-ishi (Anchor Stone), which is said to have roots that cannot be uncovered no matter how deep you dig. The shrine is also a popular venue for traditional Shinto weddings.
Access | By Train: Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from JR Sawara Station. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
21. Chiba Port Tower - Chiba City
Chiba Port Tower is a stunning 125-meter-tall observation tower located within Chiba Port Park, a popular recreational area offering activities like barbecues and tennis. From the tower's observation decks, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo Bay, Mount Fuji, Mount Tsukuba, and even Tokyo Skytree®. At night, the tower provides a romantic setting with dazzling views of Chiba City's illuminated skyline, making it an ideal destination for couples. On the 3rd floor, you'll find a buffet restaurant with breathtaking ocean views, allowing you to dine while soaking in the beauty of the sea and cityscape.
Opening Hours |
June to September: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM October to May: Weekdays: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Weekends and holidays: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Closed: December 28–31 and occasional Mondays (check schedule). |
Admission |
Adults: ¥420 Children (elementary and middle school students): ¥200 |
Access | By Train: A 12-minute walk from Chiba Minato Station on the Chiba Urban Monorail or JR lines. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
22. Aviation Science Museum - Shibayama Town, Sanbu
Dive into the fascinating world of aviation at the Aviation Science Museum, where you can explore exhibits showcasing aviation technology and aircraft. The museum is dedicated to promoting the advancement of aviation and offers visitors a rare glimpse into the inner workings of airplanes, such as engines and passenger plane fuselages.
In addition to these unique displays, you’ll find historical artifacts and aviation models that appeal to visitors of all ages. The museum also hosts engaging events like the "Paper Airplane Workshop" and features the "Aero Market," where you can shop for aviation-themed merchandise. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or just curious, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Opening Hours |
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Closed on Mondays and during the New Year holidays. |
Admission |
Adults: 700 JPY Junior High & High School Students: 300 JPY Children (4 years and older): 200 JPY |
Access | By Bus: Take a bus from Narita Airport Terminal 2 (1F, Stop 28A). Get off at Nanbu Butsuryu Bus Stop, and walk about 8 minutes to the museum. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
23. Showa no Mori Park - Chiba City
Showa no Mori Park is an expansive park spanning an area equivalent to approximately 23 Tokyo Domes. The park is divided into several zones, each offering unique attractions. In the recreation zone, visitors can enjoy athletic playground equipment, including roller slides and other fun activities suitable for all ages. One of the highlights is the opportunity to observe seasonal plants and wildlife throughout the year. The park’s well-maintained grassy areas make it an ideal spot for picnics and outings with family, friends, or couples. Showa no Mori Park was also recognized as one of Japan's "100 Best Urban Parks" in 1989.
Access | By Train: Approximately a 30-minute walk from the South Exit of JR Sotobo Line's Toke Station. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |