Chiba Prefecture Has More than Disneyland to Offer

Chiba Prefecture is not often ranked high on "must-visit places”, despite being close to Tokyo! It is the perfect place to discover another side of Japan without traveling too far. We compiled a list of attractions for all types of travelers right below. Nothing appealing to you? Contact us, we surely have something for you!

1. Narita Town

If Narita is known for its international airport, you shouldn't pass on Narita town. Naritasan is the city's main attraction: it has an impressive Buddhist temple that was primarily built 1 000 years ago. Of course, it was repaired, extended, and remodelled over time but its history goes back to 940! Leaving the train station, walk along Omotesando street to gaze at all the beautiful snacks and souvenirs sold in traditional shops. There are some ryokans (traditional Japanese style inn) near both the station and the temple that we recommend you book for the night! Once tourists leave the town, you will have Omotesando all to yourself for a magical experience through old Japan.

2. Tateyama Castle

At the south of Chiba prefecture rests Tateyama Castle. High up on a hill, surrounded by a luscious forest, Tateyama is not defending Edo Bay anymore, but it still has that je ne sais quoi we all love when it comes to traditional Japanese architecture. Offering an amazing view of the bay, and a delightful stroll into its gardens, Tateyama castle is perfect for a day trip to Chiba. Inside the castle that is now a museum, you can learn more about its history and “Hakkenden”, a series of historical fiction novels that is the longest-running series ever in Japanese history. Don’t miss Shirayama park at the bottom of the hill to finish the day with delicious ice creams!

3. Mt. Nokogiri

Mount Nokogiri is the perfect mix between hiking and spirituality! For the thrilling part, head to the summit and discover where the name of the mount is coming from. Nokogiri means “saw” in Japanese, as the mountain is described as looking like a saw when looked at from below. Try following the “Jigoku Nozoki” (peep in Hell) directions if you want to gaze at the ocean from a spectacular point of view. Like many mountains, you will find a temple attached to it, and this one is right at the bottom, but the treasure to discover is high up on the mountain. A few meters from Jigoku Nozoki, you will find the Hyaku-Shaku Kannon: a 30 meters high Buddhism Goddess of Mercy carved inside the mountain. From this location, you can look back to Jigoku Nozoki and realize how impressive it is!

4. Minami Boso Ninja Training Experience

Ever wanted to become a ninja? Here is your chance! Minami Boso Ninja Training Experience is dedicated to teaching you the many ways of the ninja, far from the legends and more connected to the actual skills that were expected from these mysterious warriors. After learning how ninjas lived in the past and some useful techniques along the way, you can have a stroll in the bamboo forest surrounding the location or relax in the indoor barbecue (irori) to discuss what you learned during your ninja day!

5. Sakura City

If Minami Boso will teach you the skills of a ninja, Sakura city will show you how samurais lived back then! The city is filled with renovated samurai residences that are used in period movies or historical dramas. The bamboo forest is another attraction of the neighbourhood – less crowded than Kyoto’s one but still feels magical. There is a sword master available on-site to teach you some sword techniques, or you can try dressing up like a samurai!

We had to pick only five attractions for this selection but there are many more to try out in Chiba Prefecture, don’t hesitate to contact us if you’d like to enjoy an out-of-beaten-path Chiba trip when you come to Japan!