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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Chiba sharing quite a few of those!
As the sun rises over the vast Pacific Ocean, Chiba awakens to a world of endless possibilities, a playground of bustling cities, serene nature and a wealth of cultural experiences.
Whether you are seeking the thrill of rollercoaster rides, the tranquility of serene gardens or the excitement of Japanese festivals, Chiba has something to offer for everyone.
So come along and explore this captivating land, where every turn promises a new adventure.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Chiba:
1. Tokyo Disneyland
A magical theme park that brings Walt Disney’s classic stories to life in Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy thrilling rides, meet your favorite Disney characters, and watch colorful parades and shows. You can explore seven themed lands, including Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland.
Try the Space Mountain roller coaster, take a boat ride in Pirates of the Caribbean, enjoy a musical journey on It’s a Small World, and many more.
Don’t miss: The spectacular fireworks show called “Happily Ever After” that lights up the sky every night. It’s a breathtaking finale to your day at Tokyo Disneyland.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid long lines and get a FastPass to ride popular attractions.
Stay till the end of the day to see the magical transformation of Cinderella’s Castle during the “Once Upon a Time” projection mapping show.
Don’t forget to try the unique snacks and treats, such as the famous Mickey Mouse-shaped churros and popcorn flavors exclusive to Tokyo Disneyland.
2. Chiba Zoological Park
A vast zoo located in Chiba, Japan, spanning over 200 hectares and showcasing a variety of animals from all over the world.
What to see or do: Visitors can see over 68 species of mammals, 98 species of birds, and 22 species of reptiles and amphibians. Some of the highlights include the penguin kingdom, the African savannah, and the Asian tropical rainforest exhibit.
Don’t miss: The park’s popular shows featuring sea lions, birds of prey, and elephants. Additionally, there are several feeding sessions where visitors can interact with the animals.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the park is quite large. Bring snacks and water as options on-site are limited.
To get the best viewing experience, try to attend the animal shows early. Finally, consider purchasing a multi-attraction pass if you plan on visiting other nearby attractions.
3. Inage Ocean Park
Inage Ocean Park is a coastal park in Chiba, Japan that combines natural beauty with family-friendly activities.
What to see or do: Visit the park’s aquarium to view over 30,000 marine animals of 800 species. Take a stroll through the spacious botanical gardens housing 6,000 plants of 1,000 species from both inland and abroad.
Have a picnic at the park’s spacious lawn area while enjoying the ocean view. Explore the park’s various playgrounds, including a wooden pirate ship and a ropes course for kids.
Don’t miss: The park’s dolphin shows, featuring synchronized jumps and flips by skilled marine performers. Also, catch the sea lion show, showcasing the dexterity of these aquatic creatures.
Insider travel tips: Get a great view of the Bay area by taking the cable car ride. To visit and avoid the crowds, visit the park on weekdays before schools let out around 3 pm.
4. Kamogawa Sea World
Kamogawa Sea World is a marine park located in Chiba, Japan, that showcases a diverse range of sea creatures.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of exhibits and shows, including dolphin and orca performances, sea lion shows, and a penguin parade.
The park also includes an aquarium featuring over 800 species of sea creatures, including sharks, rays, tropical fish, and jellyfish.
Don’t miss: The Killer Whale Stadium show, where you can witness the majestic orcas in action, is a must-see. The Penguin Tower, where visitors can see penguins up close and personal, is another popular attraction.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early to get the best seats for the shows.
5. Awa Shrine
Awa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Chiba, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture of the shrine, including the towering torii gate, the main hall, and the grounds themselves.
They can also participate in Shinto rituals and ceremonies, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the shrine.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Kagura dance performance, a traditional Shinto theatrical art that is performed at the shrine.
The dance is said to be a form of entertainment for the gods, and it is a rare opportunity to witness such a unique and ancient performance.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to visit during the annual Awa Shrine Festival, which takes place on the first weekend of October. It is one of the most popular events in Chiba, featuring lively parades, food vendors, and traditional performances.
6. Sakura Castle Ruins
Sakura Castle Ruins is a historical site located in Sakura, Chiba Prefecture, Japan. It was built in the 1600s and served as the residence of the Sakura Clan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle ruins and learn about its history. The site includes a moat, stone walls, and a three-story castle keep.
There are also several small shrines and a beautiful garden to enjoy.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the castle keep for panoramic views of the surrounding area. The garden is also not to be missed, especially during the cherry blossom season.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the cherry blossom season in late March to early April for stunning views of the castle surrounded by cherry blossoms.
It can get busy during peak season, so arrive early to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as there is quite a bit of walking involved.
7. Mt
Mt. Chiba is a small mountain located in Chiba prefecture, Japan, with an elevation of 340 meters.
What to see or do: Mt. Chiba is a popular hiking spot and offers a great view of the surrounding area from the top.
The hiking trail is well-maintained and not too difficult, suitable for beginners and families with kids.
Along the way, hikers can enjoy the lush greenery and wildflowers in the spring and summer, and the colorful foliage in the fall.
Don’t miss: The view from the summit is the highlight of the hike, offering a panorama of the Pacific Ocean, Mt. Fuji, and the Tokyo skyline in the distance.
On a clear day, the scenery is breathtaking, especially during the sunrise or sunset.
Insider travel tips: Visitors can combine the hike with a visit to the nearby Chiba City Zoological Park, famous for its giant pandas and red pandas.
It takes about 20 minutes by car to get there from the base of Mt. Chiba.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the nearby Yoro no Taki Onsen hot spring after finishing the hike. The hot spring is well-known for its therapeutic effects and stunning natural scenery.
8. Mother Farm
Mother Farm is a working farm and family-friendly attraction located in the city of Futtsu, Chiba Prefecture.
What to see or do:
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9. Kujukuri Beach
Kujukuri Beach is a 66 km long stretch of sandy beach located in the Chiba prefecture of Japan. It is one of the longest beaches in Japan and a popular destination for surfers and beach-goers.
What to see or do: The beach offers a variety of activities such as surfing, swimming, sunbathing and beach volleyball. There are several surf schools and rental shops where one can rent surfboards and take surfing lessons.
Kujukuri Beach is also popular among kite surfers and windsurfers.
Don’t miss: Kujukuri Beach is known for its beautiful sunsets. Be sure to catch the sunset while you’re at the beach.
The beach also has a number of stalls and food trucks serving delicious local snacks and drinks.
Insider travel tips: – The beach can get crowded during peak season, so arrive early to secure a spot.
10. Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is a popular Buddhist temple located in Narita, Chiba, Japan.
What to see or do: This sprawling temple complex offers visitors a chance to marvel at stunning architecture and serene garden landscapes.
Don’t miss the main hall, which houses an impressive 18-meter-tall statue of Fudo Myoo, the Buddhist deity of wisdom and fire.
Don’t miss: Take some time to stroll through the temple’s beautiful gardens, including the pond-filled Naritasan Park and the picturesque Shinsen-en garden. You can also participate in traditional Buddhist practices like sutra copying and meditation.
Insider travel tips: For a truly authentic experience, attend one of the daily chanting sessions held in the temple’s main hall.
Be sure to also check out the many shops and restaurants in the adjacent Omotesando shopping street, which is lined with traditional storefronts selling everything from souvenirs to delicious snacks.
11. Tateyama Castle
Tateyama Castle is a reconstructed castle located in Tateyama, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle grounds, climb to the top of the castle tower, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
There are also exhibits showcasing the history of the castle and its significance.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the castle lit up at night, creating a beautiful and romantic atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during the spring, be sure to check out the cherry blossom festival in the nearby Akayama Park.
Additionally, the castle is conveniently located near the coast, so consider taking a trip to the nearby beach or enjoying some fresh seafood from the local restaurants.
12. Choshi Fishing Port
Choshi Fishing Port is a bustling and historic fishing port located in Chiba, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness the daily activities of the fishermen as they unload their catch of the day, including tuna, squid, and shellfish.
The main market area is buzzing with vendors selling freshly caught seafood, as well as specialty products such as sake and soy sauce.
Don’t miss: The tuna auction held at the port is a must-see experience, where the prized fish can sell for millions of yen.
Another highlight is the on-site seafood restaurants offering a variety of fresh and delicious dishes.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to witness the lively hustle and bustle of the port.
Consider wearing comfortable shoes as the port can be sprawling, and be sure to bring cash as some vendors may not accept credit cards.
Visitors can also take a boat tour of the port for a unique perspective.
13. Sawara Historic District
Sawara Historic District is a well-preserved historic district situated in the city of Katori, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the canal and admire the traditional Japanese buildings that have been preserved for centuries. Pay a visit to the Sawara Folk Museum to learn more about the area’s history and culture.
Enjoy a boat ride along the Ono River to fully appreciate the charm and beauty of the town.
Don’t miss: The annual Sawara Grand Festival held in July, which features a parade of floats and boats decorated with traditional textiles and lanterns.
The festival has been designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.
Insider travel tips: Try traditional local dishes such as “Eel on Rice” and “Fried Tofu” in cozy restaurants along the canal. Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and have the historic district all to yourself.
Take the time to explore nearby attractions such as the Katori Shrine and Ino Tadataka Museum.