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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Matsudo.
Matsudo is a city that is as diverse as it is remarkable.
Steeped in culture, bustling with life, and overflowing with exciting experiences, Matsudo has something special in store for every type of adventurer seeking a taste of the extraordinary.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Matsudo:
1. Matsudo Shrine
A Shinto shrine located in Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the tranquil, forested grounds of the shrine which date back to 1277. Take time to admire the architecture of the main shrine buildings which feature intricate wood carvings and gold leaf accents.
Don’t miss: The stunning autumn foliage that surrounds the shrine grounds each year. The vibrant reds and oranges are a sight to behold.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to explore the nearby shopping district where local artisans sell handmade goods. Also, consider visiting the shrine during one of its many festivals throughout the year for a truly immersive experience.
2. Aeon Mall Matsudo
Aeon Mall Matsudo is a modern shopping mall located in Matsudo city, Chiba prefecture, Japan. The mall features a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
What to see or do: Shop for fashion, accessories, cosmetics, electronics, and more at the mall’s numerous stores including Uniqlo, Apple, and Muji.
Watch a movie at the mall’s cinema, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, or visit the indoor amusement park.
Don’t miss: Check out the impressive food court with its extensive selection of Japanese and international cuisines. Be sure to visit the rooftop garden for a relaxing break from shopping.
Insider travel tips: Avoid the crowds by visiting during weekdays or early mornings on weekends.
If you’re travelling with kids, take advantage of the mall’s childcare service, which allows parents to shop and dine without worrying about their little ones.
3. City Plaza Matsudo
A large shopping mall located in Matsudo, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: City Plaza Matsudo features over 250 shops and restaurants, including popular Japanese brands such as UNIQLO, MUJI, and Daiso. The mall also has an entertainment area with a cinema, bowling alley, and a game center.
Don’t miss: The rooftop garden, which offers a panoramic view of the city and a relaxing place to rest. Additionally, the seasonal events held in the mall, such as the Christmas illuminations, are worth seeing.
Insider travel tips: Check out the City Card, which offers discounts and special deals at various stores in the mall. Also, visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience.
4. Edogawa River
Edogawa River is a beautiful river located in Matsudo, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The river offers a serene environment for boat rides and fishing. Many parks and picnic areas are located alongside the river.
Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, offering a picturesque view and attracting hordes of visitors. Visitors can also rent bicycles and explore the surrounding areas.
Don’t miss: Witnessing the sunset over the river is a must-see sight.
It is also a good idea to experience the local festivals that take place around the river, including the Matsudo Lantern Festival and Awa Odori Festival.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to bring mosquito repellents, especially during summer. Renting bicycles is a great way to explore the area and avoid traffic.
There are also many restaurants and cafes that offer a beautiful view of the river.
5. Nakayama Racecourse
Nakayama Racecourse is a popular horse racing track located in Matsudo, Japan. It is one of the largest racecourses in the country and is known for its prestigious horse racing events.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy watching exciting horse races and placing bets on their favorite horses.
The racecourse also offers various food and beverage options, making it a great spot for a day out with friends and family.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the prestigious Grade I races, such as the Spring Tenno Sho, Arima Kinen, and Satsuki Sho.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early to secure a good spot to watch the races.
6. Matsudo City Museum
Matsudo City Museum is a historic and cultural museum located in Matsudo, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the diverse history of Matsudo City and its cultural heritage through the collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays.
The museum’s permanent collection features various artworks, sculptures, and crafts that showcase the region’s artistic heritage.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the museum’s tea room, which is held on designated occasions.
Insider travel tips: Visitors can avail of the complimentary audio guide service that the museum offers. Moreover, there is an English pamphlet available for foreign visitors, which makes the visit engaging and informative.
Also, the rooftop garden of the museum offers a stunning view of Matsudo City and is an ideal place for relaxation.
7. Matsudo Green Park
A vast public park in Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the vast lawn areas, try out the cycling courses that range from easy to challenging, go fishing in one of the park’s ponds or simply have a picnic with family and friends.
Don’t miss: The seasonal flowers that include cherry blossoms, azalea, cosmos, and poppies. There’s also a “Greenhouse Zone” where you can take a closer look at tropical plants and learn about their ecology.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds. Bring a blanket, food, and drinks for a relaxing picnic.
For cycling enthusiasts, rent a bike at the park’s cycling center.
8. Higo Hosokawa Garden
A traditional Japanese garden located in Matsudo, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the peaceful garden and admire the traditional Japanese landscaping and architecture, including a tea house, stone lanterns, and a pond filled with koi fish.
Don’t miss: The autumn foliage, which transforms the garden into a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting during the week to avoid crowds, and bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking on the garden’s gravel paths.
9. Matsudo Rose Garden
A picturesque rose garden located in Matsudo city, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the beautiful garden and enjoy the vibrant colors and fragrant smells of the numerous rose bushes. The garden boasts over 10,000 roses of 300 different varieties.
There are also several spots perfect for taking photos, including a rose tunnel and a rose arch.
Don’t miss: Visitors can participate in various workshops held at the garden, including rose pruning and aroma oil making. The garden also has a gift shop selling rose-related products, such as rose-scented soaps and potpourri.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the Matsudo Rose Garden is from late May to early June when the roses are in full bloom.
10. Katsushika Hokusai Museum
Katsushika Hokusai Museum is a museum dedicated to the works of the famous Japanese ukiyo-e artist, Katsushika Hokusai.
What to see or do: The museum features a collection of Hokusai’s masterpieces, including his famous “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji” series, along with other artwork and artifacts showcasing his life and career.
Visitors can also view rotating exhibitions showcasing the works of other artists who have been influenced by Hokusai.
Don’t miss: The museum’s permanent collection includes a rare series of paintings on gold paper, along with an interactive exhibit that allows visitors to explore Hokusai’s artwork through touch and sound.
Be sure to also check out the gift shop for unique souvenirs and prints of Hokusai’s famous works.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is not located in central Tokyo, but rather in Matsudo, a city in Chiba Prefecture. Plan your travel accordingly.
11. Sekiyado Castle
A historic castle located in Matsudo, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the castle grounds while taking in stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Admire the impressive architecture of the castle and learn about the history of feudal Japan.
Don’t miss: The beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring, creating a picturesque setting around the castle.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Also, consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy on the castle grounds.
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