Tokyo to Chiba Day Trip: Things to Do in Chiba Beyond Disneyland
When you've been a regular Japan traveller for a while, Tokyo can feel like a bore despite having so many things to do in Tokyo. That's why I've decided to explore the neighbouring prefectures around Tokyo, starting with Chiba prefecture—a prefecture you're probably already familiar with.
Just a quick train ride or a short drive away, Chiba City offers a ton of experiences and places for you to discover, from the samurai legacies at the Folk Museum to contemporary art exhibits and tranquil shrines.
This guide will take you through the city’s wonders and explain how effortlessly you can explore the heart of Chiba for a day trip like no other.
Chiba Prefecture: Its History and What It's Known For
Adventure awaits in Chiba!
Established on June 15, 1873, through the merger of Kisarazu Prefecture and Inba Prefecture, Chiba Prefecture has evolved over time, embracing its historical roots while flourishing into a dynamic hub of attractions.
Chiba is probably most known for two things: Narita Airport and Tokyo Disney Resort (yes, this isn't actually in Tokyo!). But there's more to this prefecture than a one-and-done destination.
Here, you can enjoy some unique Japanese and contemporary experiences such as:
- Vibrant seasonal festivals such as Yawatammachi, Sakura Tulip Festa, and Narita Gionsai
- Breathtaking natural beauty, with beautiful rivers and a coastal environment
- The Chiba Folk Museum, which showcases the region’s rich culture and history
#KlookTip: Did you know that Chiba’s culture showcases remnants of prehistoric communities dating back an impressive 40,000 years? Yes, it’s this deep-seated history that adds a unique allure to the region.
How to Get to Chiba from Tokyo
With Chiba being so close and having so many diverse attractions for you to enjoy, you might be wondering, “How do I get there?” Well, the journey from Tokyo to Chiba is as exciting as the destination itself. Whether you choose to travel by train or car, you’re in for a treat with scenic views of Tokyo Bay along the route.
By Train
Speed through to Chiba on a train. Credits to Justin Brinkhoff
Travelling by train from Tokyo to Chiba is not just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about the journey, the views, and the experience. The direct train service makes it easy for visitors to explore not only central Chiba but also the beautiful southern Chiba region.
#KlookTip: Google Maps can sometimes be unreliable or unintuitive when it comes to navigating trains in Japan. I probably wasted an hour or two getting lost and missing important trains since I was relying too heavily on Maps. So you might want to check out Navitime as an alternative to plan out your routes.
If you have the JR Tokyo Wide Pass or the Whole Japan JR Pass, then you can definitely take advantage of them here since most of the Chiba lines are under JR East. Definitely regretted not taking advantage of these passes as it would've saved me a ton of money on my trip!
By Car
For those who prefer the freedom and flexibility of a road trip, driving from Tokyo to Chiba is a fantastic option with your Tokyo car rental. With a distance of just 38.2 km, you can savour the journey at your own pace while taking in the sights and sounds along the way.
I'd also recommend going to Chiba by car if you're travelling with a group, small kids, seniors, and/or people with disabilities. The train switches can cause headaches when you're following a schedule. While there are mostly escalators and elevators available, some stations only have stairs, so this can be another hurdle for the people mentioned above.
The drive takes approximately 30 minutes, making it possible to plan a trip for half a day to explore the attractions and experiences that Chiba has to offer. Plus, you'll have a ton of space to store your omiyage (Japanese gifts) and shopping in the car.
Things to do in Chiba
For a day trip, I didn't want to overly pack my schedule so I wanted to prioritise places that were unique to the area but also relatively close to the JR stations.
Here are some of the best things to do in Chiba that I added to my Chiba day trip itinerary:
Chiba City Folk Museum
See the place rich history when you visit Chiba City Folk Museum!
The Chiba City Folk Museum is more than just a museum; it’s a journey through time. From the moment you step in, you’re transported back to a time when samurai roamed the streets and traditional Japanese homes were the norm.
For a free attraction, it surprisingly had a tonne of items to exhibit, with 5 floors dedicated to showing the history and culture of the people in Chiba.
The first and second floors told the story of the Chiba clan and the pre-historic items that were found within the prefecture. The third and fourth floors had more modern exhibits where that show what life was like during the Showa and Taisho eras.
Learn from the history and culture of the people in Chiba.
Unfortunately, the exhibits were mostly in Japanese, but thanks to apps like Google Translate and Papago, it was easy to hover over the exhibit plaques and have them translated.
On the fifth floor, you're treated to a city view of Chiba City from atop the castle ruin. It even had boards that pointed out what iconic buildings you could see from that view.
Chiba City Folk Museum is also located on the Inohana Castle Ruins. The Chiba clan initially built this fortress and controlled it for slightly over 300 years. The modern replacement, completed in 1967, is substantially later in style than the old castle. To the north-west, there's a part of the grounds where you'll find a garden and a dry moat.
So after going through the museum, I went for a stroll on the grounds and enjoyed a view of the garden. I even got a glimpse of some plum blossoms during the winter.
Chiba City Museum of Art
See the amazing Japanese artworks in Chiba City Museum of Art
Located conveniently at Chuo 3-10-8, Chuo-ku, Chiba-shi, the Chiba City Museum of Art is just a 10-minute walk from the Chiba City Folk Museum. This makes it a good next-to-go destination after the Folk Museum.
The Chiba City Museum of Art is a great place to marvel at Japanese art, showcasing a big collection of works from the 17th to early 20th centuries.
The museum is renowned for its collection of ukiyo-e woodblock prints and various themed exhibitions focusing primarily on Japanese artists. Ukiyo-e is a unique and complex Japanese art-style that typically requires the involvement of four people: the artist paints the ink on the paper, the craftsman adds in the woodblocks, a printer adds pigments to the woodblock, and a publisher coordinates everyone.
Marvel at the collection of ukiyo-e woodblock prints!
You can also enjoy shopping at the museum shop, which sells a diverse range of items such as:
- art books
- framed prints
- ukiyoe-themed ceramics and glassware
- postcards
- other assorted souvenirs.
I even got my first ukiyo-e work from their museum store! I had the option to either take it home with me or have it delivered to my home overseas, with our without the frame, so travellers can definitely take this home however they want. Just be careful to have the work properly bubble-wrapped before leaving the store.
Chiba Shrine Myoken Hongu
Up for more historical and cultural adventure?
An essential part of any trip to Chiba is a visit to the Chiba Shrine Myoken Hongu. This historic shrine, erected in 1181, is dedicated to the Shinto deity Myoken, who personifies Polaris. The shrine holds significant cultural and historical value and is an important cultural site in Chiba Ken.
This place is typically more lively, especially in the summer season with its Myoken Taisai Festival. But Chiba Shrine Myoken Hongu's definitely a place to check out if you're looking to do your hatsumode, experience pulling an omikuji, need an omamuri, or collect your goshuin.
Other Things to Do and Places to Go in Chiba
If you're looking to make the most out of your time, going through the three places above is definitely doable for a day trip. But you can also consider the other attractions you can find in Chiba:
Kamogawa Sea World
See the creatures, big and small, and fulfill your curiosity about the oceans and marine life
At Kamogawa Sea World, you can stand face-to-face with a beluga whale or watch dolphins perform acrobatics right in front of your eyes. With over 11,000 sea creatures, various shows, and dining experiences, it’s an aquatic adventure like no other.
The park’s opening hours are usually from 9:00 to 17:00, giving visitors ample time to explore and enjoy the exhibits. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, Kamogawa Sea World is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Boso Peninsula Adventures
Explore the paradise at Boso Peninsula. © Kyoto by the Sea DMO
For outdoor lovers, the Boso Peninsula is a paradise waiting to be explored. From hiking and surfing to diving and sightseeing, there’s an adventure for every thrill-seeker. The peninsula has breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, panoramic ocean views from Nojimazaki Lighthouse, and the stunning view of Mount Fuji from the top of Nokogiriyama.
The Boso Peninsula, located in the southern part of the region, is also rich in biodiversity, boasting:
- Rare plants
- Charming small shrines
- Local wildlife, including the graceful sika deer, can be seen feeding on graminoids, woody plants, and evergreen broad leaves during the winter
Whether you’re diving into the waters around Nishikawana or hiking through the natural trails, the Boso Peninsula offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Narita Omotesando
Time travel to the Edo era!
Narita Omotesando, located near Narita Airport, offers a charming glimpse into Japan’s past and a rich history dating back to the Edo era. But what it's mostly known for are its traditional souvenir shops and restaurants.
Prepare your wallet, 'cause there's a ton of local shops you'll definitely want to watch out for, including AEONMALL Narita, Narita Kōzunomori Market, Aeon Town Narita Tomisato, and many more. For foodies, Narita Omotesando is a treat with a delightful mix of traditional and international cuisine offered at restaurants like Edokkozushi, Shishimai Narita, and Nagomi no Yoneya Sohonten.
Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or indulging in local cuisine, Narita Omotesando, one of Japan’s cultural hotspots, offers a taste of Chiba’s rich cultural heritage.
Sawara
Definitely a must visit place for anyone interested in Japan’s history!
Step back in time to the Edo period in the historic town of Sawara. With well-preserved Edo-period buildings and a rich cultural heritage, Sawara is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japan’s history. The town’s prosperity is reflected in its architecture, which not only provides authentic settings for movie and drama shootings but also continues to serve as vibrant living spaces.
The Sawara Grand Festival, which happens twice a year, in summer and autumn, is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to experience traditional Japanese celebrations. But the cultural experiences don’t stop there.
Sawara is also known for its koko sushi, a delightful traditional sushi dish made with locally sourced Japanese Spanish mackerel. Whether you’re immersing yourself in the local culture or indulging in traditional Japanese food, Sawara offers a taste of the past that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Chiba Mother Farm
Interact closely with cows and sheep! Try out the fresh milk and soft-serve ice cream too!
For a day of family fun, nothing beats the Chiba Mother Farm. This attraction offers a host of activities suitable for all ages, including:
- Animal encounters
- Fruit picking
- Cooking classes
- Craft making
Kids can enjoy a hands-on experience like no other, learning about farming and animals in a fun and engaging way.
The farm is open every day, making it easy to fit into your travel itinerary. Whether you’re milking a cow, picking strawberries, or just enjoying the beautiful surroundings, Chiba Mother Farm is sure to be a hit with the entire family. So why wait? Plan your trip and create memorable experiences at Chiba Mother Farm.
Little Planet KITE MITE MATSUDO
Experience all the exciting attraction in Little Planet with your kids!
Looking for a futuristic adventure? Look no further than Little Planet KITE MITE MATSUDO. This educational digital theme park offers hands-on experiences for both children and adults. From exploring new technologies to engaging in interactive games, there’s something to keep everyone entertained.
The park is open from 10:00 to 20:00 every day, giving visitors plenty of time to explore and enjoy the attractions. With a membership system offering various benefits and an admission fee that leaves room for potential perks, it’s an attraction that offers value for money. So why not take a leap into the future at Little Planet KITE MITE MATSUDO?
Mt. Nokogiri
Mount Nokogiriyama is a 330-meter tall mountain along the western coast of the Boso Peninsula
The natural beauty of Chiba Prefecture truly shines through at Mt. Nokogiri. With stunning hiking trails, panoramic views, and a cable car ride, it’s a destination that appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Standing 329 metres high, Mt. Nokogiri offers breathtaking views and a rich historical significance, making it a must-visit on any Chiba itinerary.
The mountain’s cable car operates from 9:00 to 17:00, making it easy to plan your visit. Whether you’re taking in stunning views from the top or exploring the hiking trails, Mt. Nokogiri offers a memorable experience in the heart of nature.
Museum of Aeronautical Science Admission
See how Japanese aviation has changed over centuries and discover this history at one of the most popular exhibit
For aviation enthusiasts, the Museum of Aeronautical Science is a must-visit. Offering an interactive experience to learn about aviation history, science, and technology, it’s a place where education and fun go hand in hand. From experiencing a flight simulator to getting an up-close view of jumbo jets from the observation deck, it’s a unique attraction that will leave you with a greater appreciation of aviation.
The museum operates every day from 10:00 to 17:00, and the admission fee is around an affordable S$5. So why not take to the skies and explore the world of aviation at the Museum of Aeronautical Science?
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