Chiba

Chiba sits 40 kilometers east of Tokyo, where you can ride the world's longest suspended monorail, spend a day at Tokyo DisneySea's Mediterranean Harbor, or slide down a 100-meter forest slide at Showa no Mori park. Walk along the artificial beaches of Tokyo Bay, explore the ancient Kasori Shell Midden archaeological site, or try fresh seafood at Chiba Port. The surrounding farmland produces most of Japan's sweet peanuts, which you'll find in many local dishes.

Getting to Chiba from Tokyo

Take the JR Sobu Line from Tokyo's major stations to reach Chiba. Trains run regularly from Shinjuku, Akihabara, and Tokyo Station to Chiba Station. If you're heading to Disney or the Makuhari area, use the JR Keiyo Line. From Narita International Airport, the train journey to central Chiba takes about 45 minutes.

Tokyo Disney Resort Experience

Tokyo Disneyland opened in 1983 as the first Disney park outside the United States. You'll find classic rides like Space Mountain and It's a Small World alongside uniquely Japanese interpretations of Disney themes. At DisneySea, walk through seven distinct areas including a detailed Venice waterfront and the Mediterranean Harbor. The newest area, Fantasy Springs, opened in June 2024 with additional rides and attractions.

Exploring Chiba's Parks

At Chiba Port Park, you can play tennis, walk along the waterfront trails, or climb the 125-meter Chiba Port Tower for views of Tokyo's skyline and Mount Fuji on clear days. In Showa no Mori, walk through forest trails, let kids explore multiple playgrounds, or try the signature 100-meter slide built into the forest canopy. You can camp overnight or use the barbecue areas for day visits.

Unique Transportation

Ride the Chiba Urban Monorail as it glides above the city streets for 15 kilometers. The suspended train connects major locations including Chiba Station, the zoological park, and the port area, giving you a view of daily life from above.

Local Food Scene

Fresh fish and seafood arrive daily at Chiba's port markets. Try namero, made with Pacific saury or mackerel mixed with leeks, ginger, and miso. The coastal restaurants serve fresh seafood dishes, while inland restaurants often use local vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and daikon radish. Look for dishes made with the region's sweet peanuts, which farmers grow in the surrounding fields.

Historical Sites and Culture

Walk through the five floors of Inohana Castle, rebuilt in 1967, to see the Chiba Folk Museum's collections of samurai armor, historical pottery, Buddhist artifacts, and local artwork. During spring, cherry blossoms fill the castle grounds. Visit the 12th-century Chiba Shrine in downtown to see its original buildings, smaller shrine complexes, and traditional pond garden.