Sakura

Sakura city lies 40 kilometers northeast of Tokyo. Walk through the Hiyodori-zaka bamboo forest path that samurai once used, step inside three original Edo-period samurai houses, and explore 2,000 years of Japanese history at the National Museum of Japanese History. See tulips blooming around a working Dutch windmill in spring, or join the float processions during the autumn festival on Shinmachi-dori Street.

Getting to Sakura

Take the Sobu Line Rapid train from Tokyo to Chiba Station, then transfer to a local Sobu Line train - the journey takes about 50 minutes. From Narita International Airport, take the Narita Line train to reach Sakura in about 30 minutes. The city has two main stations: JR Sakura Station and Keisei-Sakura Station, on opposite sides of the city center. Local buses run between them, or you can walk the route through the main districts in about 30 minutes.

Exploring the Samurai District

Visit three original Edo-period samurai houses: Kawara-ke, Tajima-ke, and Takei-ke. Walk through their living quarters and kitchens, and see collections of samurai armor and artifacts. To reach these houses, walk up the Hiyodori-zaka Slope, a path bordered by tall bamboo that's nearly 300 years old - the same path samurai warriors walked each day during the Edo period.

Museums and Cultural Sites

The National Museum of Japanese History tells Japan's story through six chronological sections, from prehistoric times to the modern era. Look at artifacts, paintings, and detailed models that show how Japanese society developed over time. The Sakura City Museum of Art sits in a former bank building designed by architect Yabe Matakichi. Local artists' work fills the exhibition spaces, and you'll find handmade sandwiches and desserts at the museum's café.

Sakura Furusato Square and Seasonal Events

The Dutch windmill De Liefde, built in 1994, pumps water while serving as a city symbol. Different flowers bloom around it throughout the year: tulips in spring, sunflowers in summer, and cosmos in autumn. During April's Sakura Tulip Festa, you can wear rented Dutch costumes for photos in the flower fields. In October, watch decorated floats move through Shinmachi-dori Street during the Sakura Autumn Festival.

Cultural Experiences

Join a zazen meditation session followed by a tea ceremony at the Former Residence of Lord Hotta. Book this activity for groups of 3 to 6 people through the Sakura City Tourism Association. The residence maintains its original late Edo-period architecture and design elements.