Located in the southeastern part of the Kanto region and bordering Tokyo to the west, Chiba Prefecture is an area often skipped in travelers' itineraries. But while the prevailing opinion is that there's nothing interesting to do in Chiba, it’s actually one of the best places to explore a more traditional side of Japan. From its scenic beaches and peaceful temples, to grand shopping malls and delicious cuisine, Chiba offers an authentic experience of Japan, ideal for those who want to discover the country outside the borders of Tokyo. Read on to find out some of the best things to do in the area, and see for yourself that Chiba is a must-see destination for your next journey to Japan.
1. Travel Back in Time 
"Bosa no mura" by Kunitaka NIIDATE is licensed under
There is plenty of historic architecture to admire in Chiba, but no spot will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time like Boso-no-Mura. With its merchant homes, farms, and samurai residences, this open-air museum perfectly reproduces a Japanese village from the Edo Period. Besides exploring the buildings, you can also join one of the hundreds of workshops and events organized every year. The activities you will discover all depend on the time of year, and include everything from making bamboo crafts to making your own soba, or buckwheat noodles. Admission to the museum will cost you 300 yen, and you can visit it every day, except for Mondays and holidays.
2. Spend Some Time on the Beach
"Lifeguard at Onjuku Beach" by Yoshikazu TAKADA is licensed under CC 2.0
Regardless of your favorite activities near the ocean, you can find a Chiba beach that is perfect for you. The sandy beach of Onjuku is the best place for surfing in Chiba, and you can learn to ride the waves with the on-site school for around ¥6,000 ($54). Kujukuri beach is also an excellent option for water activities, but it’s just as popular for those who want to enjoy leisure time and fresh seafood dishes from nearby restaurants. Finally, Okinoshima is a haven for snorkelers, with its colorful coral reef and calm, crystal clear waters.
3. Go on a Shopping Spree
"LaLaport Tachikawa-Tachihi" by ITA-ATU is licensed under CC 4.0
Chiba is home to Chiba Lalaport, one of the largest shopping malls in Japan, where you can find nearly 500 stores! It offers the same colorful array of fashion, decor, and specialty shops as Harajuku, minus the overwhelming crowds. An ideal alternative for budget shopping is the Shisui Premium Outlets, which has more than 200 outlet stores and offers phone interpretation for 6 global languages. Its many multicultural visitors are mainly a result of its proximity to Narita Airport.
4. Enjoy the Serenity of a Temple or Shrine
"Naritasan Shinshoji Temple" by Nelo Hotsuma is licensed under CC 2.0
The temples and shrines of Chiba allow you to enjoy two beautiful experiences at once: the spiritual calm of the buildings themselves, as well as the plentiful nature that surrounds them. Naritasan Shinshoji, a Buddhist temple, is likely the most popular; visited by more than 10 million people each year, it houses several buildings and is surrounded by gardens and calligraphy art museums. Katori Jingu, a Shinto shrine, is one of the oldest shrines in Japan. It was built to protect members of the armed forces, a militaristic streak which is reflected in its architecture, with a black facade and vermilion gates. Last, but certainly not least, Hondoji Temple is known just as much for its majestic architecture as it is for the thousands of trees, hydrangea and iris plants that surround it.
5. Explore the Cuisine
"Namero" via Kamogawa City Official Website
No visit to any location would be complete without experiencing the local cuisine, and Chiba has much to offer curious foodies. Seafood is particularly popular in the area, and Namero, prepared with fresh raw fish, is one of the unskippable dishes. You can also harvest your own fruits and vegetables at Mother Farm, or pick and eat pears, the local specialty, at places like Ishii Teru and Hatsusei Orchards. Finally, learn about the soy-making process and try some delicious samples at Kikkoman Soy Sauce Museum, and drink the famous organic sake in Kozaki town.
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