Finally, I had the chance to explore Chiba beyond its famous theme parks. My previous visits were all about Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, so I never had the opportunity to discover what else the prefecture had to offer. This time, my family and I ventured off the beaten path to uncover some of Chiba's hidden gems, explored a popular local shopping mall, and indulged in some of the region's most famous local dishes. Keep reading to discover why Chiba deserves a spot on your Japan itinerary!
What is Chiba, Japan known for?
Chiba Prefecture is often known as the gateway to Japan, as it is home to Narita International Airport, one of the country's busiest international airports. 1 hour 35 mins drive from Tokyo city. But beyond its convenient location, Chiba offers a wonderful mix of nature, culture, and entertainment. From the world-famous Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea to beautiful beaches, scenic coastlines, and historic temples, Chiba has something to offer every type of traveller. It's also renowned for its fresh seafood, locally grown peanuts, and seasonal fruits, making it a great destination for food lovers.
What makes Chiba especially charming is its balance between modern attractions and peaceful natural landscapes. Visitors can admire panoramic views from Mount Nokogiri, stroll through vibrant flower parks, relax along the Kujukuri coastline, or explore traditional towns that showcase Japan's rich heritage. Whether you're looking for family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, or authentic local experiences, Chiba is an underrated destination that's well worth adding to your Japan itinerary.
Attractions
Ono River
Nestled in the heart of Sawara, Ono River (Onogawa, 小野川) is one of Chiba's most charming hidden gems, where history and nature come together in a beautifully preserved canal town. Once an important waterway during the Edo period, the river is lined with traditional merchant houses that transport visitors back in time.
Today, you can enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the peaceful canal, admire the nostalgic streetscape, and soak in the seasonal scenery, from lush greenery in summer to colourful autumn foliage.
Whether you're exploring on foot or drifting down the river, the Ono River offers a glimpse into old Japan and is the perfect spot to slow down and experience the timeless beauty of Chiba.
Details
Location : Sawara, Katori City, Chiba Prefecture 287-0003, Japan.
Business hours : Open 24 hours
AEON Mall Narita
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| ( Photo credit to Japan Guide ) |
Just a short drive from Narita International Airport, AEON Mall Narita is more than just a shopping destination; it's the perfect place to kick off or wrap up your Japan adventure. Home to over 150 stores, the mall offers everything from trendy Japanese fashion and cosmetics to electronics, souvenirs, and everyday essentials at reasonable prices. Whether you're looking to pick up last-minute gifts, stock up on Japanese snacks, or browse local brands, you'll easily spend a few enjoyable hours exploring its spacious and modern layout.
The mall was conveniently located just a short walk from our hotel, so we decided to have dinner there before doing a little shopping.
Whenever I'm in Japan, I always stock up on skincare products, cosmetics, and hair styling tools, especially hair curlers. Not only is there a wider selection, but the prices are also much more affordable compared to Malaysia.
Beyond shopping, AEON Mall Narita is also a great spot to experience Japan's vibrant food culture without venturing far from the airport. The mall features a wide selection of restaurants, cafés, and a food court serving everything from authentic ramen and sushi to fluffy pancakes and seasonal Japanese desserts. Families will also appreciate the kid-friendly facilities and entertainment options, making it a convenient stop for travellers of all ages. If you have a few hours before your flight or simply want a relaxed shopping experience away from Tokyo's crowds, AEON Mall Narita is well worth adding to your itinerary.
Details
Location : 24 Uingutsuchiya, Narita, Chiba 286-0029, Japan.
Business hours : Daily (10.00am - 9.00pm)
Food
Yamada Unagi Restaurant
If you're visiting Chiba, don't miss the chance to experience one of Japan's most iconic delicacies at Yamada Unagi Restaurant (うなぎ割烹山田), a long-established eatery beloved for its expertly grilled eel. Prepared in the traditional kabayaki style, the freshwater eel is charcoal-grilled to perfection, creating a beautifully caramelised exterior while remaining incredibly tender and fluffy inside. Coated in a rich, sweet-savoury house-made sauce that's been perfected over generations, every bite is packed with authentic Japanese flavour that keeps both locals and travellers coming back.
Stepping into Yamada Unagi Restaurant feels like travelling back in time. The warm wooden interiors and welcoming atmosphere reflect the charm of old Japan, making the meal feel just as memorable as the food itself. Pair your unaju (grilled eel served over rice) with a bowl of clear soup and Japanese pickles for the complete experience.
Whether you're a first-time visitor eager to try authentic unagi or a returning foodie searching for one of Narita's local gems, Yamada Unagi Restaurant is a destination that's well worth the stop.
Details
Location : I-457, Katori, Chiba 287-0003, Japan.
Business hours : Wed - Fri (11.00am - 2.30pm ; 4.30pm - 6.00pm) | Sat - Sun (10.30am - 2.00pm ; 4.30pm - 6.00pm) | Closed on Mon and Tue
Nihon no Aji Takazo
The shop offers both dine-in and takeaway options, making it the perfect place for a quick snack while exploring Sawara. Their standout specialties include Sanshoku Dango (Three-Coloured Dumplings), the owner's signature recommendation, topped with three delicious flavours: sweet Mitarashi, savoury Saikyo miso, and nutty black sesame. Depending on the season, you'll also find freshly made Ichigo Daifuku (Strawberry Daifuku) and Shine Muscat Daifuku, alongside other traditional Japanese sweets such as Warabi Mochi, Zenzai (sweet red bean soup), Anmitsu, and the savoury Isobeyaki, a grilled mochi brushed with soy sauce.
What makes this little shop even more special is the kind elderly owner, who personally prepares and serves every treat with a warm smile. You can enjoy your sweets inside the nostalgic shop or take them outside to the picturesque canal, where the peaceful atmosphere makes every bite even more memorable. I chose to sit by the canal, and it was one of my favourite moments in Sawara. The Ichigo Daifuku was incredibly soft, fresh, and bursting with sweet strawberries, I instantly regretted buying only one! We even went back hoping to get another, but the ojisan smiled and told us they had already sold out. He was such a friendly and charming gentleman, which made the experience even more memorable. If you're visiting Sawara, this hidden gem is definitely worth stopping by before the day's favourites disappear!
Details
Location : I-3402, Katori, Chiba 287-0003, Japan.
Business hours : Tue - Sun (10.00am - 5.00pm) ; Closed on Mon
Ohitsu Gohan Shirokujichu
We stumbled upon Ohitsu Gohan Shirokujichu at AEON Mall Narita while looking for a place to have dinner, and it turned out to be such a pleasant surprise! The restaurant specialises in Japanese set meals served with fluffy rice in a traditional ohitsu wooden tub, making every meal feel warm and comforting.
From the beautifully presented dishes to the cosy atmosphere, everything was satisfying after a full day of exploring. If you're visiting Narita and craving an authentic Japanese meal, this is definitely a spot worth checking out.
Details
Location : 24 Uingutsuchiya, Narita, Chiba 286-0029, Japan (1st Floor, near the main entrance/tax-free shopping areas)
Opening hours : Daily (10.00am - 9.00pm)
Acommodation
Hotel Mystays Premier Narita
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| ( Photo credit to Tokyo Cheapo ) |
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| ( Photo credit to Reserving.com ) |
What made our stay even more enjoyable was the peaceful atmosphere and excellent facilities. The hotel features an indoor pool, a fitness centre, and several dining options, making it a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or shopping. Whether you're arriving in Japan or preparing for your journey home, Hotel Mystays Premier Narita is a comfortable and convenient choice that's well worth considering.
Details
Location : 31 Oyama, Narita, Chiba 286-0131, Japan.
Cost per night : RM500++
And that's a wrap on my December–January Japan trip. Well, almost...Tokyo is still coming!
I'm so happy that I finally managed to finish writing about this trip before moving on to my March and April Japan adventures. Time really flies! I hope you've enjoyed following along and found these travel guides helpful for planning your own Japan itinerary.
Thank you so much for reading and supporting my blog. Stay tuned for more Japan travel stories, hidden gems, and delicious food recommendations in my upcoming posts. See you in the next one, and until then...sayonara~
#ShiniInChiba
For more photos, search the hashtag #ShiniInChiba on Instagram. There, you can also find additional details about my personal experiences during the trip.
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