Katori travel guide and discussion

7 Easy Day Trips from Tokyo for a Quick Getaway If you're spending a few days in Tokyo, consider setting aside some time to explore the neighboring cities. We guarantee you'll discover a completely different side of Japan, complete with stunning nature, rich culture, relaxing onsens, beautiful coastlines, and classic historical towns. Plus, all these spots are easily accessible by train from Tokyo! 📍 Kamakura · A charming seaside town with a great atmosphere. · Highlights include the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. · Perfect for cafe hoppers, photography enthusiasts, and those who love a leisurely stroll. 📍 Hakone · A highly popular onsen resort town near Tokyo. · Enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, take a sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi, and ride the Hakone Ropeway. · Ideal for anyone looking to unwind and connect with nature. 📍 Nikko · A World Heritage city steeped in history. · Home to Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, and Lake Chuzenji. · Gorgeous year-round, but exceptionally stunning during the autumn foliage season. 📍 Kawaguchiko · One of the most spectacular spots for viewing Mt. Fuji. · Offers plenty of activities like boat rides, cycling, and taking the scenic panoramic ropeway. · A paradise for photographers and nature lovers. 📍 Yokohama · A major port city located right next door to Tokyo. · Famous for Minato Mirai, the Red Brick Warehouse, and Chinatown. · A top pick for foodies, shopaholics, and evening trips. 📍 Chiba · The proud home of Tokyo Disney Resort. · Boasts beautiful beaches, premium outlets, and endless shopping options. · Fantastic for families and avid shoppers. 📍 Sawara · A historic canal town that perfectly preserves the Edo-period vibe. · Hop on a traditional boat tour and wander along the ancient streets. · The best choice for those wanting to experience traditional Japan. ✨ The best part about these 7 destinations is that they're only a 30-minute to 2-hour journey from Tokyo! They make for effortless one-day trips. Whether you're a nature lover, a culture buff, a foodie, or a shutterbug, there's a city here to match every travel style.

Exploring tranquil Katori's Sawara was pure poetry: think riverside townhouses, historical strolls and cool stamp rally. If you crave charming vibes with no crowds, this underrated gem is a must! Top Spots to Visit: 1. Sawara Sightseeing Boats: Drift along the iconic canal for classic Edo vibes. 2. Get the stamp rally guide at Tourist Informagion center for 300 yen, then go on exploring historic stops along the way 3. Chaya Hanakanmuri: Perfect riverside snack break! Grab their coffee pudding then chill with awesome views - ideal for posting those “living my best life” photos. Their tonteki in the lunch menu is also very juicy! Sawara is refreshingly uncrowded. Aim for a weekday if you can and you’ll have the river walk almost all to yourself. How to get around? 🚆 Take the JR Narita Line to Sawara Station, walk or rent a bike for easy sightseeing. #chibahiddengem #sawara #japantravel #tripcom

The area along the Ono River, a tributary of the Tone River, once flourished as a bustling river port town. Wooden buildings dating back to the Edo and Meiji periods line the streets side by side. Here you will find the memorial museum and former residence of Ino Tadataka, the man who traveled all over Japan on foot during the Edo period to complete the country's very first surveyed map. [ The Historic Streets of Sawara ] Address: Sawara, Katori City, Chiba Prefecture Access: Approx. 11-minute walk from Sawara Station exit Approx. 43-minute walk from Katori Station exit Approx. 58-minute walk from Oto Station Exit 1 Recommended Highlights ・Kimono rentals are available, and we highly recommend dressing up to spend a special time wandering through these elegant, historic streets. ・There is a traditional machiya (townhouse)-style tourist rest area that features a cafe, light snacks, and souvenirs. ・Boat tours are also highly recommended! Taking in the scenery of "Little Edo" from the waters of the Ono River offers a completely different perspective compared to exploring on foot. The ride takes about 30 minutes. The boatman's lighthearted and engaging commentary is also one of the highlights. [ Former Residence of Ino Tadataka ] Address: 1900 Sawara-i, Katori City, Chiba Prefecture Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Recommended Highlights: ・You can explore the historic home where Ino Tadataka lived, built over 200 years ago, completely free of charge. ・This merchant house is where Tadataka spent 33 years of his life, from marrying into the family at age 17 until leaving for Edo at age 50. The original storehouse remains exactly as it was back then.

I visited Saitama previously and it already had a great Edo vibe. This year, I decided to check out another "Little Edo"—Sawara in Chiba Prefecture! Stepping into this quaint water town makes you feel like you've traveled back in time. Sawara is most famous for its beautifully preserved historical architecture and the scenic boat rides along the Ono River. It's super artsy and chill~ 🎏 The best part? If you visit on a weekday, there are barely any crowds. Every random shot turns into a perfect Instagrammable moment, allowing you to truly lay back and soak in the tranquil vibes of this ancient Japanese town 😌. Just a quick heads-up: many restaurants in Sawara are closed on Monday nights, so be sure to plan your meals ahead! If you're like me and still find yourself hungry at night, head over to Narita Omotesando! Day and night here are like two completely different worlds. While the daytime is bustling and lively, the night takes on a peaceful, Zen-like atmosphere. Taking a stroll to experience both sides is what I call an in-depth tour. Attraction Info: · Sawara Water Town (Sawara, Katori City, Chiba Prefecture): Just head to the banks of the Ono River. The area is filled with well-preserved Edo-period buildings, and every casual snap looks stunning! · Naritasan Omotesando: Located in Nakamachi, Narita City, Chiba Prefecture. It's just a 10-minute walk to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, and there are tons of authentic local snacks waiting for you to try! Highly recommended for those who love traditional Japanese town culture and slow-paced travel. Coming here is absolutely the perfect choice to experience that nostalgic Japanese charm! Don't miss out on such a chill and beautiful Little Edo next time~

Oh my gosh! Found a treasure in Chiba!! A stunning resort farm just 1 hour 🚗 from Tokyo Perfectly blending natural experiences with luxurious comfort Kids won’t want to leave, and adults can fully relax Chiba Nature Family Resort Farm This is the ultimate answer for family trips~ 🌾【First Dreamland: Fairy Tale Farm】 ▪️Limited daily guests! Completely avoid the crowds ▪️Feed goats and ponies by hand, kids’ eyes light up ▪️Freshly picked strawberries, hands full of sweet healing ♨️【Second Dreamland: Starry Sky Private Hot Spring】 Open-air hot spring facing the entire starry sky! Some rooms come with private scenic hot spring pools Soak in the hot spring while watching your kids play safely nearby This is what “vacationing with kids” should be, not “vacationing with kids as a burden” ⛺️【Third Dreamland: Dreamy Camping】 Unbelievable luxury setup— Air-conditioned tents + forest cabins + BBQ feast Lie on the lawn at night watching movies projected on a screen The kids’ amazed reaction seeing the Milky Way for the first time is priceless! 🍱【Fourth Dreamland: Dining in Nature】 ▪️Breakfast: Buffet style, choose your own food ▪️Lunch: Farm-fresh vegetable hot pot ▪️Dinner: Chef’s special creative Japanese-Western fusion cuisine ✨Secret surprise: After dinner, staff will take the kids to search for fireflies!

I really want to recommend "Karin no Yu" to all friends visiting the Chiba Farm! A healing hot spring hidden in a 100,000-square-meter farm A perfect hot spring experience even for families with kids / Karin no Yu is located within the Chiba Nature Family Farm, and you don’t need to stay overnight to just come and soak! It’s very suitable for families and parent-child outings, a place for healing and relaxation! / There are three main areas: healing hot springs, a Japanese restaurant, and a leisure area. ✅ Healing Hot Springs: Authentic Japanese-style hot spring baths and a sweat sauna room. ✅ Japanese Restaurant: After soaking, you can step out and order some Japanese cuisine to enjoy a hearty meal. ✅ Leisure Area: A super large leisure space where you can zone out, read, or just lie down all day! They also provide cold and warm water, showing great attention to detail! / Of course, if you have more time, you can also explore the farm. If you like quiet, you can visit the mountain view café and daydream while enjoying the scenery. The nearby jungle zipline offers fun for both adults and kids! / / Honestly, compared to the noisy and crowded Tokyo city, you can come to this Chiba farm and relax! / "Transportation Guide": It’s suitable to drive from Tokyo, about 1 hour. From Narita Airport, you can take a taxi, about a 20-minute ride~

For those who have time left before boarding the plane back to Thailand, Let's go to #SAWARA, an interesting old town not far from Narita Airport. It takes half an hour to drive there or about 40 minutes by train from JR Narita Station. . This is an old town from the Edo period. There is a beautiful Ono Canal where we can take a boat ride to experience the atmosphere. You will get an ancient Japanese atmosphere or focus on walking and taking pictures. They open the old houses for us to see the lifestyle of Japanese people in the Edo period. The houses you see are well-maintained. Coordinates: https://goo.gl/maps/UnN7jYTrXnAhNBWC7 . #Sawara #Narita #Japan #AncientTown #Edo #canal #BoatTrip #WishListLet's go to #TokyoTravel

I visited Sawara, about an hour's drive from Chiba Station 😆 Sawara, also known as Little Edo, is a water town with many historical buildings 🌿 It is often used as a location for movies and dramas 🎬 The weather was good, so everywhere I took a picture was picturesque ❕ It's close to Tokyo, and Sawara on weekdays is a hidden gem that I highly recommend 🫢🤍 The whole town is filled with retro, and next time I'd like to go on a walking tour eating dango and sweets 🤤🍡 It was a wonderful townscape that made me want to take pictures forever 🕊️ #ChibaTourism#Sawara #KatoriCity #777

Sawara City, not far from Narita City, is a lovely old town and shopping district. Walking along the small alleys reminds me of the atmosphere of the prosperous Edo period. We visited during the New Year and most of the shops were closed, so we could only see the houses and buildings in Sawara that had been renovated to their original form. However, seeing the various historical buildings, such as traditional warehouses used by merchants and Western-style brick structures, is just as enjoyable. If it is not a festival day, tourists can also take a boat ride. Although it was a bit quiet today, it was beautiful and had a Japanese feel, so you can take beautiful pictures to show off to your friends. #TravelAbroad

This time we came to Sawara Station! The station building has a nice old retro feel. The hotel in front of the station, Route Inn, also has that same atmosphere. It's not an old hotel by any means, but it has a nice retro feel to it! It's a cheap hotel with good value for money. #summerweekendtrip #keihangroupcampaign #valueformoneyhotel #cheaptrip #coupletrip #greatview

#Overseas Travel#Japan Travel #Japan#Chiba Prefecture# Sawara Water Village is a 30-minute drive from Narita and about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Tokyo. It has a century-old history and is known as "Little Edo". It is a water village built along the Ono River, a tributary of the Tone River, Japan's largest river. ✅The streets are full of history, and there are merchant houses left over from the Edo period everywhere. Some are rebuilt on the original site, and some are renovated. ✅In addition to various old-fashioned snack shops and fruit shops, there are also various restaurants, such as eel rice, French cuisine, and Italian cuisine, which are all very distinctive and well-received restaurants😍😍 ✅Constitutes the most beautiful scenery on both sides of the Ono River in Sawara Water Village Address: Sawara, Katori City, Chiba Prefecture Transportation: Get off at Sawara Station on the JR Narita Line

Katori Shrine is the Ichinomiya of Shimousa Province (northern Chiba Prefecture) and the head shrine of the approximately 400 Katori Shrines nationwide. Together with Kashima Shrine and Ikisu Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture, it is known as one of the "Three Eastern Shrines." In recent years, it has also been attracting attention as one of the "Kanto region's leading power spots." Recommended tourist spots nearby include the bronze statue of Ino Tadataka, his former home, memorial hall, and the Sawara Traditional Buildings Preservation District. Address: 1697-1 Katori, Katori City, Chiba Prefecture, 287-0017 #trip2022 #chiba #shrine

Katori Shrine in Katori City, Chiba Prefecture Katori Shrine is the Ichinomiya of Shimousa Province (northern Chiba Prefecture) and the head shrine of the Katori Shrines, which number about 400 nationwide. Together with Kashima Shrine and Ikisu Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture, it is known as one of the "Three Eastern Shrines." It enshrines Futsunushi no Okami, the god of martial arts, who also appears in the Nihon Shoki, and is said to bring good luck in winning, traffic, and disaster prevention. In recent years, it has also been attracting attention as one of the "Kanto region's leading power spots," and is a popular shrine that attracts many people from far away to worship. The approach to the shrine in front of the shrine is famous for its "kusa dango" (grass dumplings), which are sold in large quantities! It's very delicious, so please try it♩ #shrine #freespot #ChibaPrefecture #Chiba #ChibaTrip #KatoriShrine #powerspot

[Back to Japan during the Edo period? ! In-depth tour of Japan | Good places to visit near Tokyo] #I miss Sawara in Japan, because there you can feel the Edo-style Japan. Known as the water town of Sawara, it is only about a 90-minute drive from Tokyo at the fastest. With its Edo-style buildings and nostalgic river, you can choose to stroll or take a boat ride when visiting Sawara - it's like going back to Japan. traffic: Express bus (fastest): Departs from Tokyo Station and goes directly to Sawara JR: Take the JR Sobu Line from Tokyo Station to Narita Station, change to the JR Narita Line and get off at Sawara Station #Japan #Kanto #Sahara #free travel #Edo #I miss #I miss

An ideal way to spend your final day when returning from Tokyo. Start with a stroll through the Omotesando of Narita-san Shinsho-ji Temple. Home to the century-old Kawatoyo Eel Rice. A perfect self-drive route Great for the last day of your Tokyo trip before heading home Start by exploring the Omotesando of Narita-san Shinsho-ji Featuring the legendary 100-year-old Kawatoyo Eel Rice Be sure to arrive early as there is usually a queue If you'd rather not wait, there are other eel restaurants along the street The Omotesando has some slopes, so you can drive to the midway parking lot if walking is difficult After your meal, visit Narita-san Shinsho-ji Temple for a blessing You might even witness the head priest performing a sacred ritual Next, head to Katori Jingu, one of Kanto's three major shrines A shrine brimming with spiritual "power spots" Then drive to the Kanto riverside district Sawara, known as "Little Edo" A place steeped in history A leisurely stroll along the water is incredibly relaxing Discover the former residence of Ino Tadataka, a historical figure from 200 years ago He walked 37,000 kilometers to map out Japan His work is remarkably accurate, even by modern standards His Astronomical History Museum is located right across the street The area is also lined with many souvenir shops It's the ideal final destination to visit before heading back via Narita

#slowtraveling Sawara (12 min walk from JR Sawara Station, Narita Line) is the kind of town where the best plan is no plan. I arrived at 10:00 on a weekday with no list, no map, and ¥5,000 cash. I walked the canal, turned left at a random bridge, found a ¥400 sweet-potato Mont Blanc at VMG Cafe (card OK), then wandered into a 1920s hardware store that sells ¥200 hand-forged nails as souvenirs. I ended up at the Ono River quay at 5:40 p.m., sat on a stone, and watched the light turn the water indigo — the same view Hiroshige sketched in 1853. A ¥650 pour-over from VMG, drunk on the quay. Mistake: trying to see “everything” — Sawara’s charm is the detour, not the destination. Another: relying on cards — the hardware store and the nail stall are cash only. Rule: don’t block the canal path for photos; don’t sit on private mooring stones. Opinion: Sawara rewards the traveler who gets lost on purpose — the town is small enough that you can’t really get lost, but you can always find something new. Discussion: when a town is best explored without a plan, is that a failure of tourism infrastructure or a gift to the traveler?

#slowtraveling VMG Cafe sits in the Nakamuraya Shōten building, 1720 Sawara I, Katori, Chiba — a 12-minute walk from JR Sawara Station (Narita Line, ~90 min from Tokyo) straight down to the Ono River canal. The building is a 170-year-old former salt house and tatami-wholesale storehouse, prefectural tangible cultural property, opened as a café in 2018. Hours 11:00–16:00 (until 16:30 weekends/holidays), cards accepted, tax included. I went on a Thursday at 11:10 — got a window seat facing the canal, ordered a ¥650 pour-over (Chiba-roasted) and the ¥1,200 sweet-potato Mont Blanc (house-made, extruded at the counter). The ceiling is 1855 cypress, the pentagonal zelkova pillars are original, the safe in the corner was in use until the 1990s. Upstairs is a free mini-museum: an enormous abacus, Girls’ Day dolls from the 1900s, earthquake-repair beams from 2011. Mistake: coming at 13:00 on a festival weekend — the 22 seats fill and the canal boat queue spills onto the bridge. Another: expecting a quick in-out — the room asks you to sit 40 minutes. Cash helps for the adjacent Nakamuraya storehouse shop (local crafts, ¥1,500–¥4,000 items, tax-free over ¥5,000 with passport). Rule: don’t use flash upstairs (dolls are light-sensitive), don’t lean on the box-staircase (off-limits, steep). Opinion: VMG isn’t a “storehouse-themed café” — it’s a storehouse that decided to keep working, which is the only honest kind of preservation. Discussion: when a 170-year-old building serves coffee to pay for its own roof, is the coffee the product or just the admission fee?

#slowtraveling Sawara’s Ono River boat tour (¥1,300, 30 min, 10:00–16:30, seasonal March–November, cash preferred, cards at the dock office) is poled by a local in period clothes who explains each black-plaster warehouse as you glide past. From Sawara Station (JR Narita Line, ~90 min from Tokyo), it’s a 10-minute walk to the canal. I went on a Tuesday at 10:05 — first tour of the day, starboard seat (the light is better on the right in the morning), ¥1,300 exact cash. The boat holds 12; if you’re solo, you’ll sit with others. The guide points out the Ino Tadataka Residence (free garden, ¥300 museum) and the Katori Shrine sub-gate, and explains how Sawara shipped rice and soy to Edo via the Tone River. The warehouses are 2–3 stories, dark, and reflective in the water — best at 8:30 a.m. before the wind ripples the surface. Mistake: sitting port side in the morning (shaded, backlit photos). Another: expecting an English tour — there isn’t one, but the guide will slow down and point if you look interested. After the boat, walk the opposite bank (free, 20 min loop) and stop at a storehouse café for ¥1,100 eel don. Rule: don’t lean over the side — the boat is low and the water is 2m deep. Opinion: the boat tour is the only way to see Sawara’s warehouses at their original eye level — the canal was the street, and you’re traveling it the way rice barges did 200 years ago. Discussion: when a boat tour is the only way to properly see a historic streetscape, does that make the water the real museum or just a mirror?

#slowtraveling Sawara, in Katori, Chiba, is the “Little Edo” that doesn’t fight for the name. JR Narita Line from Tokyo Station (~90 min, ¥1,240) to Sawara Station, then a 10-minute walk to the Ono River canal. Street is free; boat tour ¥1,300 adult (30 min, 10:00–16:30, seasonal); Ino Tadataka Memorial Museum few hundred yen; most cafés 10:00–17:00. I built a loop: station → Ino Tadataka’s former residence (national historic site, free garden, ¥300 museum) → upstream along the willow bank to Ja-Ja Bridge → boat dock in front of the residence → back down the opposite bank past black-plaster soy shops → lunch at a storehouse café (¥1,100 eel don, card OK). The boat is poled by a local in period clothes who explains each warehouse; sit starboard, the light is better in the afternoon. Sawara shipped rice and soy to Edo via the Tone River, so the merchant houses are tall, dark, reflective in the water — best at 8:30 a.m. before the wind wrinkles the surface. Cash for the boat (they prefer it, ¥1,300 exact if possible); I carried ¥3,000. Don’t bike the riverside (cobbles); don’t lean on the storehouse lintels. The Grand Festival (summer & autumn) is UNESCO-listed but crushes the lanes — weekdays only if you want the quiet version. Opinion: Sawara is Kawagoe’s calmer cousin and better for it — the canal does the work the souvenir shops don’t. Discussion: when a town’s wealth came from moving rice by water, does the boat tour complete the story or just aestheticize the logistics?

#slowtraveling Katori Jingu is the head shrine of ~400 Katori shrines nationwide, founded in myth-time, 20 min by loop bus (¥200) or 20 min by bicycle from Sawara Station. I biked — the flat Chiba plain makes it easy, and the approach road (Katori-kaido) is a tunnel of 300-year cedars leaning inward like guardians. The shrine grounds are free, open 24h; amulet office 8:30–17:00. The main hall is black lacquer with gold-green accents — unusual, most shrines go vermilion. I arrived at 10:40, tied a ¥500 ema, walked the inner grove where Futsunushi-no-Okami is enshrined, and heard nothing but crow calls. Then I backtracked to the warehouse alley between the shrine bus stop and the Katori City Museum of History(¥300, closed Mon) — a row of postwar tobacco wholesalers converted to soba mills and a single ceramicist’s studio (cash only, ¥1,200 for a tea cup, no card, no sign, ring the bell). Practical: combine this with the Sawara canal walk (previous post) as a full day — morning canal, lunch in Sawara, 13:30 bus to Katori, shrine + alley by 15:30, back to Tokyo by 17:30. Bicycle rental at Sawara Station ¥500/day, cash deposit. The shrine closes nothing but the amulet window; you can sit on the stone steps at dusk and watch the cedars go black. Mistake I made: first visit I only did the shrine and skipped the alley — the alley is where the living town meets the sacred one. Does a head shrine feel heavier than a neighborhood one? Katori does — the cedars carry it. #slowtraveling #KatoriJingu #WarehouseAlley

#slowtraveling Sawara is the “Little Edo” that Kyoto’s Gion forgot — 200+ Edo merchant houses along the Ono River, 15 min walk from JR Sawara Station (Narita Line, 90 min from Tokyo Station, ¥1,520). I arrived at 9:05 on a Tuesday, before the canal boats started (10:00, ¥1,300/30 min), and had the willow-lined water to myself. Walk it as a loop: station → north on Chuo-dori → left at the Ino Tadataka Museum (¥500, 9:00–16:30, closed Mon) → down to the canal → west along the south bank past Terada Honke brewery (tasting ¥500/5 cups, closed Sun) → the white-plaster kura warehouses with curved giboshi roof tiles → Yasaka Shrine micro-detour → back east on the north bank → Sawara Float Museum (¥400, off-season substitute for the July/Oct festival) → station by 12:30. Total 3.5 km, flat, shaded by willow. The detail people miss: the canal is functional, not decorative. Old men pole wooden boats at 10:30 and 14:00; the water reflects the kura exactly as it did in 1820 because the building heights are unchanged — a local ordinance bans new builds over two stories on the canal front. Cash only everywhere except the museum (card ok). Lunch: unagi at a riverside shop (¥1,600, queue forms 11:30). Mistake: driving in — the Ono River parking is ¥500/day but you then walk away from the canal; train + 15 min walk is the town’s intended speed. If Sawara and Kurashiki were siblings, which one kept its working soul? Sawara — the brewery still brews, the canal still carries boats. #slowtraveling #SawaraCanalWalk #EdoMerchantTown

#underratedspots Because when people think of a traditional Japanese town near Tokyo, they usually think of Kamakura or Kawagoe. But Sawara offers something different: 🏮 Edo-period merchant houses 🌿 Quiet riverside streets 🚣 Traditional boat rides 🍵 Old cafés and shops 🗺️ Fascinating history 📸 Almost no “big attraction” feeling And it’s surprisingly accessible—Sawara can be reached from Tokyo by train, while Narita is only around 30 minutes away.  If you want to experience old Japan without the crowds, Sawara might be one of Chiba’s best-kept secrets. 🏮🇯🇵✨ #Sawara #SawaraChiba #LittleEdo #Chiba #TokyoDayTrip #JapanTravel #UnderratedJapan #HiddenJapan #KantoTravel #JapanPhotography #TraditionalJapan #VisitJapan #TripMoments 🏮🇯🇵

1. Kawagoe • Saitama Why visit: to experience an Edo-period town without a long trip from Tokyo. Kawagoe is known as Koedo, or "Little Edo." The main reason to visit is the kurazukuri (old clay-walled warehouse) district, the Toki no Kane bell tower, and Kashiya Yokocho, a small street lined with sweet shops. From central Tokyo, the trip takes about 30–60 minutes, depending on your departure station and train. Don't miss: Kurazukuri Street → Toki no Kane → Kashiya Yokocho → Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. Who it's for: those who want a taste of historical Japan but don't want to spend an entire day traveling. ⸻ 2. Sawara • Chiba This is a spot I'd highly recommend bookmarking. The historic center of Sawara grew around the Ono River. It still features old merchant houses, warehouses, and traditional townscapes from the Edo period and later eras. The area is officially designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. You can take a small boat ride down the river, but honestly, it's just as fascinating to stroll along the water and admire the architecture. Don't miss: Ono River → historic streets → Inō Tadataka Museum. Can be combined with: Sawara + Katori Jingu. ⸻ 3. Mount Takao • Western Tokyo Technically, you don't even have to leave Tokyo for this one. But after the hustle and bustle of Shibuya and Shinjuku, it feels pretty surreal: one minute you're surrounded by skyscrapers, and the next you're looking at forest trails and a 599-meter-tall mountain. Several trails lead to the summit. You can cut out part of the climb by taking a cable car or chair lift. Along the way is Yakuoin, a Buddhist temple with over a thousand years of history. Best conditions: a clear morning + comfortable shoes. Who it's for: those craving nature without complicated logistics. ⸻ 4. Nokogiriyama • Chiba Now, this one feels like a proper mini-getaway. Nokogiriyama is located on the Boso Peninsula. The mountain is famous for its dramatic cliffs, views of Tokyo Bay, and the massive Buddhist statues on the grounds of Nihon-ji Temple. The most spectacular spot is Jigoku Nozoki, or "Peek into Hell"—an observation deck jutting out over the cliff edge. You can take a ropeway near the top, but you'll still have to do a lot of walking up and down stairs and trails. Who it's for: those who want a mix of mountains + ocean + unique Buddhist architecture, rather than just another temple. IN SHORT 🏘 Kawagoe → old merchant town 🌊 Sawara → historic riverside streets 🌲 Takao → the easiest escape from the metropolis ⛰ Nokogiriyama → mountains + Tokyo Bay 5. Okutama • Western Tokyo If Takao feels too accessible and crowded, head further out. Okutama is located in the westernmost part of the Tokyo Metropolis. The geography here is completely different: mountains, forests, rivers, Lake Okutama, and hiking trails. It's a great example of how deceptive the word "Tokyo" can be. Administratively, you might still be in Tokyo, but visually, it's worlds away from Shinjuku. What to do: walking → the lake → gorges → hiking. I'd block out a whole day for this rather than trying to squeeze in a downtown itinerary in the evening. 6. Chichibu • Saitama Another great option for those looking to escape the dense urban sprawl. Surrounded by mountains, Chichibu is famous for its nature trails, shrines, and seasonal landscapes. One of the main historic spots is Chichibu Shrine. You can also build separate itineraries around the town depending on the season: flowers, mountains, or river gorges. From Ikebukuro, limited express trains to Seibu-Chichibu take about 80 minutes. Who it's for: those looking for nature + a smaller Japanese town instead of another massive metropolis. 7. Mount Mitake + Mitakesan If you want mountains but Takao feels a bit too cliché. Mount Mitake is located in western Tokyo and is part of the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park. After the train ride, the route continues via bus and cable car, followed by a hike to the Musashi Mitake Shrine, which sits on the mountain. But I wouldn't turn back right after visiting the shrine. There are forest trails, a Rock Garden, waterfalls, and sections where the walk feels much more like a genuine hike than a simple day trip from Tokyo. Who it's for: those wanting a real day out in the mountains without an overnight stay. HOW TO CHOOSE Want traditional Japan: Kawagoe → Sawara Want nature without a complicated trip: Mount Takao Want a full day outside the metropolis: Okutama → Mount Mitake → Chichibu Want the most unusual scenery: Nokogiriyama WHAT TO CHOOSE FOR YOUR FIRST TRIP? If you only have 7–10 days in Japan, I wouldn't go out of my way to add several of these side trips. Tokyo itself demands time. But if you have 4–5 days just for Tokyo, substituting one alternative day makes perfect sense. Easiest option → Kawagoe or Takao. Most atmospheric → Sawara. Most spectacular → Nokogiriyama. And that brings a totally different logic to your trip planning: it's no longer about "what else can I manage to see in Tokyo," but rather what kind of Japan you want to experience beyond it.

The historic streets of Sawara, often called "Chiba's Little Edo," were absolutely stunning! Taking a leisurely boat ride down the Ono River, which flows right past the memorial museum, offers a view overflowing with old-world charm. It feels like a special journey back in time to the Edo period. 🛶 🗺️ 👘 🏯

Located in Katori City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan, Katori Jingu Shrine serves as the head shrine for approximately 400 Katori shrines across the country. Together with the nearby Kashima Jingu Shrine and Ikisu Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture, it is celebrated as one of the "Togoku Sansha" (Three Great Shrines of the Eastern Provinces). Before the Edo period, only three shrines in all of Japan—Ise, Kashima, and Katori—held the prestigious title of "Jingu," highlighting its incredibly exalted status. Four Must-See Highlights: 1. The Black-Lacquered, Richly Colored Main Hall: Built in 1700 by Tokugawa Tsunayoshi and designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The rare black exterior, adorned with brilliant gold accents and vibrant multicolored carvings, exudes a solemn and mysterious aura. 2. The Earthquake-Suppressing Kaname-ishi (Keystone): Legend has it that this keystone works in tandem with the one at Kashima Jingu Shrine to pin down the head and tail of a giant subterranean catfish, protecting the Kanto region from devastating earthquakes. 3. The Shrine Approach and Vermilion Torii Gate: The stone-lantern-lined approach is shaded by a lush canopy of trees. Spring cherry blossoms and autumn maple leaves beautifully contrast with the massive vermilion torii gate, offering breathtaking seasonal scenery. 4. National Treasure "Kaiju Budo Kyo" (Sea Animal and Grape Mirror): The treasure house displays a stunning Tang Dynasty-style bronze mirror. Comparable to the treasures of Shosoin, it is officially designated as a National Treasure of Japan. Getting There: On weekends and holidays, you can take the seasonal limited express trains "Shinjuku Sazanami" or "Hokuso Edo Kiko" directly to Sawara. Recommended Nearby Spot: Suigo Sawara Old Town. Katori Jingu Shrine is just about a 10-minute drive from Sawara Old Town, affectionately known as "Little Edo." Sawara preserves a wealth of Edo-period merchant houses set along picturesque canals. It's the perfect day trip destination to pair together: visit the shrine in the morning, head to the old town for a famous kabayaki eel rice lunch, and enjoy a relaxing boat cruise down the Ono River in the afternoon.

Located in Katori City, Chiba Prefecture, "Unagi Bekkan Yamada" is loved not only by the locals, but also by tourists visiting from far and wide, making it a highly popular eel restaurant. Since it gets particularly crowded on weekends and holidays, it's highly recommended to grab a numbered ticket first and wait. Even so, it's a place that truly makes you feel "it's worth the wait." When the eel was brought out, the outside was grilled to a fragrant crisp, while the inside was plump and soft—an absolute masterpiece. Their secret sweet and savory sauce coated the rice perfectly, and it was so delicious that I couldn't help but smile with every bite. The savory aroma and the rich, refined flavor of the fat filled my mouth, keeping me completely captivated right down to the last bite. If you want to enjoy authentic eel in Katori City, this is a renowned restaurant you absolutely must visit. The wait is completely justified for such an incredibly satisfying bowl.

I had the Toriten Onsen Tamago Bukkake Udon at Yamaarashi, a popular udon restaurant in Katori City, Chiba Prefecture. The first thing that surprised me was the firm texture of the udon noodles. They were chewy and elastic, yet smooth, and I could taste the flavor of wheat with every bite. The bukkake broth was just the right consistency, and I enjoyed it without getting tired of the taste until the very last bite. The star of the dish, the toriten (chicken tempura), had a crispy texture thanks to being freshly fried. The meat inside was surprisingly juicy and tender, making it very satisfying. When mixed with the onsen tamago (soft-boiled egg), a mellow richness was added, making it a perfect match for the udon and toriten. It was a simple yet highly accomplished bowl of udon. The restaurant had a calm and comfortable atmosphere, and the attentive service was also impressive. I would definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone who wants to enjoy authentic Sanuki udon in Katori City. 📍〒287-0002 2-8-17 Kita, Katori City, Chiba Prefecture 🕑11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Closed Wednesdays and Thursdays)

Just about 90 minutes from Tokyo, Sawara is one of Japan’s best-preserved historic towns. Often called “Little Edo,” this charming district invites visitors to step back into the Edo period, where traditional wooden buildings, quiet canals, and old merchant houses have remained beautifully intact for centuries. 🌊 Cruise Along Historic Canals One of Sawara’s signature experiences is taking a leisurely boat ride through its picturesque canals. As the boat glides beneath stone bridges and past centuries-old warehouses, you’ll discover why this town was once an important trading hub connecting Edo (Tokyo) with the rest of Japan. 🏮 A Walk Through History The streets are lined with beautifully preserved merchant houses, traditional cafés, sake breweries, and artisan shops. Walking here feels like wandering through the set of a historical Japanese film, where every corner tells a story of the town’s prosperous past. 🍡 Taste Local Flavors Sawara is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy local specialties. Stop by a traditional teahouse for matcha and wagashi, sample freshly grilled rice crackers, or visit one of the historic sake breweries that have been crafting rice wine for generations. 🎐 A Town Full of Seasonal Charm In summer, colorful wind chimes and riverside decorations create a nostalgic atmosphere, while the famous Sawara Grand Festival fills the streets with magnificent wooden floats, traditional music, and centuries-old cultural performances. Spring and autumn are equally beautiful, making Sawara a destination worth visiting year-round. 📸 A Photographer’s Dream Whether it’s a boat drifting through the canal, reflections on the water, or lantern-lined streets at sunset, Sawara offers countless postcard-worthy scenes that capture the timeless beauty of old Japan. ✨ If you’re looking to experience a quieter, more authentic side of Japan beyond Tokyo’s skyscrapers, Sawara is a hidden gem where history, culture, and everyday life blend together beautifully. 📍 Sawara, Katori City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan 🚤 Historic canal cruises 🏮 Known as “Little Edo” 🍵 Traditional cafés, sake breweries & preserved merchant streets #Sawara #Chiba #LittleEdo #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #HiddenJapan #HistoricJapan #CanalTown #TripMoments #ExploreJapan 🚤🏮✨