Chiba

Chiba is an eclectic place where intimate museums, stunning national parks and tranquil temples share space with buzzing restaurants, modern mega-malls and thrilling theme parks. As a bonus, some of the nation’s best beaches are just a short distance away. The city is less than an hour from Tokyo, so it’s excellent for a day trip.

Many travellers will find themselves passing through Narita International Airport, taking the family to Urayasu to Tokyo Disney Resort, hiking the trails of Naritasan Park, or exploring the nightlife and restaurants of Chiba City. It’s big on business – the Makuhari Messe convention centre welcomes people from around the country – but there are plenty of opportunities to unwind on idyllic Kujukuri Beach, take in the rapeseed blossoms of spring, chow down on fried eel, and step back in time at old-world Naritasan Omotesando.