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Things to do on New Year's Eve Tokyo 2020
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- There is nothing quite like enjoying New Year’s Eve in the biggest city in Japan, Tokyo. Tokyo is home to some of Japan’s best nightclubs, amusement parks, and Temples. Some of the country’s most exciting New Year’s Eve 2020 countdowns and parties will be occurring here in this busy metropolis.You can ring in the New Year in the heart of Shibuya, party all night with Mickey Mouse in Tokyo Disneyland, or watch fireworks on a boat in scenic Tokyo Bay. Let us be your guides for the ultimate New Year’s Eve experience. Ring in the New Year at Tokyo’s Time Square: Shibuya Crossing YOU MAKE SHIBUYA COUNTDOWN 2019-2020 The biggest gathering in Tokyo on New Year’s Eve is the countdown at Shibuya Crossing. The streets will be closed to traffic from 21:00 on December 31 so that Tokyoites and visitors alike can ring in the New Year in this iconic location. There will be a stage in front of the Shibuya 109 department store so arrive early to secure a good spot. Due to the volume of people you can expect this event to be safe and heavily policed, which also means local stores may not sell alcohol on New Year’s Eve. Tokyo Countdown 2020 If you don’t like the cold and don’t fancy being outside all night, Shibuya has still got you covered with the Tokyo Countdown 2020 at BelleSalle Shibuya Garden. Whether you’re into Techno, House music or EDM, there will be something for you. This event boasts a large list of internationally renowned DJs who have also graced the stages of giant festivals such as Coachella and Burning Man. Tickets will be JPY18,000 at the door, which while not cheap, is still a good deal for an event of this scope. Shibuya Blue Cave Illuminations Join a Glamorous 2020 Countdown at Tokyo’s Most Famous Landmarks Tokyo Tower Nothing says Tokyo quite like Tokyo Tower, its warm orange color meant to symbolize a candle on cold winter nights. At midnight on December 31 the tower will change color and announce the New Year while nearby revelers release balloons into the air. The inside of the Tower is only open to visitors until 23:00 but they are doing a special Illumination event, “Winter Fantasy”. So, arrive early and t ake some epic photographs. Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka Illumination – until December 25, 2019 On New Year’s Eve ROPPONGI HILLS – Tokyo City View will be open past midnight for your enjoyment. So do some shopping at Roppongi Hills, visit the Mori Art Museum, and then observe shining Tokyo from above. Tokyo Skytree Celebrate with Mickey Mouse, Hello Kitty, and more at Tokyo’s Amusement Parks Tokyo Disneyland If you are lucky enough to win the lottery you can welcome the New Year at Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea. Tokyo Disney Sea From 20:00 on December 31 to the next day you can party with your favorite Disney Characters, which means you can continue riding attractions, watching shows, and shopping all night. There will be a number of elaborate performances as well as a big firework show at midnight. From January 1 Disney Characters will be dressed in special costumes inspired by Japanese traditional attire so don’t miss this shutter chance! Fukubukuro Party like it’s 2020 at Tokyo’s Hottest Nightclubs AgeHa Centrally located in Shibuya is nightclub WOMB, well-known for Asia’s largest mirror ball and excellent electronic music. They will host New Year’s Eve with doors opening at 21:00. Their line-up features local and internationally renowned artists and DJs as well as special guest AGORIA, a popular French techno artist. Advance tickets are JPY2,800 but you can also get them at the door, however the later it gets the more expensive they will be.In case of admission by New Year's Eve 10:45PM : Re-entry stamp and New Year dishes (Osechi) included. WOMB Also in Shibuya is Sound Museum Vision, a large nightclub with several floors featuring a variety of genres of music. Depending on the vibe you’re looking for check out the two dancefloors GAIA and DEEP SPACE, or the two lounges D LOUNGE and WHITE. Joining their countdown event are special guest DJs MAYA JANE COLES and Anja Schneider. It will cost you from JPY2500 to JPY5000, depending on when you arrive. WOMB Enjoy Extravagant New Year’s Fireworks from Land or Sea Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise A really popular option for enjoying New Year’s Eve fireworks in Tokyo is Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise. Located on a small Island 30 minutes by train from Yokohama this is an amusement park with a large aquarium. Join the ‘Happy Island Countdown 2020’ and witness the spectacle of 3,000 fireworks synchronized with music. The aquarium and other attractions will be open all night as well. You can enter from 15:00 but countdown events will start at 23:30. Tokyo Bay Cruise If you’re not big on crowds the best way to enjoy Tokyo’s nighttime views and the New Year’s fireworks is on the Tokyo Bay Cruise. There will be a buffet-style dinner featuring unlimited food and drinks, as well as entertainment such as a live band, DJ, and some games. Popular tours： Tokyo Bay Cruise—Countdown to 2020! Image for Hakone Fireworks Forget the Stress of 2019 and Relax at an Onsen Ōedo-onsen-monogatari New year, new you! Rejuvenate at Ōedo-onsen-monogatari（大江戸温泉） an Onsen theme park. This complex features Yukata rental as well as a Japanese style garden with foot baths where you can walk around and chat with your friends. They use natural hot spring water and have a variety of baths to choose from. There is a lively indoor Edo-period inspired “town” and a variety of restaurants as well. It’s open all night but be aware, they have a strict no-tattoo policy. Ōedo-onsen-monogatari Another Onsen option is Yamato no Yu （大和の湯）which is tattoo-friendly and located near Narita Airport. This is a very modern building, a kind of designer’s hot spring, by famous architect Habuka Takao. There is also a private bath you can reserve if you would rather not bathe with others. Indulge by getting a massage and facial at the spa or enjoy the heated indoor swimming pool if that’s more your style. Korean Body Scrub Get your Last-Minute Shopping Done at these Unique Markets Ameya-Yokocho Mingle with locals at Ameya-Yokocho（アメ横）, a loud and busy outdoor market. If you’re interested in the Japanese New Year’s culture of Osechi this is a great spot to barter for some prime ingredients such a king crab and salmon roe. Ameya-Yokocho Fans of Japanese pop culture and anime need to check out COMIC MARKET９７, or Comiket. This is a giant four-day festival (December 28-December 31.) of Cosplay and Doujinshi (fan-made comics). It’s best to buy entry wristbands in advance at Anime stores like Animate as they can sell-out. If you want to Cosplay, arrive early and pay a small fee to register. Unique Ways to Celebrate the New Year; Standing under a Waterfall or Watching Pro-Wrestling? Image for Waterfall Meditation If you’re interested in Japanese culture and traditional religious practices, we recommend going to nearby Mount Takao and its waterfall Biwa Taki.You can actually try standing under the waterfall, a traditional form of ascetic training. It’s generally on the first Saturday of each month as well as the 18th and 28th. If you prefer to be, well, very very hot, another option is to try fire-walking. Good luck, and always call ahead to see if it will be available on the day you go! Mt. Takao On the opposite end of the spectrum is New Year’s Eve Pro-Wrestling. See giants in flamboyant costumes crashing in Tokyo Dome City. The match starts at 20:00. Popular tours： Get Tickets for the New Japan Pro Wrestling Show! New Year’s Soba Have a happy New Year in Tokyo! Related Articles:New Year 2020 in Japan: A Cultural Guide for Participating in Japanese New Year’s Traditions ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 27. December. 2019
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Beach resorts in Japan - 8 of the Best
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- As an archipelago with over 6,800 islands, to call Japan an incredible beach escape would be an understatement. From the towering resorts overlooking the white shores of Okinawa to the cozy accommodations near the surf-ready waves of Chiba, there are no shortage of stunning beaches and equally incredible resorts to explore in Japan. Ishigaki Island, Okinawa Ishigaki Island, Okinawa Okinawa’s tropical island Ishigaki is rapidly becoming one of Japan’s most popular holiday destinations with both local and international guests. Although the picturesque island is only 140 kilometers around and 222 square kilometers in total, the island packs a lot into such a small space. Boasting rugged mountain ranges, pure blue water, and pearly white sand it’s the ideal place to escape the world if only just for a few days. With its rise in popularity has come a wave of stunning high-end beachside resorts. For those who prioritize luxury above all else, you can’t look past Grandvrio Resort Ishigakijima Villa Garden. Featuring towering palm trees, a stunning beach view, and plenty of space along the oversized pool to admire the long, sweeping sunsets, a stay at this Villa Garden is one you won’t forget. Yoron, Kagoshima Yoron, Kagoshima If you’re looking for a destination that feels like a secret, then look towards the Amami archipelago. A cluster of small white sand islands sitting between Kyushu to the north and Okinawa to the south, the Amami archipelago has plenty of stunning blue gems, but a highlight is arguably Yoron, the third smallest and southernmost island in the chain. With untamed lush green foliage, almost impossibly white shores, and a language unique to the island, Yoron boasts a culture unlike any other you’ll experience in Japan. One of the best places to stay on the island is Pricia Resort Yoron. Situated on the western shore, this upscale apartment complex offers all the luxuries you could imagine; a pool, beauty services, spa facilities; sports, sports and recreation, and restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Truly a remote paradise. Miyako Island, Okinawa Miyako Island, Okinawa Three hundred kilometers south of Okinawa’s main island, Miyako Island is internationally recognized as being home to some of the nation's best beaches. The island’s deliciously warm subtropical climate remains a constant practically year-round making it the perfect summer-style escape no matter the season on mainland Japan. Home to ample watersports opportunities, like snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as boasting its fair share of scenic viewpoints, like Makiyama Observation Deck it’s impossible not to fall in love with this postcard-perfect island. When you come to explore, one of the best places to set up a home base is Hotel Locus, a sleek, stylish hotel with retail outlets, restaurants, sports facilities and incredible ocean views. Awaji Island, Hyogo Awaji Island, Hyogo A little closer to the main island in the Seto Inland sea between Honshu and Shikoku sits Awaji Island, an oft-overlooked island destination practically overflowing with incredible history and stunning natural views. Sometimes referred to as the Hawaii of Hyogo by the locals, it’s only two hours from Osaka making it the perfect summer city escape. One excellent resort worth staying at is Westin Awaji Island Resort and Conference Center. It’s centrally located, offering easy access to the area’s major attractions like Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Mitsui Outlet Park Marine Pia Kobe mall. But do be warned, with its ocean views, world-class amenities and meticulously manicured, picture perfect gardens Westin Awaji Island Resort will be difficult to leave. Niijima, Tokyo Niijima, Tokyo One for the surfers, Niijima sits just a few hours north of Tokyo and offers some of the best waves in the country. If you’re looking for an accessible mini-vacation with picture-perfect beaches and ample water sports facilities but don’t want to head too far from the city, be sure to add this one to your itinerary. It’s still not a super well known international tourist destination but boasts some attractive resorts. One recommended option is Niijima-mura Onsen Lodge located on the water just southeast of Habushiura Park. A little more low key than other beach resorts, this cozy hotel has western and Japanese style rooms as well as excellent onsen facilities, perfect for soaking those aching muscles after a long day carving up the waves. Goto Islands, Nagasaki Goto Islands, Nagasaki Floating in the stunning East China Sea, the Goto Islands of Nagasaki Prefecture are a criminally underrated beach destination, perfect for both the long, romantic summer escape or just a few days of adventure with the family. One top resort choice on Goto Islands is Margherita Goto Islands Resort Hotel. Only five kilometers from the popular historic destination, Aogasaura Catholic Church, the resort has ocean views, spacious open plan rooms, and a kitchen that serves up excellent Japanese and international cuisine. Tateyama, Chiba Tateyama, Chiba Perched on the southern tip of the Boso Peninsula in Chiba Prefecture, Tateyama is another Tokyo-accessible beachy escape, popular with city day trippers and water sports enthusiasts. Here you’ll find plenty of opportunities to try a little fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving by the rocky coastline, as well as a broad selection of beach resorts. If you’re having difficulting choosing where to stay, consider Uminoyuyado Hanashibuki Hotel, situated at the south of the Boso Peninsula, right by the sea of Tateyama Bay. With its Japanese-style guest rooms, it has the cozy charm of a classic ryokan inn, complete with open-air hot spring baths and banquet-style dinners. The Remote Islands of Okinawa The Remote Islands of Okinawa Thirty kilometers west of Naha City, in Okinawa, sits Zamami Island, it’s part of the Kerama Islands archipelago, an is a relatively remote island with unparalleled ocean views. There are two main beaches, Furuzamami Beach, and Ama Beach both with crystal clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. Practically untouched by large scale tourism, it feels like a remote island secret. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 15. August. 2019
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Surfing in Chiba
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- With the majority of Chiba Prefecture bordering the Pacific Ocean, it is no surprise water activities are a big part of the entertainment options for travelers who make the trip east of Tokyo. Of those activities, one that is quickly gaining popularity among foreigners is surfing. Here we’ll give you the shortlist of our favorite surf breaks that will have you moving along the east coast of Boso Peninsula, and exploring the surfing vibes of Onjuku, Ichinomiya, and Katsuura. Ichinomiya Beach Ichinomiya Beach According to most in the Japanese surfing world, Ichinomiya is the best beach break in Chiba. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic committee agrees with this and has made this town the host of the first ever Olympic surfing competition. To get to Ichinomiya Beach it’s best to drive as the closest station to the beach is good 30-minute walk away. You’ll want to get to Road 30 and once there, head for a small beachside road. You’ll have several spots to choose from along this long stretch of beach which is part of the famous Kujukuri Beach coastline. Ichinomiya Beach The beach break is hit with the strong currents from the north so extra care is recommended when heading out to the lineup. After an intense session in the water, the fun continues in the beach cafes and restaurants bordering the road. There are also plenty of surf shops and surf schools in the area. If you are in need of last-minute gear or are interested in a surf lesson, Deep Surf Shop is the home of pro surfer Reo Inaba and one of the most trusted shops in town. Ichinomiya Beach Onjuku Beach Onjuku Beach The town of Onjuku is located 25km south of Ichinomiya Beach along Road 128 and is home to a long sandy beach easily accessible after an hour-and-a-half train ride from Tokyo and a short walk from Onjuku Station. This beautiful south-facing beach break offers consistent waves for longboards and funboards, with high swells days providing awesome conditions for shortboards. There’s plenty of room out in the water with the lineups getting most of the traffic on both far ends of the beach where the waves tend to be stronger. When the waves are coming from the south and the offshore winds kicking, this is where you want to be. And because the currents do come from the south, the water is warmer than at most spots in the prefecture, with a 5mm wetsuit being more than enough during the winter. For those looking to catch a lesson before venturing out on their own, Flying Sumo Surf Co. offer super fun lessons, board rentals (including SUP), and a cool hangout to unwind after catching some waves. Katsuura Beach Katsuura Beach Another south facing break you ought to check out is Katsuura Beach. Known to local surfers as Malibu. In terms of wave size and water temperature, Malibu is comparable to Onjuku up the road although this break does encounter a few small coral reefs before reaching the shore which add a twist to the session. Surfers tend to concentrate around the reef area but crowds are smaller than at other breaks. The facilities are minimal around here so if you are planning on surfing Malibu you should come prepared with a water tank or simply wait to shower back at the hotel. If driving, there is a family restaurant right in front of the beach offering daily parking for a small fee. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Chiba
- 6. August. 2019
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Hiking Day Trip near Tokyo! The best mountain hiking spots in the Kanto region
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- Are you tired of the busy city life in Tokyo? Do you want to stretch your legs or enjoy a deep breath of fresh air? You might be feeling that it’s a big deal to go hiking in the mountains from a big city such as Tokyo, but there are quite a few destinations close by that you can visit, without having to spend the night. Here’s an introduction to the mountains that can be easily accessed by bus or train from Tokyo. All of them are friendly mountains for beginners too! Enjoy the greenery and wash away your stresses from the excessively crowded city of Tokyo! 1. Mt. Takao (高尾山) in Tokyo Mt. Takao Mt. Takao Mt. Takao is probably the easiest option if you want to go mountain hiking in Tokyo. Many elementary schools send their students there for day trips, which reflects that it’s a very easy hike, even for children! The easiest course only takes about two hours to get to the top. If you are still worried it might be too tough, you can ride a cable car to the middle of the mountain. At the base of the mountain is a popular tourist area with various shops where you can enjoy a variety of food and even a soak in the hot springs! Mt. Takao is only an hour and a half away from central Tokyo.URL：https://www.takaotozan.co.jp/ 2. Mt. Mitake (御岳山) in Tokyo Mt. Mitake Mt. Mitake Many people visit this refreshing place to be re-energized as they face the daily stresses of life. Mt. Mitake is a famous “power spot” - a place where you can heal yourself and recharge your energy from nature. Mt. Mitake is also famous for the beautiful colors of its tree leaves during the fall. You can ride a cable car from the nearest station to the start of the hiking trail while enjoying beautiful views of the city. The hike to the summit where the Musashi Mitake Shrine is located takes around 1 - 1.5 hours. There is also a shrine that celebrates dogs on the way to the top, so you might see people hiking with their dogs!URL：https://www.mitaketozan.co.jp/ 3. Mt. Odake (大岳山) in Tokyo If you make it to the top of Mt. Mitake, we recommend that you challenge yourself to trek up this mountain. Mt. Odake is known as one of the top 200 mountains in Japan. There are various courses to the top that you can choose from, depending on your experience and fitness levels. On sunny days, you can see Mt. Fuji and other beautiful mountains from the top of Mt. Odake. When you walk back down to the bottom, opt for the route that takes you through the rock garden, passing a waterfall and interesting rocks along the way. It’s about two hours from the center of Tokyo to Mt. Odake’s nearest station. 4. Owakudani (大涌谷) in Kanagawa Owakudani Owakudani Owakudani is a volcanic valley that was created over 3,000 years ago. You won’t experience the changing four seasons here, but you will come face-to-face with the power of nature as volcanic white smoke plumes from the valley. You can’t actually “hike” the mountain but you can definitely enjoy its natural setting by riding the ropeway that leads to the valley. This is the perfect place to visit if you want to be on top of a mountain but don’t want to climb up on foot. From central Tokyo to the nearest ropeway station is about two hours, followed by a 25-minute ropeway ride to the top of the valley. URL：http://www.owakudani.com/ https://www.navitime.co.jp/poi?spt=02301.2100569 5. Mt. Oyama (大山) in Kanagawa Mt. Oyama Mt. Oyama Kanagawa prefecture’s Mt. Oyama has long been revered as a holy mountain. It rises to 1,252 meters in height but is known as an easy mountain to hike. Simply take a bus from the nearest station, Isehara, to the cable bus stop from where you can journey to the hiking trailhead. On the way to the top, there is a spot called “Fujimi-dai, which offers the best views of Mt. Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan. It’s even better than the view of Mt. Fuji from the top of Mt. Oyama, so don’t forget to check it out when you pass this point! From Tokyo to Isehara station is 1.5 hours and the hike to the top takes about two hours. URL：https://www.ooyama-cable.co.jp/ 6. Mt. Kobo (弘法山) in Kanagawa Mt. Kobo Mt. Kobo is located in Kanagawa prefecture and rises to just 230 meters in height, which is not very high in terms of mountains. It’s famed for its beautiful sakura blossoms in spring, but you can still enjoy nature during summer and fall. There are also three other mountains nearby, so you can enjoy multiple mountain hikes! The area is known as Mt. Kobo Park and its hiking courses are neatly organized so that children can enjoy hiking too. At the base of the mountains is the Tsurumaki Onsen (a hot spring) where you can wash away the sweat and tiredness from your hike. The journey from central Tokyo to Mt. Kobo Park takes around 1.5 hours and the hike about two hours. 7. Mt. Ono (大野山) in Kanagawa Mt. Ono Mt. Ono is the best mountain for enjoying views of Mt. Fuji and has been selected as one of the top 100 Mt. Fuji viewing spots in the Kanto region. As you climb up, the sky appears to open up before you - there is nothing between you and the sky at the top! At the top of this mountain used to be a ranch and you can still see its wide and beautiful grassy field. As the grassy field is flat, you might feel like you’re just relaxing in the park, accompanied by an extraordinary view and fresh mountain air. When you come down to the bottom of the mountain, you can stop by the Japanese public bath Sakura-Yu to rejuvenate your body! Mt. Ono is around 1.5 hours away from central Tokyo and it takes about the same time to climb up to the top. 8. Mt. Nokigiri (鋸山) in Chiba Mt. Nokigiri Mt. Nokigiri Situated on the Boso Peninsula is Mt. Nokigiri whose summit offers wonderful ocean views. The surrounding area is touristy, with many souvenir shops and hot springs. If you want to enjoy a sightseeing atmosphere while hiking, then this is the perfect place to go! They also have a ropeway where you can enjoy great views, which is open from 9am to 5pm. If you’re feeling energetic, however, of course you can hike up independently. Don’t forget to stop by the most famous viewing spot at Kangetsu-dai, a Nihon-ji temple where you can greet the Buddha and enjoy the “view of hell”!URL：http://www.nihonji.jp/ 9. Mt. Hiwada (日和田山) in Saitama Mt. Hiwada Mt. Hiwada is a 305-meter-high mountain that is known as the symbol of Hidaka City in Saitama prefecture. There is the option to choose a harder course, Otoko zaka, or an easier course, Onna zaka when hiking up this mountain. You will pass through two torii (traditional Japanese shrine gates) and an actual shrine on the way to the top. It takes one hour to get to the nearest train station, Koma Station(高麗駅), followed by a 20-minute walk to get to the trailheads. From the starting point to the top will take about one hour. 10. Mt.Daibosatsu (大菩薩嶺) in Yamanashi Mt.Daibosatsu Mt.Daibosatsu Mt.Daibosatsu is a 2,057-meter-high mountain that’s located in Yamanashi! It’s pretty high and you might think that you can’t challenge this mountain but in fact, the hiking’s not too hard! The mountain road is nicely organized and it’s popular among beginner hikers. It takes around 2.5 hours to hike to the top of the mountain from where you can enjoy a beautiful view of Mt. Fuji on sunny days. It takes two hours from Tokyo to the nearest train station but from there, you will need to take a taxi or local bus for 40 minutes to arrive at the mountain’s trailheads.URL：https://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/kankou/spot/p1_4768.html ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 6. June. 2019
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SUP in Onjuku
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- If you like your summer beach adventures with a little-added adrenaline, then consider making the short trip to Chiba, the beach town that’s popular with the surf-obsessed city people. Located around an hour and a half to two hours from Tokyo by train, this long, south-facing beach boasts consistent waves perfect for those trying their hand at mastering the art of the longboard. It’s a great place for first timers too and is home to Flying Sumo Surf Co. a surf school, board rental shop (including SUP), which is also a cafe.
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- Chiba
- 15. March. 2019
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Beaches near Tokyo - 5 of the Best
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- When the sun is out, and the mercury at an all-time high, the last place you want to be is stuck in the furnace that is the concrete streets of Tokyo. If you're looking for somewhere to cool off, there are plenty of beach towns just a short train ride from the city center. Time to pack your swimming costumes, and beach towels and embrace the Japanese summer! The Beaches of Enoshima The Beaches of Enoshima If you want to experience a quick summer weekend escape like the Tokyo locals do it, then head straight to Enoshima. This laid back beach hub is just over an hour from Tokyo and about 40 minutes from Yokohama by train, making it one of the easiest places to escape to. But be warned, in peak season it’s incredibly popular. The area is home to many family-friendly and party-loving beaches, but Katase Beach, is the best for paddling, while Nishihama Beach located right nearby is the unofficial home of Enoshima watersports. If you’re looking for a little extra adventure, you can easily combine a visit to Enoshima with a morning trip to the historic town of Kamakura, which is just a 35-minute ride on the scenic coastal Enoshima Dentetsu Line. Hayama’s Isshiki and Morito Beach Hayama’s Isshiki and Morito Beach Take a 65-kilometer journey from Tokyo down the Shonan coast, and you’ll come to Hayama, a cruisy seaside town, that’s still a bit of a local’s secret. Popular in summer with Tokyoites and Yokohama folk, its off-the-well-worn-train-track location means that it doesn’t see quite as many tourists as the other beaches near Tokyo, but it is still accessible by bus. The area has two main beach sites, Isshiki Beach and Morito Beach, and a visit to each can fit into one day. We recommend starting the day exploring the rugged rock formations of Morito Beach, which are home to the weathered, but no less iconic torii gates. Then when you’re ready to relax head on over to Isshiki Beach to unwind, soak in the sun for a bit, then enjoy a drink or two under the shade of the summer-only pop-up beach huts. The Beaches Around Minami Izu The Beaches Around Minami Izu A long-time popular destination for Tokyo locals and a growing tourist destination, the beaches of Izu Peninsula are worlds away from the inner-city concrete jungles. What makes this such an appealing summer destination is the sheer variety and beauty of the beaches on offer. If you’re the adventurous type, try visiting Hirizo Beach, which is accessible only by boat, or Kujuppama a mysterious bay disguised by tall rocky cliffs covered in the untamed foliage. If you’re after something a little easier, there’s always the spacious Yumigahama Beach, the most popular in the area. SUP in Onjuku SUP in Onjuku If you like your summer beach adventures with a little-added adrenaline, then consider making the short trip to Chiba, the beach town that’s popular with the surf-obsessed city people. Located around an hour and a half to two hours from Tokyo by train, this long, south-facing beach boasts consistent waves perfect for those trying their hand at mastering the art of the longboard. It’s a great place for first timers too and is home to Flying Sumo Surf Co. a surf school, board rental shop (including SUP), which is also a cafe. Surfing in Oshima & Niijima Surfing in Oshima & Niijima Wide sandy bays, clear blue water, and larger than average waves, Niijima is arguably one of the best surfing spots in the country. Technically located within the Tokyo Metropolis, this tropical hideaway is a little further than most from the big city but well worth the journey. Another nearby option is Oshima, a stunning neighboring volcanic island that feels entire worlds away from Tokyo. Both of the sites are accessible from the city via air or boat, so they're probably best reserved for those with a little extra time up their sleeves. If you decide to take the more scenic route and travel by sea, the regular ferry will get you from Takeshiba pier in about six hours for Oshima and eight for Niijima, while high-speed ferry will get you there in two to three hours. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 15. March. 2019
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Soba Restaurants Around Japan
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- Soba, the humble and thin buckwheat noodle, is rarely heard of outside of Japan. A shame, since soba is known to be one of the dishes representing Japan. A plate of soba serves as a blank canvas to be twisted and created into a whole new dish. The best soba is not found in just one city, it is found all throughout the country. Tea Soba in Uji Tea Soba in Uji Just a short train ride from Kyoto, Uji is famous for providing the former capital city’s famous green tea. Uji is a small town with plenty of tea farms. All of the food has a green tea twist, from ice cream to takoyaki. Tea Soba, soba infused with green tea, is the perfect way to try Uji’s famous tea and indulge in a light meal at the same time. Make Botan Soba in Onjuku Make Botan Soba in Onjuku Onjuku, a small beach town on the Boso Peninsula, is home to Kiwami Soba, a soba shop famous for the rare botan soba. Not only can diners indulge in the soba, they can also try and make it themselves. Both beginners and advanced cooks can take classes with the owner. Be sure to make reservations in advance. Fumotoya Soba on Yamadera Fumotoya Soba on Yamadera Located on the bottom of Yamadera, a holy mountain filled with shrines, Fumotoya Soba is the perfect restaurant to grab lunch post hike. The soba is as traditional as the restaurant itself. The restaurant prides itself on their fresh noodles and original, strong taste of buckwheat. Yamagata is a famous prefecture for their soba and Yamadera boasts some of the best small restaurants in town. Uango in Takehara Uango in Takehara Takehara is a town with a preserved Edo-era street in Hiroshima. Also known as Little Kyoto, Takehara hosts small gift shops and traditional restaurants, just like the former capital. For an off the beaten path lunch spot, be sure to look for Uango, a soba shop located in a small house. Enjoy the hand-made noodles on offer and have a chat with the friendly owner. Kawara Soba at Choshuya Yuda Shop in Yamaguchi Kawara Soba at Choshuya Yuda Shop in Yamaguchi For a unique twist on the noodle and soup set, check out the broth-less green tea noodles topped with meat served at Choshuya Yuda Shop. A Yamaguchi creation, these noodles are a served dry and on a sizzling platter with a lemon seasoning. The dish is perfect for two people to split. The noodles can be found all around Yamaguchi but Choshuya Yuda is one of the most famous, due to their large portions. Togakushi Soba at Gokui in Togakushi, Nagano Togakushi Soba at Gokui in Togakushi, Nagano Be sure to arrive early to Gokui before their popular, handmade noodles run out for the day. Gokui specializes in Togakushi soba, cold noodles served on a bamboo plate in five bundles, representing the Togakushi shrine’s five gods. The noodles were originally eaten by pilgrims who once visited these five shrines. Gokui is located in a refurbished lodging home used for pilgrims, so diners can have the full experience. Azumaya Wanko Soba in Morika, Iwate Azumaya Wanko Soba in Morika, Iwate Iwate’s soba dish is wanko soba, which has become associated with the one hundred bowl challenge. Wanko soba is served in small bowls, or wanko, and is repeatedly refilled until the diner has had enough. The dining experience is like a game, when the noodles are finished the server will quickly refill unless the lid is covering the bowl. Azumaya specializes in all you can eat wanko and serves sides such as meat, fish or vegetables to help flavor the noodles. Kanda Matsuya in Tokyo Kanda Matsuya in Tokyo Located in eastern Tokyo, Kanda Matsuya is one of the most famous handcrafted soba restaurants in the city. The restaurant opened in 1884 and still retains the traditional, wooden aesthetic inside. The portions are served either hot or cold and can be ordered with a side of crispy tempura. Kame Soba in Irabu, Miyakojima Kame Soba in Irabu, Miyakojima Although technically not considered soba by a mainlander, as the noodles are made from wheat as opposed to buckwheat (buckwheat soba in Okinawa is called Nihon soba), we would be amiss to ignore Okinawa soba in this list. This restaurant in Miyakojima is small and cozy, and located in a house. All of the ingredients are local and the noodles and tofu are handmade. The soup is also topped with juicy pork. Kame can get crowded during lunch, as it’s one of the more popular noodle shops on the island. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 21. February. 2019
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Surfing in Japan
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- Japan, for those uninitiated into the thrills of surfing, is not exactly synonymous with the sport. Enthusiasts though, both local and across the globe, know that the Land of the Rising Sun boasts both some great waves and a vibrant surfing culture to back them up. Here is our pick of the country’s best spots to hang ten or get goofy. Chiba Surfing in Chiba Chiba Prefecture, with the majority of its border surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, is at the heart of Japanese surfing culture: large chunks of the country’s best-loved surf movie, ‘A Scene at the Sea’ directed by Takeshi ‘Beat’ Kitano, are set here. It’s also the surfing spot most easily accessed from the capital. Surfing in Chiba The most highly rated waves lay over on Chiba’s eastern shores. Ichinomiya Beach, part of the picturesque Kujukuri coastline and best reached from Tokyo by car, is deemed by many Japanese surf devotees to possess the prefecture’s greatest beach break. Onjuku Beach, 25 kilometers south of Ichinomiya and around 90 minutes from Tokyo by train, is another highly scenic beach. Onjuku enjoys warmer waters than elsewhere in Chiba, thanks to currents that come in from the south, and generally consistent waves make it particularly suitable for funboards and longboards. Itoshima Surfing in Itoshima Itoshima is the seaside town of choice for folks from nearby Fukuoka looking to kick back for a while. Reliably consistent waves, together with good breaks, also make it a key part of Kyushu’s vibrant surf scene. Here the action takes place against a backdrop of lush, rolling hills, with surfers of all abilities flocking to two main spots, Nogita Beach and Futamigaura Beach. Surfing in Itoshima Futamigaura’s surfing area is smaller than that of Nogita, but a laid back atmosphere and pleasant scenery have seen this stretch of coast become a hip hangout. Locals refer to it as Fukuoka’s answer to the North Shore in Hawaii’s Oahu, and the beachside road is now lined with independent shops and eateries. Miyazaki Surfing in Miyazaki Down in Kyushu’s southeast awaits the city of Miyazaki, undoubtedly one of the very best places to experience surfing in Japan. The typhoon swell here is consistent almost all year round, and Kisakihama Beach’s wide range of beach breaks, river mouths, and punchy reefs have seen it chosen to host heats in a number of international competitions. The icing on the cake is the shoreline’s backdrop of dramatic mountainous terrain, which creates a stunning silhouette as the sun sets on the Pacific Ocean. Article: Surfing in Miyazaki Shimoda Surfing in Shimoda Shimoda, down on the Izu Peninsula a three-hour drive or train ride southwest of Tokyo, is another surf hotspot considered one of Japan’s very best. Here pearl white-sanded beaches, flanked by verdant forests and imposing mountains, give way to expansive waters that enjoy swells from the south, west, and east; making it possible to surf all through the year. Surfing in Shimoda Two beaches are especially recommended. Tatadohama Beach lies a short hop down from Izukyu-Shimoda Station, and hordes of parked-up camper vans and surf gear-laden cars attest to its status as a focal point for the sport. Fear not though, as on the expansive sands it is usually possible to find somewhere to set up camp. Just a little further south is Kisami Ohama Beach, with a relaxed, inclusive vibe that sees parents teaching their kids the basics on some sparklingly clear waves. Niijima Surfing in Niijima Surfing in Tokyo? Not quite, but technically this outlying island, roughly 163 kilometers south of the capital, is administered by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Niijima, which spans 23 kilometers and boasts beautiful turquoise waters, has established itself as a surf culture hub while at the same time avoiding becoming overcrowded with visitors. Surfing in Niijima Highly recommended here is Habushiura. Offering some great swells, this seven-kilometer stretch hosts many of the island’s surfing contests and is the most easiest accessed of Niijima’s beaches: it’s a mere 20-minute walk from Niijima Airport, or 10 minutes by car. The dedicated can opt for the giant waves and towering cliffs of a surf spot known as Secret: getting there involves a 20-minute trek through lush greenery. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 11. February. 2019
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Beaches of Japan: Six of the Best
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- Japan is a nation of islands, with the vast Pacific Ocean on its southern and eastern shores and the cooler Sea of Japan to the north. The Japanese archipelago is made up of over 4000 islands and has just under 30,000 kilometers of coastline, so it comes as no surprise that the country is home to many wonderful beaches as well. Ryukyu Islands Ryukyu Islands At Japan’s most southerly end lie the Ryukyu or Nansei Islands, which stretch in an arc from Kyushu all the way to Taiwan. They are a chain of subtropical islands with mild year-round temperatures, pristine coral reefs, and some of Japan’s best beaches. The largest island in the chain is Okinawa Island, and while it has some nice beaches of its own, the nearby Kerama Islands are like an untouched paradise of white sandy beaches and richly diverse sea life for divers and snorkelers. Maehama Beach on Aka Island is a great spot for seeing coral while snorkeling, while local companies on beautiful Zamami Island offer diving trips for beginners through to pros. The Kerama Islands can be reached by air and ferry from Naha. Kyushu Heading north, Kyushu is the most southerly of Japan’s four main islands and so also experiences milder temperatures than the rest of Japan, and it has many scenic coastal areas to enjoy. Laid-back and balmy, Miyazaki is becoming renowned as one of Japan’s premier surf spots and it has a number of fine beaches within the city limits, such as Aoshima and Kisakihama. They both offer good year-round surfing conditions with a reliable typhoon swell, but they are big and wide enough for regular beachgoers to enjoy too. Kyushu A nice day trip from Fukuoka in north-west Kyushu lies Karatsu, a small historic port city with plenty of stunning coastline scenery nearby. Just outside the city center is Niji-no-Matsubara, a 5 km stretch of land thick with pine trees that were originally planted as a sea defense, which straddles the beautiful Azumanohama Beach. This large sandy beach offers splendid views of the bay, the islands, and the nearby mountains. There are plenty of seaside hotels a short distance away, yet it rarely feels overdeveloped or crowded. Shirahama Shirahama One of the most popular beaches in the Kansai area is Shirahama, a couple of hours from Osaka in neighboring Wakayama Prefecture. This small town is famous for its white sand beach and numerous hot springs, making it a popular summer getaway. Izu Peninsula Izu Peninsula For Tokyoites, the Izu Peninsula has likewise long been a popular weekend retreat, thanks to its numerous hot springs and superb rugged coastline. At its southern end close to the town of Shimoda is Tatadohama, a nice big sandy beach good for families and surfing, with some facilities such as showers and a restaurant but still not overly developed. There are plenty of other good beaches in the area too, including the more popular Shirahama to the east of the town. Kamakura Kamakura Even closer to Tokyo is Kamakura, an attractive seaside town with plenty to see and do and an easy day trip from the capital. It has a number of sandy beaches, such as the popular Yuigahama and Zaimokuza, both of which can be very busy in July and August. Instead, head a little further west to Shichirigahama, a beach with nice views (Mt. Fuji is visible if it’s clear), small waves for surfers, and plenty of places to eat afterwards. Moriya Beach Moriya Beach On the other side of Tokyo, neighboring Chiba Prefecture also has some attractive beaches, which are great for escaping the city. Close to the town of Katsuura is Moriya Beach, a clean sandy beach with beautiful views of the blue Pacific Ocean. The surrounding coastline is worth exploring too, with many shrines, caves, and hidden inlets to discover. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 14. August. 2018
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Recommended spots
159 results
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- Kujukuri Beach
- Beach Bathing Facility
- Kujukuri-cho, Sanbu-gun, Chiba Prefecture
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- Inagenohama Beach
- Beach Bathing Facility
- Chiba Pref. Chibashi Mihama-ku Takahama 7-2
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- Ubara Risokyo
- Cape
- Chiba Pref. Katsurashi Ubara
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- Kamogawa Matsushima
- Island
- Chiba Pref. Kamogawashi Kaisuka
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- Sakuda Beach
- Beach Bathing Facility
- Chiba Pref. Sambugunkujukurimachi Sakuda
Chiba Main Areas
The Boso Peninsula forms the main body of Chiba prefecture, and this is where you’ll find its endless warm water beaches and jagged mountains. Further inland, Naritaーmost famous as the home of Narita Airportーis a secret haven of tradition and history in the form of centuries-old Shinshoji Temple and quaint wooden Edo buildings. Chiba prefecture is also home to both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea.
Chiba Photo Album
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A list of spots
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