Sharing a lengthy eastern coastline with the Pacific Ocean, Chiba Prefecture is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Its ocean-blessed shoreline is home to a variety of destinations, including dreamy sunset spots, majestic cliffs, and traditional architecture. There are, suffice to say, plenty of things to do in Chiba, whether you're into nature, culture, or seaside views.
Activity-inclined visitors can enjoy surfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and horseback riding on Kujukuri Beach, the second longest beach in Japan. Of course, a trip to the ocean would be incomplete without seafood, and Chiba has no shortage of delicious eats. Dine on fresh seafood bowls, grilled clams, clam ramen, and tasty local specialties like Peanut Monaka—a peanut-shaped wafer cookie filled with sweet red bean paste and peanuts.
As a base for enjoying Chiba’s seaside charms, Kamenoi Hotel Kujukuri is an excellent place to embrace the area’s appeal, with ocean-view guest rooms, rejuvenating hot spring baths, and a wide range of gourmet delights. Even better, the Chiba ryokan is only about one hour and 40 minutes from Tokyo by train (Limited Express Shiosai). The child and dog-friendly hotel also offers a plethora of amenities, ensuring that people of all ages (and species) can enjoy a comfortable lodging experience.
Let’s dive into some of the best seaside attractions in Chiba.
What can I do in and around Kujukuri, Chiba?
Kujukuri is a relatively small town located on Chiba’s eastern coast. Its namesake and most popular destination, Kujukuri Beach, is 66 kilometers long and characterized by its soft sand and gentle tide. Past the calm waters, larger waves make the area one of Japan’s best surfing spots. Kujukuri, along with nearby cities like Asahi and Choshi, is known for its laid-back, beach town vibes, making it a popular destination for urbanites craving a slower pace of life.
Chiba sightseeing and activities
Naturally, the area’s attractions and culture are deeply intertwined with the ocean. Iioka Cape Gyobu Observation Hall and Light Beacon Station is an ideal destination for stunning panoramas of the Pacific Ocean. This modest lighthouse was built in the 1950s and has an observatory called the “Deck of Light and Wind.” From here, you can admire the vast ocean meeting the sky, as well as Asahi’s port area and Kujukuri Beach. Thanks to its unobstructed views, the lighthouse is listed as one of Japan’s top sunrise spots.
Farther east rests the Byobugaura Cliffs, a dramatic geological formation in Choshi that has captivated people since the Edo period (1603–1868). This 10-kilometer stretch of cliffs ranges from 20 to 60 meters tall and features beautiful strata. Enjoy this natural artwork along a nearby coastal trail or from the sea on a kayak.
As mentioned briefly above, the eastern side of Chiba is renowned for its surfing culture. The coastline features both stable and challenging waves, making it a perfect place for beginners and experienced athletes. In fact, Tsurigasaki Beach, located in Ichinomiya, hosted the world’s first Olympic surfing competition in 2021 during the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics. Now, it is regarded as a “holy ground for surfing.” The beach’s seaside torii gate adds a mystical aura to the area, acting as a popular photo spot in tandem with the shifting waters and sunset sky. In addition to surfing, the calm tide is also a great place for SUP.
If you are looking for an unconventional seaside activity, consider horseback riding on Kujukuri Beach with Sunshine Stables! This company offers 60, 90, and 120-minute courses, as well as a beginner course, which includes a basic lesson. As you leisurely wander across the sandy coastline—sea breeze against your face and ocean melodies in your mind—the gentle sway of your horse will lull you into a state of peace. For more advanced riders, the company also offers a specialty plan that allows you to gallop across the sand. You will leave with wind-swept hair and a sense of exhilaration you will not soon forget.
Despite its numerous ocean-centric destinations, Kujukuri and the surrounding areas are also home to some impressive cultural attractions. For instance, Tamasaki Shrine in Ichinomiya is over 1,200 years old. It enshrines the goddess who is said to have given birth to Japan’s first emperor, and thus, is known as a power spot for matchmaking, fertility, and childbirth. Visually, it is characterized by its black-laquered shrine building. The eye-catching structures interwoven with greenery, provide a tranquil and historical retreat.
Kasamori-Kannon Temple is a must-visit destination for architecture lovers as its main hall is the only example of Shihokake-zukuri architecture in Japan. This type of architecture uses long pillars and other structures to elevate a building and is typically used in areas with large elevation differences. Kasamori-Kannon Temple’s main hall, designated as a National Important Cultural Property, is built atop a large rock and rests on 61 stilts. Since the temple is located fairly far from the coastline, its grounds are nestled in lush forests, transporting you to a visually stunning and soothing realm.
Eating and shopping
For exceptionally fresh seafood and local cuisine, don’t miss Umi no Eki Kujukuri (Seaside Plaza Kujukuri). This facility is located beside Katagai Fishing Port and houses a direct sales market and food court. The food court’s three restaurants serve an array of dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients, including seafood rice bowls and sashimi sets, grilled eel over rice, and soba (buckwheat noodles) paired with seafood, like hamaguri (common Orient clam). When the weather is nice, you can dine outside on the facility’s terrace, which overlooks Kujukuri Beach. In addition to freshly caught fish, the direct sales market also sells processed products, like peanut butter, the facility’s original peanut butter ice cream, and local Chiba sake. Be sure to browse the goods for a tasty souvenir!
The facility is also home to a free-admission museum about squid culture in Kujukuri (Iwashi Museum) and a retro, blue-painted mailbox that has become a popular photo spot thanks to its eye-catching color and design.
In terms of local gourmet and specialties, the greater Kujukuri area is renowned for its sardines, clams, nure-senbei (moist rice crackers), and Peanut Monaka. If you are a fan of Japanese snacks, you have likely heard of senbei (rice crackers) and probably envision a crispy treat. However, one of the most unique things about nure-senbei is its soft texture and chewy mouthfeel. During production, nure-senbei are soaked in soy sauce, resulting in extra moisture and a rich umami flavor. This type of senbei is less common than its crispy counterpart, so why not grab a bag while you are in the area?
Chiba is Japan’s top peanut producer, and one of its most beloved souvenirs is Peanut Monaka. This cutely-shaped treat has a crispy wafer exterior and a soft filling of red bean paste mixed with Chiba peanut paste. Chiba’s peanuts are known for their rich flavor and slight sweetness, which pair perfectly with the sugary, earthy flavor of red bean paste. The addicting balance of flavors and textures and adorable aesthetic of this sweet are guaranteed to have you reaching for more.
Where can I stay in Chiba?
If you are looking for oceanside views, diverse room types, child and/or dog-friendly amenities, delicious local dishes, and relaxing hot springs, Kamenoi Hotel Kujukuri is the place for you. Recently renovated in April 2025, this oceanfront hotel is easily accessible from Tokyo and boasts panoramic rooms with stunning views of Kujukuri Beach and the Pacific Ocean. The hotel’s array of offerings and cozy, playful ambience make it a perfect destination for couples, friends, solo travelers, dog parents, and families with young children.
Guest rooms
Kamenoi Hotel Kujukuri has 11 different room types—nine Western-style and two Japanese-style. The rooms can accommodate between two to six people and all have ocean views. (Please note that the Kids room and newly-built, third-floor rooms do not have balconies). Enjoy watching the ever-changing scenery from the comfort of your private space. Families with young children will especially love the Kids room—a whimsical guest room where children can have fun in a safe environment and parents can relax with peace of mind. The room also comes equipped with helpful amenities, like toys, books, and a baby bath.
In April 2025, Kamenoi Hotel Kujukuri unveiled glamping villas, including Western-style and Dog-friendly room types. These elegant accommodations create cozy moments of privacy close to nature and feature private saunas, as well as ample equipment for a BBQ. As a dog-friendly hotel, some of its lodges additionally include a private dog run, a cage, dog dishes, and more. Create a romantic evening or memorable moments with your family, friends, and/or fur baby in these stylishly rustic villas.
Delectable food
Thanks to its bountiful location, Kamenoi Hotel Kurukuji is blessed with high-quality ingredients from the land and sea. In its newly renovated restaurant, you can enjoy a high-end buffet filled with approximately 70 Japanese and Western dishes that utilize fresh seafood from Kurukuji and local Chiba ingredients. The buffet’s highlights include a seafood bowl corner and a live kitchen that prepares fresh specialty dishes right in front of you, such as Kujukuri Star beef and the area’s unique clam broth ramen. Other popular dishes include penne bolognese with Chiba pork, freshly-fried Alfonsino fritters, pizza with local vegetables, and small bowls of assorted sashimi.
In the morning, the live kitchen serves an array of energizing cuisine, so you can start your day with a satiated smile. Offerings include clam broth ramen, loquat-flavored French toast, Kujukuri Farm omelets, marinated horse mackerel, freshly-baked croissants, and so much more.
The spacious dining area has a wide variety of seating options, allowing you to comfortably and casually enjoy the flavors of Chiba.
As is standard with all Kamenoi Hotels, Kamenoi Hotel Kujukuri also offers complimentary, late-night Dandan noodles from 9pm–10:30pm. Every month, the hotel serves either spicy sichuan, black sesame, or white sesame noodles.
Healing hot springs
Kamenoi Hotel Kujukuri’s hot spring baths epitomize relaxation. The first floor large public bath has a variety of bath types, including jet baths, beauty baths, open-air baths, and more. Being on the first floor, the open-air and windowside baths offer up-close views of the oceanside scenery. This bathing area is open to both hotel guests and day visitors.
On the 10th floor, you can elevate both your views and bathing experience at the observation bath. This luxurious bath faces the ocean and offers unobstructed panoramas of the grand Pacific Ocean. With its early morning and evening hours, you can enjoy the shifting landscape throughout the day. Appreciate the sun as it rises above the horizon, watch the sparkling midday tide, and admire the moonlit sea’s hypnotic push and pull. No matter the time of day, the baths will leave you feeling utterly rejuvenated.
Additional amenities
Kamenoi Hotel Kujukuri has numerous on-site facilities to further enhance guests’ stays. For families with young children, the Kids Park (an indoor play area filled with toys and mini obstacle courses) and the Splash Pond (a refreshing, shallow pool) are guaranteed to keep little ones entertained. For older children, teenagers, and adults, the hotel has three karaoke rooms, table tennis, bicycle rentals, and a store with Kujukuri specialties. Relax and have fun your way.
Nearby activities
To truly immerse you in the area’s charms, Kamenoi Hotel Kujukuri has curated a small list of activities with corresponding booking links on its official website. Examples include a kayaking experience with views of the Byobugaura Cliffs, agricultural activities on a nearby farm, and horseback riding on Kujukuri Beach. Thanks to the hotel, you can lessen itinerary planning stress and fully commit yourself to making memories.
The greater Kujukuri area: Vacation by the sea
For a well-rounded beach getaway that offers seaside fun, Japanese culture, and mouthwatering cuisine, Kujukuri and the surrounding areas serve as excellent side trips from Tokyo. Pair your visit with a stay at Kamenoi Hotel Kujukuri for an immersive experience of Japan’s laid-back, surfside culture.
The ocean is calling, and Chiba is waiting.
Access: Chiba from Tokyo
From Tokyo Station, the fastest way to reach Asahi Station, located near Kujukuri Beach, is via the Limited Express Shiosai. Travel time is about one hour and 30 minutes. To reach Kamenoi Hotel Kujukuri, you can catch a free, hotel-operated shuttle. Shuttles depart from Asahi Station at 10:20am, 11:55am, 3:25pm, and 4:20pm and take roughly 10 minutes.
