Are you looking for a new destination besides Tokyo during your trip through Japan? Don’t get me wrong, Tokyo is fantastic, but sometimes you want to discover something different without straying far from the capital. In this article I share my experiences with Chiba and Yokohama, two cities close to Tokyo. Read on to find out if these destinations are worth your time and money.
Chiba City: A disappointment or a hidden gem?
Chiba is just a stone’s throw from Tokyo, so you would expect it to be a kind of ‘Little Tokyo’. With that expectation I left for Chiba a few months ago. There wasn’t much information online, but my curiosity got the better of me. Unfortunately, Chiba turned out to be a big disappointment.
After a morning of wandering around the nearest park and the town itself, I realized there wasn’t much to do. It lacked interesting sights and vibrancy. Ultimately, I decided not to return to Tokyo, but to take a train to the town of Sakura, known as a hidden gem full of history. Unfortunately, the Japanese town of Sakura also turned out not to meet my expectations. Although the village has a rich history, there was little maintenance and there was a lack of good signage, let alone in English.
Conclusion: Is it worth it?
Based on my experiences, I recommend planning your time in Japan carefully. Although Chiba and Sakura disappointed me personally, your experience may of course be different. It’s always a good idea to go on your own adventure and discover what these places have in store for you. Keep your eyes open for the hidden places and be surprised by what Japan has to offer outside Tokyo. My conclusion about Chiba City is simple: spend your time elsewhere.
Read on below for the difference between Chiba and Yokohama!
Skip or visit Yokohama?
Yokohama, this true port city close to Tokyo, offers a unique mix of industrial charm and modern attractions. But is Yokohama worth visiting during your trip to Japan? In this article I share my experiences and journey of discovery through this fascinating Japanese city.
Accessibility and first impressions
Yokohama is easy to reach from Tokyo by train. In no time you will get off at a huge station surrounded by impressive skyscrapers. Without much research beforehand, I decided to explore the city by just wandering around and discovered some nice places.
Sights in Yokohama
Nissan Showroom – My first stop was the extensive Nissan showroom, where I enjoyed a coffee at the local Starbucks while admiring special cars. This already gave a first impression of the modern and industrial atmosphere of Yokohama.
Yokohama Landmark Tower – Next I visited the Yokohama Landmark Tower, a huge shopping center with panoramic views of the city from the top floor. This experience was made even better by the sunny weather, which gave the city a warm and lively appearance. On clear days you can even see Mount Fuji, which offers an unforgettable view.
Kishamichi Promenade and Red Brick Warehouse – I continued walking along the scenic Kishamichi Promenade to the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, where I was surprised by a local dog market. Here dogs were treated like emperors, which was a unique and entertaining experience.
Yokohama Chinatown – My tour then led me to Yokohama Chinatown, a vibrant area full of colourful shops, delicious eateries and a vibrant atmosphere. It felt like I was entering a whole new world.
Conclusion: Is Yokohama a must-visit?
Yokohama is definitely worth a visit. The city offers a variety of activities and attractions that will appeal to every traveler. From modern shopping centers and panoramic views to historic areas and culinary delights, Yokohama has it all. The city feels spacious and welcoming, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy delicious food and shop. I plan to definitely return again to explore the rest of the city.
If I had to choose between Chiba and Yokohama, I would, of course, choose Yokohama!
For more tips and travel experiences in Japan, keep following my blog. Discover the hidden gems in Japan that will make your travels unforgettable. Additionally, read about another fun day trip from Tokyo here.
