Best things to do in Chiba Prefecture

The first Disney theme park outside of the United States, Tokyo Disneyland opened in 1983 to provide the same magic and fun that makes Disney World famous. The park contains seven sections: a World Bazaar, the four classic Disney worlds (Westernland, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Adventureland), Critter Country, and Mickey’s Toontown. Featuring many of the beloved rides and attractions based on Disney’s classic films, the park draws tremendous crowds. Research tickets in advance and wear comfortable shoes to navigate the park’s vast open spaces.

An original Japanese addition to Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea features nautically themed attractions, rides, and shows inspired by myths of the sea. The park contains seven different areas: Mermaid Lagoon, American Waterfront, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery, Arabian Coast, Mediterranean Harbor, and Mysterious Island. Check out the Venetian gondolas, an underwater world out of the imagination of the science fiction writer Jules Verne, and the S.S. Columbia steamship. Unlike its neighboring Disneyland, this park contains higher quality dining options where guests can order alcoholic beverages.

One of the largest complexes of its kind in the country, Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple represents one of the country's most important religious sites. The 10th-century Shingon Buddhist temple, just a short jaunt from the city's airport, sits within sprawling grounds dotted with many shrines, halls, and pagodas, each featuring classic swooping rooftops adorned with gold and red accents. Don't miss the complex's main pagoda, a 58 m (190 ft) tall structure erected in the 1980s.

Admire the majestic killer whales of Kamogawa Sea World, a large aquarium and amusement park that houses 800 marine animal species. Exploring the spacious habitats of the park, you can admire a huge variety of marine animals, such as vibrant tropical fish, sea turtles, seals, penguins, and seabirds. Enjoy animal skill performances and interact with the beluga whales, dolphins, and sea lions. See walruses being fed, or enjoy a show by the killer whales, which can even be seen as you dine in the park restaurant.

Observe hilltop views of the comings and goings of aircraft from Sakura no yama Park, a popular attraction for plane-spotters and families with kids. Featured in multiple TV shows over the years, the site ranks has having one of the 100 best views in the region. Consider bringing a picnic along with you and watch the planes soar into the sky while you eat.

Shop and dine at Naritasan Omote Sando, a 800 m (2,624 ft) stretch of avenue lined with zelkova trees. A shopping complex nearby, built in 2005 under somewhat controversial circumstances, contains 38 apartments and over 130 stores, many specializing in unagi (grilled eel). Stock up on other Japanese treats, including yokan (from sweet bean), rice crackers, sake, and teppozuke (stuffed pickled uri melons). Also termed Tokyo's Champs-Élysées, this strip can get very crowded, especially during holidays.