9 Best Things to Do in Chiba in September

Chiba Prefecture, located near Tokyo, is easily accessible and rich in nature, history, and culture, attracting many tourists throughout the year. Especially in September, the climate becomes milder, making it a great time to enjoy various events and activities. This article introduces the nature, activities, events, festivals, and fireworks that you can enjoy in Chiba Prefecture in September.

*Please note that the dates for the events introduced may change. Please check the official websites of the respective facilities for updated schedules.

Summer Nature and Activities

Chiba Prefecture is abundant in nature, and September is particularly great for enjoying outdoor activities. Here are some recommended spots in the “Boso Peninsula” and “Kujukuri” areas.

Kasamori Kannon Hiking Course (Nagareyama Town)

“Kasamori Kannon” is a Kannon hall built on a large rock. The area is surrounded by a natural forest designated as a national natural monument, featuring a 5km hiking course. In the cool September weather, you can enjoy diverse scenery including forests, highlands, lakes, and farms.

Inubosaki Lighthouse (Choshi City)

“Inubosaki Lighthouse” is one of the 16 “climbable lighthouses” in Japan. Climbing the 99-step spiral staircase, you are greeted with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. On clear days in September, the visibility is even better, allowing for a stunning seascape.

Narita Yume Bokujo (Narita City)

“Narita Yume Bokujo,” which spans an area about seven times the size of Tokyo Dome, offers a variety of activities such as feeding cows, milking, and pony riding. In September, a maze of blooming sunflowers creates a beautiful, colorful landscape.

Summer Events and Festivals

Many events and festivals are held in Chiba Prefecture in September, allowing visitors to enjoy local traditional culture and cuisine. Here are some particularly recommended events.

Kazusa Jūnisha Festival (Ichinomiya Town)

Held from September 10 to 13 at Tsurigasaki Beach in Ichinomiya Town, the “Kazusa Jūnisha Festival” is a vigorous event where about 2,500 men run naked. The highlight is the “Hamaori Shinji,” a ritual with a history of about 1,200 years, showcasing the oldest tradition and formality of the Boso Peninsula.

Onjuku Ise Ebi Festival (Onjuku Town)

The “Onjuku Ise Ebi Festival” held in Onjuku Town in September features original Ise Ebi (spiny lobster) menus at participating local stores. On specific days, events such as direct sales of Ise Ebi and free distribution of Ise Ebi soup are held, attracting many tourists.

Ōhara Hadaka Festival (Isumi City)

Held on September 23 and 24, the “Ōhara Hadaka Festival” prays for a bountiful harvest and a good catch. The sight of robust portable shrines rushing through the sea is impressive, and the “Owakare-shiki” ceremony marked by fireworks in the evening is not to be missed. The “Shiofumi” where numerous portable shrines jostle in the sea is a must-see.

Fireworks Festivals in September

In Chiba Prefecture, several fireworks festivals are held in September, lighting up the beautiful night sky. Here are some particularly recommended fireworks festivals.

Soga’s Night Sky Music and Fireworks Festival (Chuo Ward, Chiba City)

Held on September 7 at “Festival Walk Soga” in Chuo Ward, Chiba City, this fireworks festival features a beautiful show synchronized with music. It attracts about 10,000 spectators each year who enjoy the magnificent fireworks lighting up the night sky.

BON JOVI THE GREATEST FIREWORKS (Mihama Ward, Chiba City)

Held on September 28 at “Chiba Prefectural Makuhari Seaside Park,” this fireworks festival features a Japan-exclusive fireworks show synchronized with a special setlist by BON JOVI. With 13,000 fireworks being launched, it is a large-scale event with paid seating options available.

Kameyama Lake Fireworks Festival (Kimitsu City)

Held on September 28 at “Kameyama Lake Park” in Kimitsu City, this fireworks festival is known for the fireworks reflected on the lake surface and their resonant sounds. It attracts about 35,000 spectators each year, with 2,500 fireworks illuminating the night sky.