9 Best Things to Do in Chiba in October

If you’re planning a trip, you’d want to include things in your itinerary that you can only see or experience during that specific time, right? This time, we will introduce the situation, events, and recommended spots in Chiba in October for those who are interested.

About Chiba in October

Chiba Prefecture is a popular area for many tourists due to its proximity to Tokyo. Especially in October, the autumn weather is pleasant, making it an ideal time to enjoy nature and events. Chiba is full of spots where you can fully enjoy its rich nature and culture.

Events and Festivals in October

Many events and festivals are held in Chiba Prefecture in October. From traditional festivals to events where you can enjoy seasonal flowers, there are plenty of highlights.

Sawara no Taisai Autumn Festival

“Sawara no Taisai Autumn Festival” is one of the very famous float festivals in the Kanto region. During this festival in October, 14 luxurious floats with a history of about 300 years parade through the town. It is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan, and you can enjoy a feeling of time travel along with the historical townscape.

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple and Naritasan Park Autumn Leaves Festival

At “Naritasan Shinshoji Temple” and the surrounding “Naritasan Park,” the autumn leaves become beautifully colored in October. Maple and ginkgo trees turn vibrant, delighting the eyes of visitors. During this period, the “Chrysanthemum Flower Exhibition” and “Autumn Leaves Festival” are also held, attracting many tourists.

Sakura Cosmos Festa

At “Sakura Furusato Hiroba,” the “Sakura Cosmos Festa” is held annually in October. With the Dutch windmill “Riefde” as a backdrop, the square is filled with pink cosmos flowers. During the event period, you can also enjoy picking and buying cosmos flowers, as well as local food and specialties.

Nature and Activities in October

Chiba’s rich nature becomes especially attractive in October. There are plenty of spots where you can actively spend your time, such as hiking and agricultural experiences.

Ubara Risokyo Hiking (Katsuura City)

Located in Katsuura City, “Ubara Risokyo” is a scenic spot with beautiful ria coastlines. October is a calm season, making it an ideal time for hiking. Walking along the 2.3-kilometer hiking course, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the blue sea and tranquil coves.

Kominato Railway / Trolley Train

The trolley train “Satoyama Torokko” on the “Kominato Railway” is especially popular in the autumn foliage season of October. Riding on the modern locomotive with a clean diesel engine, you can enjoy the beautiful autumn-colored countryside landscape. Reservations are required, and it operates mainly on weekends and holidays.

Mother Farm

At “Mother Farm” in the southern Boso area, the “Autumn Festival” is held in October. Every weekend, fun events such as children’s sketching contests and piglet races are lined up. Additionally, the sight of 700,000 bright red salvias is spectacular, and from late October, you can also enjoy illuminations.

Autumn Flavors and Experiences

Chiba Prefecture is rich in agricultural products, and in autumn, you can fully enjoy their deliciousness. Through various experiences, savor the local delicious autumn flavors.

Peanut Digging (Yachimata City)

Chiba Prefecture is the number one peanut-producing area in Japan. In “Yachimata City,” you can enjoy peanut digging from mid-September to mid-November. You can taste the freshly dug peanuts on the spot, making it a popular experience for tourists.

Apple Picking (Sanmu City)

In the Yokota area of “Sanmu City,” you can experience apple picking, which is rare in Chiba Prefecture. October is the apple harvest season, and the apples grown in the warm climate have a rustic taste reminiscent of the past. The apples grow at a low height, making it enjoyable even for small children.

Sweet Potato Digging (Yachimata City)

In “Yachimata City,” in addition to peanut digging, you can also enjoy sweet potato digging. Autumn is the sweet potato harvest season, and you can have a fun harvest experience with your family. Take home the sweet potatoes you dug yourself and try various dishes with them.