Things To Do
in Kashiwa
Kashiwa is a dynamic city in Chiba Prefecture just east of Tokyo, blending modern neighborhoods with leafy parks. It is known for the Kashiwanoha smart-city district, universities, and a growing shopping and café scene. The city serves as a convenient gateway to Tokyo and the Chiba coast with solid rail connections.
Visitors can enjoy a mix of shopping, culture, and outdoor spaces along the Nagara River and in parklands around town.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Kashiwa Shrine, where the serene atmosphere and ancient architecture will captivate you. After exploring the shrine grounds, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, taking in the traditional wooden houses and local shops. Stop by a nearby café for a traditional Japanese breakfast, enjoying freshly brewed matcha and a fluffy tamagoyaki.
In the afternoon, head over to the Kashiwa City Museum of Art, where you can admire contemporary Japanese art and participate in any ongoing workshops. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the nearby Kashiwa Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and seasonal flowers. Grab lunch at a local ramen shop, savoring a warm bowl of tonkotsu ramen as you watch the world go by.
As the sun sets, visit the bustling Kashiwa Station area, where you can explore shops and eateries. Treat yourself to dinner at an izakaya, sampling small plates of yakitori and seasonal sashimi paired with local sake. End your evening with a peaceful stroll along the river, taking in the sights and sounds of the city winding down for the night.
Start your day early with a visit to the famous Daizenji Tamataregu Shrine, known for its beautiful surroundings and peaceful ambiance. Participate in a morning prayer service to immerse yourself in the local culture and spirituality. Afterward, enjoy a simple breakfast at a nearby tea house, where you can sip on freshly brewed green tea and nibble on sweet rice cakes.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Jorenji Temple, where you can explore the serene gardens and participate in a Zen meditation session. Take a moment to reflect and enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings. Savor a traditional lunch at a local soba restaurant, where you can watch the chefs hand-make the noodles right in front of you.
As evening approaches, head back to Kashiwa and enjoy a kaiseki dinner, a multi-course meal that showcases seasonal ingredients. This culinary experience will give you insight into Japan's rich food culture and artistry. Conclude your evening by visiting a local onsen, soaking in the warm waters while reflecting on your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚆One-way local transport ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $70-150 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible from Tokyo via JR lines and bus routes
- Safe, clean, and family-friendly
- Strong local culture with modern amenities in Kashiwanoha
- Less nightlife than central Tokyo or Osaka
- Limited English signage in some districts
- Traffic can be busy during peak hours
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "おすすめは何ですか？" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Kashiwa
Visit one of these nice places.
A wide, open green space with city skyline views, especially striking at sunset.
Modern architecture, pedestrian bridges, and bustling platforms provide dynamic urban photography opportunities.
Curated shelves, cozy cafes, and outdoor spaces with seasonal light for stylish shots.
Tranquil riverside trails with seasonal blossoms and reflections, great for serene landscape photos.
Food in Kashiwa
Kashiwa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple summer favorite in many traditional and casual eateries; seek lightly lacquered eel and succulent rice.
Must-Try!
Rice bowls topped with fresh Tokyo Bay seafood—look for seasonal varieties at markets and waterfront restaurants.
Hot soba noodles paired with crisp tempura; common comfort dish at station-side eateries and casual dining spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Produce stalls, ready-to-eat bites, and seasonal treats; great for a quick lunch or snack while exploring town.
Small skewered-grill stalls offering grilled chicken and savory sides—ideal for casual dining after sightseeing.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintain quiet, orderly conduct in trains and public spaces; remove shoes in homes and some traditional spaces; queue patiently and wait your turn; handle trash properly as public bins can be limited.
Safety
Tipping in Kashiwa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is expected and included in prices. Do not leave extra cash unless explicitly offered a tip jar.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards and IC smart cards (e.g., Suica, Pasmo) are common in shops, trains, and many restaurants. Some smaller eateries may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with occasional typhoons; plan indoor activities or early morning/outdoor sessions and stay hydrated.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; perfect for walking tours and photography along riverbanks and parks.
Cool to cold, with rare snowfall; enjoy warm cafes, hearty noodles, and bright city lights.
Mild and breezy with cherry blossoms along riverbanks and parks; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.
Kashiwa at Night
Hiking in Kashiwa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and overlooks with views of Tokyo Bay; reachable by train and bus from Chiba area; add a cable car option.
Several shorter hikes and nature walks within an hour’s drive; varied terrain and birding opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Kashiwa by plane.
About 60-90 minutes by train/express bus from central Kashiwa; major international gateway.
Approximately 60-75 minutes by train via connection; convenient for domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Kashiwa hosts a sizable student population due to Kashiwanoha Campus area and local universities; families also form a large portion of residents.
Many parks, schools, and family-friendly amenities; mid-range housing and junior high/high schools.
People commuting to Tokyo and other parts of Chiba for work; good rail connections make day trips easy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Top-tier J1 League club based in Kashiwa; matches are popular weekend events with local fans.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kashiwa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer veggie tempura, tofu dishes, and rice bowls; request no fish stock or dashi when needed, and look for plant-forward menus or temple-cuisine options.