Onjuku Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to try and where to stay in Onjuku, Japan.


Introduction to Onjuku

Onjuku is a city located in Chiba Prefecture, in the Kanto region of Japan. Known for its beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters, this coastal town has become a popular destination for tourists looking to relax and unwind. With a rich history and unique cultural offerings, there’s something for everyone in Onjuku.

List of Places to Visit in Onjuku

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Onjuku History & Folklore Museum: This museum features exhibits on the town’s history, including artifacts from the Edo and Meiji periods.
  2. Sekimon Museum: A small museum featuring traditional tools and crafts, as well as a beautiful garden with a pond and teahouse.
  3. Samurai Residence: Visit a restored samurai residence and learn about the lifestyle of the warrior class.

Natural Attractions of Onjuku: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Onjuku Beach: Known as one of the best beaches in Japan, Onjuku’s beach is a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing.
  2. Shirahama Beach: A scenic, secluded beach with white sand and turquoise waters. Perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.
  3. Sendaizakaue Park: A park with stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Onjuku

  1. Mt. Nokogiri: A popular hiking trail that leads to a scenic overlook with stunning views of the ocean and surrounding mountains.
  2. Onjuku Bike Path: A scenic bike path along the coastline, offering beautiful views of the sea and a refreshing ocean breeze.

Best Things to Do in Onjuku: Activities and Tours

  1. Surfing lessons: Take surfing lessons at one of the many surf schools located along Onjuku Beach.
  2. Whale watching tours: Take a boat tour to see the majestic humpback whales that migrate through the waters off the coast of Onjuku.
  3. Scuba diving: Explore the colorful marine life and coral reefs in the crystal clear waters around Onjuku.

Week-Long Itinerary for Onjuku

Day Activity
1 Explore the town’s history at the Onjuku History & Folklore Museum and the Sekimon museum
2 Relax at Onjuku Beach or Shirahama Beach
3 Hike or bike Mt. Nokogiri or Onjuku Bike Path
4 Visit a local farm and learn about rural life in Onjuku
5 Take a yoga class at a local studio or beachside park
6 Take a day trip to nearby cities like Chiba or Tokyo
7 Enjoy a relaxing day at a local hot spring (onsen)

Food and Drink Scene of Onjuku

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Negitoro Don: Rice topped with fresh, raw tuna and green onions.
  2. Anago Meshi: Rice with grilled sea eel and a savory sauce.
  3. Ika somen: Thinly-sliced squid served with soy sauce and grated ginger.

Local Beverages

  1. Sake: Japan’s famous rice wine, available in a variety of flavors and styles.
  2. Shochu: A distilled liquor made from various grains or potatoes, commonly served with hot or cold water.
  3. Matcha green tea: A traditional Japanese drink, made from powdered tea leaves that are whisked with hot water.

Where to Stay in Onjuku: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Naruwan Hotel Onjuku: A stylish hotel with spacious rooms and stunning ocean views.
  2. Onjuku Yagura Guesthouse: A cozy, traditional guesthouse located just a short walk from the beach.
  3. Onjuku Surf Guesthouse: A surf-themed hostel located near the beach, offering affordable dormitory-style rooms.

What to Buy in Onjuku: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Onjuku Shio Senbei: Salted rice crackers, a popular snack in Onjuku.
  2. Onjuku T-shirts: Colorful shirts featuring the town’s name and famous beaches.
  3. Chiba Prefecture Sake: Take home a bottle of locally-produced sake as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Onjuku

Onjuku has a strong surfing culture, and many locals spend their days on the waves. Visitors are encouraged to respect the ocean and follow proper surfing etiquette. Additionally, it’s important to remove shoes before entering someone’s home or a traditional Japanese restaurant.

Best Time to Visit Onjuku

The best time to visit Onjuku is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is warm and sunny for beach activities. Spring and fall are also pleasant times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Onjuku

Do:

  1. Do try the local seafood, especially the fresh sushi and sashimi.
  2. Do respect local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes before entering someone’s home.
  3. Do clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t swim outside of designated swimming areas, as the waters can be dangerous.
  2. Don’t litter or leave trash on the beach or in public spaces.
  3. Don’t wear shoes inside traditional Japanese restaurants.

Safety and Health

Safety in Onjuku

Onjuku is generally a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should beware of strong ocean currents and follow proper safety procedures when swimming in the ocean.

Health in Onjuku

Onjuku has adequate medical facilities and hospitals, but it’s important for visitors to have travel insurance in case of emergencies.

Getting to Onjuku: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Onjuku

  1. Narita International Airport (NRT): The closest major airport, located approximately 50 miles from Onjuku.
  2. Haneda Airport (HND): A smaller airport located approximately 80 miles from Onjuku.

Bus Stations Near Onjuku

  1. Onjuku Bus Terminal: Located in the heart of town, with connections to nearby cities such as Chiba and Tokyo.
  2. Narita Airport Bus Terminal: Direct bus service between Narita Airport and Onjuku.

Other Options

  1. Train: JR East’s Sotobo Line connects Onjuku with the greater Tokyo area and other cities in Chiba Prefecture.
  2. Car: It’s also possible to rent a car and drive from Tokyo or other nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Onjuku

Onjuku is a small town and most attractions are within walking distance. Bicycles are available for rent at various locations, making it easy to explore the town and nearby bike paths.

Where to Go Next from Onjuku: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Tokyo: Japan’s bustling capital city, just a short train ride away from Onjuku.
  2. Chiba: The prefectural capital of Chiba, with a variety of cultural attractions and shopping destinations.
  3. Kamogawa: A neighboring town with a scenic coastal drive and a popular aquarium.

Conclusion

Onjuku is a hidden gem of Japan, offering beautiful beaches, stunning natural scenery, and unique cultural attractions. With its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, it’s the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big-city life.

Mexico Commemorative Tower Mexico Commemorative Tower