Shibayama(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Shijima-chō, the top family-friendly option is Shijima Town Inn, nestled in a quiet rural area near Shijima Shrine and Chiba Prefectural Natural Park. This boutique inn offers Japanese-style tatami rooms, modern amenities, and a children’s play zone. Guests can book local farm experiences like rice planting or harvest festivals, making it ideal for authentic family getaways.

Another excellent choice is Green Hill Ryokan, just a 10-minute drive from Sagami Station. With spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a daily buffet breakfast, this hotel blends traditional design with comfort. Both properties emphasize local culture and sustainable tourism, offering guests an immersive taste of Chiba Prefecture’s countryside charm.

The best area for accommodation in Shijima-chō is Sagami District, known for its peaceful atmosphere and convenient access to Sagami Station and Chiba Prefecture Route 28. It’s perfect for self-drive travelers seeking tranquility amid nature.

This region features scenic spots like the Sagami River Walkway and rice paddy landscape zones, where you can enjoy morning mist over fields and evening strolls by the water. Most lodgings here, such as Sagami Villa and Farm House Shijima, use traditional wooden architecture and Japanese gardens, reflecting the authentic rural lifestyle of Chiba Prefecture.

Must-try cultural experiences in Shijima-chō include participating in the annual Rice Harvest Festival, where visitors can join in planting and harvesting rice, gaining insight into Japan’s traditional farming heritage. Don’t miss visiting Shijima Shrine, whose centuries-old vermilion torii gate and sacred rituals embody deep Shinto traditions.

Also highly recommended is the Washi Paper Workshop, where local artisans guide guests in crafting handmade washi lanterns or bookmarks using mulberry bark. These hands-on activities not only preserve local craftsmanship but also support community sustainability efforts.

Unique guesthouses in Shijima-chō focus on harmony with nature. Taniya House, located in the heart of rice paddies, is built from reclaimed wood and features a heated floor, open kitchen, and kaiseki dinner made with locally sourced ingredients.

Another standout is Mori no Yado, a restored old farmhouse with exposed timber beams and skylights—perfect for stargazing at night. The owners offer guided night walks through nearby wetlands to spot ducks and dragonflies. Both properties prioritize eco-conscious design and immersive local experiences.

A stay of 2 to 3 days is ideal in Shijima-chō to fully embrace its slow-paced rural lifestyle and natural beauty. On Day 1, explore the Sagami River Walkway, visit Shijima Shrine, and enjoy fresh seafood near Sagami Station.

Day 2 focuses on immersive experiences: join a rice farming workshop or visit the Washi Paper Studio. On Day 3, hike through Chiba Prefectural Natural Park, have a picnic by the stream, and relax in a forest-view room. This itinerary balances relaxation, culture, and nature—perfect for meaningful travel.

The most photogenic spots in Shijima-chō include the Rice Paddy Landscape Zone, especially during spring planting or autumn harvest when golden fields stretch across the valley under soft sunlight. The Sagami River Walkway features wooden viewing platforms that beautifully reflect the flowing water and willow trees—ideal for sunrise and sunset shots.

The Shijima Shrine’s vermilion torii gate, surrounded by cherry blossoms or autumn leaves, creates a striking contrast against the sky. Meanwhile, Taniya House’s garden, blending Zen rock arrangements with bamboo groves, offers a serene backdrop for minimalist photography. These locations are perfect for capturing authentic Japanese aesthetics.

To reach Shijima-chō, take the JR Sōbu Main Line to Sagami Station, about 1 hour from Tokyo Station. From there, rent a bicycle via Bike Shijima or take a free shuttle bus to major attractions.

For self-drivers, enter via Chiba Prefecture Route 28, which has clear signage throughout. Some guesthouses, like Mori no Yado, offer airport transfer services from Narita or Haneda airports. While the transport system is simple, planning ahead ensures smooth travel, especially during peak seasons.

Must-try local dishes in Shijima-chō include Sagami Seafood Hot Pot, featuring fresh bonito, clams, and local vegetables simmered in a light broth—deliciously savory and seasonal.

Also sample Inari Mochi, a sweet rice dumpling filled with red bean paste, wrapped in fried tofu pouches—a traditional treat from the region. Dine at Den’en Shokudō, which serves full-course meals including local sake and pickled vegetables.

For a deeper culinary experience, book a Farm-to-Table Cooking Class at Taniya House, where you’ll learn to make kamaboko (fish cake) and homemade miso, connecting with Chiba’s food heritage.

Shijima-chō boasts rich ecological diversity, especially around the Sagami Wetland, a key stopover for migratory birds like egrets, herons, and kingfishers. During spring, the wetland blooms with purple irises, creating a stunning floral display.

The Chiba Prefectural Natural Park spans diverse forests and streams, offering well-marked trails and observation decks perfect for spotting squirrels, foxes, and rare insects. The park enforces a zero-waste policy and hosts regular clean-up events. These initiatives highlight Chiba Prefecture’s commitment to environmental education and sustainable tourism.

Nighttime activities in Shijima-chō center on serenity and nature. Join the Stargazing Tour at Mori no Yado, where local astronomers guide guests through constellations like the Big Dipper and Milky Way—especially spectacular in winter with visible meteor showers.

During summer, the Night Illumination Festival lights up the Rice Paddy Landscape Zone with dynamic projections telling stories of local farming history. Some guesthouses also host bonfire nights, where guests roast marshmallows and listen to elders share folk tales—creating unforgettable rural evenings.