In the autumn of 2025, when bear sightings are causing concern across Japan, Chiba Prefecture stands out as the only prefecture on Honshu with no bears. As a result, many visitors come to enjoy autumn foliage viewing and hiking.
Mount Nokogiri can be reached from Tokyo in about 1 hour and 48 minutes from Shinjuku Station by taking the Limited Express Sazanami. The nearest stations are JR Hamakanaya and Hota. The mountain rises to 329.4 meters, and a ropeway is also available.
Yakushi Ruri Kou Nyorai 
Mount Nokogiri summit 
Hyakushaku Kannon
Mount Nokogiri could be called the only true mountain in Chiba Prefecture. Located in the Uchibō area, the summit offers panoramic views stretching from Tokyo to Kanagawa. On clear days, you can even see the Tokyo islands and Mount Fuji.
For those who find hiking a bit challenging, the ropeway can be used to go up or down. However, since the mountain is relatively low and the trails are well maintained and paved, even children can easily reach the summit. It is an ideal spot for hiking.
Between JR Hota Station and Awa-Katsuyama Station, there is the Hishikawa Moronobu Museum, dedicated to the Edo-period artist Hishikawa Moronobu. A leisurely walk along the coastline will take you there, where you can enjoy his ukiyo-e prints and other works.
A short walk from JR Hamakanaya Station brings you to The Fish, a restaurant and souvenir area where you can enjoy seafood from the Uchibō region. It is a perfect location for experiencing the feeling of a small, casual trip.
If you decide to stay overnight, you could extend your trip along the Uchibō Line to places like Awa-Kamogawa or Yōrō Valley on the Kominato Railway. Taking a ferry or heading toward Kanagawa via the Aqua-Line is also recommended on a clear day.
Chiba Prefecture is served by several sea-themed limited express trains from Shinjuku, such as the Sazanami (Uchibō Line), Wakashio (Sotobō Line), and Shiosai (to Sakura and Chōshi), making it perfect for short trips.
Ropeway 
Beautiful sunset from Uchibo area
Many areas of Chiba still retain a strong local character compared to other parts of the Kanto region. If you ever feel nostalgic for visiting your grandmother’s house in the Showa era, taking a small trip to the Bōsō Peninsula might be a delightful experience.
In autumn, when the weather is clear, the air is crisp and the views are outstanding. Not only can you enjoy the autumn foliage, but you can also refresh yourself with fresh mountain air, making for a fulfilling day trip.
