Kashiwa: Holidaying in Little Shibuya
In northwest Chiba sits Kashiwa, 40 minutes by train from Tokyo’s Ueno Station. Known as Little Shibuya to locals, Kashiwa serves as a commercial hub for the region. While considered a “bedroom community” for Tokyo and Chiba, Kashiwa, Japan is now gaining popularity as a tourist destination.
Best Time to Visit
January, March and April are Kashiwa’s busiest months, so better make advanced Kashiwa accommodation reservations if you wish to visit during these periods. July-October is ideal for a vacation, as temperatures are pleasantly warm. Kashiwa Matsuri is a festival you shouldn’t miss if ever you are in the city in July/August.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Go on a picnic at Akebonoyama Park and have a great time soaking up the greenery around you. There are cherry trees and flower fields that bloom with different varieties depending on the season, as well as a Japanese garden. Afterwards, you can head to the hill just above the park and visit the Fuse Benten Tōkai-ji Temple, which is dedicated to Shingon Buddhist goddess Benzaiten, one of Japan’s Seven Gods of Good Fortune. You can also go shopping in Mallage Kashiwa, one of the city’s many malls.
You can stay at Mitsui Garden Hotel Kashiwa-No-Ha, which is close to the train station and a shopping mall. It features an Italian restaurant, hot spring baths, a fitness centre and coin launderette. The Crest Hotel Kashiwa, which features western rooms and an on-site Japanese/French restaurant, is another great hotel to stay at during your Kashiwa, Japan holiday.