If your perfect weekend includes sand between your toes, the scent of sea salt in the air, and the thrill of discovering hidden sceneries, then Kamogawa might be exactly where you need to be. Nestled along the sunlit coast of Chiba Prefecture, this seaside town is effortlessly charming and full of unexpected delights. And if you're staying at Kamenoi Hotel Kamogawa, where the ocean greets you at the door, you're already set for something special.
Here’s how to make the most of a truly memorable day in Kamogawa.
Morning: Start Your Day With the Sunrise
There’s no better way to start your day than witnessing the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, especially from the seventh-floor Tenku-no-Yu open-air bath at Kamenoi Hotel Kamogawa. As the morning light spills across the sea, you can soak in the natural Nagisa-no-Yu hot spring.
If you’re afraid of heights, go to The Garden Grand Bath on the first floor, which is surrounded by a tranquil pine forest and also offers healing waters. The spring water is especially beneficial for travel fatigue.
After your soak, enjoy a relaxing breakfast at the hotel before heading out to explore Kamogawa.
Mid-Morning: Dive Into Marine Wonders at Kamogawa Sea World
A short walk from the hotel brings you to one of Chiba’s most iconic attractions: Kamogawa Sea World. This marine park is the only place in Japan where you can watch orcas perform up close. The dolphin and beluga whale shows are equally delightful and well-loved by children and adults alike. Exhibits here focus on education and conservation, offering a chance to connect with marine life in a fun and meaningful way. This visit is a highlight for families, but even solo travelers will leave feeling inspired.
Lunch: Taste the Ocean at a Local Eatery
Kamogawa is famous for its seafood, and lunchtime is your chance to savor it. Try a local restaurant serving Oraga-don, a rice bowl using local Nagasa rice and fresh fish like kinmedai (alfonsino), aji (horse mackerel), or sazae (turban shell). Each bowl is unique to the chef’s creativity, so no two Oraga-don experiences are ever the same! For something heartier, look for simmered kinmedai, a Kamogawa classic known for its sweet, tender flesh and rich flavor.
Afternoon: Explore Kamogawa’s Natural Beauty
Take a scenic drive or taxi to Oyama Senmaida, the closest terraced rice paddies to Tokyo. These photogenic landscapes change with the seasons—lush and green in summer, golden in autumn, and beautifully illuminated in winter.
Next, hop over to Niemon Island, a secluded and mysterious isle accessible only by a traditional hand-rowed boat. Tied to the legacy of Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder and the first shogun of the Kamakura shogunate from 1192 to 1199, the island has earned its place among Japan’s New Hundred Views for its cultural and scenic significance.
If you prefer to stay by the sea, you can instead unwind at Maebara-Yokosuka Beach, recognized as one of Japan’s Top 100 Beaches. It’s ideal for a leisurely walk, a quick swim, or simply soaking up the coastal vibes.
Wrap up the afternoon at the Uomizuka Observation Deck, where sweeping views of the coastline and Kamogawa await. It’s especially romantic around sunset, making it a favorite spot for couples.
Evening: Feast at Kamenoi Hotel Kamogawa
Back at Kamenoi Hotel Kamogawa, treat yourself to a 60-dish Japanese and Western buffet that celebrates the bounty of the Boso peninsula. Enjoy local delicacies like namerou (minced blue-skinned fish with miso and herbs), sangayaki (grilled Namerou in a shell), fresh sashimi, and live-cooked skewers featuring grilled shellfish, shrimp, and Minami-Boso Mochibuta pork.
The live kitchen adds excitement to the meal, and the freshness of ingredients is unmatched. If you're still peckish later in the evening, don’t miss the complimentary Yonaki Tantanmen (late-night ramen) service—a rotating trio of rich, flavorful broths that hits the spot after a long day.
Night: Relax, Recharge, and Get Cozy
After dinner, unwind with one last soak in the onsen, a quiet drink in the lounge, or a cozy retreat to your Deluxe or Family Room, some of which feature private open-air baths for a truly relaxing end to the day. As a dog-friendly hotel, Kamenoi Hotel Kamogawa welcomes not just families and groups, but also their pets—so everyone, including your four-legged companion, can settle in comfortably.
Families with young children will love the Kids Park, a vibrant, ocean-themed play area complete with slides and ball pits, perfect for little ones to run around and play before bedtime.
How to Get to Kamogawa
Traveling to Kamogawa is stress-free, even with little ones or dogs in tow. Take the Limited Express Wakashio from Tokyo Station, and in about two hours, you’ll arrive at Awa-Kamogawa Station—just a short ride away from the beach and hotel. If you're driving, expect a smooth 90-minute trip from Tokyo, passing through the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line and the relaxing greenery of the Tateyama Expressway.
With easy access and plenty to discover, Kamogawa leaves a lasting impression. It’s also a great jumping-off point for exploring some of the top things to do in Chiba. And with Kamenoi Hotel Kamogawa as your base, you’re well-positioned to enjoy it all.
