Nice to meet you! This is the Otaki Tourist Association. Otaki Town in Isumi County, Chiba Prefecture, is a town of about 8,000 people located in the center of the Boso Peninsula. With convenient access about one and a half hours from Tokyo, Otaki Town charms many visitors with its natural beauty and rich history. In this first post, we will share Otaki’s attractions and recommended sightseeing spots, so please enjoy it to the end. ==History of Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture== Prospering from the Sengoku period through the Edo period, Otaki flourished as the castle town of Otaki Castle, whose lord was Honda Tadakatsu, one of Tokugawa’s Four Heavenly Kings. Otaki Castle is known as a symbol of Otaki Town and captivates many history enthusiasts and tourists. Scenes that recall those days still remain throughout the town. ==Sightseeing in Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture== ◇Otaki Castle This historical museum with a tenshukaku-style keep was built in 1975 and is designated as a Chiba Prefecture historic site and included in the Continued Top 100 Castles of Japan. Exhibits cover the history of Boso and life in the castle town. Currently, Otaki Castle is closed for facility renovations. ◇Otaki Castle Town Otaki features old buildings, some designated cultural properties. You can find houses that offer a glimpse of life back then, along with shops and shrines, making it an irresistible spot for history lovers. Stroll through the castle town that retains a strong Edo-period atmosphere and feel the romance of a journey through time. ◇Yoro Valley This valley spans Ichihara City, Kimitsu City, Kamogawa City, and Otaki Town in Isumi County in southern Chiba Prefecture, offering seasonal natural beauty and especially famous autumn foliage. Nearby popular attractions include Awamata Waterfall, Suigetsu Temple, the Ruins of the Kobundo Tunnel, Mukoyama Kyoei Tunnel, and Kannon Bridge. Please note that due to flooding of the Yōrō River caused by Typhoon No. 13 in 2023, much of the area is currently closed except for some parts. ◇Asawahara Highlands Known as one of the Kanto region’s premier hydrangea spots, about 20,000 hydrangea plants bloom here. At an elevation of 340 meters, the flowers bloom later than on the plains, with the best viewing typically from late June to mid-July. ◇Isumi Railway This local railway runs about 26.8 kilometers, connecting Isumi City and Otaki Town, with seasonal flowers and rural landscapes along the line. In early spring, the rapeseed blossoms turn the fields bright yellow and the train is affectionately known as the Rapeseed Flower Train. ◇Roadside Station Takeyurano Sato Otaki Local fresh vegetables and specialty products are sold here, making it a great place to buy Boso souvenirs. At the diner you can try shiitake and Otaki’s specialty bamboo shoot dishes, as well as wild game such as boar. ==Local Festivals and Events in Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture== ◇Otaki Castle Festival Held every autumn, the festival features a warrior procession and various events. A popular local festival, 2024 marks its 50th edition. ==Local Specialties and Gourmet in Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture== Otaki bamboo shoots are among the leading products in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Their white color and exceptional tenderness earn them the name “white bamboo shoots.” They have very little bitterness, so they can be eaten without removing the astringency. Otaki bamboo shoots are also popular as a hometown tax return gift. ==Tourist Information for Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture== Otaki Town in Chiba Prefecture charms visitors with its abundant nature and deep history. Spending time in Otaki away from daily life will create memorable moments. Cool Japan Video will continue to share Otaki’s recommendations and the latest information, so thank you for your support.