10 Must-See Tourist Spots in Urayasu: The Place to Enjoy the Bay Area!

With palm trees swaying in the sea breeze and paved promenades, alongside beautifully maintained residential areas, Urayasu boasts a stunning streetscape reminiscent of a resort town. As one of the trendiest spots in Chiba Prefecture, it has gained popularity across various generations. The Bay Area is also famous for housing one of Japan’s iconic theme parks.
This time, we’ll introduce 10 representative tourist spots in Urayasu, the Bay Area of Chiba Prefecture, highlighting the charm of this tourist city that attracts visitors not only from Japan but also from various Asian countries!

1. Tokyo Disney Resort

Tokyo Disneyland

As Japan’s premier theme park, Tokyo Disneyland maintains its popularity with its unique world and hospitality-filled services, attracting many repeat fans.

With seasonal merchandise, food, park decorations, and parades constantly refreshed, it’s designed to be enjoyable no matter how many times you visit. It's a top tourist spot in Urayasu that offers fun for both adults and children throughout the day.

Among various events, the "Christmas Fantasy" is consistently popular, while "Disney Halloween" has been gaining traction in recent years. The event runs from early September until Halloween on October 31. Adults can wear full costumes only during the first and last weeks of the event, but costumes are limited to Disney characters, and overly elaborate makeup or revealing outfits may be prohibited. On the other hand, kids can wear costumes year-round!

Be sure to transform into your favorite character and enjoy the unique attractions that Disney offers!

Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo DisneySea is cleverly designed to take advantage of Urayasu's location. With more elements for adults compared to Tokyo Disneyland, it’s also popular as a date spot. The park comprises seven areas, each filled with charm. Besides attractions, you can also enjoy beautiful scenery unique to Tokyo DisneySea.

Upon entering the gate, you'll immediately see the "Mediterranean Harbor," designed to resemble an Italian port town. Enjoying a leisurely gondola ride along the canal guarantees a romantic experience. You'll surely have an elegant time.

For those with small children, "Mermaid Lagoon" is recommended. Here, you can dive into a fantasy world right out of a movie. Since it's an indoor facility, it's a safe option even on rainy days. The playground has some play equipment, perfect for a quick break during your sightseeing.

Tokyo DisneySea is also known for its restaurants that serve alcoholic beverages. If you've been avoiding theme parks thinking they are just for kids, why not start with Tokyo DisneySea?

◆Ikspiari

When it comes to shopping at the Disney Resort, "Ikspiari" is the place to go. You can fully enjoy its atmosphere without entering the theme parks, making it a particularly popular tourist destination in Urayasu. It’s also a family-friendly facility.

All pathways are wide enough for strollers, and there are nursing rooms and diaper-changing spaces available. The food court features a kids' room for children to play. Additionally, there are family seats in the cinema, allowing two adults and one child to sit together and enjoy a movie as a family.

Of course, there are also couple and friend seating options available. With seasonal events and limited-time shops, Ikspiari is filled with new attractions every time you visit. There are also perks for Ladies' Day, making it a great option for female travelers exploring Urayasu together.

2. Oedo Onsen Monogatari Urayasu Mangekyo (Permanently Closed)

When you think of "Oedo Onsen Monogatari," the first thing that comes to mind is that hot spring facility in Odaiba, right? Did you know there’s a similar facility in Urayasu? "Oedo Onsen Monogatari Urayasu Mangekyo" is one of the largest natural hot spring facilities in Chiba Prefecture. You can enjoy a total of 38 different baths, including outdoor and indoor baths, foot baths, and saunas, all while wearing swimsuits.

The interior is designed to recreate the streets of Edo, and it’s packed with facilities that satisfy both your hunger and heart. There are dining options, an esthetic salon, a game center, a manga corner, and a kids' room—all you need is here.

After playing to your heart's content and soaking in the hot springs, take some time to relax. There are resting areas equipped with mats and pillows for napping, as well as rooms available for overnight stays, allowing you to unwind comfortably. It’s conveniently located just under 20 minutes from Shinuarayasu Station, making access easy. Why not heal your everyday fatigue at Urayasu’s pride, the natural hot spring "Oedo Onsen Monogatari Urayasu Mangekyo"?

3. Urayasu Comprehensive Park

How can you enjoy your holidays without spending much money? Many parents might struggle with this on weekends. If you find yourself in that situation, consider visiting "Urayasu Comprehensive Park," where you can enjoy nature while gazing at the sea.

You can have a great time at the day camping area where you can enjoy barbecue without bringing anything. You can also explore the biotope for creatures. The unique play equipment is very popular among children.

For those who want to relax while feeling the sea breeze, head to Niko Niko Plaza, where a large lawn awaits. Eating a bento and lounging around while feeling the skies and winds of Chiba Bay Area—this is sure to provide a healing effect! You’ll definitely feel refreshed.

From the observation deck within the park, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Tokyo Bay, and on a clear day, you might even see the Aqua Line in the distance. Enjoy the stunning views at dusk at Urayasu Comprehensive Park. It’s also recommended for sightseeing.

4. Helicopter Cruising

When you hear "sightseeing," you might mostly think of enjoying things from the ground, but sometimes it’s nice to enjoy the air as well. With "Helicopter Cruising" operated by Excel Aviation from Urayasu Helicopter Port, you can explore the skies 600 meters above Tokyo.

Viewing the city's landmarks from above might help you discover unique charms you wouldn't notice from the ground. Daytime cruising is great, but night cruising is highly recommended. The sparkling night view, like a scattering of jewels, is definitely worth seeing.

There are four courses, ranging from a 15-minute flight over the city to one that offers a view of Mount Fuji. For private bookings, there’s a champagne service, making it a perfect option for a date or a special occasion!

5. Urayasu Local Museum

If you want to learn about the history of Urayasu, be sure to visit the "Urayasu Local Museum"! This interactive museum allows you to experience the history and culture of Urayasu, which once thrived as a fishing town. The outdoor exhibition area, which recreates the streets of the 1950s, is filled with nostalgia. Buildings from the Edo and Meiji periods have also been relocated and are displayed as they are.

The charm of this museum lies in the ability to touch and experience things directly. You can closely observe wooden refrigerators and foot-operated sewing machines that were actually used. For younger generations, many items may be unfamiliar, making it a fresh and exciting tourist experience.

In the restaurant within the facility, you can enjoy Urayasu's specialty, asari rice, so the entire place is full of Urayasu flavor! Immersing yourself in the history of Urayasu is highly recommended.

6. Spa & Hotel Maihama Eurasia

Enjoy natural hot springs near Tokyo Disneyland! The dream facility "Spa & Hotel Maihama Eurasia" opened in Urayasu, Maihama, in 2006. True to its name, it offers a variety of baths and massages inspired by different countries across the Eurasian continent. You can indulge in a luxurious atmosphere while enjoying the grand views of Tokyo Bay.

It also has great access from the city center, and a shuttle bus to Disneyland Resort, making it a popular spot for girls’ trips. It’s the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after a day of sightseeing. The facility includes a pet hotel as well, and with a reservation, you can let your dog enjoy a special hot spring bath. Why not spend a luxurious time with your beloved pet in Maihama, Urayasu?

7. Aeon Style Shin-Urayasu

"Aeon Style Shin-Urayasu" is a large shopping mall located in front of JR Shin-Urayasu Station. Since its opening in 1990, it has been loved by many as a convenient spot that supports the daily lives of Urayasu residents.

Inside, there are over 170 specialty stores, including restaurants, fashion accessory shops, clinics, and cultural classrooms—everything you need is here. It’s perfect for spending quality family time on the weekend.

The surrounding area of Shin-Urayasu has many hotels, making it convenient for accessing Tokyo Disneyland Resort. Since Aeon Style Shin-Urayasu is just a short walk from the station, it’s also recommended for breaks or shopping during your sightseeing.

8. Urayasu Fish Market

If you want to eat fresh and delicious fish, come to the "Urayasu Fish Market." Known as the "kitchen of the Bay Area," this market is filled with tasty offerings! In addition to its famous shellfish and seaweed, you can also find vegetables and meat.

What sets this market apart is that it sells not only to wholesalers but also to individual customers. With fresh ingredients available at reasonable prices, it is popular not only among Urayasu residents but also among those from nearby areas and tourists.

For visitors, the cafeteria within the market is highly recommended. The seafood bowls and tempura made from freshly caught seafood are exquisite! Be sure to visit the fish market that Urayasu, a fishing town, takes pride in.

Note: The Urayasu Fish Market closed on March 31, 2019.

9. Toyouke Shrine

One of the three shrines in Urayasu, "Toyouke Shrine" (豊受神社) is dedicated to "Toyouke-hime no Okami," the deity of clothing, food, and shelter. It is the oldest shrine in Urayasu, located in a town facing the sea. Due to repeated tsunamis and flooding, the shrine has been rebuilt several times, with the current structure reconstructed in 1974.

The symbol of Toyouke Shrine is a ginkgo tree over 400 years old, which is designated as a natural monument by the city. During the "Urayasu Sanja Matsuri," held every four years, about 80 portable shrines parade through the town, bringing excitement to the entire city. Anyone dressed in the minimum attire specified by their local community can participate in carrying the shrines, so if you're interested, don't hesitate!

10. Urayasu Festival

The "Urayasu Festival" colors the autumn of Urayasu. Known as the largest event in Urayasu, it gathers famous festivals from all over Japan. From Aomori's Nebuta to Okinawa's Eisa, and even parades featuring beloved Disney characters from around the world!

There are numerous stalls selling local gourmet foods gathered from across the country, along with animal interaction areas and product exhibitions! Of course, tourism promotion for Urayasu is also featured. Be sure to check out booths showcasing performances by Urayasu residents and popular gourmet offerings from local hotels, which highlight the charm of Urayasu. Don't miss the chance to enjoy various festivals and gourmet food from across Japan at the Urayasu Festival.

◎Summary

When you hear "Urayasu," you might think of it as a "theme park city" or "new residential area," but it is actually a historic fishing town, with remnants of its past still visible today. With the sea nearby and rich nature, as well as well-developed shopping facilities, it is a very convenient city for both tourism and living. Why not start your sightseeing in this charming city of Urayasu by taking a leisurely stroll while feeling the sea breeze?