10 Recommended Tourist Spots in Funabashi City | Famous for Its Racecourse and Shopping Spots!?

Here is some tourist information about Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture.
Located in the northwestern part of Chiba Prefecture, Funabashi City offers convenient access to central Tokyo, taking less than an hour by train. It’s the second-largest city in the prefecture after Chiba City and functions as a bedroom community for Tokyo. In addition, many companies have offices in the city center.
This article introduces recommended tourist spots in Funabashi City, a popular city whose population continues to grow. From classic attractions popular with families and couples to hidden gems, we hope you find this guide helpful!

1. Funabashi Racecourse

Funabashi Racecourse is a local racetrack operated by the Chiba Prefecture Horse Racing Association. Affectionately known as “Funabashi Keiba,” it’s conveniently located right across the road from Lalaport shopping mall, with many other shopping facilities nearby. The parking fee is reasonably priced at 500 yen per day!
Of course, you can enjoy horse racing here, but the venue also features a variety of restaurants and shops. Their beef tendon stew and yakisoba are especially popular, known not just for their affordability but also for their great taste. Unlike central horse racing, local races here are held at night (night races). If you’re used to central races only, why not experience the excitement of weekday night races at Funabashi?

2. IKEA Tokyo-Bay

IKEA, the popular interior brand from Sweden, opened its first Japanese store here in April 2006. In 2016, to celebrate its 10th anniversary, the store’s name was changed from IKEA Funabashi to its current name, IKEA Tokyo-Bay. Their stylish and simple Scandinavian designs are a big hit among Japanese customers.
Although IKEA is known for its home furnishings, its food is also worth trying. You can enjoy delicious meals at very reasonable prices. One of the highlights is their 50-yen soft-serve ice cream—tasty and budget-friendly, so be sure to give it a try!

3. Funabashi Andersen Park

Funabashi Andersen Park is a comprehensive park divided into five different zones. Inspired by the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen, the park is full of nature and offers a relaxed atmosphere for adults and a fun, lively environment for kids. It’s highly rated not only in Japan but also among amusement parks in Asia.
The park includes athletic facilities, open plazas, an art museum, restaurants, and souvenir shops. One of the highlights is the windmill, crafted by Danish artisans—a true symbol of the park. This family-friendly leisure spot hosts regular events, so don’t forget to check their website for the latest updates!

4. Sapporo Beer Chiba Factory

At the Sapporo Beer Chiba Factory, visitors can learn about Sapporo Beer’s dedication to quality and the secrets behind its great taste. The Black Label Gallery, where you can pick up beer trivia and take photos, is free of charge. However, the factory tours and beer tastings require a paid ticket.
In 2018, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the factory’s opening, the entire tour facility was renovated and relaunched as the “New Black Label Tour.” There’s also a marine-themed gift shop on-site offering exclusive and original items, including T-shirts and accessories that can only be found here—perfect for souvenirs!

5. Oohi Shrine (Funabashi Daijingu)

Commonly known as Funabashi Daijingu, Oohi Shrine is beloved by local residents. It draws large crowds for the first shrine visit of the New Year (Hatsumode) and for its traditional sumo matches held on October 20 each year—an event boasting over 400 years of history.
Oohi Shrine also encompasses several smaller shrines, including Sengen Shrine, Funatama Shrine, Geku, and Ootori Shrine. The spacious parking lot makes it easy for visitors to access. Their original Goshuincho (stamp book), featuring a stylish navy blue cover with a depiction of the lighthouse (Tomyo-dai), is popular among visitors. That same lighthouse, featured on the stamp book, is designated as a tangible folk cultural property of Chiba Prefecture. It’s one of the largest remaining lighthouses in Japan, with a design that blends Japanese and Western styles—a must-see!

6. Nakayama Racecourse

Nakayama Racecourse is operated by the Japan Racing Association and is famous for hosting major races such as the Satsuki Sho and the Arima Kinen. Legendary moments, like Kitasan Black’s triumphant farewell race at the 2017 Arima Kinen, took place here. This iconic venue is a must-visit for horse racing fans.
But Nakayama Racecourse isn’t just about racing—it offers plenty of fun for everyone. In the Green Plaza area, visitors can enjoy athletic playground equipment and go-karts that even small children can ride. On race days and Sundays outside of race events, there are also horse riding and carriage ride experiences. Even if you’re not a racing fan, there’s something to enjoy for all ages.

7. LaLaport TOKYO-BAY

LaLaport TOKYO-BAY opened in 1981, modeled after the Ala Moana Center in Waikiki, Hawaii, and was one of Japan's largest shopping centers at the time. Today, it features about 450 stores, including specialty shops, restaurants, and amusement facilities like movie theaters.
LaLaport TOKYO-BAY is a shopping center where anyone can have fun, no matter who you come with. It attracts approximately 25 million visitors annually, making it one of the top shopping destinations in Chiba Prefecture. On weekends and holidays, it gets very crowded with families, but on weekdays, it’s less busy—especially in the early afternoon—making it a great time to explore at a relaxed pace.

8. AEON Mall Funabashi

AEON Mall Funabashi is located right in front of the west exit of Shin-Funabashi Station on the Tobu Noda Line. Opened in 2012, this relatively new mall includes around 160 specialty shops, such as a supermarket, food court, pet shop, electronics store, and one of the largest general clinics in a shopping mall in Japan.
With a parking capacity of 2,300 cars and its convenient proximity to the station, AEON Mall Funabashi has become a beloved shopping spot for locals. The building is clean and modern, making it a pleasant place to shop and spend time.

9. Ootakiyama Kinzoji Temple

Kinzoji Temple, also known as Ootaki Fudoson, belongs to the Buzan school of the Shingon sect. Founded in 1423, this temple has nearly 600 years of history. Its quiet and peaceful atmosphere makes it a popular destination. The temple enshrines Fudo Myoo, one of the principal deities of Esoteric Buddhism, considered an incarnation of Dainichi Nyorai, whose role is to guide people to enlightenment.
Though the temple grounds are small and serene, many people from the local area visit during Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year). It is also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, drawing crowds during the sakura season.

10. Funabashi Sanbanze Seaside Park

Funabashi Sanbanze Seaside Park is adjacent to the Sanbanze tidal flat in Tokyo Bay and is known as the closest place to central Tokyo for clam digging. Inside the park, you’ll find a baseball field with pitching machines for rent, tennis courts, and a variety of fitness equipment.
There’s also an observation deck that offers a panoramic view of the Sanbanze tidal flats, as well as a barbecue area that requires advance reservations. From spring to summer, the park gets crowded with visitors during the clam digging season. In contrast, winter is quieter, offering a more peaceful atmosphere, making it an enjoyable destination throughout the year!

◎Summary

We’ve introduced 10 recommended tourist spots in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture. What do you think? With its convenient access from central Tokyo, it’s perfect for a day trip. Funabashi offers a variety of ways to enjoy yourself—whether it’s food, nature, or leisure activities. Be sure to plan a trip that suits your interests!

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10 Recommended Tourist Spots in Funabashi City | Famous for Its Racecourse and Shopping Spots!?