9 Recommended Tourist Spots in Sakura City – A Paradise for History Lovers!

Located in northern Chiba Prefecture and near Narita Airport, Sakura City has flourished as a castle town since the Edo period, and even today the atmosphere of that era still lingers. The city is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, with attractions such as the National Museum of Japanese History and Folklore and the Former Horita Residence, along with numerous museums and historic sites scattered around. There is so much to see that you could easily spend one or two full days exploring!

Below, we introduce 9 recommended tourist spots in Sakura City, ranging from museums and historic sites to scenic viewpoints and natural attractions. Don’t miss out on the charm of Sakura City’s history!

1. National Museum of Japanese History & Folklore

When people think of Sakura’s attractions, this museum comes to mind first. Commonly referred to as “Rekihaku,” it is one of the largest history museums in Japan and is beloved by many. Its vast scale is such that you could easily spend an entire day exploring, so plan to have plenty of time.

The museum is divided into six main sections: “Primitive/Ancient,” “Medieval,” “Early Modern,” “Folk,” “Modern,” and “Contemporary.” As the museum also serves as a research institute, it showcases many priceless historical documents and artifacts. You can see firsthand many of the materials you once studied from textbooks during your school days.

Each section is crafted with great attention to detail, and the exhibition that faithfully recreates the streetscape of Asakusa in the Taisho period is especially worth seeing! Posters and small notices pasted on the walls make you feel as if you have truly stepped back into old Asakusa. This is a tourist spot that can be enjoyed by history lovers as well as others.

2. Sakura Castle Ruins Park

Sakura Castle was built in the early Edo period by Doi Toshikatsu, a cousin of Tokugawa Ieyasu. It served as the administrative center of the Sakura Domain, around which the castle town prospered. However, due to the abolition of the feudal domains during the Meiji period, many structures were demolished, and now the area is known as Sakura Castle Ruins Park where you can see the moats and remnants of the keep.

Since the entire area of the former Sakura Castle has been turned into a park, it is vast. In fact, the National Museum of Japanese History & Folklore mentioned above is actually located within this park.

This park is ideal for experiencing the historical atmosphere of the past, and in spring, it becomes one of Sakura’s famous cherry blossom spots. Nearly 1,100 cherry trees bloom alongside the castle ruins in a truly breathtaking display.

3. DIC Kawamura Memorial Art Museum

Covering a wide range of works from Western art icons such as Picasso and Rembrandt to Japanese paintings by artists like Ogata Kōrin and Yokoyama Taikan, the DIC Kawamura Memorial Art Museum features a diverse collection. The building itself is modern, making it a unique spot in historically rich Sakura. Regular special exhibitions are also held, ensuring that each visit offers something new.

Additionally, the museum grounds boast a vast garden where you can observe seasonal flowers. In particular, the carpet-like display of azaleas is a must-see! Enjoying art alongside nature will undoubtedly soothe both the mind and body.

4. Former Horita Residence

A representative tourist attraction of Sakura and designated as an Important Cultural Property, the Former Horita Residence was constructed during the Meiji period as the home of Masanori Horita, the son of Masamichi Horita, who served as head minister during the late Edo period. The residence is modest and unostentatious, yet its simple and restrained design exudes a deep charm as the former mansion of a powerful feudal lord.

The residence is not only notable for the building itself but also for its garden, which is listed as one of the 100 Japanese Historical Gardens. The tranquil, traditional Japanese design offers a perfect place to relax.

5. Sakura Samurai Residences

The Sakura Samurai Residences consist of three parts: the Former Kawahara Family House, the Former Takei Family House, and the Former Tajima Family House. These residences retain a strong Edo-period ambience and have been featured multiple times as filming locations for dramas and movies.

The Former Kawahara Family House, built over 170 years ago, is the oldest of the three and allows you to observe a kitchen and living spaces from that era. The Former Takei Family House displays armor and related materials about samurai houses. The Former Tajima Family House, unlike the other two, is open to the public for inside viewing. Although it is the smallest of the three, its intimate layout allows for a closer observation of life in a historic mansion.

6. Sakura Furusato Hiroba

Sakura Furusato Hiroba is a tourist spot located by the Inba-numa (Inba Swamp). In April, the Sakura Tulip Festa is held, in July a Sunflower Garden featuring windmills is showcased, and in October a Cosmos Festival takes place, with the area adorned by beautiful flowers.

A prominent feature is the Dutch-style windmill “Leifde,” which stands out notably. Although Sakura and the Netherlands may seem unrelated, after Horita Masamichi became the lord of Sakura, Dutch studies were adopted as part of the domain’s learning, leading to Sakura's growth so significantly that it was once known as “Western Nagasaki, Eastern Sakura.” As a token of friendship with the Netherlands, the windmill was constructed, and it has since become one of Sakura’s landmarks.

7. Inba-numa Sunset Hills

One of the breathtaking spots in Sakura is Inba-numa Sunset Hills! Located overlooking Inba-numa, on clear days, you can even see landmarks such as the Tokyo Skytree and Mount Fuji. As the name “Sunset Hills” suggests, at dusk Inba-numa is illuminated by a stunning sunset.

The site includes a campground and tennis courts, making it enjoyable even for families with small children. It is also bustling as a barbecue area, and there is a “hands-free BBQ” service that not only provides grills but also prepares ingredients—an absolute favorite! Enjoy a memorable barbecue while admiring the beautiful sunset, a highlight of visiting Sakura.

8. Sakura Mushroom Farm

Sakura Mushroom Farm is renowned for its year-round shiitake mushroom picking. The shiitake mushrooms here are notably glossier and chewier than typical ones, making them exceptionally delicious. You can enjoy the freshly-picked mushrooms prepared in various ways right away!

In the adjoining direct-sale store, not only do you find the freshly harvested shiitake mushrooms but also locally produced vegetables. You can continue to enjoy the taste of Sakura even after you return home.

Please note that once the large shiitake mushrooms are all picked, the service ends for that day, so it is recommended to visit early on busy weekends or holidays.

9. Sakura Juntendo Memorial Museum

In 1843, Sato Taizen, a Dutch-trained physician, was invited by Horita Masamichi—who had been a proponent of Dutch learning—to establish a medical academy called Juntendo (which later became Juntendo University). Many famous figures representing the Meiji era’s medical world emerged from this academy. The Sakura Juntendo Memorial Museum preserves and conveys the history and achievements of this medical academy.

Inside the building, you can view numerous medical books and medical instruments from the Edo and Meiji periods. This is a must-visit tourist spot for anyone interested in the history of medicine and history in general.

◎ Summary

Sakura City is a town steeped in history. In addition to the attractions introduced above, there are many other historic sites including Sakura Castle Ruins, Usui Castle Ruins, and the Egahara Site. The abundant nature and the harmonious blend of ruins with overgrown trees will surely bring you peace of mind.

Moreover, its relatively easy access from central urban areas makes it an excellent destination for day trips—perfect for weekends or holidays. Enjoy a trip to Sakura City, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty!