Kimitsu: Steel History and Discoveries

A distinctive introduction to Kimitsu’s industrial history is the Nippon Steel East Japan Works Kimitsu District on Tokyo Bay. The works were established in 1965. Integrated iron and steel production began in 1968, when the first blast furnace went into operation. These two years mark different milestones: the establishment of the works and the start of production. For travelers interested in steelmaking, this offers a specific focus for their stay.

What a Factory Tour Shows

During the tour, visitors travel through the works by bus and see some of the steel products and manufacturing processes. Guides explain steelmaking, and videos also clearly present the production process. The visit therefore includes both an introduction to the products and explanations of the processes. Tours are available by advance reservation.

Tours take place on operating days on the first and third Monday mornings of each month; weekends and public holidays are excluded. Check the reservation details and schedule before your trip. The city circular bus runs from the north exit of Kimitsu Station to the Kimitsu Works bus stop at the works. Also check local bus service details in advance.

Water and Walking Routes in Kimitsu

In Kimitsu, Toyofusa Great Falls and the Yaehara History Trail offer two different ways to spend time outdoors. The waterfall is about 20 meters wide and has two tiers with drops of approximately 7.5 and 2.5 meters. The gentler second tier’s slope and water flow can be used as a natural waterslide. Many families visit the waterfall in summer; visitors jump from a slope into the pool, swim there with inflatable rings, or play at the second tier. Conditions at the waterfall may vary.

The Yaehara History Trail is an easy, one-way route of about four kilometers that passes 14 sites. It starts at Yaehara Community Center and ends at Kurumajizō in Mitsuna. Those looking for a set route with several stops will find a different focus here from the seasonally described waterfall activities. The two options differ not only in theme, but also in whether the focus is on water or a trail with stops.

Views, Sake, and Other Experiences

The viewpoints also offer different landscapes. Hitomi Shrine stands on the summit of Hitomiyama; its view was included among “Chiba’s 100 Best Scenic Views.” From Kanoyama Kujukudani Observatory Park, you can look out over the Kazusa Hills, which form several successive ridgelines. In autumn, the foliage is on display, while in winter, morning mist can sometimes be seen. The seasonal scenery therefore ranges from autumn colors to a weather-dependent winter view.

The Kururi Sake Museum showcases local sake from eight breweries in Kazusa and also offers tastings. The Honey and Mead Workshop offers shopping and a free guided tour at set times. Check the latest visitor information before planning your tour. At the foot of Kururi Castle, visitors can try on samurai armor at the Kimitsu Forest Experience Exchange Center on days when it is open. You should also check operating details for this offering before your visit.

Choosing the Right Base

When choosing a vacation rental in Kimitsu, it helps to decide which activity will have the greatest influence on your travel dates. If you want to plan a factory tour, take its morning schedule and the bus connection from the station’s north exit into account. Waterfall activities are described as seasonal; the other destinations mentioned appeal to different interests, such as views, history, or tastings.

Discover more destinations: Katsuura, Noda, Chiba, Sakura, Ichihara, Futtsu, Oamishirasato, Kashiwa.

Go to the main travel overview: Chiba Prefecture.