Things To Do
in Matsudo

Matsudo is a vibrant city located in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history and cultural blend. It serves as a major residential area and is conveniently situated near Tokyo, making it an ideal spot for commuters. The city features beautiful parks, historical sites, and a lively shopping scene.

Visitors can experience traditional Japanese culture alongside modern amenities, making it a unique destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Matsudo
morning
:

Start your day at the Matsudo City Museum to learn about the city's history and culture. Afterward, take a stroll through the nearby Matsudo Park, enjoying its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Koshigaya Shrine, where you can appreciate traditional Japanese architecture and serene gardens. For lunch, head to the Matsudo Station area for some local ramen.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, sampling various Japanese small dishes. End your day with a walk through the illuminated streets of Matsudo, taking in the vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Shopping
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the famous Soga no Taki Waterfall, a beautiful natural spot perfect for a morning hike. Enjoy the tranquility and snap some photos of the cascading water.

afternoon
:

Head back to the city and explore the various shops in the Matsudo shopping district. Don't miss the local street food vendors for a quick bite.

evening
:

For your final evening, visit a local bar or karaoke spot to experience Matsudo's nightlife. Enjoy some drinks and sing along with friends or locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
Coffee$3
🚇Train Ticket$2
🥢Dinner at Izakaya$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and history
  • Proximity to Tokyo for day trips
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities
  • Limited English signage in some areas
  • Public transport can be crowded during peak hours
  • Fewer tourist attractions compared to larger cities
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Matsudo

Visit one of these nice places.

Matsudo Park

A beautiful park with cherry blossoms in spring, perfect for nature photography.

Koshigaya Shrine

This historic shrine offers stunning architecture and a peaceful environment for photography.

Soga no Taki Waterfall

A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for capturing natural beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Matsudo

Matsudo offers a delightful culinary experience, featuring a variety of local dishes that reflect its rich culture and history.

Matsudo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Matsudo Ramen

A local specialty, this ramen is known for its rich broth and unique toppings.

Must-Try!

Chiba Sushi

Fresh sushi made from local seafood, highlighting the flavors of Chiba Prefecture.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Matsudo Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional Japanese sweets.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the shopping district offering takoyaki, yakitori, and other popular street foods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Matsudo experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Summer (June to August) sees temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F), while winter (December to February) is milder, averaging around 5°C (41°F). Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms with moderate temperatures, while autumn features cool weather and stunning fall colors.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Behavior

Be polite and use formal greetings; bowing is a common way to show respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Keep noise levels down in public transport and other shared spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Matsudo is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings and safeguarding personal belongings. Emergency numbers are easily accessible, with local police and medical facilities readily available.

Tipping in Matsudo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is expected without extra gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many places; ensure to carry cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect beautiful cherry blossoms, especially in Matsudo Park, attracting many visitors.

Summer

Hot and humid with occasional rain; perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with vibrant fall foliage, making it a great time for hiking.

Winter

Mild winter with occasional snowfall; a quieter time to explore the city.

Nightlife Guide

Matsudo at Night

Matsudo's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring a variety of izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. The atmosphere is lively, especially around the Matsudo Station area, where locals gather to unwind after work. Many establishments stay open late, offering a mix of traditional Japanese experiences and modern entertainment.

Hiking in Matsudo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kujukuri Beach Trail

A scenic coastal trail offering beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for walking or cycling.

Tama River Trail

A lovely hiking path along the river, ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful escape.

Airports

How to reach Matsudo by plane.

Narita International Airport

Located approximately 45 minutes from Matsudo, Narita is the main international gateway to Japan, offering numerous flights worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Matsudo is a very walkable city, especially around the downtown area. Many attractions, restaurants, and parks are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are plentiful.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Matsudo is home to many families due to its residential areas and proximity to Tokyo.

Young Professionals

With many commuters traveling to Tokyo for work, young professionals make up a significant demographic.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, with many local teams and high school competitions.

Soccer

Soccer has a strong following, with local clubs and community leagues actively promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Matsudo has a well-developed public transportation system, including trains and buses connecting to central Tokyo and surrounding areas. Traffic can be heavy during rush hours, but the city is generally easy to navigate. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, with many bike lanes available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Matsudo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, but it's advisable to check ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; inquire at restaurants for special dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Matsudo is accessible with several hospitals and clinics available. The quality of medical services is high, and many doctors can speak basic English. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide