Venture into the heart of Japan’s history and experience the charm of the Edo period with a Little Edo Sawara Boat Tour. The gateway to this experience is Sawara, often referred to as ‘Little Edo,’ a historic town located in the Katori City of Chiba Prefecture. An important center of culture and commerce during the Edo period (1603-1868), Sawara offers a unique journey back in time for tourists today. Its history is closely entwined with the Edo period, a time of political stability and thriving arts. Meticulously preserving this heritage, the town maintains the architecture and the aura of that era, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this fascinating period of Japanese history.
What is the Little Edo Sawara Boat Tour?
The Little Edo Sawara Boat Tour is a unique journey along the Ono River in a traditional flat-bottomed boat. As you glide past preserved warehouses and centuries-old residences, your boatman-guide narrates stories of the Edo period, immersing you in Japan’s rich history and culture.
The scenery along the river is a feast for the eyes, with reflections of traditional buildings on the water, blooming flowers, and swaying willows adding an enchanting touch. This tranquil boat ride, a stark contrast to the fast-paced modern life, offers a much-needed moment of calm and relaxation. This is the charm of the Little Edo Sawara Boat Tour – a mesmerizing blend of history, beauty, and serenity.
How to get there
From Chiba Station:
Take the JR Sobu Line from Chiba Station to Narita Station. From Narita Station, change to the JR Narita Line for Choshi and get off at Sawara Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
From Tokyo Station:
Take the JR Sobu/Narita Line Rapid from Tokyo Station to Narita Station. Then, change to the JR Narita Line for Choshi and get off at Sawara Station. The journey from Tokyo Station to Sawara Station takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Once you reach Sawara Station, the historic district of Sawara is just a short walk away, and the boat tours are easy to find along the Ono River.
Remember to check the train schedules as they can change, and some connections might require a brief wait at the transfer stations.
The Little Edo Sawara Boat Tour is more than just a ride; it’s a journey through time that lets you soak in the rich culture, history, and picturesque views of a bygone era. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, make sure to put this unique experience on your itinerary.
