Beyond Tokyo: Uncovering Japan’s Secret Coastal Villages – Katsuura

Imagine stepping away from the neon buzz of Tokyo and landing in a quiet seaside village where fishermen haul in the morning catch and the air smells of salt and freedom. That’s Katsuura, a hidden gem on Chiba Prefecture’s rugged coast, just a two-hour train ride from the capital. Far from the tourist-packed streets of Kyoto or the hot spring hype of Hakone, Katsuura offers something rarer: an unpolished slice of Japan where you can breathe, eat, and wander without a crowd in sight. Ready to ditch the guidebook and discover a coastal secret? Let’s dive into why Katsuura deserves a spot on your Japan travel list.

A Taste of the Sea: Katsuura’s Morning Market

Start your day where the locals do—at Katsuura’s morning market, one of Japan’s top three. Every day from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. (except Wednesdays), the narrow streets near the port come alive with vendors selling everything from glistening tuna to plump oysters, all caught just hours before. It’s not a polished tourist trap; it’s a real, working market where you might chat with a fisherman as he slices a slab of maguro (tuna) for you to sample. Grab a skewer of grilled scallops or a bowl of steaming miso soup with clams for breakfast—it’s as fresh as it gets. For food lovers, this is Japan unfiltered: raw, delicious, and straight from the sea.

The market’s been running for over 400 years, a testament to Katsuura’s deep fishing roots. Pair your haul with a cup of green tea from a nearby stall, and you’ve got a morning that beats any hotel buffet. Pro tip: Bring cash, as most vendors don’t take cards, and arrive early for the best picks.

Coastal Calm: Moriya Beach and Beyond

After breakfast, head to Moriya Beach, a short walk or bus ride from the market. This isn’t your overcrowded Waikiki—Moriya’s clear waters and soft sands feel like a secret shared only with the locals. In summer, it’s perfect for swimming or kayaking; in cooler months, it’s a serene spot to stroll and watch the waves crash against the rocky cliffs. The beach’s small size adds to its charm—you won’t find mega-resorts or loudspeakers here, just the sound of the ocean and maybe a seabird or two.

If you’re up for more exploring, rent a bike and pedal along the coast to spots like Ubara Beach or the dramatic cliffs of Hachiman Cape. The views are postcard-worthy, with fishing boats bobbing in the distance and the Pacific stretching out endlessly. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger, camera in hand, soaking in Japan’s quieter side.

Spicy and Soulful: Katsuura Tantanmen

No trip to Katsuura is complete without trying its signature dish: Katsuura tantanmen. Unlike the creamy, peanut-heavy tantanmen you might know from Chinese cuisine, this local twist is a fiery, soy-based ramen loaded with chili oil and onions. It’s said to have been invented decades ago to warm up fishermen after long, cold nights at sea. Today, you can slurp it at cozy spots like Matsumi or Isoba—small, family-run joints where the broth simmers all day. It’s spicy, soul-warming, and utterly unique, a flavor you won’t find anywhere else in Japan. Pair it with a cold beer, and you’ve got a meal that hits all the right notes.

Getting There and Making It Happen

Getting to Katsuura is a breeze. From Tokyo Station, hop on the JR Sotobo Line’s Wakashio limited express train (about 2 hours, ¥3,500 one way). Once you arrive at Katsuura Station, the town’s compact size means you can explore on foot or by local bus. For a perfect day trip, catch an early train, hit the morning market, relax at Moriya Beach, and refuel with tantanmen before heading back. If you’ve got more time, stay overnight at a ryokan like Hamazume—simple, traditional lodging with ocean views that won’t break the bank (around ¥10,000 per night).

Spring and fall are ideal for mild weather, though summer brings swimming and winter offers a peaceful escape with fewer visitors. Check the train schedule on Hyperdia or JR East’s site, and you’re set.

Why Katsuura?

Katsuura isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. It’s the Japan you dream of when you imagine stepping off the beaten path: authentic, unhurried, and full of small surprises. Whether it’s the taste of sea-fresh tuna, the crunch of sand under your feet, or the kick of tantanmen spice, this little coastal village delivers big on charm. So next time you’re planning a Japan adventure, skip the overcrowded hotspots and head to Katsuura. You’ll leave with a full stomach, a clear mind, and a story most travelers will never know.