The Nippon Steel East Japan Works Kimitsu District was established in 1965. In 1968, the site began integrated iron and steel production with the commissioning of its first blast furnace. The works are located on Tokyo Bay. For travelers interested in industrial history, this gives Kimitsu a distinct historical focus.
Industrial History and Factory Tours
Factory tours are available by advance reservation. They take place on the first and third Monday mornings on operating days; weekends and public holidays are excluded. Check reservation procedures and tour details before your trip.
During the tour, visitors travel through the works by bus. Guides explain steelmaking, and videos also present the manufacturing process in an easy-to-understand way. Visitors can see some of the steel products and manufacturing processes. The municipal loop bus runs from the north exit of Kimitsu Station to the Kimitsu Works bus stop at the works. Check local bus service information before traveling.
Nature and Day Trips Around the City
Toyofusa Great Falls is about 20 meters wide and consists of two tiers with drops of approximately 7.5 and 2.5 meters. Many families visit the waterfall in summer: visitors jump from a slope into the pool, swim there with inflatable rings, and use the gentler second tier as a natural waterslide. Conditions at the waterfall may vary.
The Yaehara History Trail passes 14 sites, from the Yaehara Community Center to Kurumajizō in Mitsuna. It is about four kilometers one way.
The viewpoints each offer a different perspective, too. Hitomi Shrine stands on the summit of Hitomiyama; the view from the shrine was included among the “100 Best Views in Chiba.” From Kanoyama Kujukudani Observatory Park, you can see the Kazusa Hills, which form several ridgelines behind one another. The autumn leaves put on a display there, and morning mist sometimes appears in winter.
Culture, Sake, and Crafts
The Kururi Sake Museum showcases local sake from eight breweries in Kazusa and offers tastings. For a different experience, visit the Honey and Mead Workshop, which offers shopping and free tours at scheduled times. Check current operating details before visiting.
At the foot of Kururi Castle is the Kimitsu Forest Experience Exchange Center. Visitors can try on samurai armor on days when it is open. Check current operating details before your visit.
The activities differ considerably in their scheduling requirements: the factory tour requires a reservation and a suitable Monday morning, tours at the Honey and Mead Workshop take place at scheduled times, and trying on the armor is limited to opening days.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Tomisato, Matsudo, Kamogawa, Chiba, Noda, Tateyama, Inzai, Togane
For the broader travel overview: Chiba Prefecture.
