Ono River — Attraction in Katori

The Ono River in Sawara (Katori, Chiba) is beautiful and full of charm. Walking along the canal feels peaceful, with historic houses, little bridges, and calm waters that reflect the old-town vibe. It’s a perfect spot for families—stroller-friendly paths, lots of photo opportunities, and a quiet atmosphere away from the rush of Tokyo.

We loved just strolling here, watching the boats go by, and taking in the traditional scenery. It really feels like stepping back into “Little Edo.”

Pro tips: • Weekdays → calmer and easier to take photos without crowds. • Best seasons → spring cherry blossoms and autumn leaves make the riverside especially gorgeous. • Stroller/kid-friendly → paths are mostly flat and easy to walk. • Cash → if you stop at local shops along the river, bring cash. • Pair it with the Sawara boat tour or the Inō Tadataka Museum for a full-day visit.

A peaceful, authentic experience—highly recommend if you’re in Chiba and want to see a different...

It’s a lovely calm spot to admire the old buildings and grab some snacks. There isn’t a huge amount to do honestly speaking but I prefer visiting here over Kawagoe for a weekend day trip as it’s a better place to relax and enjoy the old atmosphere. I find the business owners here are prouder of their heritage and more willing to spend time telling you...

Like walking into the past. Beautifully maintained, and stunning to look at. You can walk the whole stretch even beyond the preserved area and still see old houses being resided in, or taken over by cafes and restaurants.

We saw swans swimming down river. A great hour or two of exploration including the museum and Idoh's...