Situated in Chiba prefecture, and approximately 110 minutes to 145 minutes from Tokyo is Sawara. To reach Sawara in the fastest from Tokyo, take a train from Shinjuku station for 110 minutes using the Narita Express Line combined with the JR Narita Line. If like many people, you’re staying in nearby Narita before or after a flight from nearby Narita Airport, Sawara is only then a 30 minute train journey from Narita train station. Please note that the trains running to and from Sawara only run once every hour, so please factor this into your day when planning.

The Inoh Tadataka Museum and Memorial House is located in the heart of Sawara’s historic district. It is dedicated to the life and works of Tadataka who lived from 1745 – 1818. He was a well known Surveyor and Cartographer. He is most famous for creating the first accurate and detailed map of Japan where he used modern and advanced mapping techniques.

Tadataka lived in Sawara, and as a result a museum and statues have been created in his honour. His house has also been beautifully preserved. Both the museum and house are just 1 minute walk from each other. The museum features a collection of original maps, surveying instruments, historical documents and interactive displays. The museum is not large, and you can easily spend 30 minutes here. The museum is 400 yen to enter, but a special combined museum ticket can be purchased for 800 yen which will also grant you admission to the Suigo Sawara Float Museum.

Inoh Tadataka’s former house is a very well preserved Edo-period townhouse. It is where Tadataka spent most of his life. It is worth visiting not only for its historical significance but as a fantastic example of Edo-period architecture and how wealthy Japanese people used to live. The house features beautiful wooden structures, tatami mat rooms and even a garden. It is directly next to the Ono River boat cruise port, so it can be easily located. It is also free to enter.

Want to experience Sawara for yourself?

1 Day Tour

Discover Historic Narita and Sawara : Gateway to Japan’s Past
Period	All Year Round
Time	10:15 – 16:20
Meeting Place	Inside of JR Narita Station
Adult Rate	¥17,800
Child Rate	¥11,000