Makuhari New City
Tokyo Bay's Modern Business and Event Hub
Makuhari New City (Makuhari Shintoshin) development began in the 1970s on reclaimed land along Tokyo Bay in Chiba Prefecture. The project aimed to create a futuristic business district combining international convention facilities, commercial spaces, and residential areas - a '21st century urban model' integrating work, living, and leisure. The centerpiece, Makuhari Messe, opened in 1989 as one of Japan's largest convention centers.
The area gained prominence hosting major international events: G7 Summit (1993), gaming conventions, trade shows, and concerts. Tokyo Disney Resort's proximity (20 minutes) and excellent transport links made Makuhari attractive for business travelers combining work with entertainment. The development represented Japan's bubble-era ambitions for innovative urban planning, though the economic downturn slowed full realization of original plans.
Today, Makuhari New City successfully functions as a business, convention, and entertainment district, though less glamorous than originally envisioned. The area attracts millions annually for events at Makuhari Messe (Tokyo Game Show, Motor Show, etc.), shopping at AEON Mall and outlet centers, and accommodation in numerous hotels. The district exemplifies Japan's large-scale waterfront development projects and continues evolving with new commercial and residential towers.
Key Highlights
- Makuhari Messe - major convention and exhibition center
- AEON Mall Makuhari New City (shopping complex)
- Mitsui Outlet Park Makuhari (discount brand outlets)
- Numerous hotels for business and event travelers
- Waterfront parks and promenades
- Modern architecture and urban planning
Access Information
Location
Makuhari area, Mihama-ku, Chiba 261-0000, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Kaihin-Makuhari Station (JR Keiyo Line) - central location
- • Makuhari-Hongo Station (JR Sobu Line) - 10 min north
- • Makuhari Station (Keisei Line) - local access
Opening Hours
Area accessible 24 hours. Makuhari Messe: event-dependent, typically 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM during exhibitions. AEON Mall: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM. Outlet Park: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Individual shops/restaurants vary.
Admission Fee
No area entry fee. Individual attraction/event fees apply. Makuhari Messe events: typically ¥1,000-3,000 admission depending on event. Shopping and dining costs vary.
How to Get There
From Tokyo Station
Take JR Keiyo Line (Rapid or Local) to Kaihin-Makuhari (30 minutes, ¥570). Direct access to convention center and shopping areas. Trains run every 10-15 minutes throughout day. Most convenient route for central Tokyo visitors.
30 minutes
From Narita Airport
Take JR Narita Express or Sobu Line to Chiba (40 min), transfer to Keiyo Line to Kaihin-Makuhari (10 min). Total ¥1,940. Or limousine bus directly to Makuhari area hotels (70 min, ¥1,300). Convenient stopover between airport and Tokyo.
1 hour
From Tokyo Disneyland
Take JR Keiyo Line from Maihama to Kaihin-Makuhari (15 minutes, ¥220). Easy combination for families: Disney one day, Makuhari shopping/events another. Many visitors stay in Makuhari hotels and commute to Disney.
20 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Makuhari Messe Events
Check event calendar before visiting - major conventions include Tokyo Game Show (September), Tokyo Auto Salon (January), Foodex (March), Tokyo Motor Show (biennial, October-November). Events draw massive crowds, hotels book months ahead. Admission fees vary ¥1,000-3,000. The convention center spans 210,000+ square meters - among Japan's largest. Visiting during major event provides unique experience but expect crowds.
Shopping Complexes
AEON Mall Makuhari New City: Large shopping mall with 250+ stores, cinema, restaurants. Family-oriented with kids' play areas. Mitsui Outlet Park: Discount brand outlets (30-70% off) for fashion, sports, lifestyle goods. Both offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Less crowded than Tokyo shopping districts, more parking available. Weekday visits quieter than weekends.
Hotels and Accommodation
Over 20 hotels cater to business travelers and event attendees: APA Hotel, Hotel Francs, Hotel New Otani, etc. Rates reasonable ¥8,000-15,000 per night (cheaper than central Tokyo). Popular base for Tokyo Disney visits (20 min by train). During major Messe events, hotels fill completely - book far ahead. Off-event periods offer good deals.
Waterfront Areas
Inage Seaside Park nearby offers beach access, BBQ areas, pools (summer only). Makuhari Seaside Park provides jogging paths and open spaces. The waterfront location provides pleasant walking areas beyond shopping/events. Less developed than Odaiba but more spacious. Good for morning runs or family outdoor time.
Sports Facilities
QVC Marine Field (Chiba Lotte Marines baseball stadium) hosts professional baseball games (March-October). ZOZ marine Stadium area includes sports facilities. The planned city includes recreational spaces alongside business districts. Sports fans can catch games while visiting conventions or shopping.
Family-Friendly Features
AEON Mall has kids' play areas, nursing rooms, family restrooms. Wide sidewalks and modern infrastructure stroller-friendly. Less crowded than Tokyo attractions - more space for children to move. Multiple family restaurants (Jonathan's, Royal Host, etc.). Good alternative to Tokyo for families wanting shopping/dining without crowds.
Business Facilities
Numerous office buildings house company branches and regional headquarters. Modern conference facilities beyond Messe. Business hotels well-equipped for work travelers. The district successfully attracts companies seeking Tokyo Bay location without central Tokyo costs. Co-working spaces available in some buildings.
Practical Information
English signage decent in commercial areas, limited elsewhere. The area feels more suburban than urban despite modern architecture. Best visited with specific purpose (event, shopping, hotel stay) rather than sightseeing destination. Free WiFi in malls. Parking abundant (¥200-300/hour). Combine with Tokyo Disney or Chiba touring for multi-day itinerary. Direct access from Tokyo Station makes day trips easy.
FAQ
What is Makuhari Messe used for?
Makuhari Messe is one of Japan's largest convention centers, hosting international trade shows, concerts, anime conventions, esports tournaments, and corporate events. Major events include Tokyo Game Show, Tokyo Auto Salon, and Summer Sonic music festival. The venue can accommodate over 30,000 people.
How do I get to Makuhari from Tokyo?
Take the JR Keiyo Line from Tokyo Station to Kaihin-Makuhari Station, which takes approximately 30-40 minutes. The station is directly connected to the business district. Alternatively, take the JR Sobu Line to Makuhari-Hongo Station, though Kaihin-Makuhari is more convenient for the Messe.
Is there anything to do in Makuhari if no events are happening?
Yes, the area has Mitsui Outlet Park with over 130 shops, AEON Mall with shopping and dining, Makuhari Beach for walks and cycling, and several large hotels with restaurants. The futuristic architecture and waterfront location make it pleasant for strolling, though it's primarily a business district.
Are there hotels near Makuhari Messe?
Yes, several hotels are within walking distance including Hotel New Otani Makuhari, APA Hotel, and Hotel Francs. These business hotels cater to convention attendees and offer comfortable accommodations. Prices vary significantly depending on events at the Messe, so book early during major conventions.
How long should I spend in Makuhari?
If attending an event at Makuhari Messe, plan for 3-6 hours depending on the event. For general sightseeing, 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the outlet mall and waterfront area. Most visitors come specifically for events rather than tourism.
What is the Tokyo Game Show?
Tokyo Game Show is one of the world's largest video game conventions, held annually at Makuhari Messe in September. It features upcoming game announcements, playable demos, esports tournaments, and cosplay events. Tickets sell out quickly for public days, so book well in advance.
Can I visit Makuhari Beach?
Yes, Makuhari Beach is a man-made beach and park along Tokyo Bay, perfect for walks, jogging, and cycling. While swimming is not permitted, the beach offers nice views of the bay and is popular for barbecues in summer. It's about a 15-minute walk from Kaihin-Makuhari Station.
Are there good restaurants in Makuhari?
The area has numerous restaurants in AEON Mall, the outlet park, and around the station, offering Japanese, international, and fast food options. Many chain restaurants and food courts cater to convention attendees. Prices are moderate, ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 yen for meals.
Is Makuhari worth visiting as a tourist?
Makuhari is primarily a business and convention district rather than a tourist destination. Unless you're attending an event at the Messe or want to shop at the outlet mall, there are more interesting areas to visit in the Tokyo region. It showcases modern urban planning but lacks historical or cultural attractions.
How crowded is Makuhari during major events?
Extremely crowded during major events like Tokyo Game Show or Summer Sonic. Train stations become packed, restaurants have long waits, and nearby hotels fill up completely. If attending popular events, arrive early, expect crowds, and make restaurant and hotel reservations well in advance.
What is the outlet mall like?
Mitsui Outlet Park Makuhari features over 130 shops selling discounted designer brands, fashion, sports gear, and household goods. It's a typical outlet mall with both Japanese and international brands. Discounts range from 30-70% off regular prices, making it popular for bargain shopping.
Can I store luggage at Kaihin-Makuhari Station?
Yes, Kaihin-Makuhari Station has coin lockers of various sizes. However, during major events at Makuhari Messe, lockers fill up very quickly. Many event attendees use luggage storage services or leave bags at hotels. Arrive early if you need locker space during conventions.
Is there free WiFi in Makuhari?
Free WiFi is available in most commercial facilities including AEON Mall, Mitsui Outlet Park, and major hotels. Makuhari Messe provides WiFi during most events, though connection quality varies with crowd size. Kaihin-Makuhari Station also offers free public WiFi access.
What events are held at Makuhari Messe annually?
Major annual events include Tokyo Game Show in September, Tokyo Auto Salon in January, Comiket satellite events, FOODEX Japan food exhibition, and Summer Sonic music festival. The venue also hosts corporate conferences, job fairs, and international trade shows throughout the year.
Is Makuhari family-friendly?
Yes, the area is safe and family-friendly with wide sidewalks, parks, and shopping facilities. Children enjoy the outlet mall's play areas and the beach park. However, unless attending a specific event suitable for kids, other Tokyo areas offer more child-focused attractions.
How is the architecture in Makuhari?
Makuhari showcases modern Japanese urban planning with futuristic high-rises, the distinctive Makuhari Messe convention hall, and well-organized infrastructure. Built largely in the 1990s during Japan's bubble economy, it represents ambitious waterfront development, though some find it sterile compared to traditional Japanese areas.
Can I cycle around Makuhari?
Yes, Makuhari has good cycling infrastructure with dedicated bike lanes along the waterfront and throughout the business district. Rental bicycles are available at some locations. The flat terrain and wide paths make it ideal for cycling, especially along Makuhari Beach and the bay area.
What is Summer Sonic festival?
Summer Sonic is one of Japan's largest music festivals, held simultaneously at Makuhari Messe and Osaka in mid-August. It features international and Japanese rock, pop, and electronic artists across multiple stages. Two-day tickets allow alternating between Tokyo and Osaka venues via shuttle buses.
Are there ATMs and currency exchange in Makuhari?
Yes, ATMs are located in the station, AEON Mall, and major hotels. Most accept international cards. However, currency exchange options are limited compared to central Tokyo. It's best to exchange money before arriving or use international-friendly ATMs at 7-Eleven convenience stores.
Is parking available at Makuhari Messe?
Yes, Makuhari Messe has large parking facilities, but they fill completely during major events. Parking costs vary by event, typically 1,000-2,000 yen per day. During popular conventions, public transportation is strongly recommended as parking is extremely difficult and traffic around the venue becomes congested.
Nearby Attractions
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