TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Makuhari Messe is a large international exhibition and convention center located in Mihama Ward, Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture. Since opening in 1989, it has hosted a wide variety of events, including domestic and international trade fairs, exhibitions, international conferences, concerts, and other events. With multiple exhibition halls, an international conference center, an event hall, and other ancillary facilities, it is known as a crossroads for business, culture, and entertainment.
Taking advantage of its open location near the sea and its vast grounds, the facility is characterized by its ability to handle large-scale loading and unloading, and by the frequent use of events that attract large crowds. There are also shopping malls, hotels, and sports facilities in the surrounding area, making it a convenient base for both staying and sightseeing.
Highlights
- The excitement of large-scale events: A wide variety of events are held, including international trade fairs, game shows, community events, and concerts, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the venue.
- Multipurpose Hall/Event Hall: With a large indoor stage and exhibition space, it is used to host performances by famous domestic and international artists and large-scale exhibitions.
- The open scenery of the surrounding area: You can enjoy strolling through the Makuhari cityscape that spreads out towards the sea, or the nearby seaside park.
- Convenient surrounding facilities: There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and accommodations for event participants, making it a comfortable environment even for long events.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Kaihin-Makuhari Station on the JR Keiyo Line in the Kaihin-Makuhari area is convenient. You can walk to the venue entrance (walking time varies depending on the event and exit, but it's generally between a few minutes and 15 minutes).
- From Tokyo: Take the Keiyo Line directly from Tokyo Station (approximately 30 minutes, travel time varies depending on the train).
- From the airport: You can access the area from Narita Airport or Haneda Airport by limousine bus or train (with transfers). There are also direct limousine buses, so be sure to check the arrival time and operating status in advance.
- By car: There is a parking lot on the premises, but it often fills up during events and causes traffic congestion on surrounding roads. We recommend using public transportation.
- Shuttles and special transportation: During large-scale events, special buses and extra trains may be in operation. Please check the information provided by the event organizer or the railway company.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Exhibitions/trade shows: Half a day to a full day (varies depending on the scale of the event and the number of booths you are interested in).
- Concerts/performances: Performance time plus travel and waiting time will be approximately 3 to 5 hours.
- International conferences and seminars: Depending on the program, the duration can range from a few hours to a full day.
- Walking around the area (including shopping and dining): Approximately 1 to 3 hours.
Nearby spots
- ZOZO Marine Stadium (Chiba Marine Stadium): A stadium where professional baseball games and events are held. It is close to Makuhari Messe.
- AEON MALL Makuhari New City: A large shopping mall convenient for shopping and dining.
- Makuhari Seaside Park (Makuhari's seaside area): A park perfect for strolling and relaxing along the sea.
- Nearby hotel area: There are many hotels catering to event participants, making it convenient for lodging and meetings.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: When popular events are held, stations and areas around the venues will be extremely crowded. Please allow yourself plenty of time as you can expect long queues for entrances, toilets, and restaurants, as well as congestion on public transport.
- Belongings and baggage inspection: Depending on the event, there may be baggage inspections or restrictions on what can be brought in. It is convenient to check the organizer's instructions in advance and use cloakrooms or delivery services for large luggage.
- Clothing and shoes: The venue is large and you will be walking a lot, so we recommend comfortable shoes and clothing that is easy to move in. Depending on the season, the air conditioning can be strong, so it is a good idea to bring a thin jacket.
- Weather and seasons: As this is a coastal area, the wind can be strong and the temperature can feel lower. In summer, it can be hot and humid, so be sure to stay hydrated and take precautions against the heat, and in winter, dress warmly and take into account the wind.
- Manners: Please be considerate of other visitors inside the venue (do not cut in line, use the smoking area, avoid shouting or causing a nuisance inside the venue). There are also booths and stages with restrictions on photography.
- Check transportation options in advance: Immediately after the event, the roads returning home will be extremely crowded, so it is a good idea to check your transportation options for returning home (such as the last train or special bus) in advance.
