A Historical Symbol of Japan-Netherlands Relations

Why is there such an authentic Dutch windmill in Chiba, Japan? During the Edo period, Sakura City was famously known as “Sakura in the East, Nagasaki in the West” for its profound dedication to Dutch studies (Rangaku).

This windmill, named “De Liefde” (meaning “Love” or “Fellowship” in Dutch), was built to commemorate 380 years of friendly relations between Japan and the Netherlands.

Authentic Design by Dutch Engineers

This is not a theme park decoration. The parts were manufactured in the Netherlands, shipped to Japan, and assembled by real Dutch windmill craftsmen. It is a fully operational water-pumping windmill.

The entire cap of the windmill can rotate to face the wind, ensuring optimal wind capture. It operates regularly even today, and the sound of its massive blades cutting through the air is truly overwhelming.

Inside the Windmill

The greatest charm of De Liefde is that you can actually go inside! Once inside, you can closely observe the massive wooden gears interlocking and converting the power of the wind into mechanical energy.