Things To Do
in Aishō

Aishō is a charming town located in the Mie Prefecture of Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. The town is surrounded by lush mountains and is home to historical sites, making it a perfect destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Aishō is famous for its traditional crafts and local festivals, which showcase the vibrant community spirit.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere with opportunities for scenic hikes and local cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Aishō
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Aishō Town Museum, where you can learn about the town's history and traditional crafts. Afterward, take a stroll through the picturesque streets lined with traditional wooden houses.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local soba restaurant, and then head to the nearby Kizaki Lake for a leisurely walk around the lake and some birdwatching.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, where you can try various Japanese tapas, and then enjoy a tranquil evening walk along the riverside.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a hike in the nearby mountains, particularly the stunning Mt. Yoshino, known for its cherry blossoms in spring.

afternoon
:

Visit a local pottery studio where you can participate in a hands-on workshop and create your own piece of art. Grab lunch at a nearby café that specializes in matcha desserts.

evening
:

Experience a traditional kaiseki dinner at a renowned local restaurant, showcasing seasonal ingredients and intricate presentation.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Ramen$8
🍣Sushi Set$15
Coffee$3
🍱Bento Box$10
🍵Matcha Dessert$6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited English signage may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Fewer international dining options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be limited in rural areas.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "お手洗いはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "メニューをください" - Please give me the menu

Places to Visit in Aishō

Visit one of these nice places.

Kizaki Lake

A serene lake surrounded by mountains, providing stunning reflections and vibrant scenery, especially during sunrise.

Traditional Streets of Aishō

Charming streets lined with wooden houses and traditional architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of old Japan.

Mt. Yoshino

Famous for its cherry blossoms, the mountain offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities year-round.

Culinary Guide

Food in Aishō

Aishō offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of Mie Prefecture and traditional Japanese cuisine.

Aishō Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Yaki-soba

Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meat, a popular local dish.

Must-Try!

Aishō Soba

Buckwheat noodles served hot or cold, often enjoyed with dipping sauce.

Kaiseki

A multi-course Japanese dinner that highlights seasonal ingredients.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Aishō Street Market

A bustling market where you can find local produce, handmade crafts, and street food delicacies.

Yatai (Food Stalls)

Various food stalls offering local snacks like takoyaki and yakitori.

Climate Guide

Weather

Aishō experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, averaging around 5°C (41°F), while summers (June to August) can be hot and humid, reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting and a sign of respect; the deeper the bow, the more respect is shown.

Shoes Off Indoors

It’s customary to remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional establishments.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Keep conversations at a low volume in public transport and public spaces to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

Safety Guide

Safety

Aishō is considered a safe destination with low crime rates. However, common travel precautions apply, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing personal belongings. Emergency numbers are easily accessible, and locals are generally helpful.

Tipping in Aishō

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be seen as rude; excellent service is expected as part of the hospitality.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in larger establishments; ATMs that accept foreign cards are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect beautiful cherry blossoms, mild temperatures, and various local festivals celebrating the season.

Summer

Warm weather with occasional rain; a great time for outdoor activities and local summer festivals.

Autumn

Enjoy stunning fall foliage and cooler temperatures; perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with possible snowfall; ideal for cozy indoor activities and enjoying seasonal cuisine.

Nightlife Guide

Aishō at Night

Aishō boasts a relaxed nightlife scene with several izakayas and a few bars that offer a cozy atmosphere for socializing. Local establishments often feature live music and seasonal events. The nightlife is family-oriented, making it a safe and inviting environment for all ages.

Hiking in Aishō

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fujiyama Trail

A scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, suitable for all skill levels.

Kumano Kodo

Part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient pilgrimage route provides a rich hiking experience through lush forests and historic shrines.

Airports

How to reach Aishō by plane.

Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport

Located approximately 1.5 hours from Aishō, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the most accessible airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Aishō is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. However, some attractions may require transportation due to their distance from the main town center.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Primarily Japanese, the local population is known for their friendliness and hospitality, many of whom are engaged in agriculture and traditional crafts.

Tourists

Visitors range from domestic travelers seeking cultural experiences to international tourists attracted by the scenic beauty and historical significance.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a widely loved sport in Aishō, with local teams that attract community support and excitement.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with regional teams and local matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Aishō is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or bike. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby cities, though services may be limited during off-peak hours. Cycling is a favored mode of transport for locals and visitors alike.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Aishō.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it’s advisable to communicate your dietary needs.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but soba made from 100% buckwheat is a good choice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Aishō is of high quality, with local clinics and hospitals providing comprehensive medical services. In case of emergencies, hospitals are equipped with English-speaking staff, but it is advisable to have travel insurance. Pharmacies are also available for minor health needs and over-the-counter medications.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide