Things To Do
in Ashikita

Ashikita is a picturesque town located in Kumamoto Prefecture on the southern island of Kyushu, Japan. Known for its rich agricultural lands and stunning coastal views, it provides a tranquil retreat from the bustling city life. The town is particularly famous for its production of high-quality rice and fresh seafood.

With its warm climate and friendly locals, Ashikita offers a unique glimpse into rural Japanese culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ashikita Historical Museum to learn about the town's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Ashikita Rice Planting Festival (seasonal) or explore local farms where you can engage in rice harvesting.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, where you can taste various regional dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the beautiful Ashikita Coast, perfect for a morning walk and taking in the ocean views.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at a local onsen (hot spring) to relax and rejuvenate.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a sunset view from the nearby hills, followed by a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
Coffee$3
🥡Takeout Meal$8
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and coastal views.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Delicious local cuisine featuring fresh seafood.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Public transport may be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Language barrier can be an issue for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Ashikita

Visit one of these nice places.

Ashikita Coast

Capture stunning ocean views and sunsets along the scenic coastline.

Komitake Shrine

A beautiful shrine surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for serene photographs.

Rice Fields

The vibrant green rice paddies provide a picturesque rural setting, especially during planting and harvest seasons.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ashikita

Ashikita is a haven for food lovers, especially those who appreciate fresh, local ingredients. The town's culinary scene is heavily influenced by its agricultural heritage and coastal location, offering delicious seafood and rice dishes.

Ashikita Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ashikita Rice

Locally grown rice known for its sweetness and fluffiness, often served as a staple.

Must-Try!

Sashimi

Freshly caught fish served raw, showcasing the region's excellent seafood.

Kumamoto Ramen

Rich pork-bone broth ramen, popular throughout the Kumamoto region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ashikita Farmers Market

An open-air market where locals sell fresh produce, homemade snacks, and more.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering local delicacies like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls).

Climate Guide

Weather

Ashikita enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, while summers can be hot and humid, averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters are mild with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, making it a year-round destination.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

A common greeting; bowing is a sign of respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Quietness in Public

Maintaining a low volume in public spaces is appreciated, particularly in transport and restaurants.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ashikita is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, visitors should remain aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and take precautions against natural disasters like typhoons, which can occur in late summer and early autumn.

Tipping in Ashikita

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be seen as rude; excellent service is expected without extra compensation.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but many places accept credit cards; ATMs are available in convenience stores.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms make spring a beautiful time to visit.

Summer

Hot and humid; perfect for beach activities and enjoying the coastal scenery.

Autumn

Cooler weather with stunning autumn foliage in the hills surrounding Ashikita.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snow, ideal for enjoying hot springs and cozy meals.

Nightlife Guide

Ashikita at Night

Ashikita has a relaxed nightlife scene with a few izakayas and bars where locals gather to enjoy drinks and socializing. Most places close by midnight, so it's ideal for those looking for a calm evening. Karaoke is popular, providing a fun way to engage with friends and locals.

Hiking in Ashikita

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kinpo

A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with trails suitable for various skill levels.

Yoshino Mountain Trail

A scenic trail that takes hikers through lush forests and offers beautiful views, especially in autumn.

Airports

How to reach Ashikita by plane.

Kumamoto Airport

Located approximately 40 km from Ashikita, Kumamoto Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it the most convenient airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ashikita is a small town, making it quite walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other, allowing visitors to explore at a leisurely pace. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the low traffic levels make it safe for pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Agricultural Workers

A significant portion of Ashikita's population is involved in agriculture, particularly rice and vegetable farming.

Elderly Residents

The town has a growing elderly population, with many residents enjoying a relaxed lifestyle in the countryside.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, and local teams often draw enthusiastic crowds.

Soccer

Soccer is also widely followed, with many local youth teams and community leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ashikita is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include local buses, which connect Ashikita to nearby towns and Kumamoto City. However, schedules may be limited, especially on weekends and holidays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ashikita.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While many local dishes feature seafood, there are vegetarian options available in several restaurants.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's best to inquire about ingredients when dining out.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Ashikita is adequate, with local clinics and a hospital available for general medical needs. For more specialized treatment, residents may need to travel to Kumamoto City, which has larger medical facilities. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide