Things To Do
in Ashiya

Ashiya, Japan is a picturesque city located between Osaka and Kobe, known for its affluent residential neighborhoods and beautiful coastal views. The city boasts a mix of traditional Japanese culture and modern lifestyle, making it an inviting destination for travelers. Ashiya is famous for its hot springs, lush parks, and exquisite architecture, offering a serene escape from the bustling urban centers nearby.

Additionally, the local seafood and regional cuisine attract food enthusiasts from around the world.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Ashiya
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Ashiya Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll among cherry blossoms in season or relax by the pond.

afternoon
:

Head to the Ashiya City Museum of Art, which features a variety of modern and contemporary art exhibitions, followed by lunch at a local café.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant and take a leisurely walk along the coast to watch the sunset over the ocean.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the renowned Ashiyu foot bath, where you can soak your feet in the natural hot spring waters while enjoying the view.

afternoon
:

Explore the quaint streets of Ashiya, stopping at local shops and galleries, then enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch.

evening
:

Experience Ashiya's nightlife by visiting a local izakaya for authentic Japanese food and drinks, followed by a stroll through the illuminated streets.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
Coffee$4
🍺Local Beer$6
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and parks.
  • Excellent local cuisine, especially seafood.
  • Cultural experiences with traditional Japanese customs.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may require transfers.
  • Some areas may be more expensive due to affluence.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Ashiya

Visit one of these nice places.

Ashiya Beach

A scenic beach perfect for capturing sunset photography with the backdrop of the ocean.

Ashiya Park

Known for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring, this park offers beautiful natural settings.

Kiyomizu Temple

A traditional temple that provides picturesque views of the city and surrounding nature.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ashiya

Ashiya offers a delightful culinary experience with a focus on fresh seafood and local specialties that reflect its coastal location.

Ashiya Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kaisendon

A seafood rice bowl featuring a variety of fresh sashimi served over a bed of rice.

Must-Try!

Bento

A traditional Japanese lunch box with assorted small dishes, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ashiya Market

A bustling market offering fresh seafood, local produce, and delicious street food like takoyaki and yakitori.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ashiya experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, averaging around 30°C (86°F), while winters (December to February) are mild with temperatures around 5°C (41°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer comfortable weather, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance when interacting, as personal space is valued.

Remove Shoes Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments.

Bowing

Bowing is a customary greeting in Japan; a slight bow is appreciated when meeting someone.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ashiya is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, standard travel precautions should be followed, such as keeping personal belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical emergencies.

Tipping in Ashiya

Ensure a smooth experience

No Tipping Culture

Tipping is not common in Japan. Exceptional service is expected and appreciated without additional tips.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many places. It's advisable to carry some yen for smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid, summer is great for beach activities but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage create a picturesque environment for exploration.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snowfall; it's a wonderful time for hot springs and warm local cuisine.

Nightlife Guide

Ashiya at Night

Ashiya's nightlife is relatively calm compared to nearby cities like Osaka. You can find cozy izakayas, bars, and cafes that offer a relaxed atmosphere for socializing. Live music venues and occasional cultural events also add vibrancy to the nightlife scene, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Ashiya

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rokko Mountain Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the city and ocean, suitable for all skill levels.

Mount Maya

A more challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the surrounding area and the city below.

Airports

How to reach Ashiya by plane.

Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Located about 50 km from Ashiya, this major international airport serves numerous flights and is well-connected to the city by train and bus.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ashiya is fairly walkable, especially in the city center where shops, cafes, and parks are within easy reach. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common. However, some hilly areas may require more effort for those with mobility issues.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Ashiya is home to many families, drawn by its safe environment and quality schools.

Expat Community

A small but vibrant expat community exists, attracted by Ashiya’s proximity to major urban centers and its quality of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, and local teams often play in regional leagues.

Soccer

Soccer has a large following, and Ashiya has local clubs that engage in community leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ashiya is manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation, including trains and buses, is efficient and connects well to nearby cities like Kobe and Osaka, making it easy to navigate the region.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ashiya.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Ashiya offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, but it's advisable to check for fish-based ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's best to inquire with restaurant staff about specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Japan has a high standard of healthcare, with numerous hospitals and clinics available in Ashiya. Emergency services are prompt, and many doctors speak basic English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses during your stay.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide