Things To Do
in Funato
Funato is a picturesque coastal town located in Iwate Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its beautiful beaches and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. The town has a rich history, with traditional fishing practices still being a significant part of the local economy.
Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, explore historic sites, and relax in this charming seaside town.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Japanese pancakes. Afterward, take a stroll along the scenic shoreline to soak in the fresh ocean air.
Visit the Funato Aquarium for an educational and fun experience with marine life. Grab lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant to savor the local catch.
Explore the night markets that come alive with vibrant stalls and street food. End your day with a relaxing walk along the beach, watching the sunset.
Begin with a visit to the historic temples in Funato, learning about the rich cultural heritage. Enjoy a light breakfast of onigiri from a local vendor.
Head to Funato's nearby hiking trails for breathtaking views and the beauty of nature. Picnic lunch surrounded by greenery will rejuvenate you for the rest of the day.
Wrap up with a meal at a rustic izakaya, experiencing local flavors and hospitality. Take a leisurely evening walk through the charming old town streets.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions
- Friendly and welcoming community
- Delicious local seafood and cuisine
- Access to outdoor activities such as surfing and hiking
- Limited access to larger urban amenities
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers
- Seasonal weather conditions may affect tourism
- Limited public transportation options
- Possibility of natural disasters like typhoons and earthquakes
Best Activities in Funato
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic hiking trails in Funato, Japan, surrounded by beautiful nature and stunning mountain views.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque Funato River, taking in the tranquil surroundings and fresh air.
Relax and have a peaceful picnic at Funato Park, a lovely green space with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.
Tours
Uncover the best of Funato with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Funato
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the sea and cliffs, as well as opportunities for beautiful sunset photos.
Provides a picturesque backdrop for photos, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.
Boasts panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding area, ideal for capturing dramatic seascapes and landscapes.
Food in Funato
Funato Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This traditional soup features Hachinohe Senbei, a local rice cracker, served in a flavorful broth with various toppings. It can be found at local eateries and traditional restaurants throughout Funato.
Must-Try!
Sanriku Wanko Soba is a regional specialty, featuring small servings of soba noodles served with various toppings. Visitors can enjoy this dish at several specialized soba restaurants in Funato.
Iwate Gyu Don is a delectable rice bowl dish topped with thinly sliced Iwate beef and a savory sauce. It is a must-try at local beef-based eateries and traditional diners.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Funato better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Funato Seafood Market is a bustling hub where visitors can savor an array of freshly caught seafood, including sushi, sashimi, and grilled fish. It’s a great place to experience the local seafood culture and indulge in street food delights.
During festivals and special events, Matsuri Street Food Stalls come alive with a vibrant display of local delicacies such as Takoyaki (octopus balls), Yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), and unique seafood skewers, offering a great opportunity to taste the local street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Funato, Japan, it is important to greet people with a bow, particularly when meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting. It is also common to use honorific titles, such as -san, when addressing others as a sign of respect.
When entering a home, traditional inn, or certain other buildings in Funato, it is customary to remove shoes. This shows respect for the space and the cleanliness of the floors. Slippers may be provided, which should be worn inside the premises.
When dining in Funato, it is important to wait for the host to indicate where to sit and to start eating. It is polite to say 'itadakimasu' before the meal to express gratitude, and 'gochisosama deshita' after the meal to show appreciation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Funato with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Funato
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Funato. In fact, it is often considered rude or insulting to tip in Japan, as the culture values high-quality service as part of the normal expectation and does not require additional financial incentives.
In Funato, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. However, credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments and urban areas. Mobile payment options such as Suica or Pasmo cards, as well as digital wallets, are becoming increasingly popular as well.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Funato.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Funato, Japan, especially during cherry blossom season. The weather is mild and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a picturesque and colorful landscape.
Summer in Funato, Japan can be hot and humid, but it's a popular time to visit for the beautiful beaches and coastal activities. Visitors can enjoy water sports, beachcombing, and traditional summer festivals.
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Funato, Japan, as the leaves change color and the countryside becomes a breathtaking mix of red, orange, and yellow. The weather is pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and leaf viewing.
Winter in Funato, Japan is cold and snowy, but it's a great time for winter sports enthusiasts. The region offers skiing, snowboarding, and hot springs to warm up after a day on the slopes.
Funato at Night
Hiking in Funato
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail offering views of the coastline and lush greenery, perfect for both novice and experienced hikers.
Known for its cherry blossom trees, this mountain features various hiking paths with beautiful panoramic views.
A local park with well-maintained trails that wind through cedar forests and offer peaceful walking experiences.
A unique area with geological features and rugged cliffs, offering challenging hiking routes and stunning ocean views.
A vast park with a range of trails that explore diverse ecosystems, suitable for family hikes and nature observation.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Funato through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Funato by plane.
Located approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Funato, Kumamoto Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Situated about 80 kilometers north of Funato, Fukuoka Airport is the largest airport in the Kyushu region, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Approximately 130 kilometers west of Funato, Nagasaki Airport provides access to various domestic and international destinations.
Located around 140 kilometers south of Funato, Kagoshima Airport serves domestic flights and some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group, comprising the majority of the population with a rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Includes expatriates and foreign workers, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the community.
An indigenous group with a smaller population, known for their distinct culture and history in Hokkaido.
The Soul of Funato
Discover the essence of Funato through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is hugely popular in Funato, with local teams and schools competing in various leagues. The sport enjoys a rich history in Japan and draws large crowds during the season.
Soccer is a popular sport among both youth and adults in Funato. Local clubs form the backbone of community engagement, with many kids participating in youth leagues.
Basketball is also widely played in Funato, with schools and communities organizing tournaments and informal games, fostering a strong local basketball culture.
Due to its coastal location, surfing is a popular recreational activity in Funato. The area attracts surfers from around the region, especially during summer months.
Sumo wrestling and kendo are also practiced in Funato, reflecting the traditional sporting culture of Japan. Local dojos often host classes and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Funato.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine may pose some challenges for vegetarians and vegans due to the extensive use of seafood and animal products, many restaurants in Funato offer vegetable-based dishes, tofu preparations, and customizable meals to accommodate these dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find suitable dining options in Funato, as several establishments offer rice-based dishes, gluten-free noodles, and a variety of seafood and vegetable-based choices that are naturally gluten-free.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Funato with these cultural adventures.