Things To Do
in Furukawa
Furukawa is a charming town located in the Miyagi Prefecture of Japan. It is known for its picturesque rural landscapes, traditional Japanese architecture, and warm hospitality of its residents. The town is also famous for its historic sake breweries, producing high-quality sake that is enjoyed both locally and internationally.
Visitors to Furukawa can experience a peaceful and authentic Japanese countryside atmosphere while exploring its historic streets and natural beauty.
- "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: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through Furukawa Park, where the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Bring a camera and capture the vibrant pink flowers while enjoying the fresh morning air.
Visit the local history museum to learn more about the cultural significance of the area. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional soba restaurant nearby.
Relax at a local onsen to soak your muscles after a day of exploration. End the evening with a peaceful walk along the river under the twinkling stars.
Begin your day by visiting the local market to sample fresh produce and local delicacies. Interact with friendly vendors to learn about traditional Japanese foods.
Join a cooking class to create classic Furukawa dishes using seasonal ingredients. Share your culinary creations with fellow participants and enjoy a meal together.
Dine at a renowned sushi restaurant, savoring the exquisite flavors of local seafood. Reflect on the day over tea at a cozy café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and local crafts
- Beautiful natural scenery including mountains and rivers
- Strong sense of community and low crime rates
- Access to outdoor recreational activities like hiking and skiing
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Japanese cities
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries
- Less access to modern amenities compared to urban areas
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers
- Public transportation options can be less frequent
- Harsh winters that may not be suitable for everyone
Best Activities in Furukawa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic beauty of Furukawa by cycling around the town and nearby countryside.
Embark on a hiking adventure in the nearby Hida Mountains, offering picturesque views and natural beauty.
Experience the excitement of river rafting on the Shogawa River, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Enjoy a peaceful camping experience in the serene natural surroundings of Furukawa and its vicinity.
Tours
Uncover the best of Furukawa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Furukawa
Visit one of these nice places.
Shiroyama Park offers panoramic views of Furukawa, including the iconic Shiroyama Castle ruins and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.
Visitors can enjoy great views from the top floor of the Furukawa Matsuri Museum, with its excellent vantage point overlooking the historic streets and traditional buildings of the town.
For stunning views of the local area, travelers can visit the observation deck at Furukawa Station, providing a bird's-eye view of the town and surrounding landscapes.
Food in Furukawa
Furukawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional local dish featuring miso-marinated vegetables and mushrooms grilled on a magnolia leaf. Found in traditional restaurants and izakayas throughout Furukawa.
Must-Try!
Bamboo leaf-shaped fish cake, a popular and iconic local snack that can be savored at street food stalls and markets across Furukawa.
Soy sauce-marinated fish or seafood, a delicacy available at seafood restaurants and market stalls near the coastline.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Furukawa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Start your day at this vibrant market offering a wide range of fresh local produce, snacks like Sasa Kamaboko, and various street food options.
A charming food alley with small eateries and stalls serving authentic street food such as yakitori, okonomiyaki, and seafood skewers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Furukawa, it is important to show respect for elders and those in positions of authority. This can be demonstrated through using polite language and gestures of deference.
Being punctual is highly valued in Furukawa. Arriving on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings is a sign of respect for others' time.
When dining in Furukawa, it is customary to wait for the host to begin eating before starting your meal. Additionally, it is polite to express gratitude for the food and hospitality.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Furukawa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Furukawa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Furukawa, Japan. In fact, it is often viewed as impolite and may even be refused. Service charges are usually included in the bill at restaurants and hotels.
In Furukawa, Japan, the most common method of payment is cash. While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger establishments, it is always a good idea to carry enough cash for smaller businesses and local shops. Mobile payments and prepaid transportation cards are also popular options for making payments in Japan.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Furukawa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Furukawa to enjoy the cherry blossoms, mild temperatures, and annual Takayama Festival.
Expect warm weather, lush green landscapes, and the Furukawa Matsuri, a traditional festival featuring parades and performances.
Ideal time to witness the colorful foliage and attend the Hachiman Shrine Festival.
Enjoy the snowy landscapes, partake in winter sports, and celebrate New Year traditions in Furukawa.
Furukawa at Night
Hiking in Furukawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail featuring lush forests and views of the surrounding mountains, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
This mountain offers challenging trails with stunning panoramas and diverse wildlife along the way.
A beautiful trail known for its vibrant flora and fauna, providing a peaceful hiking experience.
A serene path along the valley, perfect for leisurely hikes and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
This route leads to an amazing summit with spectacular views, suitable for experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Furukawa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Furukawa by plane.
The main airport serving Sendai, located approximately 65 kilometers southeast of Furukawa.
One of the primary international airports serving the Tokyo area, located about 400 kilometers south of Furukawa.
Another major airport serving Tokyo, located approximately 410 kilometers south of Furukawa.
An international airport located in Kumamoto, around 800 kilometers from Furukawa.
Located in Osaka, about 800 kilometers southwest of Furukawa, it serves as a major international gateway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Furukawa, comprising the majority of the population.
A smaller demographic group including expatriates and long-term foreign workers.
An increasing demographic group due to the aging population trend in Japan.
A demographic group consisting of children and teenagers, including school-aged children.
The Soul of Furukawa
Discover the essence of Furukawa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Furukawa, with local teams participating in competitions and schools emphasizing the sport in their physical education programs.
Soccer has a strong following in Furukawa, with various youth leagues and community teams promoting the sport among locals of all ages.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local clubs in Furukawa, contributing to a vibrant community and regular tournaments.
Volleyball is popular among schools and women’s leagues in Furukawa, with many teams participating in local and regional competitions.
Track and field events are commonly promoted in Furukawa schools, with students taking part in competitions at various levels throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Furukawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes may contain meat or fish, many restaurants in Furukawa are adapting to provide vegetarian and vegan-friendly versions of local favorites. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when dining out.
Though rice is a staple, some local dishes and snacks may contain gluten. Visitors with gluten intolerance should inquire about ingredient details and opt for rice-based or gluten-free alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Furukawa with these cultural adventures.
