Things To Do
in Handa
Handa is a city located in Aichi Prefecture in central Japan. It is known for its historical sites, such as the Handa Castle Ruins and the Takahama Canal. The city is famous for its traditional festivals, including the Handa Gion Matsuri held in July.
Handa is also known for its delicious seafood, particularly its oysters and freshwater eel dishes.
- "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): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Handa Sea Fruit Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as vendors showcase their products.
Visit the Handa City Art Museum to explore local and contemporary art. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque streets and enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Head to the Handa Canal for a relaxing evening walk. The canal is beautifully lit at night, making it a perfect spot for a tranquil end to your day.
Join a sake tasting tour at one of Handa's renowned breweries to learn about the sake-making process. Sample different varieties and discover the unique flavors of this local specialty.
Attend a traditional pottery class and learn the art of Miso pottery that Handa is famous for. Create your own piece to take home as a souvenir.
Enjoy a dinner of local Handa dishes at a traditional izakaya. Engage with locals and experience the warmth of Japanese hospitality.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and proximity to the Ise Bay.
- Rich cultural heritage with local festivals and traditional crafts.
- Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood.
- Friendly and welcoming community.
- Good access to public transportation and nearby cities.
- Limited job opportunities, especially for non-Japanese speakers.
- Higher cost of living compared to rural areas.
- Small-town atmosphere may not appeal to everyone.
- Less entertainment and nightlife compared to larger cities.
- Possibility of natural disasters, such as typhoons.
Best Activities in Handa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Handa Canal, known for its picturesque views and historic significance.
Explore traditional sake breweries in Handa and enjoy guided tours to learn about sake production and tasting.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as picnicking, cycling, and walking in the scenic Handa Waterfront Park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Handa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Handa
Visit one of these nice places.
The Handa Canal offers picturesque views and great photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Makomanai Park provides stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for capturing memorable photos.
For a panoramic view of Handa City, the observation deck at the Handa City Museum of Art and History offers an ideal vantage point for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Handa
Handa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A unique dish featuring spaghetti topped with a thick, savory sauce made from soy sauce, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce, often served with seafood and vegetables. Try it at local family-owned restaurants and izakayas.
Must-Try!
Ise-Ebi, or Japanese spiny lobster, is a regional specialty of Handa. Enjoy it grilled or steamed for a delightful taste of the local seafood. Look for it at seafood markets and traditional Japanese restaurants.
Fresh oysters coated in light tempura batter and fried until crispy, creating a perfect contrast of textures. Sample this dish at specialty tempura shops and coastal eateries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Handa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Handa Market for a vibrant array of fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and local snacks. Indulge in street food such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled skewers) from the lively stalls lining the market streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Handa, it is important to show respect for elders through polite language and behavior. Bowing is also a common gesture of respect.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments such as ryokan (Japanese inns) in Handa.
The people of Handa have a deep appreciation for nature and its beauty, so it is respectful to admire and not disturb natural environments.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Handa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Handa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Handa. It is not expected or required to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Handa, Japan, payment is predominantly done using cash. Credit card acceptance is becoming more common, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. It's always good to carry enough cash for smaller establishments and local shops.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Handa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to view cherry blossoms and experience pleasant weather
Warm weather perfect for beach activities and exploring the coastline
Beautiful fall foliage and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities
Opportunity to enjoy winter sports and witness stunning snowscapes
Handa at Night
Hiking in Handa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hiking area known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance, often featuring traditional festivals.
A nature park with various trails that allow visitors to experience diverse plant life and enjoy peaceful walks.
Offers a moderate hiking trail with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities for bird watching.
A highland area ideal for hiking, featuring beautiful meadows and easy access to trails of varying difficulty.
Famous for its breathtaking gorge scenery and an array of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Handa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Handa by plane.
Located on an island in Ise Bay, Centrair is the main airport serving the Chubu region, including Nagoya.
An international airport located on an island in Osaka Bay, serving the Kansai region including Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto.
Also known as Komaki Airport, it primarily serves domestic flights but also has some international services.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, it mainly serves domestic flights but has limited international services.
One of two primary airports serving Tokyo, Haneda has a high volume of domestic flights along with international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Individuals aged 65 and older, representing a significant portion of the population due to longer life expectancy and decreasing birth rates.
Adults typically aged between 20 and 64 years who are actively participating in the workforce, contributing to the local economy.
Young people aged between 15 and 19 years, generally consisting of high school students preparing for higher education or entering the workforce.
Individuals aged 14 and under, including infants and toddlers, typically represented in families and educational settings.
Non-Japanese individuals living in Handa, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
The Soul of Handa
Discover the essence of Handa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is exceptionally popular in Handa, with local teams and schools often participating in tournaments. The sport has a rich history in Japan and draws significant local support.
Soccer has gained popularity in Handa, with local clubs and youth leagues encouraging participation. The enthusiasm for professional Japanese soccer leagues also contributes to its popularity.
Basketball is widely played in Handa, with schools and community centers offering facilities for both youth and adults. Local competitions and leagues are common.
Volleyball is a popular sport in Handa, particularly among schools and community organizations. Both indoor and beach volleyball are enjoyed by many residents.
Table Tennis is a favorite pastime in Handa, with many clubs and recreational facilities available for enthusiasts of all ages. It is known for its fast-paced nature and competitiveness.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and karate, are practiced in Handa. These arts are popular for both sport and self-defense, with numerous dojos offering classes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Handa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is prominent in Handa's cuisine, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including flavorful tofu-based meals and fresh vegetable-centric preparations.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find dishes such as sashimi, rice-based dishes, and carefully prepared soups that are gluten-free. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly when dining out.