Things To Do
in Hatsukaichi
Hatsukaichi is a picturesque city located in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for being the gateway to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, known for its floating torii gate. The city boasts stunning natural landscapes, with mountains, forests, and the Seto Inland Sea all within reach.
Visitors can also enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Japanese cuisine in Hatsukaichi.
- "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 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Take a ferry to Itsukushima Island early in the morning. Visit the famous floating torii gate and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Explore the island's cultural sites, including the historic Itsukushima Shrine. Take time to sample local seafood delicacies for lunch.
Return to Hatsukaichi and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local izakaya. Stroll along the waterfront while enjoying the sunset views.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out on a hiking trail. The Hiroshima Trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Continue your hike and take breaks to enjoy the nature around you. Finish by visiting a nearby onsen for a refreshing soak.
Relax and reflect on your hike over dinner at a cozy restaurant. Enjoy some local sake to cap off the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful scenery with views of the Seto Inland Sea and Itsukushima Shrine.
- Rich cultural history and heritage, including traditional festivals and practices.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling in the surrounding mountains.
- Delicious local seafood and regional cuisine.
- Friendly community and a slower pace of life compared to larger cities.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger urban areas.
- Some areas can be affected by seasonal tourism, leading to crowded spots.
- Job opportunities may be limited, particularly for non-Japanese speakers.
- Higher cost of living in popular tourist areas.
- Natural disasters such as typhoons can impact the region.
Best Activities in Hatsukaichi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic Miyajima Island known for its iconic Itsukushima Shrine and stunning natural beauty. Enjoy activities such as hiking, visiting the Miyajima Deer Park, and taking a cable car to the summit of Mount Misen for panoramic views.
Embark on a hiking adventure in Omoto Park, which offers picturesque trails surrounded by lush greenery, serene ponds, and beautiful landscapes. Enjoy the peaceful environment and the opportunity to connect with nature.
Experience the thrill of sea kayaking in the picturesque Hiroshima Bay, offering opportunities for leisurely paddling while soaking in the coastal views and marine life. Guided tours are available for all experience levels.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hatsukaichi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hatsukaichi
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the famous floating torii gate and scenic landscapes
Provides panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands
Scenic temple complex with beautiful gardens and picturesque viewpoints
Food in Hatsukaichi
Hatsukaichi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pancake containing a variety of ingredients such as cabbage, pork, and seafood, topped with a special okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise. A must-try dish that can be found at Okonomimura, a multi-story building dedicated to this iconic dish.
Must-Try!
Thick, chewy noodles served separately from a rich, flavorful dipping broth made from pork bones and seafood. Enjoy this dish at Taishouken, a renowned local eatery known for its delicious tsukemen.
Grilled conger eel served over a bowl of rice, a regional specialty that can be savored at Anagomeshi Honpo, a restaurant famous for its delectable preparation of this dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hatsukaichi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Stroll along this bustling street to sample a variety of street foods such as momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste), fresh oysters, and grilled seafood skewers, all while taking in the lively atmosphere of the area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hatsukaichi, it is important to show deference and respect towards elders. This can be demonstrated through polite language, bowing, and attentive listening.
It is customary in Hatsukaichi to maintain a quiet and reserved demeanor in public spaces such as trains, buses, and restaurants. Loud conversations and disruptive behavior are generally frowned upon.
When visiting someone's home or receiving hospitality in Hatsukaichi, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as omiyage (souvenirs) from your hometown. Gifts are typically presented and received with both hands and a bow.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hatsukaichi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hatsukaichi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Hatsukaichi. In fact, it is often viewed as rude or inappropriate to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Hatsukaichi, Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, and credit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger businesses and tourist areas. Mobile payment methods such as Suica and Pasmo cards are also popular for public transportation and some purchases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hatsukaichi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Hatsukaichi is in spring, particularly in April when the famous cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a picturesque and colorful landscape.
Summer is also a good time to visit Hatsukaichi for outdoor activities and to experience traditional festivals such as the Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival held in August.
Autumn, specifically in late November, is also a popular time to visit as the foliage turns into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating stunning landscapes.
Winter in Hatsukaichi is cold but still has its charm, especially during the Winter Illumination events when the town is adorned with beautiful light displays.
Hatsukaichi at Night
Hiking in Hatsukaichi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Explore scenic trails on Miyajima Island, famous for its iconic floating torii gate, featuring various levels of difficulty and stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.
A prominent mountain on Miyajima Island, Mount Misen offers several hiking routes with breathtaking panoramic views and a rich natural environment.
This national park encompasses coastal areas and islands with beautiful hiking paths, allowing visitors to experience diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes.
This course takes you along the western coast of Miyajima, offering scenic views and a unique experience of the local flora and fauna.
A lesser-known destination with hiking trails that promise serenity and beautiful views of the surrounding waters, ideal for nature lovers looking for a quieter experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hatsukaichi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hatsukaichi by plane.
The primary airport serving Hiroshima, located approximately 50 km from Hatsukaichi. It offers both domestic and international flights.
An international airport located about 90 km from Hatsukaichi, serving the Okayama region with domestic and limited international flights.
Located about 170 km from Hatsukaichi, this major international airport serves the Osaka area and offers numerous international flights.
Approximately 90 km away, this airport offers a mix of domestic and limited international services.
Located around 140 km from Hatsukaichi, it is one of the busiest airports in Japan with extensive domestic and international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Hatsukaichi, comprising the majority of the population.
Includes residents of various nationalities living and working in Hatsukaichi, such as those from South America, North America, and other regions.
A demographic group comprising both local and foreign students attending educational institutions in the area.
Older adults, typically aged 65 and above, representing a significant portion of the population due to an aging society.
The Soul of Hatsukaichi
Discover the essence of Hatsukaichi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Hatsukaichi, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Soccer enjoys a large fan base in Hatsukaichi, with youth leagues and local matches taking place regularly.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local clubs, contributing to its popularity in the area.
Tennis is a favored recreational sport, with several public courts available for residents.
Various forms of martial arts, such as judo and karate, are popular for both sports and self-defense training.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hatsukaichi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditionally Hatsukaichi's cuisine is focused on seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as fresh vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and inventive plant-based creations.
Some establishments in Hatsukaichi provide gluten-free alternatives, particularly for dishes like sashimi, grilled seafood, and rice-based meals. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining out to ensure a suitable dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hatsukaichi with these cultural adventures.