Things To Do
in Itoshima
Itoshima is a scenic coastal city located in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. Known for its beautiful beaches and picturesque landscapes, Itoshima is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The city offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern amenities, with charming villages and modern developments coexisting harmoniously.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and biking in Itoshima's stunning natural surroundings.
- "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): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk on the beautiful Keya Beach. Enjoy the morning sun and gentle waves before heading to a local café for breakfast.
Visit the Itoshima Art Museum and explore its unique exhibits. Afterward, take a stroll through the nearby fields of lavender.
Enjoy a sunset dinner at a beachfront restaurant, sampling fresh seafood. Take a moment to relax and watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Hike the scenic trails of the Itoshima mountains and enjoy the breathtaking views. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of nature.
After your hike, unwind at a local onsen for a refreshing soak. This is a perfect way to relax your muscles after a long trek.
Savor a traditional Japanese dinner prepared with seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere at a local izakaya.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and local cuisine.
- Peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for relaxation.
- Proximity to Fukuoka city for urban amenities while maintaining a rural feel.
- Outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and cycling.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Fewer job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Higher cost of living than some rural areas due to popularity.
- Limited healthcare and educational facilities compared to urban settings.
- Potential for natural disasters, such as tsunamis and earthquakes due to its coastal location.
Best Activities in Itoshima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic mountain trails and beautiful coastline while hiking in Itoshima. Enjoy the stunning views and fresh air as you traverse the natural landscapes.
Relax on the beaches of Itoshima and engage in activities like swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports. The area is known for its picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Embark on cycling tours to explore Itoshima's charming countryside and coastal areas. Enjoy the leisurely pace and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings.
Take advantage of Itoshima's coastal location and try surfing or other water sports. The area offers ideal conditions for water enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Itoshima with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Itoshima
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful spot to witness the sunset and take photos of the iconic Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks) in the sea.
A scenic spot with cliffs and crystal-clear blue water, offering great photo opportunities of the natural beauty.
As the name suggests, it's an ideal location to capture stunning sunset views over the sea with the backdrop of the beach.
An island park with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the sea and surrounding nature, perfect for photography.
Food in Itoshima
Itoshima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sanma, or Pacific saury, is a popular local fish in Itoshima. It is commonly served as a delicacy in the form of nigiri sushi, offering a delicious blend of fresh fish and vinegared rice. For an authentic experience, visit Sushi Misaki, a renowned sushi restaurant in Itoshima.
Must-Try!
Motsunabe is a traditional Japanese hot pot dish made with beef or pork offal, vegetables, and a savory broth. Itoshima is famous for its motsunabe, and one of the best places to try it is at Motsunabe Yamaya, a well-loved restaurant known for its flavorful and hearty motsunabe.
Yakitori, or grilled chicken skewers, are a popular street food in Itoshima. Made from bite-sized pieces of chicken grilled to perfection, yakitori is a beloved snack or meal option. Head to Yatai Mura, a bustling food stall area, to sample some of the best yakitori in Itoshima.
Mentaiko is a spicy cod roe often served as a topping for rice or inside onigiri (rice balls). Itoshima is renowned for its delicious mentaiko, and one of the best spots to savor this local specialty is at Marutoku Shoten, a quaint shop that offers a range of mentaiko products.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Itoshima better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Itoshima Farmer's Market is a great place to explore and indulge in the region's freshest produce and artisanal food products. Visitors can find a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, homemade snacks, and handmade crafts, making it a perfect spot for foodies and local food enthusiasts.
Yatai Mura is a vibrant street food area that offers an array of delicious treats, from sizzling yakitori to savory okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes). It's a fantastic place to immerse in Itoshima's street food culture and try a diverse range of local delicacies in a festive outdoor setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Itoshima, Japan, it is important to show respect for elders through polite language and gestures, such as bowing.
Being on time is highly valued in Japanese culture, so it is important to be punctual when meeting with people in Itoshima.
When giving gifts in Itoshima, it is customary to present them with both hands and to show humility and gratitude.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Itoshima with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Itoshima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including in Itoshima. In fact, tipping is generally not expected and may even be seen as disrespectful.
In Itoshima, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the primary method of payment. Credit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller transactions and in more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Itoshima.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Itoshima in spring is from March to May when the cherry blossoms are in bloom and the weather is mild and pleasant. It is a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and visiting the local flower fields.
Summer in Itoshima is from June to August. Expect warm temperatures and high humidity during this time. It is a popular season for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts due to the beautiful coastal areas.
The fall season from September to November brings cooler temperatures and stunning foliage. It is an excellent time for exploring the scenic landscapes and enjoying local food festivals.
Winter in Itoshima lasts from December to February. While the temperatures are colder, it is a great time for hot springs and enjoying seasonal seafood delicacies like fugu (pufferfish).
Itoshima at Night
Hiking in Itoshima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike that offers panoramic views of Itoshima and the surrounding ocean. The trail is moderately challenging and is popular among both locals and tourists.
This park features well-marked trails through lush forests, making it perfect for family hikes. The area is also known for its beautiful seasonal flora.
A cultural hiking experience that takes you to the Sakurai Futamoto Shrine, surrounded by historical significance and beautiful landscapes.
A coastal trail that combines beach walking with forested paths, providing stunning views of the ocean and unique rock formations.
This trail offers both challenging ascents and gentle slopes, with options for both seasoned hikers and beginners, along with breathtaking views from the summit.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Itoshima through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Itoshima by plane.
Fukuoka Airport is the closest international airport, located approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Itoshima. It serves a wide range of international and domestic flights.
Kitakyushu Airport is another nearby international airport, situated about 40 kilometers northwest of Itoshima. It offers both domestic and limited international flights.
Nagasaki Airport is approximately 100 kilometers southwest of Itoshima and provides international services along with numerous domestic connections.
Kumamoto Airport is about 120 kilometers south of Itoshima. It accommodates various domestic flights and limited international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Itoshima, consisting of the majority of the local population.
Includes expatriates and immigrants from various countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of Itoshima.
Visitors from both domestic and international locations, attracted by Itoshima's natural beauty and local attractions.
The Soul of Itoshima
Discover the essence of Itoshima through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Itoshima is known for its beautiful beaches and favorable surfing conditions, making it a popular spot for surfing enthusiasts.
With its sandy beaches, beach volleyball is a popular sport among locals and visitors alike.
The coastal area of Itoshima offers excellent fishing opportunities, attracting both recreational and professional anglers.
Itoshima's scenic landscapes and coastal routes make cycling a favored activity for both residents and tourists.
The natural beauty of Itoshima's mountains and trails offers great hiking experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Itoshima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, several restaurants and cafes in Itoshima offer vegetarian and vegan options. Places like Bar Del Sole and Itoshima Udon provide a variety of plant-based dishes, ensuring that vegetarians and vegans can enjoy the local culinary scene.
For those with gluten sensitivities, Itoshima offers gluten-free dining options. Many restaurants, including Pizzeria da Kazu, are attentive to dietary needs and are able to accommodate gluten-free requests, offering a range of dishes that cater to individuals with gluten intolerances.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Itoshima with these cultural adventures.