Things To Do
in Iwai

Daily-caught fish served as sashimi or sushi at seaside restaurants and small sushi counters; try whatever the market recommends that day.

Must-Try!

Lightly battered and fried seafood and vegetables—often prepared with locally grown produce and served with grated daikon and dipping sauce.

A bowl of rice topped with fresh seafood—tuna, horse mackerel, or shellfish—available at casual lunch spots and markets.

Small local breweries or sake producers may offer seasonal batches; pair them with seafood or grilled dishes.

Bowing, saying thank you (arigatou) and removing shoes where requested are standard. Be quiet and respectful in public transport and shared spaces.

Many traditional guesthouses, homes and some restaurants require you to remove shoes—look for a genkan (entryway) and provided slippers.

Form orderly lines at bus stops, ticket counters and shops. Avoid loud phone conversations on trains and in restaurants.

Ask permission before photographing people up close, particularly at festivals or in small shops; avoid drone use without checking local rules.

Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is expected and included. If you leave a tip it may be politely refused or returned—show appreciation with a thank-you (arigatou gozaimasu) instead.

Cash (Japanese yen) is widely used, especially in small shops, markets and rural eateries. Credit cards are accepted at larger businesses and some restaurants, but bring cash for trains, local shops and vending machines. IC transit cards (Suica, Pasmo) are helpful for trains and buses in many areas but may have limited use in very rural spots.

Cherry blossoms and early greenery make for pleasant walks and festivals; temperatures are mild (10–20°C / 50–68°F). Bring a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings.

Warm to hot and humid with beach season in full swing—expect local festivals, fireworks and more tourists on weekends. Pack sun protection, a hat, and light breathable clothing; sudden rain showers are possible.

Comfortable temperatures and clear skies with colorful foliage in nearby hills—one of the best times for hiking and photography. Nights cool down, so bring layered clothing.

Cool and relatively dry with lower tourist numbers; seaside winds can feel sharp. Snow is rare at low elevations, but bring a warm coat for evenings.

A gentle route along the shoreline with sea vistas, rocky outcrops and small coves—suitable for casual walkers and photographers.

A short hike up a nearby hill offering panoramic views of the town, farmland and ocean; popular at sunrise and sunset.

An easy walk following a local river through rice fields and small villages—good for birdwatching and seasonal scenery.

A shaded woodland loop with simple trails, native trees and spots for a picnic—pleasant in summer and autumn.

Like many rural areas in Japan, a significant portion of the population is older adults, contributing to a calm, community-oriented atmosphere.

Long-established families connected to fishing, farming and small businesses form the town’s social and economic backbone.

Some residents commute to larger nearby cities for work, especially younger adults and office workers.

Visitors spike during summer beach season, local festivals and cherry-blossom/foliage periods.

Widely played and followed at school and community levels—local fields host weekend games and amateur leagues.

Popular among youth with community clubs and school teams active in local competitions.

Both recreational and commercial fishing are important—shore and boat fishing are common pastimes.

Where local beaches are suitable, surfing and paddle sports attract enthusiasts during warmer months.

Vegetarian options are available but limited in small towns—ask for dishes without fish or dashi (fish stock). Many restaurants can prepare vegetable tempura, salads, rice dishes and simple noodle dishes if you explain 'watashi wa bejitarian desu' and request no fish stock.

Vegan dining is more challenging because many broths use fish. Look for tofu dishes, vegetable tempura (confirm batter ingredients), rice, and vegetable sides; carry a short note in Japanese explaining your restriction.

Soy sauce and tempura contain gluten; rice-based dishes are usually safe but check sauces and ask for tamari where possible. Bring snacks if you have severe gluten intolerance.

Clearly state major allergies in Japanese or carry a translated card. Shellfish and soy are common in local cuisine.