Things To Do
in Iwaizumi

Iwaizumi is a charming town located on the southern coast of Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. Known for its stunning coastal scenery and rich natural landscapes, it offers visitors a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city life. The area is surrounded by mountains and the Pacific Ocean, making it a prime location for outdoor activities and exploration.

Iwaizumi is also famous for its unique local cuisine, deeply rooted in the region's culture and heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Iwaizumi
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Iwaizumi Coast, where you can enjoy a scenic walk along the shoreline, taking in the breathtaking ocean views.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to taste fresh seafood and shop for local crafts. Visit the Iwaizumi Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the region.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, where you can try various small dishes and drinks while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the nearby Shirataki Falls for a morning hike and enjoy the serene environment along the trails.

afternoon
:

Discover the local art scene by visiting galleries and participating in a traditional craft workshop.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a sunset view from the cliffs at Iwaizumi, followed by a cozy dinner at a seaside restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sashimi meal$15
🍜Ramen bowl$10
🍵Tea$3
🛏️Hotel night$80
🚍Bus fare$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Transportation may be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Iwaizumi

Visit one of these nice places.

Iwaizumi Coast

Stunning ocean views with dramatic cliffs, perfect for sunset photography.

Shirataki Falls

A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for nature photography.

Iwaizumi Temple

A serene temple set against a backdrop of mountains, great for capturing traditional Japanese architecture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Iwaizumi

Iwaizumi offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects its coastal location and local traditions. Fresh seafood, especially fish and shellfish, are prominent in the local dishes, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Iwaizumi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Katsudon

A rice bowl topped with a breaded and fried pork cutlet, egg, and onions, often served with a side of miso soup.

Must-Try!

Shirasu-don

A rice bowl topped with shirasu (tiny whitebait), often enjoyed fresh from the sea.

Sashimi

Freshly sliced raw fish served with soy sauce and wasabi, showcasing the region's best catches.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Iwaizumi Morning Market

A lively market featuring fresh seafood, local produce, and handmade crafts, perfect for sampling regional delicacies.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls selling grilled seafood skewers, takoyaki, and sweet treats like taiyaki.

Climate Guide

Weather

Iwaizumi experiences a humid subtropical climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winters can drop to about 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Rainfall is common, especially in late summer due to typhoons, while autumn and spring are relatively dry and pleasant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

A common greeting in Japan; a slight bow shows respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional accommodations.

Dining Etiquette

Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice; it's associated with funerals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Iwaizumi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it’s advisable to take standard precautions such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. In case of natural disasters like earthquakes or typhoons, familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures.

Tipping in Iwaizumi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude; good service is expected.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also take credit cards; ATMs are available for cash withdrawal.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and cherry blossoms make it a beautiful time to visit, with many outdoor festivals.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists, but be prepared for occasional typhoons and humidity.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage create picturesque landscapes, perfect for hiking.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snow in the mountains; great for enjoying hot springs and winter delicacies.

Nightlife Guide

Iwaizumi at Night

Iwaizumi offers a relaxed nightlife with cozy izakayas and bars where locals gather. The atmosphere is friendly, and many places offer live music or karaoke. Enjoying a few drinks with friends while sampling local dishes is a common way to spend the evening.

Hiking in Iwaizumi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Iwaizumi Trail

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the coastline and is suitable for hikers of all levels.

Shirataki Hills

A more challenging hike that leads to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and ocean, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Iwaizumi by plane.

Shizuoka Airport

Located about 50 kilometers from Iwaizumi, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Iwaizumi is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town has well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some natural areas may require transportation to reach trailheads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Primarily composed of Japanese families, many of whom have lived in the area for generations.

Tourists

Visitors from both Japan and abroad, particularly during holiday seasons, drawn by the natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in Japan, with many local teams and community involvement.

Fishing

Given its coastal location, fishing is a popular pastime, both recreationally and commercially.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Iwaizumi is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes local buses, which connect major attractions, though schedules may be limited. It's advisable to check timetables in advance.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Iwaizumi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is predominant, some restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like tempura vegetables and soba noodles.

Allergy Awareness

Notify staff of any allergies, especially to seafood, as it is a major part of the local cuisine.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Iwaizumi is generally of high quality, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Visitors should have travel insurance that covers medical expenses; English-speaking staff may not always be available, so it's advisable to have translation apps on hand.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide