Things To Do
in Jōyō
Jōyō is a city located in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including lush forests and serene rivers. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with historic temples and shrines offering glimpses into Japan's past.
Jōyō is also a modern and developed city, with a vibrant community and plenty of amenities for residents and visitors to enjoy.
- "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 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Jōyō's local market, where you can sample fresh produce and traditional snacks. Take a leisurely stroll through the nearby parks to enjoy the morning breeze.
Visit the historical Jōyō Castle and learn about its significance in the region. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local izakaya.
Head to a local onsen to relax and unwind. Finish the day with a delicious dinner at a recommended sushi restaurant.
Kick off the day with a hike at the scenic Yawata Mountains, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the views. Pack some snacks to enjoy along the trails.
After your hike, explore the botanical gardens to see the seasonal blooms. Perfect for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.
Visit a quaint café for dessert and warm drinks. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as night falls over the city.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a blend of traditional and modern influences.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Strong sense of community and local festivities that enhance social connections.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Japanese cities.
- Access to quality local cuisine and fresh produce.
- Limited access to international transportation and major urban amenities.
- Potential language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
- Less job opportunities compared to bigger metropolitan areas.
- Milder nightlife and entertainment options.
- Risk of natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons.
Best Activities in Jōyō
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or participate in various outdoor sports and recreational activities in this beautiful park.
Explore the nature trails, go cycling, or have a relaxing time in the lush greenery of this scenic park.
Embark on hiking adventures in the picturesque mountains surrounding Jōyō for stunning views and outdoor exploration.
Tours
Uncover the best of Jōyō with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Jōyō
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery and is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
Provides panoramic views of the city and is a great location for capturing the beauty of Jōyō.
Features picturesque landscapes that are perfect for photo opportunities, especially during cherry blossom season.
Food in Jōyō
Jōyō Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish consisting of a deep-fried pork cutlet (tonkatsu) topped with eggs and condiments, served over a bowl of rice. One of the best places to savor Katsudon is at the local restaurant called Tonkatsu Wako.
Must-Try!
A delightful snack made of sweet dough filled with red bean paste. Visitors can find fresh Omiyage Manju at the Omiyage Manju Shop in the city center.
Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and a choice of meat or seafood, seasoned with a special sauce. Yakisoba is a staple street food often found at local festivals and markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Jōyō better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market featuring a wide array of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food stalls. Visitors can indulge in delicious takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba, and taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste).
Located near Taisho-izakaya, these food stalls offer an authentic street food experience with an assortment of grilled skewers, tasty okonomiyaki (savory pancake), and refreshing beverages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Jōyō, Japan, it is customary to bow as a form of greeting to show respect and humility.
It is important to remove shoes before entering a Japanese home or certain traditional establishments as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
In Jōyō, personal space is valued, so it's important to be aware of others' personal space and avoid unnecessary physical contact.
Safety
Tipping in Jōyō
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including in Jōyō. In fact, it is generally considered rude and may cause confusion or embarrassment. Good service is expected as part of the overall experience, and there is no need to leave a tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Jōyō, as in other parts of Japan, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment. While credit cards are becoming more common, especially in larger establishments, it's a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller businesses and local shops. Mobile payment options such as Suica or Pasmo cards are also popular for public transportation and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Jōyō, Japan is in spring (March to May) when cherry blossoms are in bloom and the weather is mild.
Summer (June to August) brings warm weather, festivals, and vibrant green landscapes to Jōyō, Japan.
Autumn (September to November) offers beautiful fall foliage and pleasant temperatures for visiting Jōyō, Japan.
Winter (December to February) provides a chance to experience snowfall and enjoy winter activities in Jōyō, Japan.
Jōyō at Night
Hiking in Jōyō
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering beautiful views and a moderately challenging trail, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Located on the border of Kyoto and Shiga Prefectures, this mountain features various trails and is known for its historical significance and scenic vistas.
A scenic trail that connects the two quaint villages of Kurama and Kibune, known for its lush foliage, temples, and hot springs.
A picturesque hike that leads to the ancient Kozan-ji Temple, surrounded by beautiful nature and tranquility.
An active volcano with numerous hiking routes, offering unique geological features and expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
Aiports
How to reach Jōyō by plane.
Located in Osaka, approximately 50 km from Jōyō, Kansai International Airport is one of the major international airports serving the Kansai region.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, it is situated about 45 km from Jōyō and primarily handles domestic flights but has some international services.
Located around 60 km from Jōyō, Kobe Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, primarily connecting the city of Kobe with other major destinations.
Situated approximately 140 km from Jōyō, this airport serves the central Japan region and offers numerous international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population consisting of native Japanese individuals and families.
Including expatriates and immigrants from various countries living in Jōyō.
A significant demographic group, reflecting the aging population in Jōyō.
Individuals ranging from children to young adults, often including students.
Adults who are typically employed or in the workforce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, and Jōyō is no exception. Local schools and communities often organize teams, making it a favorite pastime.
Soccer has gained significant popularity in Jōyō, with various youth leagues and amateur clubs promoting the sport among residents.
Basketball is widely played in schools and parks in Jōyō, with many local tournaments taking place throughout the year.
Volleyball is a common sport in Jōyō, particularly among schools, where students participate in both indoor and beach volleyball activities.
Traditional Japanese martial arts, including judo and kendo, are practiced in Jōyō, reflecting the local culture and history.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jōyō.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Japan's traditional cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, some restaurants in Jōyō offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and salads with sesame dressing.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like sashimi, yakitori (grilled skewered chicken), and rice-based dishes. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to the restaurant staff for a tailored dining experience.