Things To Do
in Kakegawa

Kakegawa is a charming city located in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich historical heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. It is home to Kakegawa Castle, a well-preserved fortress that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The city is also famous for its tea production, particularly the high-quality green tea grown in the region.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor activities in this picturesque destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Kakegawa Castle, exploring its beautiful grounds and museum.

afternoon
:

Head to the Kakegawa Kachouen, a stunning flower and bird park, to enjoy the vibrant flora and fauna.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, sampling traditional Japanese cuisine and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the local tea fields and participate in a tea-picking experience followed by a tea tasting.

afternoon
:

Explore the scenic paths of the Yoshida River, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or rent a bicycle.

evening
:

Relax at an onsen (hot spring) to unwind and soak in the therapeutic waters.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$3
🚆Public transport ticket$2
🏨Night at a budget hotel$50
🛒Groceries for a week$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences with historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Some attractions may have limited English signage.
  • Public transportation may require planning due to infrequent schedules.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Kakegawa

Visit one of these nice places.

Kakegawa Castle

Capture stunning views of this historic castle set against the backdrop of lush green hills.

Yoshida River

The river offers picturesque scenery, especially during cherry blossom season.

Kakegawa Kachouen

A vibrant park filled with flowers and birds, perfect for colorful and lively photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kakegawa

Kakegawa offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing its local specialties and vibrant food culture.

Kakegawa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kakegawa Green Tea

Renowned for its rich flavor and aroma, this high-quality green tea is a must-try.

Must-Try!

Kakegawa Soba

Delicious buckwheat noodles often served with various toppings and dipping sauces.

Sakura Shrimp

These small, sweet shrimp are caught in Suruga Bay and are often enjoyed in tempura or rice dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kakegawa Food Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local snacks, and ready-to-eat meals.

Street Food Stalls near Kakegawa Station

Enjoy various street food options like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls).

Climate Guide

Weather

Kakegawa experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with average lows around 3°C (37°F). Spring and autumn are pleasant, featuring moderate temperatures and beautiful natural scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Traditions

Always show respect for local customs, such as bowing when greeting.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional accommodations.

Quiet in Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transport and restaurants to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kakegawa is considered a safe city for travelers with low crime rates. Basic precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and safeguarding personal belongings, are recommended. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical emergencies.

Tipping in Kakegawa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and service charges are usually included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in urban areas; ensure to have yen on hand.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms make it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid, it's a great time to enjoy the local beaches and festivals.

Autumn

Cooler weather with stunning fall foliage, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snow, ideal for enjoying hot springs and warming local dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Kakegawa at Night

Kakegawa has a relaxed nightlife scene, featuring several izakayas and bars where locals gather after work. The atmosphere is friendly, and many places offer karaoke for a fun night out. While not as bustling as bigger cities, the nightlife allows for a genuine cultural experience.

Hiking in Kakegawa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Kakegawa Trail

A moderate trail leading to the summit of Mt. Kakegawa, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.

Yoshida River Trail

A scenic riverside trail suitable for all levels of hikers, featuring beautiful landscapes and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Kakegawa by plane.

Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport (FSZ)

Located about 30 km from Kakegawa, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient entry point.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kakegawa is fairly walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance from each other. The city center is pedestrian-friendly, and there are sidewalks along main roads. Public transport options are also available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families reside in Kakegawa, drawn to its quiet environment and good schools.

Retirees

The city is also home to a significant number of retirees who enjoy the peaceful lifestyle and community amenities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams and youth leagues playing regularly.

Soccer

Soccer has gained popularity, with local clubs competing in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kakegawa is generally moderate, and the city is well-connected by public transportation, including trains and buses. The train station offers access to Shinkansen (bullet train) services, making it easy to travel to nearby cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kakegawa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While many dishes contain fish or meat, there are options available; just ask for vegetarian alternatives.

Gluten-Free

Soba noodles can be made from gluten-free ingredients; check with local restaurants for options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kakegawa is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be contacted easily, and many medical professionals speak basic English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide