Things To Do
in Kandori

Kandori, Japan is a charming coastal town located in the Fukushima Prefecture, known for its stunning ocean views and rich cultural heritage. The area is celebrated for its traditional fishing practices and beautiful landscapes, making it a popular destination for both nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a blend of modern amenities and traditional Japanese experiences, from local festivals to serene temples.

With friendly locals and a peaceful atmosphere, Kandori offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kandori Fishing Port, where you can witness the early morning catch being brought in and enjoy a fresh seafood breakfast at a local stall.

afternoon
:

After breakfast, explore the nearby Kandori Shrine, an important cultural site where you can learn about local traditions and participate in a purification ritual.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a stroll along the coast, followed by dinner at a local izakaya, where you can try various small dishes paired with sake.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby coastal hills, taking in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding landscapes.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit a local onsen (hot spring) to relax and rejuvenate, enjoying the therapeutic properties of the mineral-rich waters.

evening
:

End your trip with a visit to a local festival (if in season), experiencing traditional food, music, and dance, or enjoy a quiet dinner at a seaside restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
Coffee$3
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🍺Local Beer$5
🏨Hotel Night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and coastline.
  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Delicious seafood and local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Some language barriers may exist.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Kandori

Visit one of these nice places.

Kandori Coastline

Capture stunning sunsets over the ocean and dramatic cliffs along the coastline, a perfect backdrop for photography.

Kandori Shrine

The shrine features beautiful architecture surrounded by lush greenery, offering picturesque settings for photos.

Local Fishing Port

A vibrant scene of fishing boats and fishermen at work, providing an authentic glimpse into local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kandori

Kandori offers a delightful culinary experience featuring fresh seafood and traditional Japanese dishes that highlight the region's rich maritime heritage.

Kandori Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kandori Sashimi

Freshly caught fish served with soy sauce and wasabi, showcasing the region's best seafood.

Must-Try!

Soba Noodles

Local buckwheat noodles served chilled or in a hot broth, often accompanied by seasonal vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kandori Seafood Market

A bustling market where you can buy fresh seafood, local produce, and ready-to-eat street food.

Local Food Stalls

Street vendors offering delicious snacks like takoyaki and yakitori, perfect for a quick bite while exploring.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kandori experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, while summer (June to August) is warm and humid, with occasional rain. Autumn (September to November) showcases vibrant foliage and comfortable weather. Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, and occasional snowfall, particularly in January.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Always demonstrate respect at shrines and temples; observe local customs during ceremonies.

Shoes Off Indoors

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

Polite Communication

Use polite forms of speech and body language; bowing is a common greeting.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kandori is considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. As the region is prone to earthquakes, familiarize yourself with safety procedures in case of seismic activity.

Tipping in Kandori

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not common in Japan and may be considered rude; instead, excellent service is expected without extra compensation.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy mild weather and cherry blossoms in bloom; it's an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Expect warm temperatures perfect for beach activities, but also prepare for occasional typhoons.

Autumn

Witness the beautiful fall foliage, offering stunning views and perfect hiking conditions.

Winter

Experience cold weather with occasional snowfall; local hot springs are particularly inviting during this season.

Nightlife Guide

Kandori at Night

Kandori's nightlife is relatively low-key, characterized by small izakayas and bars where locals gather to enjoy food and drinks. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for visitors to mingle with residents. While there are no large nightclubs, seasonal festivals may feature live music and traditional performances, adding a cultural twist to the evening scene.

Hiking in Kandori

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kandori Trail

A scenic trail that winds through coastal forests and offers breathtaking views of the ocean, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Mount Adatara

Located a short drive away, this trail offers more challenging terrain with rewarding panoramic views from the summit.

Airports

How to reach Kandori by plane.

Fukushima Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Kandori, Fukushima Airport offers domestic flights and limited international services, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kandori is a walkable town, especially around the coastal area and central market. Many attractions are within a short distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common, ensuring a pleasant walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are Japanese, primarily engaged in fishing, agriculture, and tourism-related businesses.

Tourists

Visitors from Japan and abroad come to Kandori for its natural beauty, culture, and seafood, particularly during peak seasons.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime in Japan, baseball is widely played and followed in Kandori, with local teams often competing in regional leagues.

Soccer

Soccer has gained popularity among the youth, with local clubs providing opportunities for young athletes to train and compete.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kandori is generally light, with most residents relying on bicycles and walking for short distances. Public transportation includes local buses that connect to surrounding areas, but frequency may vary. During peak tourist seasons, expect more visitors on the roads, particularly near popular attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kandori.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; it's advisable to ask for specific options.

Gluten-Free Choices

Soba noodles can be made gluten-free; however, it's essential to communicate dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Kandori are generally accessible, with local clinics and hospitals available for basic and emergency care. For serious medical issues, larger hospitals in nearby cities may be required. Travelers are advised to carry health insurance and understand how to access medical services if needed.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide