Things To Do
in Kesennuma
Kesennuma is a picturesque coastal city located in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich maritime history and stunning natural landscapes. The city suffered significant damage during the 2011 earthquake and tsunami but has since rebuilt, retaining its charm and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, beautiful beaches, and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Kesennuma is also a gateway to several outdoor activities and stunning hiking trails in the surrounding mountains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Kesennuma Bay, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the fishing boats. Afterward, head to the Kesennuma Fish Market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample some fresh sashimi.
Visit the Kesennuma City Museum to learn about the city's history and culture, then take a tour of the nearby temples, such as Kannon-ji, known for its beautiful gardens.
Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, where you can try various Japanese dishes and local sake. After dinner, take a sunset walk along the beach to unwind.
Start your day with a hike on the nearby Mt. Kinkasan, where you can enjoy stunning views of the coastline and surrounding mountains. The hike is moderate and takes about 2-3 hours.
After your hike, visit the nearby Kinkasan Island, where you can explore the traditional shrines and enjoy the natural beauty of the island. Don’t forget to take a boat back to Kesennuma.
Wrap up your day with a dinner at a seaside restaurant, enjoying the catch of the day while watching the waves crash against the shore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍣Sushi Meal | $15 |
| 🍜Ramen Bowl | $10 |
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
| 🏨Hotel Night | $80 |
| 🚌Local Bus Fare | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Rich seafood cuisine and local delicacies.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation may have limited schedules.
- Some areas still recovering from past disasters.
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "おいしいです" - It's delicious
- "すみません" - Excuse me
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Kesennuma
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture stunning sunset views over the bay, with fishing boats and the coastline in the foreground.
Photograph the beautiful shrines and scenic vistas from the island's vantage points.
A perfect spot for panoramic shots of the surrounding landscape and ocean.
Food in Kesennuma
Kesennuma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly sliced raw fish, often enjoyed with soy sauce and wasabi, showcasing the local catch.
Must-Try!
A rice bowl topped with a variety of fresh sashimi and seafood, perfect for lunch.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find an array of fresh seafood, local delicacies, and street food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite language and gestures, such as bowing when greeting someone.
Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.
Maintain a quiet demeanor on public transport and avoid loud conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Kesennuma
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan, as excellent service is expected. However, rounding up the bill is appreciated in some restaurants.
Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many establishments. Be prepared with yen, especially in smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer can be hot and humid, with great weather for beach activities and seafood festivals.
Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, especially in the mountains, perfect for hiking and photography.
Winters can be cold, with occasional snowfall, offering opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor dining.
Kesennuma at Night
Hiking in Kesennuma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail offering beautiful views of the coastline and forests, suitable for all skill levels.
A more challenging hike that leads to the summit of Mt. Kinkasan, providing breathtaking panoramic views.
Airports
How to reach Kesennuma by plane.
Located approximately 90 km from Kesennuma, Sendai Airport is the nearest major airport, offering domestic and limited international flights. It has convenient transport options to Kesennuma, including buses and trains.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant part of Kesennuma's economy is based on fishing, with many locals involved in the fishing industry.
The city attracts visitors interested in seafood, outdoor activities, and experiencing the local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, and local teams often have enthusiastic support from the community.
Due to its coastal location, fishing is both a popular pastime and an essential part of the local economy.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kesennuma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is a staple, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes upon request, such as vegetable tempura and tofu.
Some restaurants provide gluten-free options, but it's advisable to confirm with staff due to cross-contamination risks.