Things To Do
in Kihō

Kihō is a charming coastal town located in the Mie Prefecture of Japan, renowned for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. The area is surrounded by lush mountains, offering breathtaking views and numerous outdoor activities. Kihō is also famous for its delicious seafood and local festivals, which showcase traditional Japanese culture.

With a blend of nature, history, and local hospitality, Kihō is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a serene getaway.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Kihō
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kihō Coastline, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach and take in the fresh ocean air.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Kihō Town Museum to learn about the local history and culture, followed by a visit to the nearby Kihō-ji Temple.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant, sampling the catch of the day, and take a stroll along the beach to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Flavors
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby mountains, exploring the scenic trails and enjoying the natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Visit a local market to sample fresh produce and traditional snacks, followed by a relaxing afternoon at a local onsen (hot spring).

evening
:

Dine at a traditional izakaya (Japanese pub) where you can enjoy local dishes and socialize with friendly locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🍵Tea$3
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$100
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Delicious seafood and local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • English may not be widely spoken, making communication challenging.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Kihō

Visit one of these nice places.

Kihō Beach

A stunning beach with white sands and clear blue waters, perfect for capturing beautiful sunset shots.

Kihō-ji Temple

A historic temple nestled in the mountains, offering a serene atmosphere and picturesque architecture.

Coastal Cliffs

Dramatic cliffs along the coastline provide breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kihō

Kihō is a food lover's paradise, especially for seafood enthusiasts. The town offers a variety of local dishes that reflect its coastal location and agricultural heritage.

Kihō Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kihō Sashimi

Freshly caught fish served raw, showcasing the ocean's bounty.

Must-Try!

Mie Gyu Beef

Tender and flavorful beef from the Mie Prefecture, often grilled or served as steak.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kihō Morning Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh seafood, vegetables, and handmade snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kihō experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging 26-30°C (79-86°F). Winters are mild, with temperatures ranging from 5-10°C (41-50°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are comfortable, with blooming flowers and colorful foliage enhancing the picturesque scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is important; bowing when greeting is common.

Shoes Off Indoors

It's customary to remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public places, as loud conversations can be seen as disrespectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kihō is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. Travelers should still exercise common sense, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Kihō

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be considered rude; excellent service is included in the price.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places now also accept credit cards and mobile payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings cherry blossoms and mild weather, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer is warm and ideal for beach activities, though it can be crowded with tourists.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter is chilly, but the town is less crowded, allowing for a peaceful experience and visits to local hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Kihō at Night

Kihō's nightlife is relatively laid-back compared to larger cities. The town features a few izakayas and karaoke bars, where locals gather after work to unwind. Enjoying fresh seafood and local drinks in these cozy establishments creates a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. On weekends, you might find live music events or festivals adding to the vibrant local culture.

Hiking in Kihō

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kihō Trail

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

Kihō Nature Park Trail

This trail winds through beautiful forests and mountainous terrain, providing opportunities to see local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Kihō by plane.

Nanki-Shirahama Airport

Located about 50 km from Kihō, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kihō is a walkable town with pedestrian-friendly streets and scenic pathways, especially along the coast. The main attractions are within a short walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas, especially those leading to hiking trails, may require a vehicle or public transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of the population consists of local Japanese residents who are engaged in fishing, agriculture, and tourism.

Tourists

Kihō attracts both domestic and international tourists, especially during the summer months, drawn by its natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is highly popular in Japan, with local teams often playing matches during the summer months.

Fishing

Given Kihō's coastal location, fishing is a favored pastime and sport among locals, with many fishing tournaments held.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kihō is generally light, with most residents using bicycles or walking to get around. Public transportation options include buses that connect major areas, although service may be less frequent than in urban centers. Visitors are encouraged to explore on foot or rent bicycles for a more immersive experience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kihō.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is prevalent, some restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like soba noodles and vegetable tempura.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice-based dishes are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kihō is accessible, with local clinics providing basic medical services. For more serious health issues, larger hospitals in nearby cities are available. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide