Things To Do
in Kihoku
Kihoku is a small town located in the Mie Prefecture of Japan. Known for its lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, Kihoku offers a serene and peaceful environment for visitors. The town is also famous for its traditional festivals and cultural heritage, providing a glimpse into the local way of life.
Additionally, Kihoku is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
- "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): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along Kihoku's beautiful coastline. Enjoy the stunning views and fresh sea breeze.
Visit a local seafood restaurant for lunch, sampling fresh catch from the waters. Then, explore nearby beaches or enjoy water sports.
Watch the sunset over the ocean for a breathtaking view. Conclude your day with a cozy dinner at a seaside café.
Embark on a hiking adventure in the nearby mountain trails. Enjoy the serene nature and beautiful landscapes.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint once you reach the summit. Take plenty of photos to capture the memories.
Return to Kihoku and relax at a local onsen, soaking tired muscles in natural hot springs. Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner afterward.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional Japanese architecture and festivals
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and coastline, ideal for outdoor activities
- Lower cost of living compared to urban areas in Japan
- Community-oriented lifestyle with friendly residents
- Access to fresh local produce and seafood
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields
- Transportation can be less convenient; reliance on personal vehicles may be necessary
- Less access to modern amenities and entertainment compared to larger cities
- Potential for natural disasters, such as typhoons or earthquakes
- Aging population which can lead to fewer services and community engagement
Best Activities in Kihoku
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of the Kihoku Mountains, offering stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.
Enjoy nature by camping at Kihoku Park, complete with facilities for a comfortable stay and access to beautiful landscapes.
Experience the tranquility of fishing in the Kumano River, known for its rich aquatic life and peaceful environment.
Take a cycling tour along the beautiful coastline, enjoying breathtaking views of the sea and the lush surroundings.
Explore the local shrines set in picturesque settings, offering a glimpse into the spiritual heritage of the region.
Places to Visit in Kihoku
Visit one of these nice places.
Oniwaki Mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it one of the top locations for photography enthusiasts. The trails leading up to the peak provide various vantage points to capture the beauty of nature.
Kihoku Fishing Port is a picturesque spot where you can capture the charm of local fishermen at work and the colorful boats lining the harbor. Sunrise and sunset views here are particularly breathtaking.
Chuo Park features beautifully landscaped gardens and seasonal flowers, along with a serene pond. This tranquil location is perfect for capturing nature photography and enjoying peaceful moments.
The Tamaki River provides scenic riverside paths ideal for capturing the tranquil waters and the surrounding greenery. The area is particularly photogenic during cherry blossom season.
The Kihoku Coast offers stunning ocean views, rocky cliffs, and unique shoreline landscapes. It's a great place to capture sunset photographs, with waves crashing against the rocks.
Food in Kihoku
Kihoku Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular sweet treat consisting of two fluffy pancakes filled with sweet red bean paste. Best enjoyed at local bakeries and dessert shops such as Sakura Sweets in Kihoku.
Must-Try!
Seared bonito fish served with citrus-based ponzu sauce. This dish can be savored at traditional izakayas like Umi no Sachi, known for its fresh seafood.
Soft and chewy rice cakes, often filled with various sweet or savory fillings. Head to Shimizu Mochi for a delectable assortment of freshly made mochi.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visiting the Kihoku Fish Market offers an authentic glimpse into the local seafood trade, where visitors can sample fresh sashimi and seafood snacks.
During local festivals and events, Matsuri Street Food Stalls offer a variety of tantalizing street food, from grilled seafood skewers to tempura-fried vegetables.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kihoku, as in much of Japan, showing respect through politeness is crucial. Bowing is a common greeting and a sign of respect. The depth of the bow can indicate the level of respect you are giving, with deeper bows showing greater respect.
It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments. Always be prepared to do so and look for slippers provided for guests. This practice shows respect for the cleanliness of the home.
Maintaining a quiet demeanor in public spaces is important. Loud conversations and boisterous behavior can be viewed as disrespectful. Speaking in soft tones and keeping your voice down in public transportation or restaurants is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Kihoku
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kihoku, as in much of Japan, tipping is not a common practice. Service charges are typically included in the price of meals and services. Hospitality is considered a fundamental aspect of Japanese culture, so excellent service is expected without the need for gratuity. In some cases, leaving a small gift or token of appreciation may be accepted, but cash tipping can be seen as rude.
In Kihoku, various payment methods are accepted, including cash, credit cards, and electronic payment systems. Cash is still widely used, especially in small shops and local restaurants. Electronic payments, including mobile payment apps, are becoming more popular. It's important to note that some establishments may have minimum purchase amounts for card transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May. This is one of the most beautiful times to visit Kihoku, as the cherry blossoms bloom, creating stunning landscapes. Expect mild temperatures and a vibrant atmosphere with local festivals celebrating the hanami (flower viewing) tradition.
June to August. Summer in Kihoku can be warm and humid, with temperatures rising. Expect lush greenery and numerous outdoor activities such as hiking and local festivals. It's also a great time to enjoy fresh local produce at farmers' markets.
September to November. Autumn brings a stunning array of fall colors as the leaves change. The weather is pleasantly cool, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. Expect various harvest festivals and cultural events celebrating the season's bounty.
December to February. Winter can be quite cold, with occasional snow. This season is perfect for experiencing traditional Japanese winter customs and enjoying hot springs. Expect fewer tourists, providing a more peaceful atmosphere for enjoying the serene landscapes.
Kihoku at Night
Hiking in Kihoku
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering scenic views and a variety of trails for different skill levels.
Ancient pilgrimage routes that offer a mix of historical significance and beautiful landscapes, ideal for long hikes.
A moderate hiking trail known for its lush forests and seasonal wildflowers, perfect for a day hike.
Features diverse ecosystems and a range of trails, famous for its waterfalls and rich flora and fauna.
A challenging hike that rewards with panoramic views from the summit, suitable for experienced hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Kihoku by plane.
Located approximately 200 km from Kihoku, this airport serves the Nagoya area and is a major hub for international flights.
Situated around 120 km from Kihoku, this airport serves the Osaka and Kobe area and provides numerous international connections.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, it is located about 140 km from Kihoku and primarily handles domestic flights with some international services.
This airport is roughly 230 km away from Kihoku and serves Nagasaki with some international routes.
Located about 190 km from Kihoku, this airport serves Okayama and has a mix of domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnicity in Kihoku, comprising over 99% of the population.
A small percentage of the population includes residents from various countries, mainly consisting of temporary workers and international families.
A significant demographic group in Kihoku, representing a large portion of the residents due to low birth rates and longer life expectancy.
Including children and adolescents, this group has been declining over the years due to migration to urban areas for education and employment.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Kihoku, with many local teams and a strong following among fans.
Soccer enjoys significant popularity in Kihoku, with local leagues and community events promoting the sport.
As a traditional Japanese sport, sumo holds cultural significance and is followed by many residents in Kihoku.
Various forms of martial arts, such as judo and karate, are practiced widely in Kihoku and are an important part of local sports culture.
Tennis is a popular recreational sport in Kihoku, with many people playing in local courts and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kihoku.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Kihoku offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, and visitors can also explore specialized cafes like Vege Delight for a wide range of plant-based options.
While traditional Japanese cuisine often includes soy sauce containing gluten, some establishments in Kihoku provide gluten-free alternatives upon request. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining out.