Things To Do
in Kikugawa

Kikugawa is a tranquil city in Shizuoka Prefecture, set along rivers and rolling green tea fields. The area blends rural charm with convenient access to coastal scenery and the broader Tōkai region. Visitors can taste authentic green tea experiences, fresh seafood, and traditional Japanese hospitality in a laid-back rural setting.

Its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle, with easy day trips to nearby prefectural highlights.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Kikugawa's Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the historic Kikugawa Castle, where you can immerse yourself in the architectural beauty and learn about its significance during the Edo period. Take a guided tour to gain insights into the local history and the castle's role in shaping the region. Stroll around the castle grounds, enjoying the serene gardens that surround this magnificent structure.

afternoon
:

After a delightful morning, head to the Kikugawa Art Museum to appreciate contemporary art and local artists' works. Engage in a workshop if available, where you can create your own piece of art inspired by the pieces on display. Lunch at a nearby café will offer you traditional Japanese cuisine, fueling you for the rest of the day.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along the Kikugawa River, where you can witness the stunning sunset reflecting off the water. Find a cozy riverside restaurant for dinner, where you can savor local delicacies while enjoying the view. As night falls, the area becomes illuminated, creating a beautiful atmosphere perfect for unwinding.

day 2
Nature Walks and Local Markets
morning
:

Begin your morning with a refreshing hike at the nearby Mount Yoshino, which offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. As you ascend, let the fresh air and the sounds of nature invigorate you, making it a perfect spot for photographers. The gentle trails are suitable for all levels, allowing you to spend quality time with fellow hikers.

afternoon
:

Return to town and explore the bustling Kikugawa street market, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for handmade souvenirs. Engage with friendly vendors who are eager to share their craft, making it a lively experience. Enjoy lunch at one of the stalls, indulging in freshly made takoyaki and other local treats.

evening
:

As the sun sets, join a traditional cooking class where you can learn how to make an authentic Japanese meal from locally sourced ingredients. This interactive experience not only educates you about the cuisine but also provides a unique opportunity to connect with locals. Enjoy the dinner you’ve prepared with fellow participants, sharing stories and laughs over a delicious meal.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$40-60
🛏️Hotel per night$70-120
🚎Public transit day pass$5-12
🛒Groceries for a day$15-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic rural landscapes and tea culture
  • Safe, walkable town center with easy access to nature
  • Genuine, relaxed Japanese small-city experience
  • Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
  • Language barrier may be challenging in very rural spots
  • Some attractions require a car or bike to reach
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません、英語を話せますか?" - Excuse me, do you speak English?
  • "これはいくらですか?" - How much is this?
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Kikugawa

Visit one of these nice places.

Tea Terrace at Dawn

Rows of green tea plants bathed in soft morning light, perfect for wide landscape shots.

Kikugawa River Embankment Sunset

Golden hour reflections on the river with silhouettes of farmers and boats.

Old Shrine Gate with Lanterns

A traditional shrine setting with stone lanterns along a quiet lane.

Coastal Bluff Overlook

Panoramic view of the coastline and distant hills, ideal for sunset photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kikugawa

Kikugawa sits in a region famous for green tea and fresh, seafood-forward cuisine. Expect a gentle balance of tea-infused flavors, seasonal produce, and simple, satisfying meals in welcoming family-run establishments.

Kikugawa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shizuoka-Style Unagi Don

Grilled eel on rice with a light tare sauce; a coastal specialty common in the broader Shizuoka area.

Must-Try!

Matcha Dessert

Green tea-based sweets, such as matcha mochi or soft-serve, often found at tea houses and markets.

Wasabi-Infused Pickles

Crisp vegetables pickled with fresh wasabi; a peppery, refreshing side dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Morning Market

Seasonal produce, seafood, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for sampling street-style bites.

Tea Stand Street Food

Stalls offering tea-flavored treats and light bites near tea plantations.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kikugawa has a temperate maritime climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, winters are cool but rarely very cold, and rainfall is fairly distributed with a rainy season in early summer. Typhoons can affect the area in late summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Greetings

Bow lightly or greet politely; speak softly in public spaces and queues.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes, certain traditional eateries, and temples.

Food Handling

Avoid tipping; use both hands when exchanging money or business cards; do not point with chopsticks; do not stick chopsticks upright in rice.

Public Behavior

Keep voices low on trains and in public places; queue and wait your turn.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kikugawa is generally very safe for travelers. Normal urban safety applies: keep valuables secure, beware of cycling at night on poorly lit roads, and follow earthquake safety guidelines. In emergencies, dial 119 for fire/ambulance and 110 for police.

Tipping in Kikugawa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as standard. If you wish to show appreciation, a small gift or simply expressing thanks is sufficient.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, with many shops accepting cards in larger towns and hotels. Contactless payments and IC cards (like Suica/PASMO) are common in urban areas but may be limited in rural Kikugawa. ATMs can be found at post offices and some convenience stores.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot, humid days with occasional typhoons. Seek shade, stay hydrated, and visit early morning or late afternoon.

Autumn

Mild to warm days with crisp evenings; tea harvest activities and colorful foliage in surrounding areas.

Winter

Generally cool but mild; sunny windows between rain showers; excellent for clear seabreeze views.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures; cherry blossoms and new tea shoots create photogenic landscapes and comfortable walks.

Nightlife Guide

Kikugawa at Night

The nightlife in Kikugawa is low-key, featuring cozy izakayas, casual cafes, and small sake bars around the station area. On weekends, a few venues may host live music or quiet performances, but the scene remains tranquil compared with larger cities.

Hiking in Kikugawa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tea Field Ridge Trail

Gentle loop through nearby tea plantations with valley views.

Hills Behind Kikugawa

Moderate climbs offering scenic overlooks toward the coastline.

Coastal Bluff Walk

Easy coastal path with sea views and sea breeze.

Airports

How to reach Kikugawa by plane.

Shizuoka Airport (FSZ)

Located near Makinohara; serves domestic flights and connects to Tokyo and other major cities. About 60-90 minutes by car or train from Kikugawa.

Nagoya Centrair International Airport (NGO)

A regional hub in Aichi Prefecture; reachable with a longer train journey via Shinkansen and local lines.

Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND)

Major international hub; quickest access for long-distance travel, with rail connections to Shizuoka Prefecture via Shinkansen.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center around Kikugawa Station is highly walkable, with many sights, markets, and eateries within a 20-30 minute stroll. Rural tea fields and scenic overlooks are better accessed by bike or car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Tight-knit communities with agricultural roots and local schools.

Commuters

Residents traveling to nearby cities for work or study.

Students

Local schools and vocational programs contribute to a youthful presence in the area.

Farmers

Tea growers and fishermen shape much of the local economy and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A common school and community sport throughout the region.

Soccer

Played in local parks and school teams; casual and organized leagues exist.

Golf

Several nearby courses in the broader Shizuoka area attract visitors and locals alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate. Rail service along the JR Tōkaidō Main Line connects Kikugawa to Shizuoka and Hamamatsu. Rural roads can be narrow, with limited late-evening public transit options; consider a car or bike for excursions beyond town center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kikugawa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In Japan, many dishes use dashi (fish stock). Look for vegetable-focused dishes such as tofu, nabemono, and tempura, and ask for no dashi or miso if needed; many restaurants can accommodate with advance notice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are local clinics and at least one hospital in Kikugawa. For major medical procedures, facilities in Shizuoka City or nearby municipalities are accessible by train or car. Carry travel insurance and know the emergency numbers (119 for fire/ambulance, 110 for police).

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide