Things To Do
in Kikugawa
Kikugawa is a picturesque town located in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including lush green tea fields and the scenic Oigawa River. The town also boasts several historical sites, such as Kikugawa Castle Ruins and Kikugawa Shrine.
Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese culture, delicious local cuisine, and relaxing hot springs in Kikugawa.
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- "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: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kikugawa River, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the banks. Don't forget to take photos of the stunning cherry blossoms if you're visiting in spring.
Head to the local market for lunch and taste delicious Japanese street food. Afterward, explore the traditional shops where you can find unique souvenirs.
Wind down your day by visiting a local onsen for a relaxing soak. Treat yourself to a traditional Japanese dinner at a nearby izakaya.
Get an early start by hiking the nearby trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint.
After lunch, visit the historical temples scattered throughout Kikugawa to soak in the rich culture. Take time to meditate in the serene settings of these sacred places.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the river to appreciate the tranquility of the evening. Stop by a local café for a warm cup of matcha tea.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditional arts, including pottery and textiles.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- A peaceful and quiet environment, ideal for relaxation.
- Access to local festivals and community events that celebrate traditional practices.
- Proximity to larger cities for additional amenities and opportunities.
- Limited job opportunities compared to urban centers.
- Public transport options may be less frequent and convenient.
- Limited access to modern amenities and entertainment options.
- Potential language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
- Risk of natural disasters such as earthquakes, common in Japan.
Best Activities in Kikugawa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural scenery of Kikugawa and its surrounding areas by going on a hike through the Shizuoka Prefecture. You can discover stunning landscapes, lush forests, and picturesque viewpoints along the way.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Abe River, taking in the serene atmosphere and scenic views. There are dedicated cycling paths and routes that cater to cyclists of all levels, making it a great way to explore the region.
Immerse yourself in local history and nature by visiting the Kikukawa Castle Ruins Park. This historical site offers walking trails, cherry blossoms in spring, and a peaceful setting for a relaxing day outdoors.
Places to Visit in Kikugawa
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of Kikugawa and the surrounding area, especially during cherry blossom season
Scenic spot for capturing beautiful views of the river and surrounding nature
Features traditional Japanese gardens and offers great photo opportunities, especially during the fall foliage season
Food in Kikugawa
Kikugawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature dish in Kikugawa, Unagi Donburi features succulent grilled eel served over a bed of steamed rice, glazed with a rich sweet soy-based sauce. Try this local delicacy at Unatoto, a renowned eel specialty restaurant in the area.
Must-Try!
Another must-try is Sakura Shrimp Sushi, which highlights the tiny flavorful shrimp found in the local rivers. Visit Sushiyoshi, a revered sushi establishment, to savor this delicate yet delectable creation.
If you crave a comforting breakfast option, seek out Chagayu, a simple rice porridge infused with fragrant green tea. You can relish this soul-warming dish at Kikugawa's traditional teahouses like Tsujiura Senbei, where it's often paired with local rice crackers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Kickstart your day at the Kikugawa Morning Market, bustling with vibrant stalls offering an array of fresh produce, local snacks, and artisanal crafts. Indulge in freshly prepared ikayaki (grilled squid) and yakisoba (stir-fried noodles) from the street vendors to savor the authentic street food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kikugawa, it's important to maintain a respectful distance from others, especially when in public spaces or during interactions. Being mindful of personal space is a way to show consideration and politeness towards others.
It's a cultural norm in Kikugawa, as with many other places in Japan, to remove shoes before entering someone's home, certain traditional establishments, or even some modern buildings. This practice shows respect for cleanliness and the space of the host.
When dining in Kikugawa, it's important to observe certain traditional dining etiquette, such as not sticking chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice, as this symbolizes a funeral ritual. Additionally, expressing appreciation for the meal and the hospitality shown is important.
Safety
Tipping in Kikugawa
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kikugawa, Japan, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. The provision of excellent service is seen as a professional obligation, and tipping may even be considered rude in some cases.
Payment in Kikugawa, Japan is primarily done in cash. Credit card payments are accepted in larger establishments, but it is always advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or local eateries. Mobile payment methods such as IC cards and smartphone apps are also increasingly popular in the country.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Kikugawa, Japan is during spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and the weather is usually mild.
Summer (June to August) is hot and humid in Kikugawa, with occasional typhoons. It's a good time for outdoor activities and to enjoy summer festivals.
Autumn (September to November) is another beautiful time to visit Kikugawa when the foliage changes color, creating picturesque landscapes.
Winter (December to February) can be cold in Kikugawa, but it's still a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports and hot springs.
Kikugawa at Night
Hiking in Kikugawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination that offers stunning views of the surrounding area, with trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
This historical site features hiking trails that lead you through beautiful landscapes and historic remnants.
A scenic park that offers several walking and hiking paths, perfect for families and casual hikers.
This area provides a range of hiking trails along the river, showcasing picturesque views of nature and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Well-known for its hiking routes that run alongside the river, offering beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.
Aiports
How to reach Kikugawa by plane.
Located in Tokyo, approximately 190 kilometers from Kikugawa, HND is one of the busiest airports in Japan, offering numerous international flights.
Situated in Narita, about 210 kilometers from Kikugawa, NRT primarily serves international flights and is one of the main gateways to Japan.
Located on an island in Ise Bay, about 130 kilometers from Kikugawa, NGO serves the Nagoya area and offers a variety of international and domestic flights.
Situated on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, approximately 320 kilometers from Kikugawa, KIX serves the Kansai region with numerous international connections.
Located about 420 kilometers from Kikugawa, SDJ offers a mix of domestic and limited international flights, mainly to East Asia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population consisting of native Japanese people.
Includes non-Japanese residents who may work or study in Kikugawa.
Older adults, typically aged 65 and above, representing a significant demographic.
Children and teenagers, typically under the age of 18, contributing to the school-aged demographic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Kikugawa, with many local teams and schools participating in regional competitions.
Soccer is widely played among youth and adults alike, with various clubs and leagues organized throughout the year.
Basketball enjoys a strong following in Kikugawa, particularly in schools and community sports programs.
Volleyball is popular both recreationally and in organized competitions, with a focus on school teams.
Various forms of martial arts, including Judo and Kendo, are practiced widely in Kikugawa.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kikugawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the local cuisine predominantly features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Kikugawa are attentive to vegetarian and vegan preferences. Look for establishments that offer delectable vegetable tempura, fresh salads, and tofu-based dishes to cater to these dietary choices.
Individuals with gluten sensitivities can savor rice-based dishes such as sushi, sashimi, and rice balls, which are readily available throughout Kikugawa. Select restaurants also offer gluten-free soy sauce and are accommodating to specific dietary requirements upon request.