Things To Do
in Kizugawa
Kizugawa is a small town located in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its picturesque countryside and traditional Japanese buildings. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and flowing rivers, making it a peaceful and serene destination for nature lovers.
Visitors can also explore historical temples and shrines scattered throughout the area.
- "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 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a sunrise hike at Kizugawa Mountain. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views as you ascend.
Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of Kizugawa. Take your time exploring the exhibits and artifacts.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a local izakaya. Savor delicious Japanese dishes while mingling with locals.
Explore the ancient temples of Kizugawa, starting with the serene Kizugawa-ji Temple. Immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings.
Stroll through the local markets to experience the vibrant atmosphere and taste local delicacies. Don't forget to pick up some souvenirs.
Attend a traditional tea ceremony hosted by a local expert. Learn about the art and significance of this beautiful ritual.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic landscapes and natural beauty, with proximity to mountains and rivers.
- Rich cultural heritage, including traditional festivals and historical sites.
- A tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal place for relaxation and leisure.
- Access to local fresh produce and a strong sense of community.
- Good transportation links to nearby Kyoto and Nara for tourism and work opportunities.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment options.
- Potential for natural disasters, such as earthquakes.
- Somewhat isolated from major urban amenities and services.
- Limited international exposure and resources for expatriates.
Best Activities in Kizugawa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the scenic trails and lush landscapes of the Kizugawa Alps, offering various levels of difficulty for hikers.
Explore the picturesque Kizu River on a cycling adventure, taking in the beautiful countryside and traditional Japanese architecture along the way.
Experience the thrill of river rafting on the Kizu River, surrounded by the natural beauty of Kizugawa.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kizugawa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kizugawa
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic village with traditional thatched roof houses, providing scenic views and great photo opportunities.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Kyoto and Osaka, and is especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
A popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring, offering picturesque scenes for photography.
Food in Kizugawa
Kizugawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A specialty dish featuring mackerel sushi pressed with fermented rice and wrapped in persimmon leaves. It can be savored at local sushi restaurants like Sushi Mizukami.
Must-Try!
A delicate tofu skin often served in hot pots or enjoyed as a topping. Visit Yuba Kobo Sagano to savor this local delicacy.
A type of eggplant with a rich and sweet flavor. Sample Kamo-nasu in various dishes at restaurants like Waraku.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kizugawa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this vibrant market offering a wide range of fresh produce, street snacks, and local delights such as grilled seafood and sweet treats like manju (filled buns).
Stroll through the town's Tofu Street to discover charming stalls selling freshly made tofu products, including tofu ice cream and soy milk-based drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kizugawa, Japan, it is important to show respect towards elders by using honorific language and bowing when greeting or departing.
It is a common cultural norm in Kizugawa, Japan to remove one's shoes before entering a home or certain indoor spaces as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
In Kizugawa, Japan, it is important to maintain a quiet and considerate demeanor in public spaces, such as public transport, to show respect for others' peace and privacy.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kizugawa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kizugawa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Kizugawa, Japan. In fact, it is considered rude to tip in most situations. Good service is expected and appreciated, but leaving a tip is generally not expected or encouraged.
In Kizugawa, Japan, cash is the most common form of payment, especially in smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted, particularly in larger stores and restaurants in urban areas. Mobile payment systems, such as using smartphone apps or QR codes, are also gaining popularity in the region.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kizugawa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms. The town comes alive with beautiful pink blooms and many cultural festivals.
Expect hot and humid weather, but this is a great time for hiking and outdoor activities in the surrounding countryside.
Ideal for viewing colorful foliage and enjoying pleasant weather. Kizugawa's landscapes transform into a vibrant mix of red, yellow, and orange hues.
A quieter time to visit with the opportunity to see snow-capped landscapes and experience traditional winter festivities.
Kizugawa at Night
Hiking in Kizugawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area featuring trails along the Kizugawa River, offering beautiful views and a variety of flora and fauna.
A popular hiking route leading to the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, combining cultural heritage with natural beauty.
A trail that winds through picturesque countryside, providing a peaceful hiking experience with seasonal changes in scenery.
A scenic hiking path that connects Kibune and Kurama, known for its serene forest environment and hot springs.
A relatively easy hike with panoramic views from the summit, suitable for families and beginner hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kizugawa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kizugawa by plane.
Located in Osaka, approximately 70 km from Kizugawa, this is one of the major international airports serving the Kansai region of Japan.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, it is located about 60 km from Kizugawa. Though primarily serving domestic flights, it does have some international connections.
Situated about 80 km from Kizugawa, Kobe Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights and is located on an artificial island in Kobe.
Located approximately 150 km from Kizugawa, this airport serves the Chubu region and offers a range of international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group consisting of the local Japanese citizens.
Includes non-Japanese individuals residing in Kizugawa, such as expatriates and international students.
Older adults who make up a significant portion of the population, due to aging demographic trends.
Young residents comprising infants to teenagers, reflecting family units in the area.
Individuals in the workforce contributing to the local economy.
The Soul of Kizugawa
Discover the essence of Kizugawa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, including Kizugawa, where local teams often compete in regional leagues.
Soccer has gained significant popularity in Kizugawa, with many youth teams and amateur leagues fostering local talent.
Basketball is widely played in schools and community centers, with local tournaments attracting attention.
Various forms of martial arts, including Judo and Karate, are practiced in Kizugawa, emphasizing discipline and physical fitness.
Tennis is enjoyed by both recreational players and competitive athletes, with several courts available for public use.
Running and jogging are popular outdoor activities, with many residents participating in local marathons and fun runs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kizugawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Kizugawa traditionally emphasizes seafood and meat, several restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for places that specialize in tofu-based creations or seasonal vegetable dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy dishes like yuba, fresh sashimi, and rice-based delicacies. Communicating dietary needs with the staff is recommended to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kizugawa with these cultural adventures.