Things To Do
in Kure
Kure is a port city located in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its maritime heritage and historical ties to the Japanese Navy. The city is home to the former Kure Naval Arsenal, which played a significant role in Japan's naval history.
Today, Kure is a modern city with a mix of industrial, cultural, and natural attractions for visitors to explore.
- "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 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kure Maritime Museum to explore the history of Japan's naval forces. Enjoy a stroll along the waterfront and take in the serene views of the harbor.
After lunch, head to the Kure Peace Memorial Museum to learn about the impact of WWII on the region. Spend some time at the nearby Kameyama Park for a relaxing walk.
Dine at a local izakaya, where you can savor delicious Japanese dishes. End your day with a leisurely walk along the harbor under a starlit sky.
Visit the Yamato Museum to see the replica of the famous battleship Yamato. Learn about Kure's shipbuilding heritage through interactive exhibits.
Have lunch at a seaside café, followed by a cruise in the Hiroshima Bay. Enjoy stunning views of the coastline and nearby islands.
Try fresh seafood at a local restaurant before enjoying a peaceful evening on the beach. Take a moment to watch the sunset over the water.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and waterfront views.
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including historical sites and museums.
- Proximity to Hiroshima, allowing for easy access to another major city and historical landmarks.
- A variety of outdoor recreational activities, including parks and beaches.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- May have fewer entertainment and dining options than bigger urban areas.
- Transportation options might be limited, especially for those without personal vehicles.
- Risk of natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes.
- Seasonal weather variability can affect outdoor activities.
Best Activities in Kure
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a pleasant stroll along Kure Port and take in the picturesque waterfront views.
Explore the diverse marine life in Kure Ocean Park through activities like snorkeling and diving.
Visit the memorial hall to learn about the history of Kure and its naval heritage.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kure with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kure
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers picturesque views of the port and waterfront area.
Provides great photo opportunities of historic naval exhibits and surrounding scenery.
Presents stunning views of ships, submarines, and maritime artifacts.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Features beautiful natural landscapes and scenic spots ideal for photography.
Food in Kure
Kure Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory Japanese pancake containing a variety of ingredients such as cabbage, pork, and seafood, topped with a flavorful sauce and mayonnaise. Visit Okonomiyaki Chitose to savor authentic okonomiyaki in Kure.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried breaded oysters, a regional specialty due to Kure's proximity to the Seto Inland Sea. Don't miss trying this dish at local seafood restaurants like Kakiya.
A tasty seafood dish featuring locally caught octopus and rice, often served with a savory sauce. Try this dish at Oideya, known for its splendid tako meshi.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kure better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling shopping arcade for a wide array of street food offerings like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and fresh seafood snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to bow slightly when greeting someone in Kure, Japan. The depth of the bow may vary based on the formality of the situation.
When entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments, it is polite to remove your shoes at the entrance.
Japanese culture places importance on personal space, so it's courteous to maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kure with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kure
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Kure. It is generally not expected or encouraged in restaurants, hotels, or other service-oriented businesses.
Payment in Kure, Japan, is primarily done using cash, although credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in urban areas. It's essential to carry sufficient cash as some smaller establishments may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Kure with mild temperatures and cherry blossoms in bloom. It's a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Warm and humid weather with occasional rain. Perfect for visiting beaches and enjoying summer festivals.
Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. A great time for hiking and enjoying autumn festivals.
Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall. Ideal for enjoying winter illuminations and hot springs.
Kure at Night
Hiking in Kure
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering beautiful views and diverse flora and fauna. The trail is well-marked and suitable for various skill levels.
A scenic mountain area known for its rich wildlife and historical significance. The hike features various trails with varying degrees of difficulty.
A coastal walking trail that allows hikers to enjoy stunning ocean views, unique rock formations, and local marine life. Perfect for a leisurely hike.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the surrounding region. The trail is steep and suitable for experienced hikers.
A network of trails around Hiroshima Bay that provide a mix of coastal and forest hiking experiences. It's ideal for those looking to explore nature and enjoy the seaside.
Aiports
How to reach Kure by plane.
Located in Osaka, approximately 150 kilometers from Kure, Kansai International Airport is one of Japan's major international airports serving various global destinations.
Situated about 70 kilometers from Kure, Okayama Airport serves domestic and limited international flights, providing access to several key destinations.
Located approximately 50 kilometers from Kure, Hiroshima Airport offers both domestic and some international flights, primarily connecting to cities in East Asia.
About 160 kilometers from Kure, Nagasaki Airport primarily serves domestic flights and is a gateway to some international locations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kure, comprising the vast majority of the population.
Includes expats and immigrants from various countries, though they make up a smaller portion of the population.
A smaller demographic group with historical ties and some long-term residents in the area.
Includes Chinese nationals and residents, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
Comprises individuals from other Asian countries, contributing to cultural diversity.
Includes those from Western countries living or working in Kure.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Kure, with a strong local following and participation in high school and community leagues.
Soccer enjoys popularity among youth and adults alike in Kure, with various clubs and teams participating in local leagues.
Tennis is a favored sport in Kure, with many public courts available and a number of local tournaments held throughout the year.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local clubs, with many fans supporting the sport at both amateur and professional levels.
Swimming is a popular activity in Kure, with residents enjoying both competitive swimming and leisure activities at local pools and beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kure.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Kure cuisine heavily features seafood, some restaurants and cafes in the city offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for places that provide options like vegetable tempura, tofu-based dishes, and fresh salads.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like sashimi, grilled meats, and rice-based meals, which are prevalent in Kure's food scene. However, it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining out to ensure a suitable meal.