Things To Do
in Kurihara
Kurihara is a picturesque city located in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers. The city is also home to a number of historic temples and shrines, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.
With a peaceful and rural atmosphere, Kurihara is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- "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 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $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 visit to the beautiful Kurihara Nature Park. Enjoy the fresh air and take a relaxed stroll while observing the local flora and fauna.
After lunch, head to the Kurihara Art Museum to appreciate local art pieces. Take your time to soak in the creativity and perhaps find inspiration for your own art.
In the evening, dine at a cozy local restaurant to sample traditional Japanese cuisine. Enjoy the warm ambiance and share your day's experiences with fellow travelers.
Begin your day with a visit to historical Kurihara Castle ruins. Learn about the fascinating history that shaped this region of Japan.
Visit a local sake brewery to experience the traditional process of sake-making. Sample various types of sake and learn about its significance in Japanese culture.
Wrap up your day with a relaxing soak in an onsen (hot spring) nearby. The warm waters will help you unwind and reflect on your adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with mountains and rivers.
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Access to fresh and local food products.
- Low crime rate and safe living environment.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Fewer entertainment and shopping facilities compared to larger cities.
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
- Potentially challenging job market for foreigners.
- Natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons can pose risks.
Best Activities in Kurihara
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic trails and lush forests while hiking at Mt. Kurikoma.
Experience outdoor camping by the picturesque Lake Tsukidate.
Experience winter sports and skiing at Kurihara Kogen Ski Resort.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kurihara with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kurihara
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of Kurihara and the surrounding area, especially beautiful during sunset and in autumn.
A picturesque location with various seasonal flowers, providing excellent opportunities for photography and enjoying the natural scenery.
Known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, this location offers a serene setting for capturing the beauty of nature.
Food in Kurihara
Kurihara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A type of fish cake made from minced fish and starch, often served with a savory dipping sauce. Visitors can savor this local specialty at traditional Japanese izakayas and local seafood restaurants.
Must-Try!
Skewered and grilled chicken, typically seasoned with salt or tare (a sweet soy sauce-based marinade). This popular street food can be found at various stalls in Kurihara's bustling food markets and entertainment districts.
Renowned for its exceptional marbling and tenderness, Kurihara Wagyu Beef is a must-try for meat enthusiasts. It can be savored in upscale restaurants and specialty yakiniku establishments in the area.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kurihara better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant hub of local seafood delights, offering an array of fresh catches, including sashimi, grilled fish, and seafood snacks. Visitors can explore the market's stalls and indulge in various street food options while soaking in the bustling atmosphere.
A lively street food scene awaits on Hirokouji, where visitors can sample a range of delectable treats such as takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and various grilled skewers, all prepared fresh and flavorful.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kurihara, Japan, it is important to show respect for elders through polite language and gestures.
It is a common cultural norm in Kurihara to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.
When dining in Kurihara, it is customary to say 'itadakimasu' before the meal and 'gochisosama deshita' after the meal to show gratitude and respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kurihara with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kurihara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Kurihara. It is generally not expected or required to tip for services at restaurants, hotels, or other establishments. In fact, tipping may be considered rude in some situations.
In Kurihara, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the primary method of payment for most transactions. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but it's always a good idea to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller local shops, restaurants, or street vendors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kurihara.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossom viewing. Pleasant weather with blooming flowers and lush greenery.
Warm weather, ideal for outdoor activities. Kurihara hosts various summer festivals and events.
Vibrant autumn foliage makes it a picturesque time to visit. Mild weather and perfect for sightseeing.
Cold weather with occasional snowfall. Great for experiencing winter festivals and outdoor snow activities.
Kurihara at Night
Hiking in Kurihara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and forests, suitable for all skill levels.
Located a short drive from Kurihara, these trails provide a mix of coastal views and wooded paths, perfect for a day hike.
An adventurous hike with a challenging ascent, rewarding hikers with panoramic views from the summit.
A family-friendly route featuring gentle slopes and beautiful cherry blossoms during spring.
A popular hiking destination known for its stunning landscapes and hot springs, ideal for both summer and winter hikes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kurihara through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kurihara by plane.
The nearest international airport to Kurihara, located approximately 60 kilometers to the northeast. It offers both domestic and limited international flights.
Located approximately 350 kilometers to the south of Kurihara, Narita is one of the major international airports serving Tokyo and offers extensive international flight options.
Approximately 370 kilometers from Kurihara, Haneda Airport is closer to central Tokyo and is one of the busiest airports in the world with many international flights.
Located around 600 kilometers to the southwest in Osaka Bay, Kansai International Airport serves the Kansai region and is a major international gateway to Japan.
Situated about 450 kilometers southwest of Kurihara, this airport serves the Nagoya region and has numerous international flight connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Kurihara, comprising the majority of the population.
Includes various ethnic minorities and expatriates living in Kurihara, such as Chinese, Korean, and other nationality groups.
While Japan is largely homogenous, there are small populations of indigenous groups such as the Ainu, though they are not prominent in Kurihara.
The Soul of Kurihara
Discover the essence of Kurihara through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is very popular in Kurihara, with many local teams and a strong youth following. The sport has a rich history in Japan and attracts many fans during the season.
Soccer has a growing presence in Kurihara, with several clubs and youth programs that encourage participation at various levels. The sport is enjoyed both as a participation activity and as a spectator sport.
Basketball is also popular among the youth in Kurihara, with local schools promoting the sport. Many community events and competitions take place throughout the year.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and karate, are practiced widely in Kurihara. These sports have deep cultural roots in Japan and are popular among both children and adults.
Track and field events are commonly held in schools and local competitions, encouraging athletic participation among students of all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kurihara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Kurihara's traditional cuisine tends to focus on seafood and meats, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly alternatives, such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based dishes, and creative plant-based salads.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can explore options like rice-based dishes, sashimi, and gluten-free soba noodles, available at select establishments across Kurihara.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kurihara with these cultural adventures.
