Things To Do
in Kuriyama
Kuriyama is a charming town located in Hokkaido, Japan. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including lush forests and majestic mountains. The town is also famous for its hot springs, offering visitors a relaxing retreat to unwind and rejuvenate.
Kuriyama is a peaceful and picturesque destination, perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling 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 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kuriyama Park, known for its beautiful cherry blossoms. Enjoy a relaxing morning stroll while taking in the fresh air and natural beauty.
Explore the local shops and cafes around the town center, trying some delicious Japanese treats. Don’t forget to grab some omiyage (souvenirs) for your friends back home.
As the sun sets, head to a local izakaya for an authentic Japanese dining experience. Savor the flavors of the region with some sake and seasonal dishes.
Hike the trails at Mt. Kuriyama for stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Explore the local shops and cafes around the town center, trying some delicious Japanese treats. Don’t forget to grab some omiyage (souvenirs) for your friends back home.
As the sun sets, head to a local izakaya for an authentic Japanese dining experience. Savor the flavors of the region with some sake and seasonal dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
- Close-knit community with friendly residents.
- Low crime rate and safe living environment.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
- Limited access to large urban amenities and services.
- Potential for language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
- Job opportunities may be scarce compared to bigger cities.
- Transportation options may be limited, especially for long-distance travel.
- Less variety in shopping and dining options.
Best Activities in Kuriyama
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails in the Kuriyama Hills, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and an opportunity to connect with nature.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Ishikari River, taking in the sights and sounds of the river while experiencing the local flora and fauna.
Visit local parks during the cherry blossom season to witness the breathtaking beauty of blooming sakura trees, a revered tradition in Japan.
Spend a relaxing day fishing in the pristine waters of Lake Shikotsu, known for its clear waters and abundant fish species.
Enjoy a family-friendly camping experience at Kuriyama Green Park, equipped with facilities for a comfortable outdoor stay.
Join in the vibrant local festivals that celebrate seasonal changes, featuring traditional music, dance, and food stalls.
Engage in wildlife observation at nearby Shikotsu-Toya National Park, where you can spot various species of birds and other native wildlife.
Have a leisurely picnic in one of Kuriyama's many parks, surrounded by nature and enjoying local delicacies.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kuriyama with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kuriyama
Visit one of these nice places.
A spacious park featuring beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage, perfect for photography and enjoying scenic views.
Known for its stunning sunsets and panoramic ocean views, this beach offers various spots for memorable photographs and leisurely strolls.
A hiking destination that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and picturesque scenery, ideal for adventurers and photographers alike.
Situated on a hill, this shrine offers a serene atmosphere and a stunning vantage point for capturing the beauty of the region.
An observation deck that overlooks the entire city and surrounding nature, providing ample opportunities for photography at any time of the day.
Food in Kuriyama
Kuriyama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Hokkaido specialty of grilled mutton or lamb, seasoned with a savory sauce, and cooked on a convex metal skillet. Try it at Yakiniku Kirishima restaurant for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
For seafood enthusiasts, Uni Don, a rice bowl topped with fresh sea urchin, is a must-try. Indulge in this delicacy at Sankaku Market, known for its exceptionally fresh seafood.
A local favorite, this soul-warming dish features a broth-based curry with various vegetables and meat. Visit Suzuran for a delectable bowl of Soup Curry.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kuriyama better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to savor fresh seafood, including uni, salmon, and crab. Don't miss out on the variety of street food stalls offering delectable treats like takoyaki and yakitori.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always be polite and show respect to others, especially in formal settings. Bowing is a common greeting and a sign of respect in Japanese culture.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments. Be mindful and follow this practice to show respect for the space.
Keep noise levels low in public places, such as trains and restaurants. Speaking quietly is considered respectful to those around you.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kuriyama with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kuriyama
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kuriyama, Japan, tipping is not a common practice and is generally considered unnecessary. Japanese culture values providing good service regardless of gratuities, and tips can sometimes be seen as insulting. Instead, excellent service is the norm, and customers are encouraged to express their satisfaction verbally.
Payment practices in Kuriyama involve a variety of methods, including cash and electronic payments. Credit cards are increasingly accepted at many establishments, but cash remains popular, especially in smaller businesses. The use of mobile payment apps is also on the rise as technology advances. It is customary for customers to present cash or cards discreetly, and interactions during payment are usually polite and efficient.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kuriyama.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) in Kuriyama is characterized by comfortable temperatures and vibrant cherry blossoms. It's a great time for outdoor activities and experiencing local festivals, particularly the cherry blossom viewing or Hanami.
Summer (June to August) is warm and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This season is perfect for enjoying lush greenery and local summer festivals, although it can be crowded due to school holidays.
Autumn (September to November) brings cool temperatures and stunning fall foliage, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration and photography. Many visitors enjoy hiking and rural landscapes during this season.
Winter (December to February) in Kuriyama can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. This season is known for snow, attracting visitors to enjoy winter sports and the beautiful snowy landscapes.
Kuriyama at Night
Hiking in Kuriyama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park with hiking trails that offer views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, located a short drive from Kuriyama.
A scenic area with hiking trails that lead through lush forests and offer panoramic views of the nearby peaks.
An active volcano that features hiking trails leading to the summit, providing stunning views of the area, including the caldera.
Located a bit further away, this national park offers numerous trails through rugged mountains, alpine meadows, and hot springs.
A picturesque hiking trail that follows the Kibune River, offering tranquil scenery and the chance to see local wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kuriyama through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kuriyama by plane.
New Chitose Airport is the largest airport serving Sapporo, located approximately 70 km from Kuriyama. It serves both domestic and international flights.
Asahikawa Airport is located approximately 100 km from Kuriyama. It primarily serves domestic flights but also has some international services.
Hakodate Airport is about 140 km from Kuriyama and offers mainly domestic flights, with limited international connections.
Obihiro Airport is located approximately 150 km from Kuriyama and primarily serves domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Kuriyama, comprising the majority of the population.
A small percentage of the population that includes expatriates and immigrants from various countries.
Aino heritage community, although their numbers are quite small in the region.
The Soul of Kuriyama
Discover the essence of Kuriyama through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a widely popular sport in Kuriyama, with many local teams and schools participating in competitions. It is especially beloved among youth.
Soccer has gained immense popularity in Kuriyama, with local clubs and school teams engaging in both recreational and competitive play.
Basketball is a common sport in Kuriyama, with many schools having their own teams. It is popular among both boys and girls.
Volleyball is a popular sport in Kuriyama, particularly among female students, and is played in schools and local clubs.
Track and field events are commonly held in schools in Kuriyama, promoting athletics among students of all ages.
Tennis is another favored sport in Kuriyama, with several clubs and facilities available for locals to practice and compete.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kuriyama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Kuriyama traditionally features a meat-oriented cuisine, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian dishes, such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and fresh sushi with vegetable fillings.
Vegan visitors can find suitable options like vegetable curry, vegan ramen, and various plant-based dishes at progressive eateries like Suzuran and Cafe Marble.
Although gluten-free awareness is still growing in Kuriyama, some restaurants offer rice-based dishes, sashimi, and gluten-free soba noodles. It's recommended to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kuriyama with these cultural adventures.
