Things To Do
in Makinohara

Makinohara is a tranquil city located in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, known for its lush green tea fields and beautiful coastal views. The city offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a serene getaway. Visitors can explore historical sites, enjoy outdoor activities, and savor local cuisine in a picturesque setting.

The warm climate and friendly locals enhance the welcoming atmosphere of this charming city.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Tea Fields
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Makinohara Tea Museum to learn about the history and production of Japanese green tea, followed by a guided tea tasting session.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely walk through the sprawling tea fields of Makinohara, enjoying the scenic views and capturing stunning photos of the verdant landscape.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya where you can sample various Japanese dishes and enjoy the lively atmosphere with locals.

day 2
Day 2: Coastal Adventures
morning
:

Head to the nearby coast and visit the beautiful Kakegawa Seaside Park, where you can relax on the beach and enjoy the ocean breeze.

afternoon
:

Try your hand at surfing or paddleboarding at the beach, or take a boat tour for a unique perspective of the coastline.

evening
:

End your day with a sunset dinner at a seafood restaurant overlooking the ocean, sampling the fresh catch of the day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
Coffee$3
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
🚌Public Transportation$2
🏨Hotel Night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and tea fields.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local cuisine.
  • Friendly locals and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • English signage may be sparse.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Makinohara

Visit one of these nice places.

Makinohara Tea Fields

The expansive tea fields provide breathtaking views and an ideal backdrop for capturing the beauty of green tea cultivation.

Kakegawa Seaside Park

With its stunning ocean views and sunsets, this park is perfect for capturing scenic coastal shots.

Mikazuki Mountain

A hiking spot that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Makinohara

Makinohara is a culinary delight, offering a variety of local dishes that highlight the region's rich agricultural heritage and coastal bounty.

Makinohara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shizuoka Oden

A unique take on the traditional Japanese hot pot, featuring various ingredients like fish cakes, tofu, and vegetables simmered in a light soy broth.

Must-Try!

Matcha Sweets

Delicious desserts made with locally produced matcha, ranging from cakes to ice creams, showcasing the city's renowned tea.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Makinohara Farmers Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and street food stalls offering delicious snacks and meals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Makinohara has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures usually hover around 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is common in the summer months, making spring and autumn the ideal seasons to visit for pleasant weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance when interacting with locals, as personal space is highly valued.

Bowing as a Greeting

Bowing is the traditional form of greeting and showing respect; a slight bow is usually sufficient.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering homes or traditional establishments to show respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Makinohara is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advised to stay vigilant in crowded places and to keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police or 119 for medical emergencies.

Tipping in Makinohara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; instead, exceptional service is expected as part of the experience.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but cash remains the preferred payment method in smaller towns and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms, making it a great time for outdoor activities and picnics.

Summer

Hot and humid weather; perfect for enjoying the beach and water activities, but stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage provide a picturesque backdrop for hiking and outdoor exploration.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional cold snaps; a good time to enjoy seasonal festivals and warm comfort food.

Nightlife Guide

Makinohara at Night

Makinohara has a laid-back nightlife scene, with a few cozy izakayas and bars offering local drinks and snacks. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle with locals. Live music and small events can occasionally be found, especially during festivals.

Hiking in Makinohara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mikazuki Mountain Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers various levels of difficulty and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Shizuoka Prefectural Natural Park

Located a short drive away, this park features multiple trails that wind through beautiful forests and offer great opportunities for wildlife watching.

Airports

How to reach Makinohara by plane.

Shizuoka Airport

Located about 30 minutes from Makinohara, Shizuoka Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Makinohara is quite walkable, particularly in areas surrounding the city center and parks. Sidewalks are available, and pedestrian crossings are well-marked, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions may require public transportation or cycling to access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tea Farmers

A significant portion of the population is involved in the tea industry, with many families having cultivated tea for generations.

Young Professionals

An emerging demographic of young professionals is moving into the area, drawn by its quality of life and proximity to larger urban centers.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, and local teams often attract large crowds during the season.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing fan base in Makinohara, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Makinohara is generally light, with most locals using bicycles or walking for short distances. Public transportation options include buses and trains that connect to larger cities. It's advisable to check local schedules as they can vary, especially on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Makinohara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff to ensure no fish or meat products are used.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are limited, but some restaurants can accommodate requests with prior notice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Makinohara is of high quality, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are accessible, and most medical facilities have staff who can communicate in basic English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide