Things To Do
in Makinohara
Makinohara is a picturesque town located in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. Known for its stunning tea fields, it offers breathtaking views of lush greenery. The town is also famous for its fresh seafood, thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
With a tranquil atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Makinohara is a peaceful and charming destination for nature lovers.
- "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: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Kakegawa Castle and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding area. Don’t forget to stroll through the lovely gardens.
After lunch, head to the Makinohara Tea Plantation for a guided tour on the tea-making process. Enjoy a tasting session of freshly brewed green tea.
Wrap up your day with a quiet dinner at a local izakaya, where you can savor authentic Japanese dishes. Take a leisurely evening walk near the waterfront.
Visit the Shinto shrine, which is rich in history and offers a serene atmosphere. Participate in a traditional purification ritual.
Explore the local museum to learn about the heritage and folklore of Makinohara. The exhibits provide a deep insight into the local culture.
Dine at a restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine. Experience cooking classes to learn about traditional Japanese cooking techniques.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and coastal views.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
- Proximity to Shizuoka City and easy access to transportation.
- Strong sense of community and local traditions.
- Agricultural region known for high-quality tea production.
- Limited job opportunities outside of agriculture and local businesses.
- Potential for typhoons and heavy rainfall during certain seasons.
- Less urban amenities compared to larger cities.
- Aging population with a declining youth demographic.
- Transportation options may be limited in rural areas.
Best Activities in Makinohara
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the beautiful scenic views and serene nature trails in Makinohara Park, offering a delightful experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore the picturesque Oigawa River by cycling along its banks, taking in the stunning landscape and tranquil surroundings of Makinohara.
Golfing enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at the Makinohara Country Club, featuring a challenging course amidst stunning natural surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Makinohara with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Makinohara
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Makinohara's tea fields and Mount Fuji.
Features beautiful cherry blossoms and views of the surrounding landscape.
Known for its picturesque tea fields and stunning views of Mount Fuji.
Food in Makinohara
Makinohara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A famous dish of grilled eel served over rice, offering a perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors. Try it at Unagi Miyagawa for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
Enjoy the unique fusion of matcha and buckwheat noodles at a local eatery like Ooe Shokudo, where the rich green tea flavor perfectly complements the nuttiness of the soba.
This delicate dish features tiny sakura shrimp coated in a light, crispy batter. Sample it at Tempura Tsukiji for a delightful culinary encounter.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Makinohara better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market for a fresh catch of the day and savor local seafood specialties such as sashimi and grilled fish on sticks.
In Makinohara Park, delight in various tea blends and delectable snacks like imagawayaki (sweet filled pancake) and freshly steamed buns from the charming street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Makinohara, Japan, it is customary to bow when greeting someone, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It is also polite to address people with their title and surname, such as 'Mr. Tanaka' or 'Ms. Yamamoto' until given permission to use their first name.
When entering a home, traditional Japanese etiquette requires removing shoes before stepping inside. It is important to respect this custom and avoid wearing outdoor shoes indoors to maintain cleanliness and show consideration for the household.
In Makinohara, dining etiquette is significant. Slurping noodles is considered acceptable and even a sign of appreciation for the food. It is also courteous to wait for a senior or the host to begin eating before starting your meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Makinohara with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Makinohara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Makinohara, Japan. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, taxis, or other service-based establishments.
Payment in Makinohara, Japan is typically done through cash, though credit cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments. It is important to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller businesses or rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Makinohara.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Makinohara is in spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a stunning and picturesque landscape. The weather is mild, and it's a great time to explore the tea fields and enjoy outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid in Makinohara. It's a good time for beach activities, as well as visiting nearby attractions like the Japanese Alps and enjoying local summer festivals.
Autumn (September to November) brings pleasant weather and the beautiful colors of fall foliage. It's a great time to take scenic drives, visit tea plantations, and indulge in the local culinary delights.
Winter (December to February) can be cold in Makinohara, but it's also a time for unique experiences such as hot springs, winter illuminations, and enjoying seasonal Japanese cuisine.
Makinohara at Night
Hiking in Makinohara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail offering views of lush valleys and distant mountains, suitable for all skill levels.
Known as the Sea of Trees, this dense forest provides numerous trails amidst a unique landscape.
Various trails leading to different viewpoints of Mount Fuji, providing breathtaking views and a range of hiking challenges.
A network of well-marked trails near Shizuoka, perfect for experiencing local flora and fauna.
Trails set in and around Kakegawa Castle Park, offering a mix of historical sites and nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Makinohara through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Makinohara by plane.
Located approximately 40 km from Makinohara, Shizuoka Airport serves domestic and limited international flights.
Located about 150 km from Makinohara, Haneda Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving a multitude of international and domestic flights.
Situated approximately 220 km from Makinohara, Kansai International Airport serves a wide range of international destinations.
Located around 130 km from Makinohara, Chubu Centrair International Airport handles both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, primarily consisting of native Japanese citizens.
Includes expatriates and immigrants from various countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the community.
A significant portion of the population due to Japan's aging demographics.
Adults engaged in the workforce, crucial for the economic activity of the region.
Including children and teenagers, representing the future population of the city.
The Soul of Makinohara
Discover the essence of Makinohara through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, with a rich culture surrounding high school and professional leagues.
Soccer is widely played and followed in Japan, with both youth leagues and professional teams being highly competitive.
Volleyball has a strong presence in Japanese schools, and the country has a successful national team.
Basketball has been gaining popularity, especially among youth, with various leagues and school competitions.
Tennis is a popular individual sport in Japan, with many recreational players and professional tournaments.
Table tennis is a widely enjoyed sport, with many clubs and schools participating in competitions.
Rugby is growing in popularity, especially following Japan's success in international competitions.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and kendo, are traditionally practiced and revered in Japan.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Makinohara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several restaurants and cafes in Makinohara offer vegetarian-friendly menus with a diverse range of choices, such as vegetable tempura and tofu-based dishes.
While vegan options are relatively limited, establishments like Cafe Fukumasu and some traditional tea houses provide excellent vegan selections and are willing to accommodate dietary preferences.
Cafe Fukumasu stands out with its gluten-free menu items, including rice-based dishes and gluten-free desserts, ensuring a delightful dining experience for those with gluten restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Makinohara with these cultural adventures.