Makinohara

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Makinohara's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Makinohara
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Cultural Heritage Day
morning
:

Visit the Shinto shrine, which is rich in history and offers a serene atmosphere. Participate in a traditional purification ritual.

afternoon
:

Explore the local museum to learn about the heritage and folklore of Makinohara. The exhibits provide a deep insight into the local culture.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine. Experience cooking classes to learn about traditional Japanese cooking techniques.

day 3
Tea Lovers' Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a tour of the tea fields, where you can observe tea picking during the harvesting season. Engage with local farmers learning about their techniques.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a delightful lunch featuring tea-infused dishes at a nearby café. Post-lunch, visit a tea shop to purchase premium local teas.

evening
:

Attend a tea ceremony workshop to immerse yourself in this important cultural practice. End the day with snacks and green tea at a local tea house.

day 4
Nature Exploration
morning
:

Head to the Makinohara Geopark for a morning hike among scenic views and unique geological formations. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the tranquility.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic spot within the park. Spend the afternoon bird-watching and exploring the natural surroundings.

evening
:

Join a guided night walk to observe nocturnal wildlife. Finish off with a relaxing stargazing session away from city lights.

day 5
Historical Tour
morning
:

Start the day at the historic Makinohara City Library and Archive. Discover various historical documents and artifacts from the region.

afternoon
:

Visit significant historical sites and monuments throughout the city. Learn about the impact of different eras on Makinohara's development.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a themed restaurant that reflects the historical aspects of the region. Participate in discussions or storytelling sessions about local legends.

day 6
Culinary Journey
morning
:

Begin with a sushi-making class led by a local chef. Learn about the fresh ingredients sourced from the area.

afternoon
:

Explore a local market where you can try various street foods for lunch. Join a cooking class featuring seasonal ingredients in the afternoon.

evening
:

Dine in a fine dining establishment that serves modern Japanese cuisine. Experience a fusion of flavors with a local twist.

day 7
Festival Fun
morning
:

Participate in local preparations for a seasonal festival if one is taking place. Join in on various activities and cultural expressions.

afternoon
:

Grab a quick lunch from food stalls and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Experience traditional performances and games throughout the afternoon.

evening
:

Watch the festival parade or fireworks display in the evening. Finish with a traditional festival meal at a local food stall.

day 8
Relax and Unwind
morning
:

Start your day at a local onsen (hot spring) for a relaxing soak. Enjoy the calming environment and rejuvenate your spirits.

afternoon
:

Attend a yoga or meditation session amidst nature, focusing on mindfulness. Have a light lunch featuring healthy local produce.

evening
:

Wrap up your day's relaxation with a rejuvenating massage at a spa. Savor a calming herbal tea before bedtime.

day 9
Scenic Routes
morning
:

Take a leisurely bike ride through the scenic rural areas of Makinohara. Enjoy breathtaking views and photography opportunities.

afternoon
:

Stop at picturesque spots for lunch and photo ops along the route. Visit a local pottery studio to see artisans at work.

evening
:

Enjoy a beautiful sunset at a scenic overlook. Dine at a restaurant with a view, relishing the day's experiences.

day 10
Coastal Retreat
morning
:

Head to the nearby beach for a refreshing swim to start your day. Enjoy sandcastle building or relaxing by the shore.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch on the beach with local delicacies. Spend the afternoon indulging in beachcombing or water activities.

evening
:

Finish the day with beachside dining as the sun sets. Experience a bonfire with traditional s'mores-style snacks.

Discover Makinohara

Read more in our Makinohara 2024 Travel Guide.

Makinohara Travel Guide