Makurazaki
,Makurazaki is a picturesque coastal city located in the Kagoshima Prefecture of Japan. Known for its scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and lush greenery surrounding the area, Makurazaki offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The city is famous for its hot springs, providing visitors with a relaxing experience while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Makurazaki is also renowned for its local seafood, particularly its delicious bonito fish dishes that showcase the area's rich culinary heritage.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Eego o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Makurazaki
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the Makurazaki Fish Market to experience the local seafood culture. Enjoy a fresh sushi breakfast from one of the market stalls.
afternoon
:Head to Cape Sata, the southernmost point of Kyushu, for panoramic ocean views. Bring a camera to capture the stunning natural beauty.
evening
:Dine at a local izakaya to experience traditional Japanese cuisine. End your day with a refreshing stroll along the waterfront.
Nature Day in Makurazaki
morning
:Visit the nearby Kinkai Coast for a refreshing morning walk. The serene beach atmosphere is perfect for relaxation.
afternoon
:Enjoy a picnic lunch at Kinkai Park while taking in views of the surrounding cliffs. Try some local delicacies you purchased earlier.
evening
:Join a guided evening hike to witness the sunset from the hills. The changing colors of the sky provide a magical end to your day.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful coastal scenery and views of the ocean
- Rich in seafood and local cuisine, especially fresh fish
- Mild climate with warm winters and pleasant summers
- Cultural heritage with historical sites and traditions
- Opportunities for outdoor activities, such as fishing and hiking
Bad
- Limited public transportation options
- Remote location may lead to isolation from major cities
- Higher dependence on seafood industry, which can be affected by environmental factors
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes
- Potential for fewer job opportunities compared to larger urban areas
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the surrounding mountains
Makurazaki is surrounded by beautiful mountains, offering great opportunities for hiking and exploring nature.
Fishing and boating
The coastal location of Makurazaki provides excellent opportunities for fishing and boating, allowing visitors to enjoy the sea and marine activities.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Makurazaki with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Makurazaki Cape
Offers stunning views of the coastline and surrounding sea. A popular spot for photography and relaxation.
Makurazaki Port
Provides picturesque views of the fishing boats and the ocean, making it a great spot for capturing the local maritime scene.
Mount Yonaha
A vantage point that offers panoramic views of the city, the bay, and the surrounding mountains, making it perfect for landscape photography.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kibinago
These small, shiny fish are a local delicacy, often served as sashimi or in sushi. The delicate flavor and firm texture make Kibinago a favorite among locals and visitors alike. To savor this delicacy, head to Izakaya Uotora, a traditional Japanese pub known for its fresh seafood.
Must-Try!
Satsuma-age
A type of deep-fried fish cake, Satsuma-age showcases the excellent seafood of Makurazaki. It's available at most local izakayas, and a popular spot to enjoy it is the lively Yataimura market in the city center.
Kibinago-don
For a heartier dish, try Kibinago-don, a rice bowl topped with sliced Kibinago and a savory sauce. One of the best places to sample this dish is at Sushi Tsurushi, a humble yet renowned sushi restaurant in the heart of Makurazaki.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Makurazaki better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Yataimura Market
This bustling market is the perfect place to explore a wide variety of local street foods such as Satsuma-age, yakitori skewers, and grilled seafood. It's a great spot to immerse yourself in the local food culture and try several dishes in one visit.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for elders
In Makurazaki, Japan, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures.
Punctuality
Being on time is highly valued in Makurazaki, so it is important to be punctual for appointments and meetings.
Gift-giving etiquette
Gift-giving is an important cultural practice in Makurazaki, and it is essential to follow proper gift-giving etiquette, such as presenting gifts with both hands and showing appreciation for received gifts.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Makurazaki with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Makurazaki, Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries. In fact, tipping may be seen as rude or inappropriate in Japanese culture.
Payment
Payment in Makurazaki, Japan is predominantly cash-based. While some larger establishments may accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions, especially in smaller shops, markets, and local businesses. Contactless payment methods such as IC cards and mobile payment apps are also becoming increasingly popular.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Makurazaki.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Best time to visit Makurazaki as the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Summer
Expect hot and humid weather with the chance of typhoons. It's a good time for beach activities.
Autumn
Great time to visit as the weather is pleasant and the fall foliage is beautiful.
Winter
Cool weather with the possibility of occasional snow. Perfect for enjoying hot springs.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Shirahama Ocean Park
A scenic coastal park featuring hiking trails with stunning ocean views and access to Shirahama Beach.
Kirishima National Park
Located a bit further from Makurazaki, this national park offers varied trails through volcanic landscapes and lush forests.
Sakurajima
An active volcano near Kagoshima city with various hiking routes offering breathtaking views of the Sakurajima volcano and the surrounding bay.
Ibusuki Sand Baths
While primarily known for its unique sand baths, there are nearby trails that provide opportunities for hiking along the coast.
Takaono Park
A local park in Makurazaki featuring trails and beautiful viewpoints of the surrounding countryside.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Makurazaki through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Makurazaki by plane.
Kagoshima Airport (KOJ)
The main airport serving Kagoshima Prefecture, located approximately 50 kilometers from Makurazaki.
Naha Airport (OKA)
The largest airport in Okinawa, located about 450 kilometers from Makurazaki, offering numerous international flights.
Fukuoka Airport (FUK)
Situated about 600 kilometers from Makurazaki, this airport serves as a major international gateway to Kyushu.
Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Located approximately 800 kilometers from Makurazaki, KIX is one of Japan's principal international airports serving the Osaka area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Japanese Nationals
The largest demographic group, primarily comprising ethnic Japanese citizens.
Senior Citizens
A significant portion of the population consists of elderly individuals, reflecting Japan's aging demographic trend.
Young Adults (20-30 years)
This group includes university students and young professionals, contributing to the local economy.
Children and Adolescents
A smaller segment of the population, including school-age children and teenagers.
Foreign Residents
Includes a small population of expatriates and foreign workers from various countries.
The Soul of Makurazaki
Discover the essence of Makurazaki through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer
Soccer is a highly popular sport in Makurazaki, with local teams and youth leagues encouraging participation at various levels.
Baseball
Baseball is one of the most loved sports in Japan, including Makurazaki, where schools and community clubs often compete.
Basketball
Basketball has a strong following in Makurazaki, with many schools and clubs offering training and leagues for various age groups.
Martial Arts
Traditional martial arts such as Judo and Karate are practiced widely in Makurazaki, promoting discipline and physical fitness.
Swimming
With access to coastal waters, swimming is a popular recreational activity, and many youth engage in competitive swimming.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While seafood is a prominent feature of Makurazaki's cuisine, vegetarian and vegan options are available at select restaurants and can be found in dishes like vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and local vegetable-centric specialties. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly to ensure a satisfying dining experience.
Gluten-Free Options
Traditional Japanese cuisine offers several gluten-free options such as sashimi, rice-based dishes, and certain types of hot pot meals. Visitors with gluten restrictions should inquire about ingredients and preparation methods when dining out to navigate the local food scene comfortably.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Makurazaki with these cultural adventures.
