Things To Do
in Minakami

Yuba, or tofu skin, is a local delicacy and is often served as a sushi topping. The creamy texture and delicate flavor make it a must-try dish.

Must-Try!

Ozasa is a hearty hotpot dish featuring local mountain vegetables, tofu, and a savory miso broth, providing a taste of Minakami's rustic culinary traditions.

This bustling street market offers a wide variety of local produce, snacks, and street food, including grilled skewers, takoyaki, and freshly made mochi.

In the village surrounding the hot springs, visitors can find numerous street vendors offering regional specialties like yakitori, steamed buns, and sweet treats like imagawayaki.

In Minakami, Japan, tipping is not a common practice and is often considered unnecessary. Japanese culture emphasizes politeness and exceptional service as standard, so tipping can be seen as a misunderstanding of this system. Instead, appreciation is shown through kind words or returning to a service provider for future visits.

Payment in Minakami typically involves cash transactions, although credit cards are increasingly accepted in hotels and larger establishments. It's usual to see 'tataki' or 'kake' (meaning to leave the bill on the table) methods in smaller restaurants. Additionally, customers will often pay at the register rather than at the table.

Best time to visit for cherry blossoms, mild weather, and rafting in the melting snowmelt.

Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, canyoning, and whitewater rafting, with warm temperatures and lush green landscapes.

Great for enjoying the vibrant fall foliage, hot springs, and outdoor adventures amidst the colorful landscapes.

The perfect time for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying the snow-covered scenery in this popular winter sports destination.

Located about 200 km east of Minakami, Narita International Airport is one of the major international airports serving Tokyo and its surrounding areas.

Located approximately 160 km southeast of Minakami, Haneda Airport is closer to central Tokyo and is one of the busiest airports in the world.

Situated around 240 km west of Minakami, Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the Nagoya area and is a hub for several international departures.

Located about 400 km southwest of Minakami, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka area and is another significant international gateway in Japan.

The largest demographic group, predominantly consisting of Japanese citizens who are native to the area or have settled in Minakami.

This group includes expatriates and foreign workers, mainly from countries such as China, South Korea, and the Philippines.

Many tourists, especially from within Japan, visit Minakami for its hot springs, skiing, and outdoor activities. This group fluctuates seasonally.

A very small community of Ainu people may be present, though they primarily reside in other parts of Japan.

While traditional Japanese cuisine often includes fish or meat-based broths, many eateries in Minakami are accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, offering dishes prepared with locally sourced vegetables and plant-based ingredients.

Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy dishes like yuba sushi, fresh sashimi, and grilled skewers at various establishments, although it's recommended to communicate dietary needs clearly to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.