Things To Do
in Mitake
Mitake is a picturesque town located in the mountainous region of central Japan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including lush forests, tranquil rivers, and cascading waterfalls. The town is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, camping, and hot spring baths.
Visitors can also explore the historic Mitake Shrine and enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine at local restaurants.
- "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: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with an early hike up Mount Mitake for stunning views of the surrounding nature. Enjoy the fresh air and the tranquility of the morning as you explore the trails.
Take a break for lunch at one of the local mountain huts. Afterward, visit the scenic Musashi Mitake Shrine, nestled among the ancient trees.
Wind down with a leisurely stroll around the nearby area. Enjoy a beautiful sunset view and consider dining at a traditional Japanese restaurant.
Visit the Mitake Botanical Garden to explore a variety of native plants and flowers. Relax and take pictures in the serene setting.
Stop by a local café for a delicious lunch made from locally sourced ingredients. Spend the afternoon visiting the historic Kongo-ji Temple and appreciating its architecture.
Enjoy a quiet evening at your accommodation, perhaps soaking in an onsen if available. Reflect on your day over a comforting meal in the area.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including mountains and forests.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical temples and shrines.
- Less crowded compared to larger cities, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and nature exploration.
- Local cuisine with fresh ingredients and traditional flavors.
- Limited public transportation options compared to major urban areas.
- Fewer entertainment and shopping choices available.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
- Small population may lead to a less vibrant social scene.
- Infrequent tourist visits, which could affect local business economy.
Best Activities in Mitake
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails leading to the summit of Mount Mitake, which offers breathtaking views and a chance to visit the historic Musashi Mitake Shrine located at the top.
Embark on a hiking adventure in the beautiful Kamikochi area, known for its stunning mountain landscapes, rivers, and diverse flora and fauna.
Enjoy a camping experience in Ome-Akigun Park, which provides a serene environment surrounded by nature and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and biking.
Take a leisurely bike ride along the Mitake River, enjoying the picturesque views and stops at various points of interest along the way.
Experience the thrill of paragliding in the Mitake area, allowing you to soar above the stunning landscapes and enjoy a unique perspective of the region.
Participate in wildlife watching tours provided in the region to see various animal species that inhabit the dense forests of Mitake.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mitake with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mitake
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests, as well as the Musashi-Mitake Shrine
A beautiful natural setting with a picturesque waterfall, ideal for photography and relaxation
Scenic valley with a river, lush greenery, and picturesque bridges, perfect for nature photography
Food in Mitake
Mitake Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty consisting of miso-marinated vegetables and mushrooms grilled on a magnolia leaf. It can be found in traditional restaurants and izakayas around the area.
Must-Try!
Mitake is known for its delicious and hearty soba noodles made from buckwheat flour. Visitors can enjoy them at local soba shops and restaurants.
A seasonal delicacy featuring deep-fried mountain vegetables, a popular dish in Mitake especially during spring. Look for it in specialized tempura eateries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mitake better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market for a wide array of street food options such as yakitori skewers, takoyaki octopus balls, and fresh seafood dishes.
Along the Tama River, visitors can find a vibrant selection of street food stalls offering local favorites like grilled river fish, yakiimo (roasted sweet potatoes), and more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mitake, as in the rest of Japan, politeness is paramount. Always use honorifics when addressing others and be humble in your interactions. Bowing is a common gesture of respect.
It is customary to remove your shoes before entering homes, traditional inns (ryokan), and some restaurants. Look for a designated area to leave your shoes, and if provided, wear the indoor slippers.
Maintain a low volume while speaking and avoid loud behavior in public spaces. Being discreet and mindful of others enhances the communal atmosphere and is a sign of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mitake with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mitake
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mitake, Japan, as in most parts of the country, tipping is not a common practice and is often considered rude. Service charges are typically included in the bill at restaurants, and staff are trained to provide good service without the expectation of gratuity. Instead, expressing gratitude through polite words is valued.
Payment practices in Mitake generally involve cash, as many small businesses and traditional establishments may not accept credit cards. However, cashless payment methods have been increasingly adopted, especially in urban areas and among younger generations. The use of mobile payments and digital wallets is becoming more common, but cash remains the preferred method for many locals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mitake.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see cherry blossoms in full bloom and pleasant weather for hiking on Mount Mitake.
Expect hot and humid weather, but it's a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the lush greenery.
Perfect for viewing the stunning fall foliage and experiencing the comfortable temperatures for exploring the area.
Ideal for snow-covered landscapes and enjoying winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
Mitake at Night
Hiking in Mitake
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination known for its stunning views and the Musashi Mitake Shrine located at the summit.
A scenic trail offering a variety of hiking experiences through lush forests and beautiful landscapes.
A vast national park nearby Mitake, featuring numerous trails, lakes, and diverse wildlife.
Known for its challenging hikes and breathtaking views, this mountain is a favorite among experienced hikers.
A family-friendly hiking area with gentle trails, meadows, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mitake through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Mitake by plane.
Located approximately 70 km east of Mitake, Narita International Airport is one of the two primary airports serving the Greater Tokyo Area, offering numerous international flights.
Located about 80 km southeast of Mitake, Haneda Airport is closer to central Tokyo and is one of the busiest airports in Asia, primarily serving domestic and international flights.
Situated about 400 km west of Mitake, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka region and offers a wide range of international connections.
Approximately 250 km west of Mitake, Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the Nagoya area and is known for its modern facilities and international services.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, Itami is located about 400 km west of Mitake and primarily serves domestic flights but has limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group, primarily consisting of ethnic Japanese individuals who contribute to the cultural and social fabric of Mitake.
Includes a smaller percentage of expatriates and international workers from various countries, contributing to the diversity of the community.
Comprising of long-standing local families that have established roots in Mitake, often intertwined with the town's history.
A significant segment of the population is elderly, reflecting Japan's overall demographic trend of an aging society.
A smaller demographic group consisting of students and younger individuals, often found in local schools and institutions.
The Soul of Mitake
Discover the essence of Mitake through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, and Mitake is no exception. The local community often engages in playing and watching games, with youth leagues promoting the sport among children.
Soccer has gained immense popularity in Japan over the years, and many residents of Mitake participate in both playing and supporting local teams.
Basketball is played by many in Mitake, with various schools and community leagues promoting the sport, making it a common pastime among residents.
Track and field events are popular in schools in Mitake. Many students participate in various athletic competitions throughout the year.
Martial arts, including judo and kendo, are widely practiced in Mitake, reflecting the cultural heritage and values of discipline and respect.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mitake.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Mitake traditionally features a lot of meat-based dishes, many restaurants and eateries offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to communicate dietary needs in advance, and some places can accommodate custom requests.
For gluten-free options, visitors can rely on traditional dishes like rice-based sushi or inquire at restaurants for special preparations. Some places offer gluten-free soba noodles as well.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mitake with these cultural adventures.
