Things To Do
in Mori

Mori is a charming town located in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, nestled between the lush mountains and the Pacific Ocean. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, with traditional architecture and beautiful natural landscapes. The town is known for its warm hospitality and offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Visitors can enjoy the stunning views, explore local markets, and experience the tranquility of rural Japan.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Mori Art Museum, showcasing local artists and traditional Japanese art. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the nearby Mori Park, where you can take in the beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Head to the local food market to sample various regional delicacies, then visit the historic Matsubara Shrine for a glimpse into Shinto traditions.

evening
:

Wind down with dinner at a local izakaya, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and seasonal dishes, followed by a relaxing walk through the town center.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Akaishi Mountains, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and diverse flora.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit a local onsen (hot spring) to relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at the onsen restaurant.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a sunset view at the coast and a dinner featuring Mori's famous grilled fish at a beachfront restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Meal at a Restaurant$10-30
🍵Cup of Coffee$3-5
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$70-150
🛒Groceries for a Week$50-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and traditional cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming local residents.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Language barrier may be present for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Mori

Visit one of these nice places.

Mori Park

A picturesque park featuring seasonal flowers and beautiful landscapes, perfect for nature photography.

Matsubara Shrine

A historic shrine surrounded by ancient trees, offering a serene atmosphere and stunning architecture.

Coastal Views

The coastline provides breathtaking sunset views, ideal for capturing the beauty of the Pacific.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mori

Mori offers a delightful culinary experience with its blend of fresh seafood, mountain vegetables, and traditional Japanese cuisine. Must-try dishes include grilled fish, soba noodles, and seasonal vegetable tempura. Street food and local markets abound, providing a taste of authentic Japanese flavors.

Mori Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grilled Fish

Freshly caught fish from the Pacific, often grilled to perfection and served with rice.

Must-Try!

Soba Noodles

Buckwheat noodles served cold with dipping sauce or in a hot broth.

Tempura

Lightly battered and fried seasonal vegetables and seafood.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mori Food Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls serving delicious takoyaki and yakitori, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mori experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are pleasant, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

A common greeting; bowing shows respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public places, as loud conversations are considered impolite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mori is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping personal belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. In case of emergencies, familiarize yourself with the local emergency numbers and hospital locations.

Tipping in Mori

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be seen as rude; exceptional service is expected.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places now accept credit cards, especially in urban areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms bloom, making it a beautiful time for hanami (flower viewing) picnics.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for hiking, but also prepare for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Foliage turns vibrant, offering stunning colors in the mountains and parks.

Winter

Cool temperatures and occasional snow create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Mori at Night

Mori's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. The town features a few izakayas and bars where locals gather to unwind after work. Live music events occasionally take place, and the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it a great place to socialize with locals.

Hiking in Mori

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Akaishi Mountain Trail

A scenic trail offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, suitable for various skill levels.

Mori Nature Trail

A well-marked trail that winds through forests and offers opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Mori by plane.

Shizuoka Airport

Located about 30 km from Mori, Shizuoka Airport offers domestic and limited international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mori is a relatively walkable town, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within a short distance. The town's layout promotes pedestrian access, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some outdoor areas and hiking trails may require transportation to reach.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Mori's population consists of local residents engaged in agriculture, fishing, and small businesses.

Tourists

Visitors from across Japan and around the world come to Mori for its natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, with local teams and enthusiasts often gathering for games.

Soccer

Soccer also has a strong following, with community teams and events taking place throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mori is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect to surrounding areas, though schedules may vary. Car rentals are available for those looking to explore rural attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mori.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes, but it's advisable to check for dashi (fish stock) in soups.

Gluten-Free

Soba noodles can be made from buckwheat, which is gluten-free, but confirm with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Mori is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital providing services. Emergency services are available, and most medical staff can communicate in basic English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide