Things To Do
in Muroran
Muroran is a coastal city located on the southwestern coast of Hokkaido, Japan. It is known for its industrial history, with a prominent steel industry and factories visible along the coastline. The city offers beautiful views of the sea and surrounding mountains, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Muroran is also known for its delicious seafood, particularly its fresh seafood markets and famous seafood dishes.
- "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 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the scenic waterfront along Muroran's coastline. Enjoy a peaceful stroll while taking in views of the Pacific Ocean.
Visit Muroran’s Maritime Museum, where you can learn about the city’s rich maritime history. Don't miss the nearby Akiu Gorge for breathtaking views.
Wrap up with dinner at a local seafood restaurant, savoring fresh catches from the ocean. Take a moment to admire the sunset over the water.
Head to the Mount Muroran trail for an invigorating hike. The views from the summit are stunning and worth the effort.
After the hike, relax at a nearby café with panoramic views of the city. Indulge in some local Japanese sweets to refuel.
Visit a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind after your active day. Enjoy a tranquil bath while soaking in the natural beauty around you.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings including mountains and ocean.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, reflected in local festivals and traditions.
- Access to hot springs and outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking and skiing.
- Proximity to notable attractions like the Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
- Economic ties to industries like steel production, contributing to local employment.
- Limited public transportation options, making travel more challenging.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall, which may not suit everyone.
- Fewer amenities and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Declining population in recent years, leading to potential social and economic issues.
- Isolation from major urban centers, which can limit access to certain services and opportunities.
Best Activities in Muroran
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic hike up Mount Sokuryo and see a panoramic view of Muroran and its surrounding landscapes.
Visit Cape Chikyu for a relaxing seaside stroll and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Explore the natural beauty of Lake Utonai and observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Tours
Uncover the best of Muroran with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Muroran
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the sea, lighthouse, and surrounding coastline.
Perfect for capturing the beauty of Muroran's skyline and industrial area.
Provides an opportunity to photograph the bustling port and enjoy fresh seafood.
Food in Muroran
Muroran Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish in Muroran, Kaisen-don is a bowl of rice topped with a variety of fresh seafood, including tuna, salmon, squid, and sea urchin, sourced directly from the local waters. Enjoy this dish at Kaisen-don Yamamoto, a popular seafood restaurant in the Muroran Fish Market.
Must-Try!
Genghis Khan BBQ is a local Hokkaido dish featuring grilled lamb or mutton with a special sauce. For an authentic experience, head to a yakiniku restaurant like Daruma in Muroran, where you can grill your own meat to perfection.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Muroran better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Muroran Fish Market is a paradise for seafood lovers. You can sample fresh sashimi, seafood rice bowls, and grilled seafood on sticks. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the local catch of the day and interact with the friendly vendors.
Explore Benten Street for a variety of street food stalls offering local delicacies such as grilled scallops, crab skewers, and Hokkaido-style fried chicken. The lively atmosphere and the tantalizing aromas make it a delightful culinary adventure.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Muroran, it is important to maintain an appropriate distance from others, especially when interacting with someone for the first time. Always be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close or making physical contact without permission.
When entering a home, traditional inn, or certain businesses in Muroran, it is customary to remove your shoes. This shows respect for the cleanliness of the indoor space and the comfort of the host.
Politeness is highly valued in Japanese culture, and this holds true in Muroran. Use polite language, such as adding 'san' (Mr./Ms.) to someone's name when addressing them, and bowing slightly as a gesture of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Muroran with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Muroran
Ensure a smooth experience
In Muroran, Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected or required to tip in restaurants, hotels, or taxis. The service charges are usually included in the bill, and adding an extra tip may even be considered rude in some situations.
When it comes to payment in Muroran, Japan, cash is still widely used, especially for small transactions. However, credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, particularly in larger establishments and hotels. Foreign visitors might find that some places may not accept international credit cards, so it's always good to carry some cash as a backup.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Muroran.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Muroran, with cherry blossoms in full bloom and pleasant weather. It's a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Summer in Muroran is warm and humid, with plenty of sunshine. It's a popular time for beach activities and festivals, and you can enjoy fresh seafood from the local waters.
Autumn brings stunning foliage to Muroran, with the mountains and forests turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the changing colors of the landscape.
Winter in Muroran is cold and snowy, creating a beautiful winter wonderland. It's a great time for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying hot springs to stay warm.
Muroran at Night
Hiking in Muroran
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal area with hiking trails that offer stunning views of the sea and surrounding cliffs.
A hiking spot featuring several trails that lead to the summit, where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Muroran and beyond.
Offers a variety of hiking trails through forests and along lakes, with opportunities to see local wildlife and hot springs.
Known for its unique volcanic landscapes, this mountain provides several hiking routes for different skill levels.
A more casual hike along the waterfront, offering beautiful views of the ocean and ships while providing easy access for walkers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Muroran through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Muroran by plane.
Located about 70 km from Muroran, New Chitose Airport is the largest airport in Hokkaido, serving as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Approximately 140 km from Muroran, Hakodate Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, connecting southern Hokkaido with other regions.
Located about 200 km from Muroran, Asahikawa Airport is known for its domestic flights and connects to major Japanese cities.
Around 270 km from Muroran, Kushiro Airport serves domestic flights and is the gateway to the eastern part of Hokkaido.
Located approximately 75 km from Muroran, Okadama Airport mainly serves domestic flights and is situated closer to Sapporo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Muroran, consisting of native Japanese individuals.
A significant minority, primarily descended from Koreans who migrated during the early 20th century.
A smaller community primarily consisting of immigrants and descendants from China.
Includes individuals from various Asian countries, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Muroran.
Includes individuals from various countries working in local industries, particularly in manufacturing and construction.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Muroran, with a rich history and strong local teams that compete at various levels.
Soccer enjoys a significant following in Muroran, with many youth leagues and community clubs fostering local talent.
Muroran has a tradition of ice hockey, largely due to its cold climate, and there are several local teams participating in regional leagues.
Track and field events are popular at schools and local competitions, promoting fitness and athleticism among the youth.
Basketball is widely played in schools and community centers, with a dedicated following among local fans.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Muroran.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Muroran's cuisine is heavily centered around seafood and meat, some eateries like Cafe Cucina and Kita no Variety Cafe offer vegetarian and vegan options such as salads, vegetable tempura, and tofu-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free dishes like rice-based sushi, sashimi, and hot pot dishes at select restaurants. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to ensure a pleasant dining experience.