Things To Do
in Ōiwa

Ōiwa is a picturesque town located in Japan, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by mountains, providing breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore local temples and traditional architecture, immersing themselves in the serene atmosphere.

Ōiwa is also famous for its delicious seafood, making it a delightful destination for food lovers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ōiwa Shrine, a tranquil spot surrounded by ancient trees. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Take a hike in the nearby Oiwa Mountains, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the region and explore beautiful trails.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a seafood restaurant, trying local delicacies like sashimi and grilled fish.

day 2
Day 2: Local Experiences and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the local market in the morning to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample some street food.

afternoon
:

Take part in a cultural workshop, such as pottery or calligraphy, to learn more about traditional Japanese crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxing evening at an onsen (hot spring) to unwind after your adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$15
🍜Ramen bowl$10
🍵Cup of green tea$3
🥡Takeout meal$8
🚍Local bus ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Delicious seafood and local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • "ありがとう (Arigatou)" - Thank you
  • "すみません (Sumimasen)" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい (Hai)" - Yes
  • "いいえ (Iie)" - No
  • "おいしいです (Oishii desu)" - It's delicious

Places to Visit in Ōiwa

Visit one of these nice places.

Ōiwa Shrine

A beautiful shrine surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for capturing the essence of Japanese spirituality.

Oiwa Mountains

Stunning views from various points along the hiking trails, offering great opportunities for landscape photography.

Local Market

A vibrant scene filled with colorful stalls and lively vendors, ideal for capturing the local culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ōiwa

Ōiwa offers a delightful culinary experience with its focus on fresh seafood and traditional Japanese cuisine. Visitors can indulge in a variety of local dishes and explore vibrant food markets.

Ōiwa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sashimi

Freshly sliced raw fish served with soy sauce and wasabi, showcasing the region's seafood.

Must-Try!

Grilled Fish

Fish caught from local waters, seasoned and grilled to perfection, often served with rice and miso soup.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ōiwa Market

A lively market where you can taste various street foods like takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers).

Climate Guide

Weather

Ōiwa experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and can bring snowfall, while summers are warm and humid. Spring and autumn provide mild temperatures and beautiful natural scenery. Rain is common in summer and early autumn, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella during these months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Traditions

Always be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting shrines and temples.

Quiet Behavior

Maintain a low volume in public spaces and on public transportation to show respect for others.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ōiwa is considered a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should take standard precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and securing personal belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Ōiwa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and it's often seen as unnecessary. Service charges are typically included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in urban areas. ATMs are available, but not all accept foreign cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm and humid weather; ideal for hiking and enjoying local festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with stunning fall foliage, perfect for hiking and scenic views.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snowfall; enjoy winter sports and the beauty of the snow-covered landscape.

Nightlife Guide

Ōiwa at Night

Ōiwa offers a laid-back nightlife scene, with a few local izakayas (pubs) and bars where you can enjoy drinks and socialize. Live music events and cultural performances can also be found occasionally, offering a glimpse into local entertainment.

Hiking in Ōiwa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Oiwa Mountain Trail

A well-marked trail that takes you through lush forests and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Kurokawa Onsen Hiking Path

This scenic path connects Ōiwa to the nearby onsen town, providing a relaxing hike with opportunities to spot wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Ōiwa by plane.

Ōita Airport

Located approximately 45 minutes from Ōiwa, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it accessible for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ōiwa is a walkable town, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the town's compact size encourages walking as a primary mode of transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Elderly Population

Ōiwa has a significant elderly demographic, reflecting the broader trend in Japan of an aging population.

Tourists

The town attracts tourists seeking a quiet retreat and those interested in outdoor activities and local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams often playing in regional leagues.

Soccer

Soccer is increasingly popular, with both youth and adult leagues active in the community.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ōiwa is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation is available, with bus services connecting to nearby towns. However, services may be less frequent during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ōiwa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, such as vegetable sushi and tempura.

Gluten-Free

Some restaurants provide gluten-free options; however, it's important to communicate your needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Ōiwa is generally good, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are reliable, and it's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. English-speaking medical staff may not be readily available, so it's helpful to carry a translation app or phrasebook.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide