Things To Do
in Ono
Ono is a peaceful small town located in the Gifu Prefecture of Japan. It is known for its picturesque countryside landscapes, including lush forests and serene rivers. Ono has a rich history, with many traditional Japanese temples and shrines scattered throughout the area.
The town offers a slower pace of life, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and nature immersion.
- "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: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the scenic Ono Waterfall, where you can enjoy the fresh air and tranquility of nature. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the cascading water.
Head to the Ono Historical Museum to learn about the local culture and history. The exhibits provide insight into Ono's past and its significance in the region.
Unwind at a local izakaya, sampling traditional Japanese dishes and regional sake. Engage with friendly locals and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Visit the beautiful Ono Castle ruins, taking a peaceful walk around the grounds. The panoramic views from the top are a must-see.
Explore the nearby temples and shrines, such as Eiheiji Temple, to experience the spiritual side of Ono. Take some time for reflection and meditation.
Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant featuring seasonal ingredients. Experience the warmth of Ono's hospitality as you savor your meal.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with traditional festivals and landmarks.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including parks and rivers.
- Close proximity to larger cities like Osaka and Kobe for accessibility.
- Strong community spirit and friendly local residents.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger urban areas.
- Public transportation options may not be as extensive.
- Less nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities.
- Potential issues with language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
Best Activities in Ono
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy panoramic views and the serenity of nature while hiking the trails of Mt. Hachiman, which offers varying difficulty levels suitable for all hikers.
Explore the historical Ono Castle and its surrounding park, perfect for a leisurely walk, picnics, and enjoying cherry blossoms in spring.
Bike along the scenic paths beside the Shikagawa River, which provides a peaceful environment and beautiful views of the landscape.
Experience fishing at nearby Lake Biwa, where you can catch various species of fish while enjoying the serene lake surroundings.
Visit local farms in the Ono area for seasonal fruit picking, such as strawberries and grapes, providing a fun and interactive outdoor experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ono with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ono
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular hiking spot that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. The summit is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
The ruins of Ono Castle provide a historical backdrop with picturesque views of the city and the Ano River. The site is especially photogenic during cherry blossom season.
A tranquil park with beautiful landscaping, cherry blossoms in spring, and a pond that reflects the surrounding nature, making it an ideal spot for photography.
This shrine is not only a place of worship but also offers beautiful photo opportunities with its traditional architecture, seasonal foliage, and serene atmosphere.
Known for its stunning sunsets and serene coastal views, this beach provides a perfect setting for landscape photography and relaxing moments by the water.
Food in Ono
Ono Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A specialty of the Hida region, Hoba Miso is a hearty miso-based dish cooked on a magnolia leaf, typically served with mushrooms, tofu, and local vegetables. It can be savored at traditional ryokan inns and local restaurants like Hoba Kagaya.
Must-Try!
Gohei Mochi is a grilled rice cake coated with a sweet and nutty miso sauce, often found at street food stalls and festivals in Ono. Look out for it at the monthly Ono Market or from vendors in the Matsuri-dori area.
As Ono is part of the Niigata Prefecture, famous for its sake production, be sure to taste the locally brewed Koshi no Kanbai Sake at various izakayas and sake breweries across the town.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ono better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The monthly Ono Market boasts a wide array of seasonal produce, artisanal food products, and street food stalls where visitors can sample regional delicacies like Gohei Mochi and other traditional snacks.
Matsuri-dori comes alive with vibrant street food stalls during festivals and special events, showcasing local treats like yakisoba, takoyaki, and freshly grilled Gohei Mochi.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ono, Japan, it is important to use polite language and maintain a formal demeanor, especially when interacting with elders or those in positions of authority. Bowing is a common greeting, and using honorifics in conversation shows respect.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering a home or certain traditional establishments. Be sure to look for designated areas to place your shoes, and respect this practice as it reflects the cleanliness ethos of Japanese culture.
Gift-giving is a common practice in Japan, and it is done with great care. When presenting a gift, it should be offered with both hands, and it is polite to modestly decline the gift once or twice before accepting it. Wrapping in decorative paper adds to the thoughtfulness.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ono with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ono
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ono, Japan, as well as in much of Japan, tipping is generally not practiced. Service charges are typically included in the bill at restaurants and other service establishments. Offering a tip can be seen as rude or unnecessary, as good service is considered standard and a reflection of the establishment's professionalism.
Payments in Ono can be made using cash or credit/debit cards. While cash is very popular and widely accepted in most places, including restaurants, shops, and markets, credit cards are also increasingly accepted, especially in larger establishments. Digital payment methods and mobile wallets are gradually gaining popularity, but cash remains a significant part of daily transactions in the region.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Ono as cherry blossoms bloom, creating picturesque landscapes. The weather is mild with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20°C. Expect vibrant festivals and local events celebrating the arrival of spring.
Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. This season offers various outdoor activities, including hiking and local summer festivals. Be prepared for occasional rain and thunderstorms in June.
Autumn (September to November) is known for its stunning fall foliage as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and orange. The weather becomes cooler, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 25°C. It’s a great time for outdoor sightseeing and enjoying seasonal food.
Winter (December to February) in Ono can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C. Snow is not uncommon, providing opportunities for winter sports. Expect a serene atmosphere and the chance to experience Japanese hot springs (onsen) during this season.
Ono at Night
Hiking in Ono
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking spot with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and well-maintained trails.
Offers various trails with differing difficulty levels, suitable for both casual walkers and serious hikers.
A well-known trail that features lush forests, wildlife, and panoramic views at the summit.
Famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, providing a picturesque landscape for hikers throughout the year.
A challenging hike with rewarding views of the Fukui prefecture; popular among experienced hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Ono by plane.
Located approximately 50 km southwest of Ono, Kansai International Airport serves as a major international gateway to the Kansai region including cities such as Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.
Kobe Airport is situated about 40 km southwest of Ono and primarily serves domestic flights along with a limited number of international routes.
Also known as Itami Airport, it is located around 60 km south of Ono and mainly serves domestic flights but has some international routes.
About 90 km west of Ono, Okayama Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights, serving the western region of Japan.
Located roughly 150 km northeast of Ono, this airport serves the Nagoya region and provides a range of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Ono, encompassing various traditional and modern Japanese subcultures.
Includes people from various countries living in Ono, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
An indigenous ethnic group in Japan, with a small presence in regions including Ono.
A demographic group that has historical ties to Japan, with a minor community in Ono.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport in Japan, with a strong following and local leagues. Ono has its own teams and fans participate actively in local games.
Soccer is widely played and followed in Ono, with youth programs and local clubs promoting the sport amongst young players.
Basketball enjoys popularity in schools and community centers in Ono, with many people engaging in both casual and competitive play.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and karate, are practiced widely in Ono, reflecting Japan's cultural heritage in combat sports.
Running is a common recreational activity in Ono, with locals participating in community races and health events throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ono.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine can be meat-heavy, many establishments in Ono offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as tempura vegetables, tofu-based meals, and vegetable sushi rolls. It is advisable to communicate your dietary preferences clearly when dining out.
Some restaurants and cafes in Ono may accommodate gluten-free dietary requirements, offering rice-based dishes, sashimi, and certain types of soba noodles made from buckwheat. However, it's advisable to inquire about food preparation and cross-contamination risks.