Things To Do
in Oyama
Oyama is a city located in the Tochigi Prefecture of Japan. It is known for its rich history dating back to the Edo period, with many well-preserved historic buildings and temples. Oyama is also a popular destination for hikers, with Mount Oyama providing stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with traditional festivals and performances held throughout the year.
- "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: $8 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike at Oyama Afuri Shrine. Enjoy the lush greenery and scenic views of Mt. Oyama.
Explore the local trails around Oyama and take in the breathtaking mountain vistas. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature.
Return to the town for a casual dinner at a traditional izakaya. Take a leisurely stroll to appreciate the local shops and atmosphere.
Visit a local morning market to sample fresh seafood and traditional Japanese snacks. Engage with local vendors to learn about their specialties.
Join a cooking class to learn how to make sushi from scratch. Enjoy your creations during lunch and savor the flavors of Oyama.
Dine at a renowned sushi restaurant to experience authentic regional cuisine. Cap the night with a dessert from a local sweet shop.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including views of Mount Fuji and picturesque parks
- Rich cultural heritage with historic temples and shrines
- Proximity to both urban amenities and outdoor recreational activities
- Strong sense of community and local festivals that promote cultural exchange
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger urban areas
- Fewer job opportunities in specialized fields compared to major cities
- Occasional harsh weather conditions in winter months
- Less nightlife and entertainment options than larger urban centers
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers
Best Activities in Oyama
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Oyama is known for its beautiful hiking trails, offering stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
There are various campgrounds in the Oyama area that provide the perfect opportunity to experience nature and the great outdoors.
Exploring Oyama on two wheels is a fantastic way to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and discover hidden gems.
Tours
Uncover the best of Oyama with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Oyama
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of Oyama and the surrounding area
A beautiful traditional shrine with picturesque surroundings, ideal for photography
An iconic historic site with scenic views of the city and nearby landscapes
Food in Oyama
Oyama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional specialty, Yaita Udon features thick wheat noodles served in savory broth, often accompanied by tempura or local vegetables. For an authentic experience, head to Udon Kobo Katagiri, which has been perfecting its udon for decades.
Must-Try!
Nasu Dengaku is a local favorite, featuring grilled eggplant topped with a sweet miso glaze. Visit the Oyama Nasu Kobo to savor this dish, renowned for its tender eggplant and rich, flavorful glaze.
Sano Yakisoba is a beloved street food consisting of stir-fried noodles, pork, and vegetables, seasoned with a special Sano sauce. Sample this iconic dish at the Sano Yakisoba Yokocho for an authentic taste of the region.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Oyama better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering an array of fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties. Take a stroll through the market to explore regional ingredients and enjoy street food such as Takoyaki (octopus balls) and Taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Oyama, Japan, it is customary to bow as a sign of respect when greeting or thanking someone. The depth of the bow generally corresponds to the level of respect being conveyed.
It is important to remove shoes before entering someone's home in Oyama, as well as in certain traditional establishments such as ryokan (Japanese inns) and some restaurants.
Respecting elders is a key cultural norm in Oyama and throughout Japan. It is important to address older individuals with proper honorifics and show deference to their wisdom and experience.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Oyama with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Oyama
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Oyama. In fact, it can be considered rude in some situations. Good service is expected and appreciated, but tipping is not customary.
In Oyama, Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, although credit and debit cards are becoming increasingly accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, particularly when visiting smaller shops or restaurants.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Oyama.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Oyama is during spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, offering a beautiful and picturesque scenery.
Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid in Oyama, but it is also a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals in the region.
Autumn (September to November) brings colorful foliage to Oyama, making it a good time for nature walks and hikes to enjoy the fall scenery.
Winter (December to February) can be cold in Oyama, but it's a great time to experience traditional winter festivals and enjoy winter sports in the nearby mountains.
Oyama at Night
Hiking in Oyama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail leading to the Oyama Afuri Shrine, offering beautiful views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscape.
A popular hiking destination with multiple trails ranging in difficulty, known for its lush forests and panoramic mountain views.
A long-distance trail that connects Isehara to the summit of Mount Oyama, perfect for a day of hiking amidst nature.
A hiking route that provides access to the eastern side of Mount Oyama, featuring diverse flora and picturesque scenery.
A collection of trails within the Hakone area, easily accessible from Oyama, known for hot springs and diverse hiking options.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Oyama through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Oyama by plane.
Located approximately 130 kilometers northeast of Oyama, Narita International Airport serves as a major global gateway to Japan.
Located about 120 kilometers from Oyama, Haneda Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving a large number of domestic and international flights.
About 220 kilometers from Oyama, this airport serves the Nagoya area and is the main international airport for the Chubu region.
Located approximately 400 kilometers from Oyama, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka area and is an important hub for international travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Oyama, consisting of individuals who identify as Japanese and participate in the cultural and societal norms of Japan.
A smaller demographic group that includes individuals from various countries living in Oyama, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A significant demographic group in Oyama, reflecting Japan's aging population, with many residents over the age of 65.
This group includes children, teenagers, and young adults, playing a vital role in the community's educational and social structures.
The Soul of Oyama
Discover the essence of Oyama through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Oyama, with a strong youth and amateur presence, supported by local schools and community leagues.
Soccer enjoys significant popularity in Oyama, with various youth teams and leagues, as well as community events promoting the sport.
Martial arts, including karate and judo, are widely practiced in Oyama, with many dojos available for training and competitions.
Basketball is popular among youth and community members, with various schools and local clubs promoting the sport.
Running events, including marathons and local fun runs, are popular in Oyama, encouraging community participation in fitness activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oyama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Oyama now offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for restaurants that specialize in Buddhist cuisine (Shojin Ryori) for an authentic vegetarian dining experience.
Although gluten-free awareness is still emerging in the region, some establishments now provide gluten-free alternatives. It's recommended to communicate your dietary needs clearly to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Oyama with these cultural adventures.
