Things To Do
in Rikuzen-Takata

A traditional noodle dish served in small bowls, allowing you to eat as much as you like while the servers continuously replenish your bowl. It's a fun and interactive way to experience soba noodles and is often accompanied by various toppings such as tempura, seaweed, and pickles. Recommended place to try: Wanko Soba restaurants in Rikuzen-Takata.

Must-Try!

A rice bowl topped with a variety of fresh seafood such as tuna, salmon, squid, and sea urchin. The seafood is usually sourced locally, ensuring the highest quality and flavor. Recommended place to try: Seafood restaurants and stalls near the Rikuzen-Takata coastline.

Visit the local fish market to sample and purchase a wide array of freshly caught seafood. You can enjoy sashimi, grilled fish on skewers, and other seafood delights at the stalls surrounding the market. It's a great place to experience the vibrant atmosphere and flavors of Rikuzen-Takata's coastal cuisine.

During festivals and special events, Rikuzen-Takata's streets come alive with food stalls offering a range of traditional and modern Japanese street food. From takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) to sweet treats like taiyaki (fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste), there's something to delight every palate.

In Rikuzen-Takata, as well as in the rest of Japan, tipping is not a common practice. Service workers, including those in restaurants, hotels, and taxis, typically do not expect tips. Instead, they take pride in their service, and it is included in the overall experience. Leaving a tip can sometimes be seen as rude or as a suggestion that the service was inadequate. However, customers may express appreciation through a thank you or a small gift.

Payment practices in Rikuzen-Takata are similar to the rest of Japan. Cash is still widely used, and many stores and restaurants accept cash payments. However, cashless transactions are becoming more common, with credit and debit cards increasingly accepted. Mobile payment apps are also gaining popularity. In some traditional settings, particularly smaller establishments, cash might be preferred. It's also customary to place money in a tray when paying, rather than handing it directly to the cashier.

Best time to see cherry blossoms in bloom, pleasant weather, and lively festivals.

Warm temperatures, ideal for beach activities and summer festivals.

Beautiful fall foliage, mild weather, and cultural events.

Snowfall, winter illuminations, and hot spring baths for a cozy experience.

Located approximately 105 km northeast of Rikuzen-Takata, Sendai Airport serves the Sendai region and offers both domestic and international flights.

Located approximately 350 km north of Rikuzen-Takata, New Chitose Airport is the main airport serving Sapporo and Hokkaido, with numerous international connections.

Located about 480 km southwest of Rikuzen-Takata, Narita International Airport is one of the primary international gateways to Japan, located near Tokyo.

Located approximately 700 km west of Rikuzen-Takata, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka area and is a major hub for international flights.

While Rikuzen-Takata's traditional cuisine leans heavily towards seafood, some restaurants and cafes in the area offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's advisable to communicate your dietary preferences clearly, and you may find dishes featuring locally sourced vegetables and tofu.

Locating gluten-free options may require more effort, as soy sauce and other wheat-based ingredients are prevalent in Japanese cooking. However, some establishments may accommodate gluten-free requests with advance notice, and you may find rice-based dishes that suit your dietary needs.