Things To Do
in Sagara

Makinohara and the surrounding area produce high-quality sencha; try it at a tea house or buy freshly packed leaves at local shops.

Must-Try!

Tiny boiled or raw whitebait from Suruga Bay served over rice (shirasu-don) or as a topping—commonly available at morning markets and seaside restaurants.

The harbor provides daily catches—sashimi sets and simply grilled whole fish are staples at local eateries.

A regional variation of oden (stewed items) with a darker, soy-forward broth—good comfort food in cooler months and found in izakayas.

Small morning markets near the fishing port sell fresh shirasu, seasonal fish and prepared snacks—arrive early for the best selection.

During matsuri (festivals) you’ll find food stalls offering yakitori, takoyaki and simple sweets; these are more occasional than daily street-food scenes.

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can cause confusion; excellent service is included in the price—simply thank staff verbally or with a small gift if desired.

Cash (Japanese yen) is widely used in Sagara; many small shops, markets and rural restaurants accept only cash. Credit cards and IC transit cards (Suica/Pasmo) are increasingly accepted but may not work everywhere—carry cash and use 7-Eleven ATMs or post office ATMs to withdraw yen.

Mild temperatures and cherry blossoms in late March–April make it pleasant for outdoor walks and tea field greening; tea-plant pruning and early harvest activities begin.

Hot and humid with beach season in July–August; expect packed weekends at coastal spots and occasional typhoons—stay updated on weather during late summer.

Comfortable temperatures and clear skies with autumn foliage in nearby hills from October–November; seafood remains excellent and outdoor activities are enjoyable.

Winters are relatively mild but can be cool and windy along the coast; clearer air means good visibility on calm days for distant mountain views, but some attractions may have reduced hours.

Gentle routes winding through tea fields offering panoramic views of the terraced rows and the bay—suitable for easy hikes and photography.

A short cliffside trail that follows the shoreline with lookout points for sea vistas, birdwatching and sunset views.

Low ridge paths near the town that reward hikers with sweeping views over Sagara’s harbor, farmland and distant mountains on clear days.

Easy trails along nearby rivers and estuaries that are good for wildlife spotting and seasonal flowers, accessible from the town center.

A significant share of residents work in agriculture—especially tea cultivation—and form tight-knit rural communities.

Coastal livelihoods tied to Suruga Bay fisheries shape local culture and cuisine.

Like many rural Japanese areas, Sagara has an aging demographic with lower proportions of young adults compared to cities.

Family-run restaurants, shops and service businesses form the backbone of local commerce.

Baseball is widely followed at school and community levels; local games and high school baseball are popular weekend activities.

Soccer is popular among youth and amateur clubs, with community fields used regularly.

Suruga Bay and nearby beaches attract surfers and paddle-sport enthusiasts when conditions are favorable.

Recreational and small-scale commercial fishing are integral to local life and leisure.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited at seafood-focused places; try tea houses, vegetable tempura, tofu dishes and vegetable set meals, and carry a translated dietary note specifying no fish/seafood to show staff.

Vegan dining can be challenging—ask about dashi (fish stock) which is commonly used; sourcing simple rice, pickles, and vegetable side dishes at local restaurants or buying supplies at supermarkets is advisable.

Gluten is present in soy sauce and many prepared items; communicate needs clearly and watch for sauces—rice-based dishes are usually safer, but confirm preparation.

Halal-certified options are rare; seafood and vegetarian dishes may fit dietary needs but verify no alcohol or non-halal ingredients are used.