Things To Do
in Setana

Setana is a picturesque coastal town located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by the beautiful Sea of Japan, providing stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities. Setana is also famous for its seafood, especially its fresh catches from the ocean.

The town's serene atmosphere and friendly locals make it a perfect getaway for those looking to experience authentic Japanese culture away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Setana
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Setana Morning Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to take in the beautiful ocean views.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Setana Historical Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby cherry blossom park if visiting in spring.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a traditional Japanese dinner at a local izakaya, followed by a relaxing walk along the beach to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your second day with a hike at the nearby Shakotan Peninsula, famous for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters. Take in the stunning views at various lookout points.

afternoon
:

After your hike, return to Setana for lunch at a seaside café, then head to the local fishing harbor to see the fishermen at work and possibly join a fishing tour.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a dinner featuring local Hokkaido cuisine, perhaps trying the region's famous crabs, and visit a local onsen (hot spring) for relaxation.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🍺Local Beer$5
🏨Hotel Room$100
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
  • Quieter atmosphere compared to larger Japanese cities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • English may not be widely spoken.
  • Public transport may have limited schedules.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "美味しいです" - It's delicious
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Setana

Visit one of these nice places.

Setana Coastline

Capture the stunning views of the rugged coastline and the Sea of Japan, especially at sunset.

Cherry Blossom Park

A beautiful park filled with cherry blossom trees, perfect for spring photography.

Shakotan Peninsula Lookouts

Breathtaking viewpoints along the hiking trails offer panoramic views of the ocean and cliffs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Setana

Setana offers an array of delicious seafood and local dishes that reflect its coastal heritage, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Setana Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ikura Don

A bowl of rice topped with fresh salmon roe, known for its rich flavor.

Must-Try!

Sea Urchin Sushi

Fresh sea urchin served on sushi, a delicacy in Hokkaido.

Hokkaido Crab

Sweet and succulent crab, often served grilled or in hot pots.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Setana Morning Market

A vibrant market offering fresh seafood, local snacks, and seasonal produce.

Street Food Stalls

Small stalls offering grilled seafood skewers and other local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Setana experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and significant snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild, providing a pleasant climate for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Always dispose of trash properly and respect the natural surroundings.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Maintain a quiet demeanor in public areas to respect others.

Polite Greetings

A slight bow and a polite greeting (such as 'Konnichiwa') are appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Setana is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. Standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or during festivals.

Tipping in Setana

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may be considered rude; excellent service is expected as part of the experience.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are becoming more common in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming cherry blossoms, ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm temperatures perfect for beach activities and seafood festivals.

Autumn

Cooler weather with beautiful fall foliage, making it a great time for hiking and scenic drives.

Winter

Cold temperatures with snowfall, creating a winter wonderland perfect for snow sports and hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Setana at Night

Setana's nightlife is low-key, with a few local izakayas and bars offering a relaxed atmosphere for evening socializing. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood dishes paired with local sake while mingling with friendly locals. The nightlife scene is more about enjoying good food and conversation rather than loud parties.

Hiking in Setana

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Shakotan Peninsula Trail

A scenic coastal trail offering stunning views of the ocean and cliffs, suitable for various skill levels.

Cape Kamui Trail

A more challenging hike that leads to impressive views at the northern tip of the peninsula, known for its unique rock formations.

Airports

How to reach Setana by plane.

Hakodate Airport

Located approximately 90 km from Setana, Hakodate Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Setana is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a reasonable distance from each other. The flat terrain and scenic coastal paths make it pleasant for strolling. However, for some farther attractions, public transport or biking might be necessary.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Elderly Population

Setana has a significant elderly population, reflecting Japan's aging demographic, contributing to the town's tranquil atmosphere.

Fishing Community

Many residents are involved in the fishing industry, maintaining traditional practices and passing down knowledge through generations.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A beloved sport in Japan, with local teams often seen playing in community leagues.

Soccer

Soccer is gaining popularity, with youth leagues and local teams participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Setana is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes local buses, which can connect to nearby attractions but may have limited schedules, especially on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Setana.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood dominates, some restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes like vegetable tempura.

Allergy Awareness

Always inform the staff about any food allergies, as seafood and soy are common ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Setana has access to basic healthcare services, with a local clinic and pharmacy available for minor health issues. For more serious medical emergencies, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Hakodate, which has well-equipped hospitals.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide