Shintomi
,Shintomi is a quaint town located in Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its beautiful countryside scenery and traditional Japanese architecture. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Shintomi is also famous for its hot springs, offering visitors a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in a serene environment.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Eego o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Shintomi's Nature
morning
:Start your day with a refreshing walk in the local park, enjoying the fresh air and scenery. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beautiful surroundings.
afternoon
:Visit the local farmer's market where you can taste fresh produce and homemade goods. Engage with friendly vendors and learn about the area's agricultural practices.
evening
:Wind down your day with a traditional Japanese dinner at a nearby izakaya. Relish the flavors of local dishes while enjoying the calm atmosphere.
Hiking Adventures
morning
:Begin with an early breakfast and then set off for a hike in the surrounding hills. The trails offer incredible views and a chance to connect with nature.
afternoon
:After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic overlook. Take your time to relax and soak in the beautiful vistas.
evening
:Return to Shintomi and visit a local onsen for a soothing hot spring bath. It's the perfect way to unwind after an active day.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and shrines.
- Strong community ties and low crime rates.
- Beautiful natural scenery including hills and rivers.
- Access to local agricultural products and fresh seafood.
- Quiet and peaceful living environment.
Bad
- Limited access to big city amenities and services.
- Potential challenges in transportation and connectivity.
- Fewer job opportunities compared to urban areas.
- Risk of natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons.
- Aging population leading to potential economic decline.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in Shintomi Nature Park
Explore the scenic trails of Shintomi Nature Park, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and a chance to observe local wildlife.
Cycling along the Mizuki River
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Mizuki River, which features dedicated cycling paths and stunning riverside landscapes.
Fishing in local ponds
Spend a relaxing day fishing in one of Shintomi's tranquil ponds, where you can catch various freshwater fish species.
Picnicking at Shintomi Sports Park
Gather with family and friends for a picnic at Shintomi Sports Park, which has ample green space and facilities for outdoor games.
Kayaking on Lake Shintomi
Experience the beauty of Lake Shintomi from a kayak, allowing for a unique perspective of the surrounding nature.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Shintomi with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Shintomi Park
Offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and is a popular spot for photography.
Shintomi Lake
Features stunning views of the lake and the surrounding nature, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kiritanpo
A traditional dish of pounded rice formed into cylinders and grilled, often served with a savory miso-based sauce. Enjoy authentic Kiritanpo at local izakayas like Kiritanpo Honten.
Must-Try!
Miyazaki beef
A renowned delicacy, Miyazaki beef is famed for its marbled texture and exceptional flavor. Indulge in this premium local beef at restaurants such as Miyachiku and Sakaba Nagano.
Satsuma-age
A type of deep-fried fish cake, often flavored with ginger or other seasonings. Sample delectable Satsuma-age at street food stalls in local markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shintomi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Shintomi Market
Explore Shintomi Market for a vibrant assortment of fresh seafood, local greens, and a variety of street food options, including grilled skewers, takoyaki, and freshly made sushi.
Takamori Shotengai
Wander through Takamori Shotengai to savor the aroma of sizzling yakitori, flavorful oden, and an array of market snacks, providing an authentic taste of Shintomi's street food scene.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness
Always use polite language and gestures when interacting with locals. A bow is a common greeting and shows respect.
Removing Shoes
In many traditional settings, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering a home or certain establishments. Look for designated areas where you should leave your shoes.
Quietness
Maintain a low volume while speaking in public places. Being quiet and respectful of others' space is valued in Japanese culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shintomi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Shintomi, Japan, tipping is not a common practice and is often considered unnecessary. The Japanese culture emphasizes exceptional service as a standard expectation, and service providers take pride in their work. Instead of tipping, customers may express gratitude verbally or through a polite bow. In some cases, there are rare exceptions, such as in certain high-end restaurants or ryokans, where a small gratuity might be accepted, but this is not the norm.
Payment
Payment practices in Shintomi align with broader Japanese customs. Cash is still widely used, although credit cards and mobile payment options are becoming more prevalent. When making a payment, it is customary to place money in a tray provided by the cashier rather than handing it directly. This practice demonstrates respect. Additionally, many establishments display a 'nenkin' (年金) machine where customers can self-checkout. The overall trend is towards efficiency and maintaining a high level of service.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shintomi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Best time to view cherry blossoms and enjoy pleasant temperatures.
Summer
Expect hot and humid weather, but it is a good time for outdoor activities and festivals.
Autumn
Ideal time for enjoying colorful foliage and participating in harvest festivals.
Winter
Good time for enjoying hot springs and winter illuminations, but it can get very cold.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Kushikino Mountain
A scenic hiking trail offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Shintomi Green Park
A family-friendly park with well-maintained trails providing an easy hike and beautiful greenery, ideal for picnics and outdoor activities.
Kiyokawa Valley
A beautiful hiking area with various trails that lead through lush forests and along picturesque rivers, suitable for all hiking levels.
Chiran Peace Garden
A peaceful place to hike, featuring historical monuments and stunning gardens, perfect for a reflective walk.
Takaosan
A moderately challenging hike with rewarding views at the summit, it's a popular spot among local hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Shintomi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Shintomi by plane.
Kagoshima Airport (KOJ)
Located approximately 86 kilometers from Shintomi, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, connecting travelers to various destinations.
Miyazaki Airport (KMI)
Situated around 118 kilometers from Shintomi, Miyazaki Airport primarily offers domestic services with a few international flights available.
Nagasaki Airport (NGS)
Approximately 164 kilometers from Shintomi, this airport handles both domestic and limited international flights, serving the Nagasaki area.
Okinawa Naha Airport (OKA)
About 262 kilometers from Shintomi, Naha Airport is the main international gateway to Okinawa and offers extensive international and domestic flight options.
Fukuoka Airport (FUK)
Located approximately 296 kilometers from Shintomi, Fukuoka Airport is one of the largest international airports in the Kyushu region, catering to a wide range of domestic and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Japanese
The predominant ethnic group, making up the majority of the population in Shintomi.
Foreign Residents
Includes a small percentage of residents from other countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of Shintomi.
Ainu
An indigenous group in Japan, with historical roots but very few members in Shintomi.
The Soul of Shintomi
Discover the essence of Shintomi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball
Baseball is extremely popular in Shintomi, with local teams participating in regional leagues and many young players aspiring to play at higher levels.
Soccer
Soccer has a strong following in Shintomi, with many youth leagues and community teams, reflecting the sport's growing popularity across Japan.
Basketball
Basketball is widely played in Shintomi, with many schools having strong teams and local competitions fostering community engagement.
Volleyball
Volleyball is popular in Shintomi, particularly among females, with schools often competing at various levels, including national tournaments.
Japanese Traditional Sports
Sumo and kendo are also practiced in Shintomi, as they are part of Japan's cultural heritage, with local clubs promoting these traditional disciplines.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian Options
While Shintomi's cuisine is predominantly seafood and meat-based, several restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and fresh salads.
Vegan Options
While vegan options may be limited, some establishments in Shintomi may accommodate by preparing custom dishes, incorporating local produce and seasonings to create delightful vegan fare.
Gluten-free Options
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like sashimi, grilled meats, and rice-based meals, and may find that some eateries can adapt their offerings to accommodate gluten-free requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Shintomi with these cultural adventures.
