Things To Do
in Shintomi
Shintomi is a tranquil town in Miyazaki Prefecture where green hills meet a windswept coastline. Its pace is relaxed, with friendly locals, traditional shops, and farm-to-table cuisine. The surrounding landscape offers scenic drives, terraced fields, and coastal viewpoints just a short hop from town centers.
From seafood markets to quiet temples, Shintomi provides an approachable snapshot of rural Kyushu life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local ryokan, savoring fresh fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. After breakfast, stroll through the historic streets of Shintomi, where you can admire the well-preserved Edo-period architecture. Stop by the local shrine to experience the serene atmosphere and learn about the area's rich history.
In the afternoon, visit the Shintomi Folk Museum to delve deeper into the local culture and heritage, showcasing artifacts and exhibits from the region. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby soba noodle shop, where you can taste hand-made noodles served with a variety of dipping sauces. Afterward, take a guided tour of a traditional sake brewery to witness the brewing process and sample some local sake.
As the sun sets, dine at a charming izakaya, where you can try various small plates of seasonal cuisine. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the riverside, where lanterns illuminate the pathways, creating a magical ambiance. End your evening by participating in a local tea ceremony, immersing yourself in the art and tradition of Japanese tea.
Start your morning with a refreshing hike in Shintomi Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and beautiful landscapes. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints overlooking the mountains. Take your time to observe the local wildlife, including various bird species that inhabit the area.
Spend the afternoon exploring the park's walking trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and serene ponds. You can also rent a bicycle to cover more ground and enjoy the fresh air as you pedal through the picturesque scenery. Stop by the park's café for a light lunch and some homemade pastries while enjoying views of the surrounding nature.
As the day winds down, find a quiet spot in the park to watch the sunset, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Afterward, head back to town and treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a local grill, where you can sample delicious yakitori. Conclude the evening with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Shintomi, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🥗Bento or takeout lunch | $7-12 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket (one-way) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Kyushu experience with warm, welcoming locals
- Fresh seafood, citrus produce, and farm-to-table dining
- Compact town layout with scenic coastlines and easy day trips
- Low crime and safe, walkable neighborhoods
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale attractions
- Rural services may be cash-centric and slower for non-locals
- Public transportation can be less frequent on Sundays or off-peak hours
- Weather can be unpredictable during typhoon season
- "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 / I'm sorry
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "おすすめは何ですか？" - What do you recommend?
- "ください" - Please give me
Places to Visit in Shintomi
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light, gulls, and fishermen preparing nets—a quintessential Kyushu harbor scene with colorful boats.
A dramatic cliff overlook offering wide ocean horizons and dramatic skies at dusk.
Rice terraces that shimmer in season, reflecting light and offering geometric patterns for wide-angle shots.
A traditional gate framed by lantern light and soft lantern shadows—great for silhouette photography.
Food in Shintomi
Shintomi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thinly sliced, well-marbled beef prepared in sukiyaki or yakiniku style, often enjoyed with vegetables and rice.
Must-Try!
Free-range chicken from the region, prepared as karaage (fried) or grilled, prized for its firm texture and rich flavor.
Desserts or sherbets featuring Hyuganatsu, a local citrus, offering bright, fragrant notes to finish a meal.
Seared skipjack tuna with garlic and ponzu, a coastal specialty frequently found in Kyushu towns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market offering fresh seafood, pickles, vegetables, and ready-to-eat skewers—great for a quick bite.
Dockside stalls along the fishing harbor where you can taste day-boat catches grilled on the spot.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a bow or a nod; address elders with formal language when appropriate. Quiet conversation is valued in public spaces.
Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional inns, and some stately temples or tea houses.
Be punctual for trains and appointments; keep noise to a minimum in residential areas and public transport.
Safety
Tipping in Shintomi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; most service charges are included in the price. Handing money directly is not expected.
Cash is widely accepted in rural shops and markets; many places also accept credit cards and some mobile payments in towns. Having a small amount of yen is handy for street stalls and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming orchards and flower festivals; carry a light jacket for cooler mornings.
Warm to hot and humid with occasional typhoons; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Pleasant temperatures and harvest celebrations; ideal for hiking and countryside photography.
Milder coastal winters with occasional cool spells; foggy mornings can add atmosphere to coastal scenes.
Shintomi at Night
Hiking in Shintomi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate loop through pine forests with several lookout points over the town and coast.
Easy-to-moderate path along sea cliffs offering ocean panoramas and dramatic rock formations.
Gentle riverside walk with shaded sections and opportunities for birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Shintomi by plane.
Domestic flights with some international connections; roughly a 40–80 minute drive to Shintomi, depending on traffic and transfers.
Regional hub with national flights; access to Shintomi via highway or train/bus connections, typically a few hours away.
Major international gateway in Kyushu; longer overland journey to Shintomi but useful for international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Japanese, with a growing but small international presence; aging population is common in rural areas.
Tourists attracted by coastlines and nature; a handful of expatriates and seasonal workers contribute to local services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved spectator and participation sport across Kyushu; local youth and high school teams are common.
Regional leagues and local clubs provide community games and weekend matches.
Beautiful coastal and rural routes attract riders of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shintomi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian visitors can enjoy vegetable-centered meals, tofu, rice, and tempura using vegetable oil; ask for dashi-free options and confirm stock when ordering.