Things To Do
in Shintomi

Shintomi is a small town located in Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich agricultural heritage. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and rice paddies, providing a serene atmosphere for visitors seeking tranquility. Shintomi is also recognized for its local festivals, which showcase traditional Japanese culture and community spirit.

With its friendly locals and scenic beauty, Shintomi offers a unique glimpse into rural Japanese life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Shintomi
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local farmer's market to sample fresh produce and homemade goods, followed by a stroll around the picturesque rice fields.

afternoon
:

Visit the Shintomi Historical Museum to learn about the town's history, then take a leisurely walk through the scenic paths in the nearby park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, where you can savor traditional dishes and mingle with the locals.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Join a traditional tea ceremony workshop to experience Japanese culture firsthand and learn about the art of tea preparation.

afternoon
:

Explore the local shrines and temples, immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and taking in the beautiful architecture.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a sunset view from the hilltop overlooking the town, followed by a casual meal at a nearby ramen shop.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$10
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
Coffee$3
🍉Watermelon (per kg)$2
🚍Bus Ticket$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quaint and peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Delicious local cuisine featuring fresh ingredients.
  • Limited nightlife options for those seeking vibrant entertainment.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Public transportation options may be less frequent compared to larger cities.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Shintomi

Visit one of these nice places.

Rice Fields

The expansive rice terraces provide a stunning backdrop, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Shintomi Shrine

A beautifully preserved shrine surrounded by cherry blossoms, perfect for capturing seasonal beauty.

Local Festivals

Document the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of Shintomi's traditional festivals throughout the year.

Culinary Guide

Food in Shintomi

Shintomi offers a delightful culinary experience with its focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors.

Shintomi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Miyazaki Beef

Renowned for its rich flavor and tenderness, Miyazaki beef is a must-try for meat lovers.

Must-Try!

Soba Noodles

These buckwheat noodles are served cold or hot and are a staple in Japanese cuisine.

Rice Dishes

Locally grown rice is served in various forms, including sushi and donburi.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shintomi Farmers Market

A vibrant market showcasing fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal products.

Street Food Stalls

Try delicious street food like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries).

Climate Guide

Weather

Shintomi experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The rainy season occurs in June, while autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Traditions

Always show respect when visiting temples and shrines, such as bowing before entering.

Quietness in Public

Maintain a low volume when speaking in public places, especially on public transport.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove your shoes when entering homes and certain traditional accommodations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Shintomi is considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it's always wise to take general precautions such as safeguarding personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be contacted via 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Shintomi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as part of the experience.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Experience cherry blossoms in full bloom, making it an ideal time for outdoor photography and picnics.

Summer

Warm weather encourages outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rains and humidity.

Autumn

Enjoy the stunning fall foliage, especially in parks and along hiking trails.

Winter

Milder winters allow for comfortable exploration, with occasional frosts enhancing the scenic views.

Nightlife Guide

Shintomi at Night

Shintomi's nightlife is calm and centered around local izakayas and small bars where you can enjoy a drink and socialize. The atmosphere is friendly, and locals often gather to unwind after a long day. While there are no large nightclubs, the charm lies in the intimate settings where you can experience authentic Japanese hospitality.

Hiking in Shintomi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kushima Mountain Trail

A scenic trail offering stunning views and a moderate hike suitable for various skill levels.

Shintomi Nature Walk

This easy walking trail is perfect for families and casual hikers, featuring lush landscapes and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Shintomi by plane.

Miyazaki Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Shintomi, Miyazaki Airport offers domestic flights as well as some international connections, making it the primary gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Shintomi is a walkable town, with many attractions and amenities located within a short distance from each other. Sidewalks are available, and the pace of life encourages leisurely strolls. However, some rural areas may require walking along roads with minimal pedestrian pathways, so caution is advised.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

A significant portion of Shintomi's population is engaged in agriculture, contributing to the town's rich agricultural heritage.

Young Families

An increasing number of young families are moving to Shintomi for its peaceful environment and community-oriented lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a widely popular sport in Japan, and Shintomi has local teams that engage the community and promote youth participation.

Soccer

Soccer is also gaining popularity, with local clubs offering leagues and training for various age groups.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Shintomi is generally light, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation is available but may have limited schedules, especially on weekends. Buses connect Shintomi to nearby towns and cities, providing convenient access to larger urban areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Shintomi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to inquire about fish-based ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; however, soba noodles made from buckwheat are a good alternative.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Shintomi is reliable, with a local clinic providing essential medical services. For more specialized care, larger hospitals are located in nearby cities. Health insurance is recommended for international visitors to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide