Things To Do
in Shizukuishi
Shizukuishi is a picturesque town in Japan known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere. It is located in the northern part of Japan, surrounded by mountains and lush forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and hot spring baths in the area.
The town also offers traditional Japanese cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine for those looking to immerse themselves in the authentic Japanese culture.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Koiwai Farm, where you can enjoy fresh dairy products and beautiful landscapes. Take a stroll through the farm and learn about its agricultural practices.
After lunch, head to the Shizukuishi Ski Resort for some thrilling outdoor activities. If you're visiting in winter, try skiing or snowboarding, or take a scenic chairlift ride.
For dinner, savor local cuisine at a nearby izakaya. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for unwinding after an active day.
Begin your morning with a hike on the trails around Lake Nashinokubo, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views. The peaceful environment is great for meditation or photography.
In the afternoon, visit the Shizukuishi Plum Park, where you can see stunning plum blossoms in full bloom. Bring a picnic to enjoy among the trees.
As the sun sets, dine at a local restaurant featuring traditional Japanese dishes. Experience the warmth of the local hospitality.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic natural beauty, including mountains and rivers.
- Strong cultural heritage with local festivals and traditions.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and hot springs.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with friendly locals.
- Lower cost of living compared to larger cities in Japan.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Rural areas may lack access to advanced healthcare facilities.
- Transportation options may be less frequent than in urban areas.
- Harsh winter weather can be challenging for some residents.
- Limited entertainment and shopping options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Shizukuishi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of Iwate Prefecture, including the nearby active volcano, Mount Iwate, which offers stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.
Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Shizukuishi Ski Resort, which features a variety of slopes for all skill levels and beautiful snowy landscapes during the winter months.
Visit Lake Shizukuishi for fishing, boating, or picnicking. The serene environment is perfect for a relaxing day surrounded by nature.
Discover Kujirikogen Park, known for its expansive grasslands and beautiful seasonal flowers, making it an ideal spot for family outings and outdoor events.
Experience the rejuvenating hot springs in the Shizukuishi area. Enjoy outdoor baths with scenic views, particularly beautiful during autumn when foliage changes colors.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shizukuishi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shizukuishi
Visit one of these nice places.
This mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The ski resort provides various vantage points for capturing the beauty of the snow-covered landscape and the majestic mountain ranges.
This hot spring area offers picturesque natural scenery with seasonal changes, making it an excellent spot for photography.
Food in Shizukuishi
Shizukuishi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A distinctive style of serving soba noodles in small bowls, allowing diners to enjoy numerous refills. Try this at Wanko Soba restaurants like Bungo-ya where you can partake in the fun challenge of consuming as many bowls as possible.
Must-Try!
A regional grilled mutton dish seasoned with soy sauce, sake, and mirin. Sample this at local yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurants such as Daikokuya for an authentic taste.
Thick, chewy noodles topped with a meat and vegetable sauce. Visit Jajamen Kobo Darumaya to savor this local favorite.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shizukuishi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this vibrant market for an assortment of fresh local produce, snacks, and artisanal crafts. Be sure to try yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), takoyaki (octopus balls), and other street food delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shizukuishi, as in much of Japan, there is a deep respect for traditional customs and practices. Visitors should be mindful of local traditions, especially when participating in festivals or visiting shrines and temples, where appropriate dress and behavior are expected.
Using polite language and showing formal greetings is crucial in Japanese culture. A simple bow can go a long way in expressing respect and appreciation. When addressing individuals, it's important to use titles and last names rather than first names unless invited to do otherwise.
When dining, be aware of local eating customs. It is customary to say 'Itadakimasu' before eating and 'Gochisousama deshita' after finishing a meal to show gratitude. Avoid pointing with chopsticks, and it's best to sit quietly and enjoy your meal, as loud eating is often considered rude.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shizukuishi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shizukuishi
Ensure a smooth experience
In Shizukuishi, as in much of Japan, tipping is not a common practice and can even be considered rude. Service charges are typically included in the price of goods and services, and showing appreciation is more often expressed verbally or through gestures rather than monetary tips. Exceptional service is acknowledged through respect and gratitude, aligning with Japanese hospitality customs.
In Shizukuishi, various payment methods are accepted. Cash remains a preferred payment option, especially in smaller establishments and markets. However, credit cards are increasingly welcomed in larger businesses and tourist areas. Digital payment applications are also gaining popularity, particularly among younger generations. It is customary to place cash in a small tray or on the counter rather than handing it directly to the cashier.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shizukuishi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossom viewing and pleasant weather
Great for hiking, outdoor activities, and enjoying the beautiful green landscapes
Ideal for viewing the stunning fall foliage and enjoying cool, comfortable temperatures
Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and experiencing the magical winter wonderland
Shizukuishi at Night
Hiking in Shizukuishi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking area with beautiful views and well-marked trails, suitable for beginners and experienced hikers alike.
In the off-season, this ski resort offers access to various hiking trails, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
A popular hiking destination featuring a range of trails with varying levels of difficulty, perfect for a full day of exploration.
Known for its challenging trails and breathtaking scenery, this mountain attracts experienced hikers looking for a rewarding trek.
An excellent hiking spot that features diverse flora and fauna, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Shizukuishi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Shizukuishi by plane.
Located in Tokyo, Haneda Airport is one of the two primary airports serving the city and is known for its high volume of domestic and international flights.
Situated in Chiba, Narita International Airport is the other main airport serving the greater Tokyo area and focuses primarily on international passenger flights.
Located in Miyagi Prefecture, Sendai Airport is approximately 90 kilometers from Shizukuishi and serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Located near Sapporo in Hokkaido, New Chitose Airport is the largest airport in Hokkaido and serves a significant number of international flights, making it the closest major airport to Shizukuishi from the north.
Located in Hokkaido, Kushiro Airport serves domestic flights and is approximately 200 kilometers from Shizukuishi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Shizukuishi are Japanese citizens, primarily of Japanese ethnic background.
An indigenous group in the region with a distinct culture and heritage, though they represent a smaller demographic.
A smaller population of foreign residents, including expatriates and international workers, mainly involved in local industries.
The Soul of Shizukuishi
Discover the essence of Shizukuishi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is incredibly popular in Shizukuishi, with many local teams and schools participating in regional tournaments.
Soccer has a strong following in Shizukuishi, with several youth clubs and school teams actively engaging in competitions.
Given its mountainous terrain, skiing is a popular recreational activity in the winter months, attracting both locals and visitors to nearby ski resorts.
Basketball enjoys a solid community presence, with school teams and amateur leagues encouraging youth participation.
Track and field events are often promoted in schools and during local festivals, fostering a culture of athleticism and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shizukuishi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine often features meat and fish, some restaurants in Shizukuishi offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine). Prompt communication of dietary requirements to the staff is recommended for a tailored dining experience.
Visitors requiring gluten-free options can enjoy rice-based dishes like sushi, sashimi, and rice balls, as well as dishes that utilize gluten-free soy sauce. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs in advance to ensure a seamless dining experience.