Things To Do
in Suzukawa

Suzukawa is a charming town located in the Gifu Prefecture of Japan, known for its beautiful natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the hills, it offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese architecture and modern conveniences. The town is also famous for its hot springs, which attract visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

With friendly locals and a tranquil atmosphere, Suzukawa is an ideal destination for those looking to experience authentic rural Japan.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Suzukawa Shrine, where you can admire traditional Shinto architecture and enjoy the serene surroundings.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local cafe, explore the quaint streets of Suzukawa, visiting small shops selling handmade crafts and local produce.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a soak in one of the town’s famous onsen (hot springs) followed by dinner at a traditional izakaya.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning hike to the nearby Yamanaka Falls, enjoying the stunning views and the sound of cascading water.

afternoon
:

Visit the local art museum featuring works by regional artists, followed by a leisurely walk in the surrounding gardens.

evening
:

Enjoy a meal at a restaurant specializing in Gifu cuisine, followed by a night stroll to appreciate the town's peaceful ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$20
Coffee$4
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🏨Hotel Night$80
🚌Local Bus Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Tranquil environment away from tourist crowds
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Transportation can be challenging without a car
  • English may not be widely spoken
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Suzukawa

Visit one of these nice places.

Suzukawa Shrine

Capture the beauty of this historic shrine surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring.

Yamanaka Falls

A stunning waterfall perfect for nature photography, especially during autumn foliage.

Old Town Streets

Photograph the picturesque streets lined with traditional wooden houses and shops.

Culinary Guide

Food in Suzukawa

Suzukawa offers a delightful culinary experience, highlighting the region's fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Suzukawa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hida Beef

A premium grade of beef known for its marbling and rich flavor, often enjoyed grilled or in hot pots.

Must-Try!

Miso Katsu

A local variation of the classic tonkatsu, featuring deep-fried pork cutlet served with a rich miso sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Suzukawa Morning Market

A vibrant market held every Sunday, offering fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade crafts.

Street Takoyaki Stalls

Enjoy freshly made takoyaki balls filled with octopus, a popular street food snack.

Climate Guide

Weather

Suzukawa experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F), while winters can be cold and snowy, averaging around -2°C (28°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal times for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance when interacting and avoid loud conversations.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.

Polite Greetings

A simple bow and a polite greeting are essential when meeting locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Suzukawa is generally a safe town with a low crime rate. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as safeguarding personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially during night outings.

Tipping in Suzukawa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as standard.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and beautiful cherry blossoms blooming, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid temperatures; enjoy local festivals and cool off in the nearby rivers.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with vibrant fall foliage, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold and snowy; experience the charm of onsen visits and winter festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Suzukawa at Night

Suzukawa's nightlife is relaxed and low-key, primarily featuring izakayas and small bars. Locals enjoy unwinding after work with friends over drinks and Japanese snacks. The atmosphere is friendly, and you may find some bars offering live music, especially during local festivals.

Hiking in Suzukawa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mikuni Mountain Trail

A challenging trail offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and flora.

Kiso Valley Trail

A scenic hike along the historic Kiso Valley, known for its beautiful rivers and traditional post towns.

Airports

How to reach Suzukawa by plane.

Nagoya Airfield

Located about 1.5 hours from Suzukawa, this airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Suzukawa is quite walkable, with compact streets and pedestrian-friendly areas. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a 20-minute walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families reside in Suzukawa, enjoying the town's peaceful environment and educational opportunities.

Retirees

The town is home to a growing number of retirees seeking a quiet and scenic place to live.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime among locals, with many amateur teams playing in the region.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with local clubs and community events held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Suzukawa is generally light, with most residents using bicycles or walking for short distances. The town has a local bus service connecting major points; however, having a car is more convenient for exploring further areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Suzukawa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; inquire about rice-based dishes and avoid soy sauce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Suzukawa are accessible, with a local clinic and hospitals available for residents and visitors. It's advisable to have travel insurance, as it covers medical expenses for foreign visitors.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide