Things To Do
in Takehara

Takehara, Japan is a charming city located in Hiroshima Prefecture, known for its well-preserved historical buildings and traditional sake breweries. The city is surrounded by beautiful nature, including mountains and coastline, making it an ideal destination for both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. Takehara offers a glimpse into Japan's Edo period with its quaint streets and preserved architecture.

It's also famous for its local cuisine, particularly its sake, which draws visitors from all over the world.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Takehara
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Takehara Museum to learn about the city's rich history and culture. Next, stroll through the preserved streets of the Takehara Historical District, where you can admire traditional wooden houses and sake breweries.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving Takehara-style sushi. Afterward, visit the famous Munechika Shrine, known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya where you can try various Japanese tapas-style dishes. End the night with a walk along the waterfront, enjoying the serene views of the Seto Inland Sea.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Flavors
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the nearby Mount Fudekage, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy at the summit.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit a local sake brewery for a guided tour and tasting, learning about the sake-making process. Have lunch at a nearby café that specializes in local ingredients.

evening
:

Visit the Takehara Art Museum to appreciate local art, followed by dinner at a seafood restaurant, where you can savor fresh dishes from the Seto Inland Sea.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍶Sake Bottle$25
Coffee$4
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🚍Bus Ticket$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural experiences
  • Delicious local cuisine and sake
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers
  • Public transportation may require some planning
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Takehara

Visit one of these nice places.

Takehara Historical District

Stroll through the streets filled with traditional wooden buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of old Japan.

Munechika Shrine

A beautiful shrine surrounded by nature, offering stunning photo opportunities, especially during cherry blossom season.

Seto Inland Sea Viewpoints

Numerous spots along the coastline provide breathtaking views of the sea, especially during sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Takehara

Takehara is a culinary delight, especially known for its sake and fresh seafood. The city offers a variety of local dishes that showcase the region's rich agricultural and maritime resources.

Takehara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Takehara Sake

A locally brewed sake known for its smooth taste and rich flavor.

Must-Try!

Takehara-style Sushi

Sushi made with fresh local fish, often served with a unique twist.

Seto Inland Sea Seafood

Fresh seafood dishes highlighting local catches such as fish and shellfish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Takehara Food Market

A vibrant market where you can sample local snacks, fresh produce, and traditional sweets.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls in the city selling delicious takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers).

Climate Guide

Weather

Takehara experiences a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F). Winters (December-February) are mild with temperatures ranging from 0-10°C (32-50°F). Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful seasonal changes, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Polite Greetings

Always bow slightly when greeting someone and use polite language.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Respect for Nature

Dispose of trash properly and respect nature, especially in parks and hiking areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Takehara is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure. In case of emergencies, local hospitals are equipped to handle medical issues.

Tipping in Takehara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be seen as rude; service charges are typically included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly popular; ensure to have yen for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms bloom, painting the town with pink hues; ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather with occasional rain; great for exploring beaches and enjoying local seafood.

Autumn

Beautiful fall foliage; perfect for hiking and photography amid colorful landscapes.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snow; enjoy warm dishes and cozy atmospheres in local eateries.

Nightlife Guide

Takehara at Night

Takehara's nightlife is relatively low-key, focused on local izakayas and bars where you can enjoy sake and small plates. There are a few karaoke venues and pubs, but the scene is more about socializing in a relaxed atmosphere rather than wild parties. Enjoying the local cuisine and sake while mingling with locals is a unique experience.

Hiking in Takehara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Fudekage Trail

A moderate hiking trail that offers spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding countryside.

Takahashi River Trail

A scenic riverside trail suitable for leisurely walks and picnics, surrounded by lush greenery.

Airports

How to reach Takehara by plane.

Hiroshima Airport

Located about 70 km from Takehara, Hiroshima Airport offers domestic and international flights, with easy access to the city by bus or train.

Getting Around

Walkability

Takehara is a relatively walkable city, especially in the historical district where most attractions are within walking distance. The streets are well-maintained, and walking allows visitors to fully appreciate the beautiful architecture and local shops. However, some areas may require walking on uneven surfaces, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Takehara has a population of approximately 20,000, with a mix of young families and older residents who cherish the city's history.

Tourists

The city attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly those interested in history, culture, and sake.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in Japan, with local teams and schools often playing in the summer.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with many youth leagues and community clubs participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Takehara is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses and trains, which are punctual and reliable. However, it's advisable to check schedules in advance, as services may be limited on weekends and holidays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Takehara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check if dashi (fish stock) is used.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; consider bringing snacks and communicating dietary needs in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Takehara is good, with several clinics and a hospital offering services. Most healthcare professionals speak basic English, and medication can be easily obtained from local pharmacies. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide