Things To Do
in Tanabe

This dish features lightly seared bonito, a type of fish, that is seasoned with ginger and garlic before being thinly sliced. The fresh fish and aromatic seasonings make it a tantalizing and popular choice among locals and visitors alike. Recommended location: Look for it in traditional Izakayas or seafood restaurants along the coast.

Must-Try!

Tanabe is known for its delicious Mochi, a type of rice cake made of glutinous rice. It comes in various flavors and is often served with sweet red bean paste or kinako (toasted soybean flour). Don't miss trying Mochi at local sweets shops or during traditional festivals in the area.

The Tanabe Fish Market is a haven for seafood lovers, offering a wide variety of fresh fish and shellfish directly from the nearby waters. Visitors can sample various types of sashimi or grilled fish on sticks from the market stalls, providing a true taste of local flavors and daily catches.

During the Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Festival, the area around the shrine is filled with street food stalls offering an array of local delicacies. Visitors can savor dishes like grilled seabream, sashimi, and takoyaki (octopus balls) while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.

Tipping is not a common practice in Tanabe, Japan. In fact, it can be seen as rude or insulting in some cases. In general, excellent service is expected as part of the job, and tipping is not necessary.

Payment in Tanabe, Japan is often done in cash, especially in smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger stores and restaurants. It is important to note that some places may not accept foreign credit cards, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling in Tanabe.

Best time to visit Tanabe, Japan is in spring, particularly during cherry blossom season which usually occurs from late March to early April. Expect beautiful cherry blossoms in bloom and mild temperatures.

Summers in Tanabe are warm and humid, making it a good time to visit for beach activities and to explore the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes. Summer also offers various local festivals and events.

Autumn, especially from late September to November, is another recommended time to visit Tanabe. The foliage turns into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating a picturesque scenery.

Winter in Tanabe, Japan is relatively mild compared to other areas in the country. While it may not be the peak tourist season, it offers a quieter experience and the chance to enjoy hot springs and local winter cuisine.

Located approximately 50 km northwest of Tanabe, Kansai International Airport serves as a major international gateway to Japan.

Situated about 10 km southwest of Tanabe, Nanki-Shirahama Airport offers limited international flights and is the closest airport to Tanabe.

Approximately 70 km north of Tanabe, Kobe Airport serves domestic and some international destinations.

About 75 km from Tanabe, Osaka Itami Airport primarily serves domestic flights but also connects to select international routes.

While Tanabe's traditional cuisine heavily features seafood, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based dishes, and local seasonal vegetables prepared in various ways. Communication with staff about dietary preferences is recommended to ensure a pleasant dining experience.

Gluten-free options can be found in some establishments, especially those that cater to international visitors. Dishes like sashimi, salads, and grilled meats with rice can often accommodate gluten-free diets. It's advisable for individuals with gluten restrictions to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods when ordering.