Things To Do
in Tōmi
Tōmi is a charming town located in the Nagano Prefecture of Japan, known for its picturesque countryside and serene atmosphere. The town is surrounded by lush greenery, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Tōmi is also famous for its hot springs, providing a relaxing experience for those seeking rejuvenation and relaxation.
With a rich history dating back centuries, Tōmi offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture and lifestyle.
- "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 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Tōmi’s beautiful parks, perfect for a morning stroll. Capture the local flora and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Explore the local markets to experience Tōmi’s vibrant culture. Sample some of the famous local delicacies and buy handmade crafts.
Wind down your day with a relaxing dinner at a local izakaya. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and try a variety of traditional Japanese dishes.
Kick off your day with a hike in the nearby hills. The stunning views from the top are worth the effort.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in a serene natural setting. Spend some time watching the local wildlife around you.
Return to Tōmi and enjoy a rejuvenating foot bath at a local onsen. It’s the perfect way to relax and soothe your tired muscles.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes including mountains and rivers
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Low crime rate and safe environment
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking and fishing
- Limited public transportation options
- Fewer job opportunities compared to larger cities
- Possibility of harsh winter weather
- Limited access to international amenities and services
- Cultural differences may be challenging for newcomers
Best Activities in Tōmi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy various hiking trails in the beautiful Tōmi mountains, offering breathtaking views and a chance to experience the region's natural beauty.
Explore the picturesque Chikuma River by bike, taking in the tranquil surroundings and peaceful countryside of Tōmi.
Take a scenic walk to the iconic Shirakawa Bridge, known for its stunning architecture and picturesque location amidst natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tōmi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tōmi
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering panoramic views of the surrounding area
Beautiful architecture and serene surroundings for photo opportunities
360-degree views of the city and surrounding mountains
Food in Tōmi
Tōmi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick udon noodles served in a bonito broth, often accompanied by local mountain vegetables. A must-try at Tōmi's traditional udon shops such as Tōmi Udon Honpo.
Must-Try!
Horse sashimi, a regional specialty usually found at izakayas like Yamanaka.
Miso grilled on a magnolia leaf, offering a unique and aromatic flavor. Visit Hoba Miso Yamabiko to savor this local favorite.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tōmi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Start your day by exploring the bustling stalls offering fresh produce, local snacks, and artisanal crafts. Try Yaki Manju, a sweet bun filled with red bean paste, at the market.
Savor freshly made soba noodles at the street stalls, where you can watch skilled artisans prepare this staple dish right in front of you.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tōmi, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments like ryokan (inns) and temples. This shows respect for the cleanliness of the interior and is a common practice in Japanese culture.
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Tōmi and throughout Japan. It is customary to use polite language and show deference to older individuals, as they are often regarded for their wisdom and experience.
Maintaining a quiet and orderly demeanor in public places is highly valued in Tōmi. This includes using indoor voices, refraining from disruptive behavior, and being mindful of others' personal space.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tōmi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tōmi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Tōmi. It is generally not expected or required, and can even be considered rude in some situations. Service charges are often included in the bill at hotels and restaurants.
In Tōmi, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially at larger establishments. Contactless and mobile payments are becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tōmi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tōmi, Japan as the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and the weather is mild and pleasant.
Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rain showers. This is the time for summer festivals and outdoor activities.
Great time to visit Tōmi, Japan as the foliage turns into beautiful shades of red and gold, creating picturesque landscapes.
Expect cold weather with occasional snowfall, making it a great time for enjoying winter sports and soaking in onsens (hot springs).
Tōmi at Night
Hiking in Tōmi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and scenic hiking trails that offer stunning views of the rural landscape.
Located in the Northern Japan Alps, Kamikochi features beautiful mountainous terrain, crystal-clear rivers, and a variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
One of the prominent peaks of the Northern Japan Alps, Mount Yari offers challenging hikes with rewarding panoramic views from the summit.
A tranquil hiking trail that takes you through lush forests, providing encounters with local wildlife and beautiful natural scenery.
A scenic highland area with multiple hiking routes, Norikura Plateau is known for its flowers, alpine lakes, and impressive mountain views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tōmi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tōmi by plane.
Located approximately 70 km east of Tōmi, Narita International Airport is one of Japan's primary international airports, serving as a major gateway for international travelers.
Situated about 100 km south of Tōmi, Haneda Airport is one of the busiest airports in Japan and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 400 km west of Tōmi, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka area and is a key hub for international flights.
About 250 km southwest of Tōmi, Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the Nagoya area and offers numerous international flight options.
Approximately 330 km north of Tōmi, Sendai Airport offers a mix of domestic and international flights, primarily serving the Tohoku region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population consisting of Japanese citizens living in Tōmi.
Elderly residents, typically aged 65 and over, who make up a significant portion of the population.
Individuals aged 15 to 64, representing the primary workforce.
Residents aged 0 to 14, including school-age children and teenagers.
People from other countries living in Tōmi, including expatriates and long-term residents.
The Soul of Tōmi
Discover the essence of Tōmi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely followed sport in Tōmi, attracting many youth and adult leagues, with local teams participating in tournaments.
One of Japan's most popular sports, baseball has a strong presence in Tōmi with local teams and school competitions.
A growing sport in Tōmi, with community leagues and school teams playing actively throughout the year.
Popular among schools and recreational clubs, volleyball is played frequently in Tōmi, especially during the summer.
With a rich martial arts culture in Japan, karate is practiced in Tōmi, with various dojos offering classes for all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tōmi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Tōmi's traditional cuisine often features meat, many restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes like tempura and vegetable sushi. Shojin ryori, the vegetarian cuisine originally developed by Buddhist monks, can be found at select establishments.
Though vegan options might be limited, some restaurants and cafes are accommodating. Look for dishes like yasai tempura (vegetable tempura), vegetable sushi, and yudofu (tofu hot pot).
While wheat-based products are prevalent, certain dishes such as sashimi, yakitori, and sashimi salad can be enjoyed as gluten-free alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tōmi with these cultural adventures.
