Things To Do
in Usuki
Usuki is a charming coastal town located in Oita Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for its collection of well-preserved stone Buddhas, some of which date back over 1,300 years. The town offers a peaceful atmosphere with traditional Japanese architecture and beautiful natural scenery.
Visitors can also enjoy local hot springs, delicious seafood, and historic sites such as Usuki Castle.
- "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: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Usuki Stone Buddhas, an incredible collection of historical rock-carved statues. The peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it a perfect place for reflection.
After lunch, take a stroll through the surrounding park and enjoy the well-maintained gardens. Don't miss the chance to capture some beautiful photos of the Buddhas from different angles.
Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk around Usuki’s historic streets. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that offers delicious Japanese cuisine.
Begin your day with a visit to the Usuki Art Museum, where you can admire a variety of art pieces from local and international artists. The museum's tranquil atmosphere is perfect for art enthusiasts.
Enjoy a light lunch at the museum café before attending a guided tour or workshop. This is a great opportunity to learn about the art and culture of the region.
In the evening, explore nearby galleries and shops that showcase local artisans. Treat yourself to a nice dinner at a traditional izakaya.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and traditional architecture.
- Stunning natural beauty, including mountains and coastal views.
- Access to traditional Japanese festivals and events.
- Less crowded compared to larger Japanese cities, providing a more tranquil environment.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Limited access to international amenities and services.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
- Fewer job opportunities compared to larger urban areas.
- Public transportation options may be more limited.
- Limited shopping and entertainment options.
Best Activities in Usuki
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the ancient stone statues sculpted into the cliffside.
Explore the remains of a historic castle and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Take a guided tour through the limestone caves with impressive rock formations and underground scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Usuki with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Usuki
Visit one of these nice places.
Provides panoramic views of the surrounding area and is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Iconic and photogenic Buddhist statues set amidst the countryside, perfect for unique snapshots.
Offers stunning views of the city and surrounding nature, with an opportunity to capture the traditional Japanese architecture.
Food in Usuki
Usuki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish in Usuki, Karaage is deliciously crispy fried chicken marinated in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Look for it at local izakayas such as Torikawaya or Yume no Shiro.
Must-Try!
Buri Daikon is a comforting dish featuring yellowtail simmered in a daikon radish broth. Sample this heartwarming stew at traditional eateries like Hana no Mai.
For a unique local delicacy, try Ika Meshi, a flavorful dish of squid stuffed with seasoned rice. Visit Oyatsu-ya for an authentic taste of this culinary gem.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Start your day at the bustling Usuki Morning Market, where you can savor a variety of fresh local produce, seafood, and street snacks like takoyaki and yakisoba.
In the evening, explore the vibrant Tsubakiko Dori Street Stalls for a lively atmosphere and an array of delectable street food options, including taiyaki and imagawayaki.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In many places in Usuki, Japan, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home, certain traditional accommodations, and some public spaces like temples and restaurants.
Showing respect for elders, including using polite language and gestures, is an important cultural norm in Usuki, Japan.
Bringing a small gift when visiting someone's home or when meeting someone for the first time is a common practice in Usuki, Japan, and is a sign of respect and gratitude.
Safety
Tipping in Usuki
Ensure a smooth experience
In Usuki, Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, taxis, or other service industries. In fact, tipping may be seen as rude or inappropriate in Japanese culture.
In Usuki, Japan, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment. Credit and debit cards are also commonly accepted, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. Mobile payment methods like QR codes are becoming increasingly popular as well. It's important to note that some smaller businesses may only accept cash, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting Usuki.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Usuki, Japan is in the spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a stunning display of pink and white flowers. The temperatures are mild, and it's a great time to explore the beautiful parks and gardens in Usuki.
Summer (June to August) in Usuki can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching the high 80s. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy beach activities, as Usuki has some lovely beaches along the coast.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. The maple leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a picturesque landscape. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the colorful scenery.
Winter (December to February) in Usuki tends to be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F. While it's not a popular time for tourists, it's a good time to experience the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy activities such as onsen (hot spring baths) to warm up.
Usuki at Night
Hiking in Usuki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park offering various walking trails with beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
A hill that provides hiking trails leading to beautiful panoramic views of Usuki and its coastline.
A relatively easy hiking spot featuring lush greenery and the opportunity for bird watching.
A popular hiking trail that showcases seasonal flowers and provides a peaceful atmosphere.
A challenging hiking destination with steep trails and rewarding views at the summit.
Aiports
How to reach Usuki by plane.
Oita Airport is the nearest airport to Usuki and serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Kumamoto Airport is approximately 1.5 hours from Usuki and handles both international and domestic flights.
Fukuoka Airport is one of the largest international airports in the region, located about 2 hours away from Usuki.
Nagasaki Airport is about 2 hours away from Usuki and offers domestic and some international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Usuki, representing the cultural and historical foundation of the area.
A smaller but notable population, primarily composed of descendants of those who migrated during the 20th century.
A small community, primarily consisting of students and business professionals.
Includes various expatriates and immigrants from different countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Usuki, with a strong following at both community and school levels. Local teams often participate in regional competitions.
Soccer has gained popularity in Usuki, particularly among younger generations, with various youth leagues and clubs promoting the sport.
Basketball is also widely played in Usuki, with many schools having teams and facilities for both recreational and competitive play.
Martial arts, including judo and karate, are popular in Usuki, with many dojos offering training to students of all ages.
Running and jogging are common recreational activities in Usuki, thanks to the scenic parks and coastal areas available for exercise.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Usuki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Usuki's traditional cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, some restaurants like Mamehico offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes crafted with fresh local produce and innovative flavors.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy gluten-free dining at Yoridokoro Mikasaya, where they serve delicious rice-based dishes and accompaniments.