Things To Do
in Utazu
Utazu is a charming town located in the Kagawa Prefecture of Japan. It is known for its picturesque views of the Seto Inland Sea and beautiful cherry blossom trees that line the streets. The town is also home to the historic Anrakuji Temple, a designated national treasure.
Visitors can enjoy cycling along the scenic Shikoku Pilgrimage route and exploring traditional Japanese architecture in Utazu.
- "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 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the sunrise. Visit the local bakery to try some fresh Japanese pastries and coffee.
Take a bicycle tour around the area, exploring hidden spots and local shops. Stop for lunch at a traditional sushi restaurant for an authentic experience.
Relax at a local izakaya, sampling various small dishes. End your evening with a peaceful walk by the shore as the sun sets.
Visit the beautiful Utazu Jinja Shrine, enjoying its serene atmosphere. Participate in a morning meditation session if available.
Explore the local arts and crafts markets, picking up unique souvenirs. Have lunch at a nearby noodle shop to taste the local udon.
Attend a local performance or festival if happening during your visit. Dine at a traditional kaiseki restaurant for a multi-course culinary experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional Japanese architecture and festivals.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including access to coastal views and mountains.
- Peaceful and quiet living environment with a close-knit community.
- Delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood and noodles unique to the region.
- Proximity to Kanazawa and other historical cities for day trips.
- Limited access to major urban amenities compared to larger cities.
- Fewer job opportunities in specialized fields, leading to a potential need for commuting.
- Public transportation options may be less frequent than in metropolitan areas.
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers may be challenging for expats.
- Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy snow in winter, can affect daily life.
Best Activities in Utazu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of Setonaikai National Park, known for its stunning coastal views, diverse flora and fauna, and well-maintained paths suitable for all levels of hikers.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the coastline of Utazu, taking in the refreshing sea air and picturesque views of the Shikoku Island and the Seto Inland Sea.
Relax or engage in various activities at Utazu Marine Park's beaches, including swimming, picnicking, and beach volleyball, making it a perfect spot for families.
Experience kayaking in the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea, where you can paddle along the coastline and explore tranquil coves and small islands.
Try your hand at fishing from the local ports or charter a boat for a deep-sea fishing experience in the bountiful waters of the Seto Inland Sea.
Explore Utazu Park, which features beautiful walking paths, playgrounds, and gardens, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll or family outings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Utazu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Utazu
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding area.
Provides stunning views of the sea and nearby islands, as well as a picturesque park for photography.
A viewpoint for capturing the iconic architecture of the bridge and the scenic beauty of the Seto Inland Sea.
Food in Utazu
Utazu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional specialty, Sanuki Udon is a type of thick wheat noodle served in a savory broth. Visit Yamamotoya, a renowned local restaurant, for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
Tai-meshi, or sea bream rice, is a flavorful dish made with locally caught sea bream. Head to Yuimaru Utazu for a delicious serving of this delicacy.
Saba-zushi is a type of sushi unique to the Kagawa region, featuring mackerel and vinegared rice. Try it at Sushi Ichiraku for an unforgettable taste of local flavors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Utazu better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the lively Utazu Fish Market to discover an array of fresh seafood, including sashimi, grilled fish, and seafood snacks.
Don't miss the Takasebune Food Stand, where you can indulge in a variety of street foods such as yakitori, takoyaki, and taiyaki filled with red bean paste.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Utazu, as in the rest of Japan, politeness is paramount. Always greet people with a bow and use formal titles and honorifics when addressing others. Showing respect through body language, such as avoiding loud conversations in public and keeping a serene demeanor, is highly valued.
When dining, it is customary to say 'itadakimasu' before starting your meal and 'gochisousama deshita' after finishing. Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as this resembles funeral rituals. Additionally, sharing food from communal dishes is common, but use the opposite end of your chopsticks to serve yourself.
It is important to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments, like ryokan (inns). Slippers may be provided for indoor use. Being mindful of this practice shows respect for the cleanliness and customs of Japanese homes.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Utazu with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Utazu
Ensure a smooth experience
In Japan, tipping is generally not practiced, and can sometimes be considered rude. Service charges are typically included in the bill, and excellent service is expected as a standard. Instead of tipping, appreciation can be expressed through a polite thank you or by leaving a small gift.
In Utazu, as in other parts of Japan, cash is widely accepted for payments, though credit and debit cards are becoming more common. Mobile payment options are gaining popularity, and it is common to find convenience stores and restaurants accepting these methods. It is customary to place cash in a small tray provided rather than handing it directly to the cashier.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Utazu.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Utazu, Japan is in spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a beautiful and picturesque scenery. The weather is mild and suitable for outdoor activities.
During summer (June to August), Utazu experiences warm and humid weather. It is a great time to enjoy local festivals, outdoor events, and visit the nearby beaches.
Autumn (September to November) brings pleasant temperatures and the stunning colors of fall foliage. It is an ideal time for hiking and enjoying the scenic landscape.
Winter (December to February) in Utazu is relatively mild with occasional snowfall. Visitors can enjoy hot springs, winter illuminations, and seasonal local cuisine.
Utazu at Night
Hiking in Utazu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large karst plateau ideal for hiking, offering spectacular views and various trails.
Although primarily a garden, it has walking trails that allow for a scenic hike amidst beautiful landscapes.
A popular hiking spot that provides panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding areas.
A mountainous area with established paths, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Known for its historical shrine, it offers a well-maintained hiking trail with several steps and beautiful scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Utazu through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Utazu by plane.
Located approximately 39 kilometers from Utazu, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka area and offers a wide range of international flights.
Situated around 65 kilometers from Utazu, Okayama Airport provides both domestic and limited international services.
Approximately 103 kilometers from Utazu, Hiroshima Airport offers international flights along with various domestic options.
Located about 60 kilometers from Utazu, this smaller airport handles regional flights with limited international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Utazu, Japan, comprising the majority of the population.
Includes expatriates and foreign workers living in Utazu, representing a diverse set of nationalities.
A significant demographic group consisting of elderly residents, often involved in community activities.
Includes children and teenagers, making up an important part of the local community and schools.
The Soul of Utazu
Discover the essence of Utazu through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, including in Utazu, with many local teams and schools participating in competitions.
Soccer has a strong following in Utazu, with local clubs and a youth development system fostering talent in the sport.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local communities, with many recreational leagues available.
Volleyball is a popular sport, particularly among schools and community centers in Utazu, promoting teamwork and collaboration.
Table tennis is commonly played in schools and clubs, with a focus on skill development and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Utazu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine leans heavily towards seafood and meat, some restaurants like Mamecha offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as vegetable tempura and tofu-based meals.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free rice-based dishes like sashimi, rice bowls, and certain types of sushi available at various dining establishments in Utazu.