Things To Do
in Yurihonjō

Yurihonjō is a charming city located in Akita Prefecture, Japan, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including mountains and rivers, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is also famous for its local festivals and traditional crafts, showcasing the unique culture of the region.

With a welcoming atmosphere and a blend of modernity and tradition, Yurihonjō offers visitors a glimpse into the heart of rural Japan.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Lake Tazawa, where you can take a peaceful walk by the water and enjoy the serene views.

afternoon
:

Head to the Yurihonjo City Museum to learn about the local history and culture, followed by a stroll through the nearby parks.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, sampling regional dishes while interacting with locals.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby Chokai Mountain area, where you can enjoy stunning views and fresh mountain air.

afternoon
:

Visit a local onsen (hot spring) to relax and rejuvenate after your hike, soaking in the therapeutic waters.

evening
:

Explore the city’s nightlife by visiting local bars and enjoying live music performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Meal at a restaurant$10-30
🏨Hotel per night$60-150
🚉Public transport ticket$1-3
Coffee at a cafe$3-5
🍜Street food snack$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with plenty of outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood and noodles.
  • Limited English signage and communication can be a barrier.
  • Public transport can be infrequent in rural areas.
  • Less urban nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Yurihonjō

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Tazawa

Known for its stunning blue waters and scenic backdrop, Lake Tazawa is a photographer's paradise, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Chokai Mountain

Offering breathtaking views from various vantage points, this mountain is ideal for capturing the beauty of the Akita countryside.

Yurihonjo City Museum

The museum's architecture and surrounding gardens provide a picturesque setting for photography, showcasing local culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yurihonjō

Yurihonjō is a culinary delight, offering a variety of local dishes that reflect the richness of Akita's agricultural and fishing heritage.

Yurihonjō Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Inaniwa Udon

A type of handmade udon noodle that is smooth and chewy, often served in a hot broth or cold with dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Kiritanpo

Grilled rice sticks that are typically served in a hot pot with seasonal vegetables and meat, a must-try for visitors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yurihonjō Morning Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade crafts, perfect for experiencing local life.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yurihonjō experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, offering beautiful scenery with blooming flowers and colorful foliage. Rainfall is common throughout the year, so it's advisable to pack an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for traditions

Be respectful of local customs, especially when participating in cultural events or visiting shrines.

Polite communication

Use polite language and gestures, such as bowing when greeting someone, to show respect.

Shoes off indoors

Remove your shoes before entering homes, temples, and certain traditional accommodations to maintain cleanliness.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yurihonjō is generally considered a safe city for both locals and tourists. Crime rates are low, but it's always wise to take common-sense precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical services.

Tipping in Yurihonjō

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping culture

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and service staff generally do not expect tips; excellent service is standard.

Payment methods

Cash is widely used in Yurihonjō, but credit cards are accepted in many restaurants and shops; always carry some yen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings cherry blossoms, making it a picturesque time to visit parks and gardens filled with blooming sakura.

Summer

Summer offers warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and festivals celebrating local culture.

Autumn

Fall showcases vibrant foliage, particularly in the mountains, providing stunning landscapes for photography.

Winter

Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, ideal for winter sports and enjoying hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Yurihonjō at Night

Yurihonjō offers a laid-back nightlife scene with various izakayas (Japanese pubs), bars, and karaoke establishments where locals gather to unwind. Visitors can enjoy a mix of traditional and modern experiences, often accompanied by delicious local cuisine. The atmosphere is generally friendly and inviting, making it an excellent place to socialize and meet new people.

Hiking in Yurihonjō

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chokai Mountain Trails

A range of trails varying in difficulty, providing stunning views and opportunities to see local flora and fauna.

Tazawako Trail

This scenic trail around Lake Tazawa offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains, perfect for leisurely hikes.

Airports

How to reach Yurihonjō by plane.

Akita Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Yurihonjō, Akita Airport serves domestic flights and a few international routes, providing convenient access to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yurihonjō is a walkable city, particularly in its downtown area, where most shops, restaurants, and attractions are within a reasonable distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are clearly marked. However, some attractions outside the city center may require transportation for easier access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Elderly Population

Yurihonjō has a significant elderly population, reflecting Japan's overall demographic trend, which influences local culture and community activities.

Young Families

An increasing number of young families are settling in the region, drawn by its natural beauty and quality of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Yurihonjō, with local teams and school competitions drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Skiing

During the winter months, skiing is a favored activity in the nearby Chokai Mountain area, attracting both locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yurihonjō is generally light, and the city is well-connected by local bus services that facilitate travel within the area. While cars are common, public transportation is a viable option for those looking to explore without driving. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, especially in the warmer months.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yurihonjō.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While many local dishes contain meat, vegetarian options are available; be sure to communicate your dietary needs.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, but dishes like rice and certain seafood preparations can accommodate gluten restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Yurihonjō is generally good, with several local clinics and a hospital providing a range of services. Emergency medical care is available, and hospitals are equipped to handle various health issues. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to know the location of the nearest medical facility.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide