Ono Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ono with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health tips, and more.


Introduction to Ono

Ono is a small charming town located in Fukui Prefecture, Chubu region, Japan. Its tranquil atmosphere and scenic landscapes make it a popular destination for both domestic Japanese travelers and international visitors seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities. Take a break from the fast-paced life and immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty that Ono has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Ono

Visitors to Ono will find plenty of fascinating attractions to explore, ranging from culturally important museums and historical places to natural attractions and outdoor adventures. Here’s a list of the best places to visit in Ono:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ono Castle

Ono Castle is a National Historic Site that dates back to the Edo period. Located on a hill, it offers spectacular views of the town below. Visitors can explore the castle’s ruins and learn about its history at the Ono Castle Museum.

Hikiyama Float Museum

Hikiyama Float Museum is a unique museum that showcases the ornate floats used in Ono’s annual Hikiyama Festival. The festival, which dates back to the 17th century, is held annually in early August and is a must-see event for visitors to Ono.

Ono Machiya Folklore Museum

Ono Machiya Folklore Museum is an old merchant’s house that has been converted into a museum showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and lifestyle. Visitors can learn about the history of Ono and see artifacts from different eras.

Natural Attractions of Ono: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mount Murou

Mount Murou is a 1,267-meter tall mountain that offers breathtaking views of Ono and its surrounding areas. Visitors can hike the trails to the summit or take a cable car from the foot of the mountain.

Gyokusen-ji Temple

Gyokusen-ji Temple is a beautiful temple located in a serene forest area. Visitors can take a stroll through the gardens, participate in meditation sessions, and even stay overnight in the temple’s lodging facilities.

Shirayama Falls

Shirayama Falls is a gorgeous waterfall located in the middle of the forest. Visitors can hike the trails to reach the waterfall and enjoy a picnic while taking in the stunning views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ono

Ono offers some of the most scenic hiking and biking trails in Japan. Here are some of the best routes:

Mount Murou Trail

The Mount Murou Trail is a challenging 6.5 kilometer hike that takes visitors to the summit of Mount Murou. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains.

Kaga Hot Spring Trail

The Kaga Hot Spring Trail is a 16 kilometer bike ride that takes visitors through beautiful countryside and past some of Ono’s famous hot springs. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and natural beauty of the area.

Best Things to Do in Ono: Activities and Tours

Hikiyama Festival

The Hikiyama Festival is a must-see event held annually in early August. Visitors can watch the ornate floats being paraded through the town and participate in the festivities.

Onsen Bathing

Onsen Bathing is a popular activity in Ono, with several hot springs located in the area. Visitors can soak in the therapeutic waters and relax after a long day of hiking or biking.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ono

Here’s a seven-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip to Ono:

Day Activity
1 Explore Ono Castle and Museum
2 Hike Mount Murou Trail
3 Visit Hikiyama Float Museum and participate in the Hikiyama Festival
4 Relax at an Onsen
5 Take a bike ride on the Kaga Hot Spring Trail
6 Visit Gyokusen-ji Temple
7 Enjoy a picnic at Shirayama Falls and try local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Ono

No trip to Ono is complete without trying some of the local cuisine and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Ono Soba

Ono Soba is a type of buckwheat noodle that is famous in the area. It’s usually served in a light broth with a variety of toppings, including tempura and green onion.

Kaga Vegetables

Kaga Vegetables are grown in the nearby Kaga region and are known for their freshness and flavor. Visitors can enjoy them in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, and stews.

Local Beverages

Sake

Sake is a well-known Japanese alcoholic beverage that is made from fermented rice. Ono has several local breweries that produce their own unique varieties of sake.

Sencha Tea

Sencha Tea is a type of green tea that is grown in the nearby mountains. Visitors can enjoy it hot or cold and can even participate in tea ceremonies at some of the local temples.

Where to Stay in Ono: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ono has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in Ono:

Onojo Yashiki

Onojo Yashiki is a traditional Japanese guesthouse that offers guests an authentic Japanese experience. Guests can stay in a tatami room and enjoy traditional Japanese meals.

Syourosen Kusamonogatari

Syourosen Kusamonogatari is a modern hotel that offers comfortable rooms and convenient amenities. It’s located near Ono Castle and many other popular attractions.

What to Buy in Ono: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are several unique souvenirs and local products available in Ono that visitors can bring home to remember their trip. Here are some of the best options:

Ono Sake

Ono Sake is a great souvenir for those who appreciate good sake. Visitors can purchase a bottle or two to take home and share with friends and family.

Katakana Calligraphy

Katakana Calligraphy is a type of Japanese calligraphy that uses the Katakana alphabet. Visitors can purchase customized calligraphy as a unique souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Ono

Ono is known for its deep respect for traditions and culture. Visitors should be mindful of local customs, such as taking off their shoes when entering someone’s home or temple, and have an open mind to new experiences and perspectives.

Best Time to Visit Ono

The best time to visit Ono is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the scenery is breathtaking with colorful foliage. However, Ono is a year-round destination and visitors can enjoy different activities and attractions depending on the season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ono

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Take time to explore the outdoors and natural beauty of the area

Don’t:

  • Not follow the rules and regulations at temples and shrines
  • Disrespect the local culture and people
  • Leave trash behind

Safety and Health

Safety in Ono

Ono is a safe town to visit, with a low crime rate. Visitors should take standard precautions such as keeping valuables safe and sticking to well-lit areas after dark.

Health in Ono

Ono has several medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, for visitors who need medical attention. Visitors should make sure they have adequate health insurance before traveling to Japan.

Getting to Ono: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ono

The nearest airport to Ono is Komatsu Airport, located approximately 80 kilometers away. From Komatsu Airport, visitors can take a bus or a train to Ono.

Bus Stations Near Ono

Ono is served by several bus stations, with buses from major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Visitors can also take a taxi or rent a car to get around Ono.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train to Ono, with the nearest train station being Sannomiyago Station. From there, visitors can take a bus or a taxi to reach their destination.

How to Get Around in Ono

Ono is a small town that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Visitors can also take a bus or a taxi to get around.

Where to Go Next from Ono: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ono is located in the Chubu region of Japan, which offers several other attractions and destinations for visitors to explore. Some popular options include:

  • Kanazawa: a historic city with stunning gardens and architecture
  • Kyoto: the cultural capital of Japan with numerous temples and shrines
  • Takayama: a picturesque town known for its Edo period architecture and festivals

Conclusion

Ono is a hidden gem in Japan that offers a unique blend of culture and nature. Its quaint charm and stunning scenery make it a must-visit destination for travelers interested in exploring the more peaceful side of Japan. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can plan their trip to Ono with confidence and make unforgettable memories.