Kikugawa Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, sights to see, food to eat, and culture to learn in Kikugawa, Japan through this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Kikugawa

Kikugawa is a small city located in Shizuoka prefecture, in Chubu, Japan. The city is known for its serene natural scenery and cultural attractions. Kikugawa is a popular destination for tourists looking for a peaceful getaway that is not too far from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka.

List of Places to Visit in Kikugawa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Kikugawa City Museum of Art: The museum displays paintings, sculptures, and other artworks by local and international artists.
  2. Kikugawa Folk Museum: The museum offers an insight into the daily life of the locals in Kikugawa during the Edo period.
  3. Shioya Gohonmatsu House: A well-preserved samurai house that gives visitors a glimpse into the life of a samurai and his family.
  4. Ogasayama Natural Recreation Forest: Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and explore its walking/hiking trails, natural hot springs, and adventure facilities.
  5. Kikukawa Castle Ruins: The ruins of Kikugawa Castle are significant historical landmarks that remind visitors of the city’s rich history.

Natural Attractions of Kikugawa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Tanukiyama Park: The park is located on a hill and offers panoramic views of the city landscape. The park has a variety of sports facilities for visitors, including tennis courts and various playgrounds.
  2. Fujieda Toge Pass: The pass connects Kikugawa with Fujieda, and the scenery is breathtaking. Visitors can take a leisurely drive or hike up the pass.
  3. Mount Kanuki: The mountain offers scenic views of nature, especially during autumn when the leaves change color. Visitors can hike up to the summit.
  4. Higashiyama Park: The park has a botanical garden with more than 1,300 plant species. It offers visitors an excellent opportunity to relax and indulge in nature.
  5. Yuyama Waterfall: A stunning waterfall that is famous for its beauty and natural surroundings. It’s an ideal spot for picnics and outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kikugawa

  1. Mount Kanuki Hiking Trail: A challenging trail that takes visitors to the summit of Mount Kanuki. Hikers need to be physically fit to undertake this hike.
  2. Kikugawa Cycling Route: The route is popular with cycling enthusiasts as it offers scenic views of nature.
  3. Fujieda-Toge Pass Hiking Trail: The trail connects Kikugawa with Fujieda and offers hikers an opportunity to see the stunning views of nature.

Best Things to Do in Kikugawa: Activities and Tours

  1. Kikugawa Tea Tour: The tour takes visitors through tea plantations, where they can learn about tea processing and sample various kinds of tea.
  2. Harvest Experience: Visitors can participate in various harvest experiences (such as grape picking, strawberry picking, or mushroom hunting) depending on the season.
  3. Kikugawa Festival: The city hosts various festivals that are worth checking; they feature traditional performances, parades, and food.
  4. Sumo Wrestling: Visitors can watch sumo wrestling matches at a local stadium on designated days.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kikugawa

Day Activity
1 Visit Kikugawa City Museum of Art and Higashiyama Park
2 Hike up Mount Kanuki and visit Ogasayama Natural Recreation Forest
3 Explore Kikugawa Tea Plantations and do a Tea Tour
4 Visit Shioya Gohonmatsu House and Fujieda-Toge Pass
5 Learn about Local Customs and Culture at Kikugawa Folk Museum
6 Take a stroll at Tanukiyama Park and visit Yuyama Waterfall
7 Attend a local festival and experience the culture of Kikugawa

Food and Drink Scene of Kikugawa

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Kikugawa Ham: A type of ham smoked with the leaves of the Yabukita tea plant, giving it a unique flavor.
  2. Sudachi: A citrus fruit that is commonly used as a seasoning in Kikugawa. Try it with sashimi or grilled fish for the perfect combination.
  3. Unagi: A type of freshwater eel grilled with a secret sauce that is said to enhance its flavor.

Local Beverages

  1. Green Tea: Kikugawa is famous for its green tea, which is produced and processed locally. Most tea plantations offer tea-tasting experiences for visitors.
  2. Sake: Sake is a traditional Japanese alcoholic drink, and the Kikugawa area boasts several well-established breweries.

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

  1. Kikugawa Sakura Hotel: This hotel is ideal for visitors on a budget. It offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities at reasonable prices.
  2. Kikugawa Station Hotel: Located near the Kikugawa train station, this hotel is convenient for visitors who want to explore the city without spending too much time traveling.
  3. Shizutetsu Hotel Kikugawa: A modern hotel that offers luxurious rooms and hotel amenities for visitors who want to have a premium experience.

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

  1. Kikugawa Tea: The city is famous for its green tea, so visitors should try bringing some home.
  2. Kikugawa Ham: You can purchase the famous ham as a souvenir.
  3. Sudachi Juice: Sudachi juice makes for the perfect souvenir for people who love local flavors.

Local Culture and Customs of Kikugawa

The locals of Kikugawa are known for their love of nature and traditional Japanese customs. Visitors are expected to follow some unspoken cultural rules, such as not littering, being respectful to elders, and taking off their shoes when entering a home or temple.

Best Time to Visit Kikugawa

The best time to visit Kikugawa is from late March to early May, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Alternatively, autumn (September to November) offers great views of the changing colors of the leaves.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kikugawa

Do:

  1. Try the Local Dishes and Beverages: Visitors should try Kikugawa’s local dishes and beverages to get a taste of the city’s unique flavors.
  2. Respect the Local Culture and Customs: Visitors should respect the local customs during their stay in Kikugawa.
  3. Take Advantage of Outdoor Activities: Kikugawa’s scenic beauty is best enjoyed through outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and nature walks.

Don’t:

  1. Litter: Visitors should avoid littering, and dispose of their waste responsibly.
  2. Ignore Local Customs: Visitors should not ignore local customs and should be respectful to the locals of Kikugawa.
  3. Be Rude: Visitors are expected to be courteous and polite to the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kikugawa

Kikugawa is a relatively safe city, and crime rates are low. Visitors are advised to keep their belongings safe and to be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Health in Kikugawa

Kikugawa has several hospitals and clinics that offer medical services to visitors. Visitors are advised to purchase travel insurance before their visit.

Getting to Kikugawa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kikugawa

  1. Mount Fuji Shizuoka Airport: Located about 40 km from Kikugawa city center, the airport is served by several airlines.
  2. Tokyo Haneda Airport: A major international airport located about 200 km northeast of Kikugawa, serves several airlines.

Bus Stations Near Kikugawa

Several buses connect Kikugawa with neighboring cities, including Shizuoka, Hamamatsu, Fuji, and Fujieda.

Other Options

Visitors can use trains (Shinkansen or local trains) to reach Kikugawa from Tokyo or Osaka.

How to Get Around in Kikugawa

Visitors can use public transportation (buses and trains) or rent a car to explore the city and surrounding areas. Taxis are also available.

Where to Go Next from Kikugawa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Shizuoka: A neighboring city famous for its hot springs, beaches, and agriculture.
  2. Mount Fuji: One of Japan’s most iconic landmarks is located about 70 km from Kikugawa.
  3. Kyoto: Visitors can take a train from Kikugawa to Kyoto to explore the city’s temples, gardens, and culture.

Conclusion

Kikugawa is a beautiful city that offers visitors a perfect blend of nature, culture, and traditional Japanese customs. From scenic views to local delicacies, Kikugawa has something for every type of traveller. Plan your visit today and discover why Kikugawa is one of Japan’s best-kept secrets.