Muroran Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Muroran, Japan? Check out our comprehensive travel guide which includes information on places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, and more.


Introduction to Muroran

Located in the central circuit of Hokkaido, Japan, Muroran is a beautiful port city surrounded by mountains and sea. It is a famous tourist destination, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. If you are planning a trip to Japan, a visit to Muroran is a must. In this comprehensive travel guide, we provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Muroran.

List of Places to Visit in Muroran

There is no dearth of attractions in Muroran. Here is a list of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Muroran City Museum of Natural History
  2. Muroran Museum of Art
  3. Cape Chikyu
  4. Hakucho Bridge
  5. Muroran City Folk Museum

Natural Attractions of Muroran: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Sokuryo
  2. Toyomi Hot Springs
  3. Muroran City Aquarium
  4. Nakatoya Observatory
  5. Teine Volcano Group

Hiking/Biking Routes of Muroran

For outdoor enthusiasts, Muroran offers several hiking and biking routes. Here are the best ones:

  1. Mount Sokuryo Trail
  2. Muroran Bike Path
  3. Kumanolake Four Seasons Course
  4. Noboribetsu Canoe and Mountain Bike Course
  5. Shiraoi Hiking Course

Best Things to Do in Muroran: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are several other activities to indulge in Muroran. Here are the must-do activities:

  1. Go on a whale watching tour
  2. Explore Muroran Port
  3. Visit Kumaoka Tenmangu
  4. Attend the Muroran Fisherman’s Festival
  5. Take a cruise around Muroran Bay

Week-Long Itinerary for Muroran

Here is a week-long itinerary for Muroran:

Days Activities
Day 1 Explore Mount Sokuryo, visit Muroran City Museum of Natural History
Day 2 Go on a whale watching tour, visit the Muroran City Aquarium
Day 3 Hike the Muroran Bike Path, visit Nakatoya Observatory
Day 4 Visit Cape Chikyu, explore Hakucho Bridge
Day 5 Attend the Muroran Fisherman’s Festival, take a cruise around Muroran Bay
Day 6 Visit Kumaoka Tenmangu, take the Shiraoi Hiking Course
Day 7 Soak in the Toyomi Hot Springs, visit the Muroran Museum of Art

Food and Drink Scene of Muroran

Muroran is known for its delicious cuisine. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Muroran Yakitori
  2. Muroran Curry
  3. Hokkaido Ramen
  4. Ishikari Nabe
  5. Jingisukan (Mongolian Hot Pot)

Local Beverages

  1. Sake
  2. Shochu
  3. Beer
  4. Whiskey
  5. Japanese Green Tea

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

Muroran offers a variety of accommodation options. Here are some of the best ones:

  1. Dormy Inn Premium Muroran
  2. Hotel Muroran Hills
  3. Muroran Prince Hotel
  4. Hotel Route-Inn Muroran
  5. Comfort Hotel Muroran

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

Muroran is famous for its local products such as:

  1. Seafood
  2. Muroran Yakitori Sauce
  3. Hokkaido Ramen Noodles
  4. Pottery
  5. Textiles

Local Culture and Customs of Muroran

Muroran is proud of its unique culture and customs. Here are some of the most significant:

  1. Respect for elders
  2. Honoring the sea
  3. Love for nature
  4. Passion for food
  5. Appreciation of art

Best Time to Visit Muroran

The best time to visit Muroran is in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is milder and the foliage is breathtaking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Muroran

Do:

  1. Be respectful of local traditions and customs
  2. Try local cuisine
  3. Take off your shoes before entering homes and buildings
  4. Carry cash as not all shops and restaurants accept credit cards
  5. Learn some basic Japanese

Don’t:

  1. Smoke in public places
  2. Leave tips in restaurants
  3. Wear shoes inside homes and buildings
  4. Be loud or disrespectful
  5. Enter onsens (hot springs) if you have any open wounds

Safety and Health

Safety in Muroran

Muroran is a safe city with low crime rates. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions such as carrying identification and staying aware of your surroundings.

Health in Muroran

Muroran has an excellent healthcare system, and medical facilities are easily accessible. However, it is recommended to have travel insurance before embarking on your trip.

Getting to Muroran: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Muroran

New Chitose Airport is the nearest airport to Muroran, located about 90 kilometers away. From there, buses and taxis are available to reach Muroran.

Bus Stations Near Muroran

Muroran Bus Terminal is the main bus station in the city, connecting it to other locations in Hokkaido and Japan.

Other Options

Muroran can also be reached by train or car.

How to Get Around in Muroran

The best way to get around Muroran is by car or bus, both of which are readily available for rent.

Where to Go Next from Muroran: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the best places to visit near Muroran are:

  1. Noboribetsu
  2. Lake Toya
  3. Sapporo
  4. Otaru
  5. Hakodate

Conclusion

Muroran is a charming city with much to explore. If you are looking for a unique travel experience, Muroran is the perfect destination for you. Plan your trip accordingly, and make sure to indulge in the delicious food, immerse yourself in the local culture, and explore the stunning natural beauty that this city has to offer.