Maizuru Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, where to stay, and how to get around in Maizuru, Japan with this comprehensive tour guide.


Maizuru, located in Kyoto Prefecture in the Kansai region of Japan, is a coastal city known for its picturesque landscapes, cultural landmarks, and delicious seafood cuisine. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique local culture, a trip to Maizuru should be on every traveler’s list. This travel guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit and make the most of your time in Maizuru.

Introduction to Maizuru

Maizuru, which means “dancing crane” in Japanese, is a port city on the Sea of Japan. The city has a long history as a major naval center, with several historical sites that bear witness to this past. The area is also famous for its fresh seafood and breathtaking natural scenery.

List of Places to Visit in Maizuru

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Maizuru has a wealth of cultural attractions to visit, including museums, temples, and historical sites. Here are some must-see places to add to your itinerary:

  • Maizuru Red Brick Park: Once a naval port and now a tourist attraction, the Maizuru Red Brick Park is home to several red brick buildings that were once used as naval warehouses. The park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
  • Maizuru City Archaeological Museum: This museum houses artifacts from the Jomon and Yayoi periods, as well as exhibits on the city’s history.
  • Kaisen-dō: Dating back to the Edo period, this museum showcases the history of Maizuru as a naval base, including naval heritage and battleships used during WWII. It also has a stunning panoramic view of the Maizuru Port.
  • Fukuchiyama Castle: Located a 30-minute drive from Maizuru, this castle was built in the 16th century and has been designated as a National Historic Site.
  • Higashi-Nakasuji Temple: This temple was built in the 13th century and has a beautiful traditional Japanese garden with a pond and waterfall.

Natural Attractions of Maizuru: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Maizuru is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, from the Sea of Japan to forested mountains. There are plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors, including:

  • Tango Peninsula: A scenic coastal drive along the peninsula will take you past cliffs, coves, and hidden beaches. You can also stop at the Kuni-kyo ruins, a National Historic Site.
  • Taiza: A lovely coastal town with a sandy beach and a fishing harbor. It’s a perfect place for a seaside picnic and a scenic drive from Maizuru.
  • Amanohashidate: A must-visit spot for its “Bridge to Heaven”, a strip of land covered with thousands of pine trees that connects Amanohashidate on one end to the mainland on the other.
  • The Maizuru Bay Area: Home to a variety of natural spots, including the Nariai-ji Temple nestled in the mountains, the Daikokusan hiking trails which offer stunning views of the bay, and the Nagasakashinohama Beach, known for its beautiful sunsets.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Maizuru

Maizuru is one of the best places in Japan to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. The city has an extensive network of trails and bike paths, some of which take you to the most natural and beautiful landscapes in the area. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • The Tango Peninsula cycling course
  • The Maizuru Bay cycling course
  • The Amanohashidate-Sasayama hiking trail
  • The Kinobayama hiking trail

Best Things to Do in Maizuru: Activities and Tours

In addition to the cultural and natural attractions, Maizuru has plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Maizuru:

  • Take a boat tour around the Maizuru Bay and the surrounding lagoons
  • Visit one of the many farmers markets in the area to taste local produce and ingredients
  • Discover the local sake breweries with a guided tour and tasting
  • Join a fishing excursion and catch your own seafood
  • Attend one of the local festivals, such as the Maizuru Castle Festival or the Maizuru Odori Dance Festival

Week-Long Itinerary for Maizuru

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Maizuru, here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most out of your stay:

Day 1: Explore the Maizuru Red Brick Park and visit the Maizuru City Archaeological Museum Day 2: Hike the Kinobayama trail and visit the Higashi-Nakasuji Temple Day 3: Take a day trip to Fukuchiyama Castle and the Kuni-kyo ruins Day 4: Cycle the Maizuru Bay course with a stop at Nagasakashinohama Beach Day 5: Visit the Amanohashidate Bridge and Sasayama Shrine Day 6: Join a sake brewery tour and tasting, and visit one of the local farmers markets Day 7: Take a boat tour around the Maizuru Bay and end the day with a seafood feast at one of the local restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Maizuru

Maizuru is renowned for its fresh seafood and sake. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kani-don: A seafood rice bowl topped with fresh, locally caught crab
  • Fugu: The city has many restaurants serving this delicacy made from pufferfish
  • Taiza Crab: The Taiza area is known for its delectable crab dishes

Local Beverages

  • Sake: Maizuru is home to several breweries producing some of the most delicious sake in Japan
  • Beer: The city has a craft brewery called Yorocco that produces a range of unique and tasty brews

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

Maizuru has a range of accommodation options, including traditional Japanese inns, guesthouses, and hotels. Here are some recommendations for places to stay:

  • Guesthouse Kiwotokikara: A cozy guesthouse in the center of the city, offering comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere
  • Yumoto Fujiya Hotel: A traditional Japanese inn with hot springs and sea views, located near the Maizuru Red Brick Park
  • Satoyama Guesthouse: A restored farmhouse in the countryside, featuring a beautiful garden and spacious rooms with traditional tatami flooring

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

Maizuru is known for its seafood, sake, and crafts. Here are some items to consider as souvenirs:

  • Sake: Take home a bottle of locally brewed sake as a gift for your friends and family.
  • Maizuru Lacquerware: This traditional craft is famous in the region and is often decorated with intricate designs.
  • Seafood: Bring home some fresh seafood, including crab, squid, and sashimi, which can be vacuum-packed to take on your flight home.

Local Culture and Customs of Maizuru

Maizuru has a rich culture and history, with many traditional customs and practices still observed today.

  • Respect the local customs, such as taking off shoes before entering a home or temple.
  • Carry cash as not all businesses accept credit cards.
  • Be mindful of the environment and dispose of trash responsibly.

Best Time to Visit Maizuru

The best time to visit Maizuru is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and comfortable. Visiting during these seasons will allow you to enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and sightseeing comfortably.

Do’s and Don’ts of Maizuru

Do:

  • Try the local seafood and sake
  • Visit the local markets
  • Follow respectful customs while visiting temples and shrines

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the environment
  • Ignore local customs and traditions
  • Enter restricted areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Maizuru

Maizuru is generally a safe city. However, tourists should take normal precautions, such as avoiding unlit areas at night, protecting your valuables, and following traffic rules.

Health in Maizuru

Maizuru has modern medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Travelers are advised to get travel insurance and consult their doctor or travel clinic before departure.

Getting to Maizuru: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Maizuru

The nearest airports to Maizuru are Osaka International Airport (Itami) and Kansai International Airport. From there, you can take a train or a car rental to reach Maizuru.

Train Stations Near Maizuru

Maizuru is served by the JR West Sanin Main Line, which connects the city to Kyoto, Osaka, and other destinations in the region.

Other Options

There are bus services from Kyoto Station and other major cities. Car rental is also an option for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Maizuru

Maizuru is a small city, and most attractions are within walking or cycling distance. Taxis and buses are also available.

Where to Go Next from Maizuru: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time, consider visiting these nearby destinations:

  • Kyoto: A cultural hub with countless temples, shrines, and historical sites
  • Himeji: Home to one of Japan’s most famous castles, Himeji Castle
  • Ine: A picturesque fishing village with traditional Japanese houses built on stilts

Conclusion

Maizuru, with its rich culture, stunning natural scenery, and hearty cuisine, is a destination that should not be missed. Whether you are interested in history, outdoor activities, or just enjoying the local culture and cuisine, Maizuru has something for everyone. With this travel guide as your reference, you will have all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to this unique and beautiful city.

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