Susaki Travel Guide

Read this comprehensive travel guide to Susaki, Japan and discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in this charming town located in Kochi prefecture, Shikoku.


Introduction to Susaki

Located in the Kochi Prefecture of Shikoku, Susaki is a charming town that offers visitors a variety of things to see and do, from exploring cultural and historical attractions to outdoor adventures and scenic views. The town is famous for its fishing industry and has become a popular destination for those seeking a unique taste of traditional Japanese life.

List of Places to Visit in Susaki

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Susaki Castle: This historical site dates back to the 16th century and is a must-visit destination for history buffs.
  2. Horin-ji Temple: This ancient temple is located in the heart of Susaki and serves as a reminder of the area’s rich spiritual history.
  3. Aoshima Shrine: The Aoshima Shrine is a beautiful and serene spot that is surrounded by natural beauty and offers stunning views of the sea.

Natural Attractions of Susaki: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Cape Murato: This breathtaking destination offers stunning coastal views and is a great place to watch the sunset.
  2. Hirajo Falls: Hirajo Falls is a stunning waterfall that can be found in the heart of the mountains, surrounded by verdant forests.
  3. Kataura Bay: This picturesque bay is a great place to kayak or paddleboard.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Susaki

  1. Shiraishi Island Loop Trail: This trail takes visitors along a scenic route around the island, offering stunning sea views and glimpses into traditional island life.
  2. Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail: Susaki is one of the starting points for the Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail, an ancient route that circles the island of Shikoku and passes 88 temples.
  3. Akaishi Mountains Trail: This trail takes hikers to the summit of Mount Shiromine and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain range.

Best Things to Do in Susaki: Activities and Tours

  1. Fishing Trip: Susaki is famous for its fishing industry and visitors can take a trip out to sea to try their hand at catching local fish such as mackerel, bonito or yellowtail.
  2. Local Food Tour: Take a tour of the town and sample some of its local delicacies, such as katsuo no tataki (seared bonito), and sake, a local rice wine.
  3. Kayaking and Paddle Boarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the picturesque Kataura Bay.

Week-Long Itinerary for Susaki

Day Activity
1 Explore the Historical Sites - Susaki Castle, Horin-ji Temple
2 Kayak in Akaishi Bay
3 Hike the Shiraishi Island Loop Trail
4 Take a trip to Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail
5 Fishing Trip
6 Visit to Hirajo Falls
7 Shop for souvenirs and try local delicacies in the town centre

Food and Drink Scene of Susaki

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Katsuo no tataki: seared bonito fish served with condiments such as ginger or garlic and soy sauce.
  2. Tai meshi: rice cooked together with sea bream and vegetables.
  3. Udon noodles: These thick and chewy wheat flour noodles are a local speciality and are often served in hot broth with a variety of toppings.

Local Beverages

  1. Sake: This traditional rice wine is brewed locally and served at many restaurants and shops in Susaki.
  2. Shochu: This distilled liquor is also brewed locally and is made from sweet potato, grain or sugar cane.

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

  1. Suigun Castle - This hotel is located in the heart of Susaki and features a variety of traditional Japanese-style rooms.
  2. Susaki Business Hotel - This budget-friendly option offers clean and comfortable rooms with all the basic amenities.
  3. Shiraishi Island Guesthouse - This charming guesthouse is located on Shiraishi Island and offers visitors a quaint and unique accommodation experience.

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

  1. Bonito flakes: Susaki is famous for its bonito fish, and dried bonito flakes make for a great culinary souvenir.
  2. Sake: Bring home a bottle of local sake to enjoy after your trip.
  3. Katsuo Bushi: These dried bonito flakes are a popular ingredient used in many Japanese dishes and make for a great gift for foodies.

Local Culture and Customs of Susaki

The people of Susaki are known for their strong attachment to traditional fishing culture. They have a love of nature and are proud of their fishing heritage. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes before entering traditional Japanese buildings and temples.

Best Time to Visit Susaki

The best time to visit Susaki is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer (June to August) is also a popular time to visit due to the warmer weather and outdoor activities such as the Shiraishi Island Beach Festival. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, but it is a great time to soak in a hot spring bath or try winter sports in the mountains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Susaki

Do:

  1. Remove your shoes before entering traditional Japanese buildings and temples.
  2. Respect local customs and traditions.
  3. Try traditional local delicacies such as Katsuo no tataki and sake.

Don’t:

  1. Wear shoes inside traditional Japanese buildings and temples.
  2. Touch or disturb wildlife in natural areas.
  3. Be loud or disruptive in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Susaki

Susaki is a relatively safe town, but visitors should be mindful of their belongings in crowded areas and keep an eye out for pickpockets. It is also important to stay aware of safety instructions when engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking.

Health in Susaki

Medical facilities in Susaki are limited, but visitors can seek assistance at the local clinics or hospitals. Visitors must take appropriate safety precautions when engaging in outdoor activities, such as wearing appropriate clothing and carrying enough drinking water.

Getting to Susaki: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Susaki

  1. Kochi Ryoma Airport: This airport is located about 100km from Susaki and offers domestic flights from major Japanese cities.
  2. Tokushima Awaodori Airport: This airport is located about 60km from Susaki and offers domestic flights from major Japanese cities.

Bus Stations Near Susaki

  1. Susaki Bus Terminal: This bus terminal is located near the town centre and offers regional bus services to nearby destinations.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Susaki by train or car. Susaki Station is serviced by the Tosa Kuroshio Railway, and the town is accessible by driving along National Route 56.

How to Get Around in Susaki

Visitors can get around Susaki easily by walking or cycling. Bicycles can be rented from guesthouses or bike rental shops located in the town centre.

Where to Go Next from Susaki: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Kochi City: The prefectural capital of Kochi is just a short train ride away and offers a variety of cultural attractions, including Kochi Castle and temples.
  2. Muroto: This small town is located on the southern coast of Shikoku and is known for its stunning coastline and beaches.
  3. Shimanto River: Located northwest of Susaki, the Shimanto River is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as kayaking and fishing.

Conclusion

Whether you are interested in exploring the cultural and historical attractions, embarking on outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing and enjoying the local cuisine, Susaki has something to offer everyone. With its charming local culture and stunning natural beauty, Susaki is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Shikoku.

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