Things To Do
in Inuma
Inuma, Japan sits in a quiet valley just north of Tokyo, where emerald rice fields meet cedar forests. The town is renowned for its steaming hot springs, wooden inns, and a riverside promenade that glows at sunset. Visitors come to slow down, watch trout shimmer in clear streams, and sample seasonal produce at traditional markets.
With friendly locals and rolling hills as a backdrop, Inuma offers a serene escape that changes with the seasons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local ryokan, savoring grilled fish, miso soup, and rice. After breakfast, stroll through the charming streets of Inuma, where historic buildings and quaint shops line the pathways. Visit the Inuma Historical Museum to learn about the town's rich history and cultural significance.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby soba noodle shop, sampling the fresh handmade noodles. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby temples, such as the serene Jozan-ji Temple, where you can meditate and appreciate the surrounding gardens. Capture stunning photos of the architecture and the vibrant colors of the foliage during this picturesque season.
As the sun sets, head to a local izakaya for an authentic Japanese dining experience, trying various small dishes while mingling with locals. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the riverbank, where lanterns illuminate the path and create a peaceful ambiance. End your evening at a traditional onsen, soaking in the mineral-rich waters and reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Begin your day with a visit to a local pottery studio, where you can try your hand at creating your own piece of art using traditional methods. The artists will guide you through the process, sharing the history and significance of pottery in Inuma. Afterward, enjoy a cup of freshly brewed matcha tea in the studio's serene garden.
Head to the Inuma Art Center, which showcases contemporary Japanese art alongside traditional pieces. Attend a workshop on calligraphy, where you can learn the elegant strokes of this ancient art form. Enjoy a light lunch at the center's café, featuring locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes.
Return to your accommodations to refresh before an evening visit to a local theater for a kabuki performance. Experience the vibrant costumes and dramatic storytelling that this traditional Japanese theater offers. After the show, stroll through the quiet streets, admiring the night lights and perhaps stopping for dessert at a nearby café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🧃Coffee or tea at a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🛏️1-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🥗Groceries for a day | $12-25 |
| 🚆1-way local train ticket | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil, scenic countryside perfect for slow travel
- Friendly locals and a strong sense of tradition
- Limited nightlife and few English-speaking services in some spots
- Public transit can be infrequent between villages
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Doko desu ka?" - Where is...?
- "Nihongo ga hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak Japanese?
- "Kore o onegaishimasu" - This please
Places to Visit in Inuma
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping view of the valley with patchwork fields, especially striking at dawn and dusk.
Narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses, perfect for atmospheric street photography.
A tranquil torii gate by the water’s edge, ideal for reflective shots and long-exposure water scenes.
A short hike to a cascading waterfall with lush greenery and a natural pool.
Golden-hour reflections on the river with boats and fishermen providing candid subjects.
Food in Inuma
Inuma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Buckwheat soba noodles served chilled or in a light broth, often paired with greens and locally sourced mushrooms.
Must-Try!
Grilled sweetfish caught in nearby streams, typically served with salt and a wedge of citrus.
Tofu skin prepared in a delicate broth or tempura, a regional specialty from nearby riverside kitchens.
Crispy, light tempura featuring locally grown vegetables and sometimes freshwater herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce stalls, fresh herbs, homemade sweets, and small bites from local vendors.
Freshly pounded mochi with regional fillings, best enjoyed warm by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light bow is appropriate; a handshake is acceptable if initiated by locals, but use a gentle bow to show respect.
Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional inns, and some temples; use provided slippers.
Speak softly on trains and in temples; avoid loud conversations in narrow streets.
Offer money politely when paying at a shop or inn; avoid giving money directly to staff in an envelope unless requested.
Safety
Tipping in Inuma
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Japanese cafes and eateries; polite service is included in the price. In high-end inns, a small gratuity can be given discreetly if desired.
Cash (yen) is widely accepted in rural areas. Many shops and inns also take credit cards; some accept mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) if linked to a supported card. JR and local transport often rely on IC cards (Suica/PASMO) for ease of travel.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms along the riverside and gentle temperatures. Great for temple visits and market strolls.
Warm days with occasional rain; enjoy riverside dining, festival lanterns, and long daylight hours.
Vibrant foliage hues color the valley; ideal for photography and scenic hikes.
Cold with light snowfall possible; soak in onsens and savor hot meals at cozy inns.
Inuma at Night
Hiking in Inuma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike with panoramic views over the valley, best during early morning or late afternoon.
Shaded circuit through fern-filled woods with occasional stream crossings.
Flat-to-rolling path along the river with opportunities to photograph wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Inuma by plane.
Major international and domestic gateway; accessible by rail and road from Inuma via Tokyo.
Large international hub; about 2–3 hours by rail and road to Inuma depending on connections.
Regional airport with domestic flights; convenient for visitors heading toward the eastern prefectures.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in the town with a focus on community events and schools.
A sizable elderly population; community centers host regular gatherings and activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite pastime in towns across Japan; local leagues and school teams are active.
Local fields host youth and amateur matches; a popular weekend activity.
Mountain paths and forest trails attract runners during cooler months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Inuma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted with tofu and vegetables; ask for 'yamai nashi ryouri' (vegetarian options) or request 'yakumi nashi' (no meat).