Things To Do
in Kaizu
Kaizu is a tranquil city in Gifu Prefecture along the Nagara River, where rural scenery and riverside charm meet modern life. The streets blend traditional crafts, historic sites, and seasonal festivals that showcase local culture. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the river, easy day trips to nearby nature spots, and welcoming neighborhood eateries.
The town balances quiet countryside with accessible amenities, making it ideal for a relaxed Japanese countryside experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Kaizu by visiting the historic Kaizu Castle, where you can explore the remnants and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. After the castle, stroll through the local museum to learn about the rich heritage and traditions of this charming city. Don’t forget to try some delicious local pastries at a nearby café.
In the afternoon, head to the Kanakubo Nagashi River for a scenic boat ride. As you glide along the water, take in the serene beauty of cherry blossoms and nearby temples that dot the landscape. Wrap up your river adventure with a picnic on the riverbank, sampling fresh bento boxes from local vendors.
As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the local cuisine by enjoying a kaiseki dinner at a traditional ryokan. Experience the art of Japanese dining with beautifully presented dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients. After dinner, take a calm stroll through the lantern-lit streets, absorbing the tranquil ambiance of Kaizu at night.
Kick off your nature excursion at the beautiful Kiso River, where you can rent a bicycle to explore the picturesque riverside trails. Breathe in the fresh air while riding along the water, taking breaks to admire the blooming flowers and unique wildlife. Stop by a small tea house for a cup of matcha and traditional sweets.
Spend the afternoon hiking in the nearby Yōrō National Park, where you can discover stunning waterfalls and lush greenery. Take your time to soak in the sights and sounds of nature, and perhaps catch a glimpse of local birds. Don’t forget to bring your camera for some breathtaking photo opportunities.
As dusk approaches, return to Kaizu and partake in a local onsen experience to rejuvenate after your day outdoors. Relax in the hot springs surrounded by nature, allowing the calming waters to melt away your stress. For dinner, visit a cozy izakaya to enjoy casual Japanese dining and socialize with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥪Lunch at casual cafe | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🛍️Local souvenirs | $5-20 |
| 🚌Public transport fare (one-way) | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful river town atmosphere
- Scenic nature nearby
- Accessible day trips to rural Japan
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Language barriers in non-tourist areas
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "はい / いいえ" - Yes / No
- "トイレはどこですか" - Where is the bathroom?
- "いくらですか" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか" - Do you speak English?
- "おすすめは何ですか" - What do you recommend?
- "助けてください" - Please help me
- "写真を撮ってもいいですか" - May I take a photo?
Places to Visit in Kaizu
Visit one of these nice places.
A peaceful riverside stretch where early light reflects off the water, creating soft pastel colors ideal for landscape and reflection shots.
Quiet lanes with low-rise buildings and traditional facades, perfect for capturing everyday life and atmospheric street scenes.
A spot where lantern-lit pathways along the river create warm glows and long exposure opportunities after sunset.
Food in Kaizu
Kaizu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Miso paste grilled on a magnolia leaf, often enjoyed with rice and vegetables; a rustic flavor profile common across the region.
Must-Try!
Seasonally caught sweetfish grilled with salt, served whole to highlight the delicate, clean taste of river fish.
Buckwheat soba noodles prepared in a simple dashi-based broth, sometimes served cold with a dipping sauce in warmer months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small local market by the river offering fresh produce, tofu, pickles, and ready-to-eat bites during peak seasons.
Seasonal street stalls along festival routes offering bites like tempura, skewers, and sweet treats when events occur.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly in public, avoid loud behavior, and queue patiently. Bows and polite phrases are appreciated when greeting.
Remove shoes when entering homes, some traditional shops, temples, and certain indoor facilities.
Be mindful around shrines and temples; follow signs, wash hands at purification troughs, and avoid loud photography in restricted areas.
Safety
Tipping in Kaizu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan. Instead, provide polite service with a small gesture of appreciation if appropriate, but not mandatory.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller shops. Credit cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments and tourist areas. ATMs that accept international cards are available in banks and convenience stores in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; great for strolls along the river and around parks. Expect frequent light showers; carry a compact umbrella.
Warm to hot days with humidity; best for river activities and early morning or evening photography. Stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Comfortable temperatures and harvest colors; ideal for scenic drives and hiking with vibrant foliage.
Cool to cold, with a quiet, serene landscape and occasional snowfall. Layered clothing is essential; some outdoor venues may have reduced hours.
Kaizu at Night
Hiking in Kaizu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle loop through local forested hills with river views.
Moderate hike with scenic river panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Kaizu by plane.
Near Nagoya; 60-90 minutes by train or car from Kaizu.
Access via express train; convenient for domestic flights.
Major international hub; travel from Kaizu requires rail or car transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residential areas with schools and parks.
Aging population common in rural Japan; amenities accessible in town.
People traveling to nearby cities for work.
Local schools and universities in surrounding areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among schools and local leagues.
Common in schools and community teams.
Some dojos and cultural centers offer lessons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kaizu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In rural areas, vegetarian options exist but may be limited. Look for vegetable-centric dishes, tofu, and rice; use phrases to ask about dashi ingredients (fish-based stock) and request no meat or fish when possible.