Things To Do
in Kazo

Wide-open river views, reflections, sunrise and sunset shots, and seasonal riverbank blossoms make the embankment an ideal spot for landscape and rural photography.

In spring and early summer, flooded paddies create mirror-like surfaces; golden hues in autumn and verdant greens in summer provide strong seasonal contrasts.

Small Shinto shrines and temple gates framed by trees and lanterns offer intimate cultural portraits and architectural detail shots.

Festival floats, processions and evening lanterns provide dynamic human-interest photography — consult local event calendars for dates.

Local markets and roadside stands sell fresh seasonal produce, rice, pickles and homemade sweets — great places to sample in-season fruits and small snacks.

On festival days and select weekends, small street food stalls appear near shrines and community centers serving yakitori, takoyaki, grilled corn and sweet treats.

Keep voices low on trains and in public spaces; avoid loud phone conversations while commuting.

Remove shoes when entering homes, some traditional accommodations and certain restaurants — look for a genkan (entryway) and follow the host’s lead.

Bow at torii gates, wash hands at the chozuya, and follow local customs when praying (a brief bow and coin offering). Photography may be restricted in some areas.

Form orderly lines at stations and bus stops; polite language and small gestures (arigatou, sumimasen) go a long way.

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be considered awkward; excellent service is included in the price. If you wish to express gratitude, a small gift or a polite thank-you in Japanese is more appropriate.

Cash (yen) remains widely used for small shops, markets and rural businesses. IC transit cards (Suica, Pasmo) and contactless payments are commonly accepted in many stores; major credit cards are accepted at larger restaurants and hotels but less so at small stalls.

Cherry blossoms and rape blossoms bloom in late March–April; pleasant temperatures make cycling and riverside walks ideal. Expect occasional rain and muddy paths after showers.

Hot and humid (June–August) with a rainy season in June; river activities and early-morning outings are more comfortable than midday. Festivals and fireworks are common in July/August.

Cooler, comfortable weather with clear skies and attractive autumn foliage later in the season; harvest festivals and markets showcase local produce.

Cold but generally dry with occasional frost; inland mornings can be crisp and clear, offering good visibility for landscape photography. Snow is possible but usually light.

Many residents commute into Saitama and Tokyo for work, shaping morning/evening rhythms in the city.

Local agricultural households maintain rice fields and vegetable farms, contributing to seasonal markets and traditions.

Like many regional Japanese cities, Kazo has an aging demographic with strong community ties and local events geared toward older residents.

Affordable housing and schools attract families who appreciate quieter suburban life and access to larger urban centers.

Vegetarian options are available but limited at traditional restaurants; many dishes include dashi (fish stock). Seek out vegetable-focused set meals, tempura, tofu dishes, and cafes with simple vegetarian fare, and use a phrase card to ask about fish stock.

Vegan dining is more challenging — prepare to communicate dietary needs (in Japanese if possible), visit bigger supermarkets for plant-based snacks, or choose cafes that can make simple vegetable plates without fish-based seasonings.

Soy sauce and wheat-based noodles are common. Rice-based dishes, grilled fish, and plain vegetable sides are safer; bring a gluten-free card in Japanese for clarity.

Carry an allergy card in Japanese listing ingredients to avoid (e.g., shellfish, peanuts) and consider staying at accommodations with kitchen access to prepare safe meals.