Things To Do
in Kosai

Lake Hamana is famous for eel; try tare-glazed grilled unagi at lakeside restaurants for a classic local specialty.

Must-Try!

Pan-fried dumplings served in a row with dipping sauce — widely available in Kosai and neighboring Hamamatsu izakayas and casual eateries.

Local catches include oysters, clams and seasonal fish sold at markets and prepared in small restaurants near the port.

High-quality green tea from Shizuoka prefecture is served in cafés and offered at tea shops across the city.

Small morning stalls and cooperative markets near the shoreline sell fresh-caught fish, shellfish and seasonal produce — try grilled seafood or take home packed sashimi.

On weekends you may find vendors selling tea, dango (rice dumplings) and freshly made snacks at smaller local markets and near festival sites.

Take off shoes when entering homes and some traditional establishments; step over the genkan threshold and use indoor slippers when provided.

Keep voice levels moderate on trains and public spaces, queue patiently, and be respectful of personal space.

A short bow is a common respectful greeting; using basic Japanese phrases is appreciated by locals.

If visiting an onsen, wash thoroughly before entering, do not wear swimsuits, and follow posted rules (many have tattoos restrictions).

Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is expected without a tip. In rare cases where extra service is provided, a small gift or polite thank-you is preferred.

Cash (Japanese yen) is widely used, especially at small shops and markets. Credit cards are accepted at many restaurants and hotels, and IC transit cards (Suica/Pasmo) are convenient for trains and some shops, but always carry cash for rural vendors.

Mild temperatures, cherry blossoms in late March–April and reflective paddies make for pleasant cycling and photography; occasional rainy days occur in late spring.

Warm to hot, humid weather with typhoon risk (especially August–September); great for seafood, boating and early-morning activities to avoid heat.

Cooler, comfortable conditions with clear skies and autumn foliage inland — ideal for hiking and outdoor exploration from September to November.

Mild coastal winters compared with northern Japan, chilly mornings and occasional cold snaps; good time for onsen and crisp photo days if you prefer fewer crowds.

Longstanding local residents involved in agriculture and aquaculture who maintain traditional livelihoods around Lake Hamana.

Workers who commute to nearby Hamamatsu and industrial zones, contributing to a suburban population profile.

Like many regional Japanese towns, Kosai has a relatively high proportion of elderly residents and smaller household sizes.

Local schools and family-oriented neighborhoods host younger households who live in quieter, affordable residential areas.

Baseball is popular across Japan, with local school teams and community leagues active in the area.

Soccer (football) is widely played at youth and amateur levels, with local clubs and school teams.

Recreational and commercial fishing are important locally due to Lake Hamana and the coastal waters.

Leisure cycling along the lake and rural roads is a popular pastime, both for residents and visitors.