Things To Do
in Kuji
Kuji is a small coastal city on the Sanriku coast of Iwate Prefecture known for its working fishing ports, scenic rias coastline and a strong local amber craft tradition. The town mixes maritime culture, seafood-focused cuisine and artisan workshops with quiet streets and friendly, down-to-earth locals. Visitors come for fresh seafood, amber museums and to use Kuji as a base for coastal walks, boat trips and nearby mountain hikes.
Compared with Japan’s big cities, Kuji offers a slower pace, dramatic coastal scenery and a gateway to rural Tohoku culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the picturesque Kuji beach, where the morning sun glistens off the waves. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local seaside café, featuring fresh fish and rice. Take a moment to breathe in the salty sea air while watching the fishermen prepare for their day.
Visit the Kuji Fish Market to experience the vibrant local seafood culture and sample fresh sashimi. Afterward, explore the scenic coastline with a leisurely bike ride along the waterfront path, taking in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Stop for a picnic lunch on the beach, soaking up the sun and the sounds of the waves.
As the sun sets, head to a local izakaya for a taste of Kuji's renowned seafood dishes paired with regional sake. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps join in on some local karaoke with friendly locals. Conclude your day with a serene stroll along the beach, where the stars begin to twinkle in the clear night sky.
Start your day with a visit to the historic Kannon-ji Temple, a serene place filled with beautiful gardens and intricate architecture. Participate in a morning prayer session, immersing yourself in the local Buddhist culture. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings while sipping matcha tea at the temple's tea house.
Continue your cultural exploration by visiting the Kuji City Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich history and its connection to the sea. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Kuji, discovering traditional crafts and shops offering local handmade goods. Stop for lunch at a nearby noodle shop, savoring a bowl of freshly made soba.
As evening approaches, attend a local festival or event if available, celebrating Kuji's vibrant culture with music and dance. Enjoy a dinner of local specialties, such as grilled fish and seasonal vegetables, at a cozy restaurant. Wind down your day with a visit to a local onsen, soaking in the warm mineral waters under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or drink at a café | $3-6 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride (within town) | $8-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel / ryokan (per night) | $70-150 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $1.50-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful, rugged coastline and dramatic sea views
- Fresh seafood and unique local amber craft traditions
- Quiet, uncrowded atmosphere and friendly locals
- Good base for coastal and outdoor activities
- Limited public transport frequency outside peak times
- Fewer dining and nightlife options compared with larger cities
- Seasonal weather (typhoons in late summer, cold winters)
- Some English language limitations at smaller shops and services
- "こんにちは (Konnichiwa)" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)" - Thank you (polite)
- "すみません (Sumimasen)" - Excuse me / Sorry / Thank you (when getting attention)
- "おねがいします (Onegaishimasu)" - Please (when asking for something)
- "トイレはどこですか？ (Toire wa doko desu ka?)" - Where is the restroom?
- "英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?)" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Kuji
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning and golden-hour shots of fishing boats, cranes and daily market activity make atmospheric photos of local life.
High vantage points reveal layered rock formations, sheltered bays and the jagged Sanriku coastline — great for wide landscape shots.
Capture close-up textures of amber, artisans at work and museum displays that highlight the town ’s amber heritage.
The Kuji River mouth and nearby bridges provide reflections and peaceful compositions, especially at sunrise or with autumn foliage.
Seasonal festivals, market scenes and evening izakayas offer candid street photography opportunities — be mindful and ask before shooting portraits.
Food in Kuji
Kuji Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A generous bowl of rice topped with slices of local sashimi like tuna, squid and seasonal fish — best found at market stalls and small seaside restaurants.
Must-Try!
Simple salt-grilled local fish, often caught the same morning — a staple at ryokans and local eateries.
Locally air-dried fish, commonly sold in markets; a savory, portable snack and common breakfast item in the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small port-side fish markets and stalls where you can sample sashimi bowls, grilled snacks and buy fresh or preserved seafood to take home.
During festivals and market days you’ll find grilled squid, skewers and other quick seafood bites from temporary stalls near the port.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A slight bow and polite phrases (e.g., onegaishimasu, arigatou gozaimasu) go a long way. Respectful behavior and soft voices in public places are appreciated.
Remove shoes when entering homes, some ryokans, and certain traditional restaurants; look for a genkan (entryway) and slippers.
Line up patiently for trains, buses and services; loud phone conversations on public transport are discouraged.
Ask permission before photographing people closely. Be mindful at religious sites and private properties.
Safety
Tipping in Kuji
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is included and leaving money can be confusing. If you feel compelled to show gratitude, a small gift or polite verbal thanks is preferred over cash.
Cash (Japanese yen) is widely used, especially at markets and small shops. Major restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, but bring cash for rural vendors and buses. ATMs in convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson) usually accept international cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms and early blooms appear in April–May; temperatures are mild and pleasant for walking. Some hiking trails can still be wet; bring layers for cool mornings.
Warm and humid with the June rainy season bringing occasional heavy rain; July–August are warm and good for coastal activities but watch for typhoon season (late summer).
September–November brings crisp air and vibrant autumn colors inland; a great time for photography, cooler evenings and comfortable hiking conditions.
Cold with possible snow and icy roads; coastal areas are milder than inland mountains but expect lower temperatures and shorter daylight. Some attractions and small businesses may have reduced hours.
Kuji at Night
Hiking in Kuji
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Local paths and short routes that trace the rias coastline, offering sea vistas, cliff views and access to small beaches — suitable for half-day walks.
Trails along the Kuji River and nearby hills provide peaceful forest walks, birdwatching and seasonal foliage viewing.
Within driving distance are longer hikes into the interior Tohoku mountains for day trips or overnight treks; check local trail information, seasonal accessibility and weather conditions.
Airports
How to reach Kuji by plane.
The closest regional airport to much of Iwate Prefecture; reach Kuji by a combination of train and bus or by car, typically taking a couple of hours depending on connections.
A larger regional hub with more domestic and some international flights; travel to Kuji usually involves a train or car journey of several hours, making it a practical option for many visitors.
These airports are farther afield and may be useful depending on your itinerary; ground travel times to Kuji are longer and often require transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-established residents involved in coastal industries such as fishing, aquaculture and small-scale agriculture.
Like many rural Japanese towns, Kuji has a significant proportion of older residents and an aging demographic profile.
Younger people may commute regionally for work or be involved in local tourism, craft production (amber), and small businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is widely followed across Japan, and local high-school and amateur games are popular social events.
Given the coastal location, recreational fishing is common and an important local pastime and tourism draw.
Local clubs, school teams and community sporting activities (soccer, volleyball) are popular among residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kuji.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited compared with urban centers but rice bowls with pickles, grilled vegetables, tempura vegetables and some noodle dishes can be found; communicate dietary needs in simple Japanese or show a translated note.
Vegan dining is more challenging — rely on vegetable tempura, salads and plain rice or bring snacks. Use apps or a translation card to explain no animal products.
Soy sauce and many sauces contain wheat; ask about ingredients and opt for plain sashimi, grilled fish and rice. Carry a gluten-free phrase card for restaurants.
Serious allergies should be communicated clearly in Japanese and you may want to prepare by staying in accommodations with a kitchenette or bringing safe snacks.