Things To Do
in Kuwana
Kuwana is a riverside city in Mie Prefecture that blends modern resort atmosphere with traditional culture. It is home to the Nagashima Resort complex, including Nagashima Spa Land and Nabana no Sato, which enchant visitors with rides and seasonal illumination. The city serves as a convenient base for trips to Ise Shrine and the nearby Ise-Shima region while offering calm waterfront walks and fresh seafood.
With excellent rail connections to Nagoya and Ise, Kuwana balances family-friendly attractions with relaxed, village-like charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Nagashima Spa Land, one of Japan’s largest amusement parks, enjoying thrilling roller coasters and family-friendly rides. Early mornings are perfect to avoid crowds and get the most out of popular attractions. Don’t miss the iconic Steel Dragon 2000 for an exhilarating experience.
After a fun-filled morning, relax at the nearby Nagashima Onsen with its soothing hot springs and traditional Japanese baths. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the onsen’s restaurants, sampling local delicacies. Take your time to unwind and soak in the rejuvenating atmosphere.
As evening falls, visit the Nabana no Sato botanical garden within the resort, famed for its spectacular winter illumination displays. Stroll through the beautifully lit pathways and enjoy seasonal light shows. End your day with a quiet dinner at a nearby restaurant serving regional cuisine.
Begin with a visit to the Kuwana Castle Ruins Park, where you can explore the historical remnants of the castle grounds. The morning light creates a serene ambiance, perfect for photography and a peaceful walk. Learn about the castle’s significance in the Edo period through onsite information boards.
Head to the Kuwana City Museum to deepen your understanding of the area’s rich history and culture. Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch nearby, featuring local specialties like kishimen noodles. Spend time browsing exhibits that showcase artifacts and historical documents from the region.
Take a relaxed evening stroll along the scenic riverbanks near the castle ruins, enjoying calm waters and city lights. Visit a local izakaya to savor a variety of small dishes paired with sake or beer. Experience the friendly atmosphere and mingle with locals for a true cultural immersion.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍟Casual lunch or street food | $6-12 |
| 🏨One-night hotel or ryokan (mid-range) | $80-150 |
| 🚆Public transportation day pass | $5-10 |
| 🛍️Souvenir shopping | $15-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to world-class theme parks and seasonal light displays
- Calm riverside ambiance with easy day trips to Ise and Nagoya
- Small-town nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Some attractions are seasonal and may require planning around schedules
- "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 / Sorry
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "これはいくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the restroom?
Places to Visit in Kuwana
Visit one of these nice places.
Magnificent seasonal gardens and light displays offering dramatic photos, especially at dusk and during illumination events.
Waterfront views with reflections of lights and greenery, ideal for sunset shots.
A relaxed riverside path with pedestrian bridges and boat activity near the water’s edge.
Urban street scenes, traditional storefronts, and people-going-about-life photography opportunities.
Quiet lanes with traditional architecture that provide texture and character to frame compositions.
Food in Kuwana
Kuwana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick, smooth noodles in a rich, soy-based broth; a comforting staple you’ll find in many Kuwana eateries.
Must-Try!
A bowl of fresh sashimi over rice, often featuring local catches from Ise Bay.
A warm hot pot featuring regional miso and seasonal vegetables, perfect for cooler evenings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh seafood, produce, and small stalls offering quick bites like grilled seafood skewers and taiyaki.
Small stalls around the station area serving bite-sized snacks and seasonal treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes indoors where required; speak softly on public transport and in quiet venues. Queue patiently and bow slightly as a polite greeting.
Cleanse thoroughly before entering hot springs; tattoos may be restricted in some facilities. Respect others’ space and avoid splashing in shared baths.
Safety
Tipping in Kuwana
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan. Excellent service is expected as standard; you are not expected to tip in most restaurants, cafes, or taxi rides.
Cash is widely accepted, with credit cards common at larger shops and hotels. IC cards and mobile payments are increasingly supported in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with occasional showers; hydrate well and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening. Expect vibrant evening events and outside dining along the riverfront.
Pleasant temperatures and autumn foliage in park areas; great for long walks and photography with warm light.
Cool to cold with occasional snowfall; Nabana no Sato illuminations are a major draw. Dress warmly and wear comfortable footwear for icy paths.
Mild weather with blooming trees and gardens; ideal for outdoor strolls and market visits.
Kuwana at Night
Hiking in Kuwana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with views over the surrounding plains; a refreshing option for a half-day hike.
Easy, scenic riverside hikes that are accessible for all fitness levels and provide photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Kuwana by plane.
Nagoya's airport about 40–60 minutes by train or car from Kuwana; easy access to domestic and international flights.
A larger international gateway about 2–3 hours by rail or highway; convenient for connections to other Asian destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Kuwana offers family-friendly attractions and safe, walkable streets with parks and playgrounds.
A significant portion of residents commute to Nagoya and nearby cities for work.
Visitors are attracted by Nabana no Sato, Nagashima Resort, and easy access to Ise and the coastline.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in the region with local clubs and matches that are easy to attend in nearby stadiums.
A favored pastime with local sports facilities and community games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kuwana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus offer vegetable-focused dishes or can accommodate simple tofu or mushroom-based options. When ordering, ask for dashi-free or veggie broth to avoid fish stock.