Things To Do
in Midori
Midori, Japan, is a tranquil town tucked in emerald hills along the Shinrin River. It blends centuries-old craftsmanship with a modern, café-filled riverside scene. Seasons paint the town in cherry blossoms, maple leaves, and snowy mornings.
Locals greet visitors with a quiet, unhurried pace and easy access to nature, culture, and warm hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Haneda Airport and take a domestic flight to Takamatsu. Once you land, enjoy the scenic journey to Midori, surrounded by lush mountains and rice fields. Settle into your accommodation and freshen up for the day's adventures.
Visit the stunning Ritsurin Garden, a historical landscape garden known for its beautiful ponds and meticulously curated plants. Spend time strolling through the peaceful trails, taking in the serene beauty and perhaps enjoying a traditional tea experience in one of the teahouses. Capture the moment with photographs before heading to the city center for lunch.
Savor a delicious dinner featuring local kaiseki cuisine, as you immerse yourself in the flavors of Shikoku. A leisurely walk along the waterfront will allow you to appreciate the sunset over the Seto Inland Sea. Return to your accommodation, reflecting on your first day in Midori.
Start your day with a visit to the Midori City Museum, which showcases local history and culture through engaging exhibits. Participate in a workshop where you can learn about traditional Midori crafts, such as pottery or textile making. This hands-on experience will give you insight into the artistic heritage of the region.
After lunch at a local restaurant, explore the quaint streets of the city, filled with charming shops selling handmade goods and local produce. Don't miss the opportunity to visit nearby temples, where tranquil gardens and statues allow for moments of reflection. Engage with locals to learn more about their way of life.
As the evening sets in, enjoy an authentic izakaya experience, tasting various small dishes paired with local sake. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly conversations with locals will enrich your cultural experience. Wind down your day at a nearby onsen, soaking in the rejuvenating warm waters.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🚆Transit day pass | $4-6 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel (per night) | $60-90 |
| 🛍️Groceries | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil natural scenery and easy access to outdoor adventures
- Rich local culture and crafts with welcoming hosts
- Moderate costs compared with major cities
- Compact town center is walkable and safe
- Limited international flight access directly to Midori
- Smaller nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Language barrier in rural areas; English is less common
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "お願いします" - Please / I would like
Places to Visit in Midori
Visit one of these nice places.
A stone-arched bridge over the Shinrin River, best during golden hour with reflections in the water.
Narrow cobblestone street lined with red-lantern storefronts and lanterns in the evening.
A wide riverside walkway with willow trees and seasonal boats; ideal for long-exposure shots.
Food in Midori
Midori Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Buckwheat noodles served with a light dipping sauce, topped with scallions and sesame oil.
Must-Try!
Crisp-skinned river fish grilled with salt, a springtime specialty when the river runs clear.
Delicate tofu skin served with sesame soy dressing and vegetables.
Chewy green tea mochi with a sweet red bean filling, perfect with a cup of local tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A daily market by the river selling fresh vegetables, fish, pickles, and seasonal snacks; try the grilled mochi sticks and pickled vegetables.
Seasonal street bites including onigiri, tempura, and sweet treats during weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light bow is common when greeting; a deeper bow for formal occasions or sincere thanks.
Remove shoes when entering most homes, traditional inns, and some temples; wear clean socks or bring slippers.
Speak softly on public transport and avoid loud mobile calls.
Eating while walking is generally acceptable in cities but less common in traditional areas; use dining areas when possible.
Safety
Tipping in Midori
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most establishments; a simple thank-you is appreciated. If service was exceptional, consider a small tip in a marked envelope, but never expect it.
Cash is widely used, especially in markets and small eateries. Major credit cards are accepted in bigger shops and some restaurants; contactless payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms dot the parks and riverbanks; expect mild days and occasional showers.
Warm, humid days with lush greenery; afternoons can bring rain showers and the occasional typhoon warning.
Reds, golds, and oranges foliage; cool, crisp mornings and comfortable daytime temperatures.
Cold with possible snowfall in higher elevations; popular for onsen escapes and cozy cafes.
Midori at Night
Hiking in Midori
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate 3–4 hour hike through cedar forests to a panoramic overlook.
Flat, scenic 5–6 km loop along the Shinrin River with picnic spots.
Easy, family-friendly trail with fern glades and birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Midori by plane.
Major international and domestic hub; about 1.5–2 hours by rail to Midori.
Large international hub; longer rail journey to Midori, typically via Tokyo.
Smaller regional airport offering domestic and limited international flights; convenient for regional travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Quaint neighborhoods with good schools and parks; a calm environment for children.
Active community featuring senior centers and easy-access nature trails.
Residents who travel to nearby cities for work; steady local amenities support daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular school and club sport, with local games sometimes open to visitors.
Nearby mountains offer winter sports with scenic alpine views.
Local dojos host beginner-friendly sessions for visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Midori.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes are adaptable; look for yuba, tofu, wakame salads, and vegetable tempura. To avoid dashi, ask for 'dashi nai' or 'kombu dashi only' and specify no fish stock.