Things To Do
in Susaki
Susaki is a quiet coastal city on Shikoku’s Kochi Prefecture, framed by rugged cliffs and the sparkling Inland Sea. It blends a working harbor with relaxed, small-town charm and easy access to natural scenery. The town centers on fresh seafood, friendly locals, and scenic waterfront strolls that reveal a slower pace of travel.
Whether you chase a sunrise over the harbor or a quiet riverside walk, Susaki offers an authentic rural-Japan experience with seasonal highlights throughout the year.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Susaki Airport and enjoy a scenic drive to your accommodation, soaking in the lush landscape. After settling in, take a stroll around your neighborhood to get a feel for the local culture. A visit to a nearby café for a traditional Japanese breakfast will set a positive tone for the day.
Explore the historical streets of Susaki, stopping by local shops to discover unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Susaki City Museum, where you can learn about the rich heritage of the area. Grab lunch at a local izakaya to enjoy freshly caught seafood.
As the sun sets, find a spot along the coastline to witness a breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean. For dinner, indulge in a local specialty—grilled fish with rice—at one of the seaside restaurants. Wind down the evening by visiting a traditional onsen to relax and rejuvenate.
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Hiyama Shrine, surrounded by serene greenery and offering a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Participate in a short meditation session to center yourself before the day’s adventures. Follow this with a hearty breakfast at a local diner famed for its egg rice dish.
After lunch, head over to the beautiful Koshinji Temple, where you can admire the intricate architecture and serene gardens. Take your time to explore the temple grounds, allowing the tranquil environment to wash over you. Capture stunning photographs as you walk along the lush pathways.
In the evening, engage in a cultural experience by attending a local tea ceremony at a nearby community center. Enjoy the art of preparing and serving traditional tea while learning about its significance in Japanese culture. Afterward, savor a light dinner at a cozy eatery that specializes in local cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🛍️Small souvenir | $5-20 |
| 🍱Bento lunch | $7-12 |
| 🍣Sushi dinner (per person) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Elegant coastal scenery and a relaxed pace of travel
- Fresh seafood and authentic, small-town hospitality
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale attractions
- Smaller-town amenities may mean longer travel times to major cities
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mizu o kudasai" - Please give me water
- "Kore wa ikura desu ka?" - How much is this?
- "Toire wa doko desu ka?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Oishii desu" - Delicious
Places to Visit in Susaki
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over fishing boats and calm water; a classic seascape with soft morning mist.
Wide seawall and piers with opportunities for long-exposure shots of boats and reflections at dusk.
Rugged coastlines with dramatic cliffs and turquoise water; best for contrasty, dramatic landscape photos.
Mellow river scenes with wooden bridges and riverine reflections, ideal for tranquil nature photography.
Food in Susaki
Susaki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lightly seared bonito served with onions, garlic, and a citrus-soy dipping sauce; a Kochi specialty best enjoyed at a seaside restaurant.
Must-Try!
A rice bowl topped with an assortment of fresh sashimi and local seafood, often featuring tuna, salmon, and other seasonal catches.
Grilled horse mackerel or saury with a simple salt seasoning, highlighting the fish’s natural flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning stalls offering fresh catches, sashimi slices, and ready-to-eat seafood portions.
Casual stalls and small eateries along the quay serving grilled skewers and simple seafood bowls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite bowing is common; speak softly in public spaces; remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional inns; avoid talking loudly on trains and buses.
Wash thoroughly before entering, rinse off, and keep hair tied back if long; no swimsuits in traditional baths unless specified.
Safety
Tipping in Susaki
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan. A polite thank you is appreciated; excellent service is usually included in the price through consistent, high-quality service.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller eateries. Credit cards are increasingly common in larger restaurants and hotels; some rural spots may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid, with occasional typhoon activity. Expect afternoon rain showers and sea breezes; early mornings and evenings are ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Milder temperatures and clearer skies; great for coastal hikes and sunset photography along the water.
Cool to mild by Japanese standards; rain is common, and coastal skies can be dramatic. Bring a light jacket and enjoy quieter streets.
Pleasant temperatures with blooming plants and a gentle atmosphere; ideal for walking tours and markets.
Susaki at Night
Hiking in Susaki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route along the coast with gradual ascents and rewarding sea views; suitable for most hikers.
Shade-dappled trails offering a cooler alternative to the coast, with occasional viewpoints over the water.
Airports
How to reach Susaki by plane.
Major regional airport serving Kochi Prefecture; about a 2- to 3-hour journey by road and rail from Susaki, with domestic connections and some international options.
Ehime Prefecture gateway with frequent domestic flights; reachable by combination of bus and train or car from Susaki, typically longer but convenient for connections to mainland Japan.
Lies across the channel from Shikoku; accessible by road/bus routes and ferries; a practical option for those continuing to the Kagawa region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A community shaped by fishing, maritime work, and generations of coastal life.
A peaceful town with a mix of families and an aging population, contributing to a calm, safe environment.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A long-standing local activity given the coastal location; join a guided trip or fish from the harbor.
Common in schools and community fields; local leagues may be visible in the city’s parks.
Coastal waters offer opportunities for light surfing and other water activities when conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Susaki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Request vegetable-focused dishes, tofu, seaweed salads, and rice; ask to avoid dashi or fish-based stocks and broths, and confirm ingredients in sauces.