✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Iwata.
Iwata, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Japan, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered.
From the serene beauty of the Shigeno Temple to the pulse-raising excitement of the Yamaha Motor Museum, this city has something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking to delve into the rich cultural heritage of Japan, or simply seeking a delightful adventure, Iwata is the perfect destination.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Iwata:
1. Yamaha Communication Plaza
Yamaha Communication Plaza, a museum and experience center for Yamaha Motor Company.
What to see or do: Explore the history and culture of Yamaha Motor Company through interactive exhibits and displays. Visitors can see iconic Yamaha motorcycles, boats, and other vehicles.
Try out simulators, watch videos, and discover the technical details behind some of Yamaha’s most famous products.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to test ride motorcycles and other vehicles in the outdoor test riding area. The plaza also features a shop selling official Yamaha apparel and accessories.
Insider travel tips: Check the official website for special events and exhibitions. Admission is free, and the plaza is open daily except for Mondays and Tuesdays.
If you plan to test ride a vehicle, bring your driver’s license and motorcycle license if you have one.
2. Iwata Children’s Castle
A unique and exciting indoor playground for children located in Iwata City, Japan.
What to see or do: Let your kids explore and play in the various areas of the castle, such as the ball pit, giant slide, maze, and obstacle course.
There are also areas for creative play, including painting and crafts.
Don’t miss: The castle’s centerpiece is a towering play structure shaped like a medieval castle complete with turrets, a drawbridge, and secret passages.
Kids can climb, slide, and imagine being a knight or princess.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to bring socks! Shoes are not allowed inside the castle, but if you forget, they can be purchased at the entrance.
The castle can get crowded on weekends, so consider visiting on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.
3. Marina Hop
A picturesque marina located in Iwata, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the stunning views of the boats and the sea.
There are also several shops and restaurants in the area where you can grab a bite to eat or do some shopping.
Don’t miss: The mesmerizing sunset view from the marina is a must-see. It’s a great spot to capture some beautiful photos.
Insider travel tips: If you’re a seafood lover, be sure to try the fresh sushi and sashimi at one of the nearby restaurants. Also, avoid visiting during peak travel seasons as it can get crowded.
4. Tanaka Castle Ruins
Tanaka Castle Ruins is a historical site located in Iwata, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll around the ruins of the former castle, admire the beautiful surrounding scenery, and learn about the rich history of the area.
Don’t miss: The main keep and gate of the castle have been reconstructed, giving visitors a glimpse of what the castle would have looked like during its prime.
The nearby Sakura-no-Sato Park is also worth exploring during cherry blossom season.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes as the castle grounds are quite extensive.
Plan to spend at least an hour exploring the area and make sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
5. Iwata Country Club
Iwata Country Club is a renowned golf course located in Iwata City, Japan.
What to see or do: Golf enthusiasts can indulge in a challenging yet satisfying round of golf on the beautifully landscaped course. The course is designed to cater to players of all levels, whether you are a beginner or an expert golfer.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to play on the signature hole of the Iwata Country Club, the 11th hole, which requires a long and accurate shot over a picturesque lake and waterfall.
Insider travel tips: If you are planning to visit Iwata Country Club, remember to book your tee time in advance to secure your spot on the course.
Also, don’t forget to try the delicious local cuisine at the restaurant located within the clubhouse.
6. Hagurosan Tenbodai Observation Deck
Hagurosan Tenbodai Observation Deck is an observation deck located at the top of Hagurosan Mountain in Iwata, Japan.
What to see or do: The observation deck offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and nature. Visitors can take in the panoramic views, snap photos of the scenery, and breathe in the fresh air.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Hagurosan Five-Story Pagoda, which is located nearby and is one of the most important cultural heritage sites in Japan.
The pagoda is adorned with intricate wood carvings and has a serene atmosphere that makes it worth a visit.
Insider travel tips: – The observation deck is located at an altitude of 414 meters, so dress appropriately and bring comfortable walking shoes.
7. Onsenji Temple
Onsenji Temple is a serene Buddhist temple nestled in the lush hills of Iwata, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the peaceful temple grounds, admire the stunning views, and interact with the friendly resident monkeys that call the temple home.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch the daily prayer services and participate in meditation sessions led by the experienced temple staff.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable walking shoes and a camera to capture the breathtaking surroundings. Don’t forget to respect the temple’s rules and etiquette, such as removing shoes before entering buildings and dressing conservatively.
Additionally, tourists can enjoy a variety of local dishes and souvenirs at the nearby town of Iwata.
8. Kakegawa Kachoen Park
Kakegawa Kachoen Park is a popular aviary and flower garden in Iwata, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the aviary and observe various species of birds, including flamingos and parrots. The park also features a butterfly house and flower garden where visitors can appreciate the beauty of various seasonal flowers.
Don’t miss: A must-see attraction at Kakegawa Kachoen Park is the bird show, where trained birds perform a variety of entertaining tricks and fly around the audience.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning plants and colorful birds. It is recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds and catch a good view of the bird show.
Visitors can purchase bird food to interact with the birds and have them perch on their arms.
9. Nukui Dam
Nukui Dam is a concrete gravity dam located in Iwata, Japan.
What to see or do: The dam itself is an impressive sight, standing at 87 meters tall and 296 meters wide. Visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake from the observation deck.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a walk on the nearby hiking trails to further appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds the dam.
Birdwatching is also popular in the area.
Insider travel tips: Visit during spring for the beautiful cherry blossom season or in the fall for the stunning fall foliage. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the gorgeous scenery.
10. Kakegawa Castle
Kakegawa Castle is a Japanese castle located in Kakegawa, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The castle is impressive and offers great views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the castle’s various structures and learn about the castle’s history in the museum inside the castle.
Don’t miss: The castle’s beautiful architecture is a must-see as it is regarded as one of the three most magnificent castle towers in Japan.
The castle’s charming Japanese garden featuring stone pathways, ponds, and beautiful flora is also a highlight.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the spring for the “Sakura Matsuri” cherry blossom festival.
Be sure to check the castle’s schedule for special events and performances, and make time to explore the nearby Kakegawa City museum.
11. Fukumitsu Fruit Park
A fruit park located in Iwata, Japan, featuring a wide variety of fruit trees and activities for visitors.
What to see or do: Tour the vast orchard and try picking fresh seasonal fruits such as strawberries, peaches, and grapes. Enjoy a ride on the fruit train and see the orchard from a different perspective.
Don’t miss: The delectable fruit-based snacks and drinks sold at the park, such as fruit tarts and smoothies. The park also offers fruit-themed souvenirs for visitors to take home.
Insider travel tips: Visiting in the morning is recommended to avoid the crowds and have the freshest fruit-picking experience. It is also advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen and a hat during the summer months.
12. Kurumayama Kogen Ski Resort
Kurumayama Kogen Ski Resort is a popular ski resort located in Iwata, Japan. It offers a vast snow terrain perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
What to see or do: The ski resort offers various courses for beginners, intermediate, and advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Enjoy skiing or snowboarding down the slopes of the mountain, or take a break and relax at the on-site hot springs.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from the ski lifts are a must-see. Lookout for the stunning snow-covered scenery of the rolling hills, valleys, and traditional Japanese villages.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is from December to March to enjoy the best snow conditions.
13. Arai Sekisho Checkpoint
Arai Sekisho Checkpoint is a preserved Edo-period checkpoint located in Iwata, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the original wooden checkpoint buildings, including the main gate and inspection house, and learn about the history of the site through informative exhibits.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the checkpoint is the parade of costumed performers reenacting the arrival of the daimyo, or feudal lord, at the checkpoint.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the spring or autumn for the best weather and fewer crowds. Don’t forget to sample the local specialty of eel dishes in nearby Hamamatsu City.
14. Meiji Tunnel
The Meiji Tunnel is an abandoned railway tunnel located in Iwata, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore and walk through the dark, damp tunnel, which stretches for approximately 261 meters.
Don’t miss: The stunning natural scenery surrounding the tunnel, including a river, mountains, and trees.
Insider travel tips: – Be prepared to walk in the dark, so bring a flashlight or use your phone’s flashlight.