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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Kashima.
Kashima, a hidden jewel in Japan’s crown, invites you to explore the treasures of its cultural heritage and immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of its natural wonders.
From ancient shrines to traditional crafts and thrilling sports, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting destination.
Join us on a journey of discovery and uncover the wonders of Kashima, waiting to be explored.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kashima:
1. Kashima Jingu Shrine
Kashima Jingu Shrine is a renowned Shinto shrine located in Kashima City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the few shrines designated as a National Treasure of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the shrine’s magnificent architecture and art, including the vermilion-lacquered main hall, designated as a National Treasure. They can also see the unique sacred dance “Kagura” performances every weekend.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to witness the shrine’s symbol, a massive sacred rope (shimenawa) weighed over 12 tons, which is replaced every 12 years.
It’s a rare opportunity to witness the shrine’s tradition of rope replacement.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to bring coins and wash your hands and mouth before entering the shrine. Visitors can also receive a special seal (goshuin) in their book of shrines at the shrine office.
If you wish to avoid crowds, plan your visit on weekdays.
2. Kashima Soccer Stadium
Kashima Soccer Stadium is a world-class sports arena located in Kashima, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can catch a thrilling soccer match, as the stadium is home to the J-League’s Kashima Antlers. The stadium also hosts a variety of other events, including concerts and cultural performances.
Don’t miss: Soccer fans won’t want to miss the chance to witness a match at the impressive Kashima Soccer Stadium, which can hold up to 40,000 spectators.
The stadium also boasts a state-of-the-art scoreboard and sound system, adding to the electrifying atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to arrive early to soak up the pre-match excitement and take advantage of the wide array of food and drink options available.
It’s also a good idea to purchase tickets in advance, as matches at the Kashima Soccer Stadium can sell out quickly.
3. Kashima Antlers Museum
A museum dedicated to the football team, Kashima Antlers, showcasing their history, achievements, and memorabilia.
What to see or do: View the impressive collection of Antlers’ jerseys, trophies, and photographs. Relive the most memorable moments of the team through interactive exhibits and audiovisual presentations.
Experience virtual reality and test your football skills in their simulation room.
Don’t miss: The section dedicated to Kashima Shrine, the spiritual home of the Antlers, where visitors can learn about the team’s unique culture and relationship with the local community.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit on a matchday to catch a game at the nearby Kashima Stadium.
4. Kashima City Aquarium
An aquarium located in Kashima city, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: – See a wide variety of marine animals including seals, sea otters, penguins, jellyfish, and sharks.
Don’t miss: – The dolphin dance show, where dolphins move to the rhythm of music.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early to beat the crowds and get a good spot for the shows.
5. Kashima Park
A sprawling park in a suburban area of Kashima, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a walk or jog through the beautiful Japanese gardens, have a picnic on the expansive lawns, play a game of soccer or frisbee, and explore the various walking paths.
Don’t miss: The cherry blossom trees in full bloom during springtime, the stunning traditional Japanese tea house, and the charming Shinto shrine located within the park.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the week to avoid crowds, bring a camera for great photo opportunities, and pack a bento box for a relaxing picnic lunch.
6. Kashima Yacht Harbor
A marina located in Kashima city, Japan.
What to see or do: Dock your yacht, enjoy the beautiful views, and participate in various water activities like fishing, sailing, and sea kayaking.
Don’t miss: Taking a stroll around the marina and trying local seafood at one of the nearby restaurants.
Insider travel tips: Kashima Yacht Harbor also offers facilities for BBQ, golf, and tennis. It’s recommended to make a reservation in advance for docking your yacht to avoid any inconvenience.
7. Kashima seaside park
A beautiful seaside park located in Kashima City, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, stroll along the long promenade, take a dip in the clean and refreshing water, have a picnic under the sun, play beach volleyball or soccer with your friends, rent a bicycle or a boat, and explore the lush nature trails on foot.
Don’t miss: The iconic Kashima lighthouse, which stands tall at 100 meters and offers magnificent panoramic views of the surroundings.
Also, make sure to check out the nearby shrines and temples, such as the Kashima Shrine and the Katori Shrine, which are considered some of the oldest and most important religious sites in Japan.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during the summer, be prepared for crowded beaches and hot weather, so bring plenty of sunscreen and water.
The park also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, so check the schedule in advance and plan accordingly.
Lastly, don’t forget to try some of the local seafood delicacies, such as fresh oysters, clams, and squid, which are caught daily by the fishermen in the area.
8. Katori Shrine
Katori Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kashima City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.
This shrine is dedicated to the god of war and is included in the list of the country’s most important shrines.
What to see or do: Wander around the vast grounds of the shrine, stroll through the serene forest area, and admire the stunning architecture of the buildings.
Visitors can also participate in various traditional activities such as Torii making, archery, and sword fighting.
Don’t miss: The giant straw sandals located in the shrine’s precinct. These sandals measure 4.
9 meters in height and are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. Also, make sure to witness the powerful dance, known as the Kashima no Tachi, performed by the shrine’s priests.
Insider travel tips: Visit the shrine during autumn to see the stunning foliage around the area. Don’t forget to try the famous Katori Senbei, a local rice cracker made in the shape of a shrine.
Moreover, visit the nearby Kashima Soccer Stadium to catch a football game as Kashima Antlers, one of Japan’s most successful clubs play here.
9. Kawamura Memorial DIC Museum of Art
The Kawamura Memorial DIC Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum located in Kashima, Japan. It has a diverse collection of over 1000 pieces of artwork from both Japanese and international artists.
What to see or do: The museum’s collection focuses on contemporary art, particularly post-World War II Japanese art. Visitors can admire a variety of paintings, sculptures, and installations on display.
The museum also hosts rotating special exhibitions throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The outdoor sculpture park is a highlight of the museum. The park features a variety of contemporary sculptures surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking paths.
It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll while admiring the art.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays and can be busy on weekends, so plan accordingly.
10. Oarai Isosaki Shrine
A historic Shinto shrine situated on the east coast of Japan in the city of Oarai, Ibaraki Prefecture.
What to see or do: Explore the shrine’s beautiful grounds and architecture, with traditional buildings and picturesque gardens. Visitors can also take part in various shrine rituals such as purifying themselves with water and tying prayer ribbons.
Don’t miss: The iconic torii gate, which stands impressively in the water and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to beat the crowds and possibly catch a glimpse of local fishermen at work. On clear days, the sunrise at the shrine is truly breathtaking and worth waking up early for.
11. Kashima Beach
A picturesque beach located on the east coast of Iriomote Island in Okinawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a relaxing day soaking up the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and exploring the coral reefs just off the shore.
Don’t miss: The chance to see sea turtles who come to the beach to lay their eggs during the summer months.
Insider travel tips: Pack sunscreen and plenty of water, as there are limited facilities in the area.
Also, consider visiting in the morning or later afternoon to avoid the crowds of tourists who come during the middle of the day.
12. Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum
The Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum is a museum dedicated to showcasing traditional and contemporary ceramic art.
What to see or do: Visitors can browse through a vast collection of pottery, ceramics, and clay art from Japanese artists. The permanent exhibition features works from renowned ceramic artists such as Kitaoji Rosanjin and Kawai Kanjiro.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing the works of other ceramic artists.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on the museum’s restaurant which offers a unique dining experience served in ceramic pottery.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the annual Ibaraki Ceramic Art Festival held in November to enjoy special events, demonstrations, workshops, and food stalls. The museum is accessible from JR Kashima Jingu Station via the Kashima Rinkai Tetsudo Line.
13. Oarai Sun Beach
Oarai Sun Beach is a picturesque beach located in the Kashima City of Ibaraki prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: This stunning beach stretches over four kilometers, offering an incredible view of the Pacific Ocean. Oarai Sun Beach is a perfect location for beach lovers who crave sun, sand, and water.
The beach offers various water sports, such as swimming, boating, surfing, and jet-skiing.
Don’t miss: The beach is perfect for sunset strolls, and visitors must experience the magical sunset that illuminates the sky with different hues of red, orange, pink, and purple.
Additionally, Oarai Sun Beach hosts various events throughout the year, including beach volleyball, beach soccer, and water sports championships.
Insider travel tips: The beach has various amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and lockers.
Visitors can carry their own food to enjoy a beach picnic, or they can try the delicious food available at the food and beverage stalls around the beach.
It is advisable to carry sunscreen and other beach essentials to avoid discomfort while visiting Oarai Sun Beach.
14. Jukkoku Pass
Jukkoku Pass is a picturesque mountain pass located in the northern part of Kashima, Japan.
What to see or do: The pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains in all seasons. You can go hiking, biking, or simply take a scenic drive through the pass.
It is especially beautiful in autumn when the leaves change colors.
Don’t miss: Make sure to stop at one of the many observation points to take in the stunning panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.
There are also several small cafes and souvenir shops along the way.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re driving, take your time and enjoy the scenery, but be careful on the winding mountain road.
15. Kadihara Dam
Kadihara Dam is a huge dam located in the city of Kashima, Japan.
What to see or do: The Kadihara Dam offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with its clear blue waters and lush green mountains. You can take a stroll along the dam’s walking trail and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
The area is also popular for fishing and boating activities.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the observation deck located at the top of the dam, offering a panoramic view of the area. The illuminated cherry blossoms during the spring season and the colorful foliage during the autumn season are also a must-see.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Kadihara Dam early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and to enjoy the serene beauty of the place.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views.