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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Sukumo.
Nestled among the sprawling mountains and the turquoise blue sea, Sukumo is a picturesque paradise that radiates a sense of tranquility and adventure.
With lush greenery, pristine beaches, and a rich cultural heritage, this charming town beckons you to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery.
From hiking to surfing to savoring mouth-watering cuisine, Sukumo offers an infinite array of experiences that will leave you spellbound.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Sukumo:
1. Sukumo Bay
A picturesque bay located in Sukumo City, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a boat ride around the bay to admire the stunning scenery, including the blue waters and surrounding mountains. Visit the Sukumo Bay Observatory to get a panoramic view of the bay and the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: The sunset views from the bay are breathtaking and definitely not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: Try some of the fresh seafood caught in the bay, such as sardines and mackerel. The bay is also known for producing delicious seaweed, which can be purchased at local shops.
Plan your visit in early August to catch the Sukumo Lantern Festival, where hundreds of lanterns are released into the bay, creating a dreamy and magical atmosphere.
2. Sukumo Castle
A historic Japanese castle located in Sukumo City, Ehime Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle grounds, climb the castle keep, and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding area. There is a small museum inside the castle with displays about the history of Sukumo and the castle.
Don’t miss: The cherry blossom trees that bloom around the castle grounds in early April, creating a beautiful pink canopy.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many stairs to climb in the castle. If possible, visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.
Stop by the nearby Sukumo Bay to try some fresh seafood.
3. Otsuki samurai residence
Historical samurai residence turned museum in Sukumo.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the traditional samurai lifestyle and see authentic artifacts from the Edo Period (1603-1868), including samurai armor, weapons, and household items.
The well-preserved traditional architecture and gardens provide a glimpse into the daily lives of the samurai.
Don’t miss: The weapon collection, particularly the exquisite swords that exemplify the precision and artistry of Japanese sword-making.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to take your shoes off before entering the museum, as is customary in many traditional Japanese buildings. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the staff for information and guidance, as they are friendly and knowledgeable.
4. Sukunahikona Shrine
Sukunahikona Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Sukumo, Japan. It’s dedicated to the mythical god of wisdom and matchmaking, Sukunahikona-no-kami.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the serene grounds of the shrine, with its beautiful gardens and towering trees. The main shrine building is an impressive sight, with its ornate architecture and traditional design.
The shrine is also known for its annual festival held in early December, which includes traditional dance performances and food stalls.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local specialty dish of Sukumo, called “katsuo no tataki.
” It’s a delicious sashimi dish made with lightly seared bonito fish that’s then thinly sliced and served with dipping sauce.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in learning more about the history and significance of the shrine, guided tours are available in Japanese.
If you’re not fluent in Japanese, it’s still worth exploring the shrine and gardens for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
5. Sada Shrine
Sada Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Sukumo, a small city in the Kochi prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors to Sada Shrine can admire the impressive torii gate at the entrance, which stands at 17 meters tall and is one of the largest in Japan.
Inside the shrine grounds, there are numerous smaller shrines and buildings to explore, as well as a peaceful garden and pond.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the various festivals that take place at Sada Shrine throughout the year, including the grand annual festival in May which features traditional performances and processions.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should respect the cultural and religious significance of the shrine, and dress appropriately when visiting.
The shrine can be reached by bus or train from Kochi City, and there are also some small shops and restaurants nearby.
6. Setonai-kai National Park
Setonai-kai National Park is a stunning coastal park in Japan. It covers approximately 8,000 hectares and spans across five prefectures.
What to see or do: The park boasts gorgeous beaches, hidden coves, and beautiful islands that are all worth exploring.
Visitors can take a dip in the crystal clear waters, stroll along the sandy beaches, or try their hand at fishing.
The park is also known for its diverse flora and fauna, including rare species such as the Iriomote wildcat and the Japanese otter.
Don’t miss: One mustn’t miss visiting the Kashima Island which is a popular destination for hiking and camping. The Sennin-do Cave in Sukumo City is a mystical and historic cave system that is worth visiting as well.
Insider travel tips: Consider planning your trip around the Setouchi Triennale, an international art festival that takes place every three years on several of the park’s islands.
If you plan on camping, be sure to reserve your spot in advance as they tend to fill up quickly. For the best views, head to the lookout on the Takamatsu Castle Ruins Trail.
7. Yoake Shrine
Yoake Shrine, located in Sukumo, is a small but charming Shinto shrine tucked away in the mountains.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the peaceful grounds and admire the natural surroundings, including a small waterfall. The shrine’s design features a unique thatched roof, which adds to its rustic and serene atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the shrine lit up at night. The soft illumination enhances the shrine’s beauty while creating an even more peaceful ambiance.
Insider travel tips: – Yoake Shrine is about a 20-minute drive from Sukumo Station, so consider renting a car or taking a taxi to visit.
8. Taisan-ji Temple
Taisan-ji is a scenic Buddhist temple nestled in the mountains of Sukumo.
What to see or do: Explore the temple grounds and admire the stunning mountain views. Observe the historic architecture and intricate details of the temple buildings.
Take a peaceful stroll through the adjacent forest and enjoy nature.
Don’t miss: The stunning autumn foliage that blankets the temple grounds in vibrant colors every fall. The experience of meditating or joining a temple ceremony for a deeper understanding of Buddhist culture.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs and steep paths throughout the temple grounds. Making a donation is customary when entering the temple and participating in ceremonies.
9. Sada Beach
Sada Beach is a pristine and peaceful strip of coastline located in the town of Sukumo, Japan.
What to see or do: The beach is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and picnicking. The crystal-clear water and gentle waves make it a safe and enjoyable destination for families with children.
Don’t miss: Besides enjoying the scenic beauty of the shore and sea, visitors must try the delicious local seafood that is freshly caught and served in the nearby restaurants.
Also, try to catch the stunning panoramic view of Sukumo Bay from the observation deck located nearby.
Insider travel tips: Visit Sada Beach early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
10. K’z Factory Outlet
Factory outlet shopping mall in Sukumo, Japan.
What to see or do: Shop for various clothing brands at discounted prices, including Adidas, Puma, Nike, and local Japanese brands. There are also specialty stores for outdoor gear, accessories, and home goods.
Don’t miss: Take advantage of the tax-free shopping and special discounts on top of already reduced prices. The food court offers a variety of Japanese and international cuisine.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the week to avoid crowds, and bring cash as some stores do not accept credit cards. Check the website for seasonal sales and events.
Take the free shuttle from Sukumo Station for convenience.
11. Sukumo Folklore Museum
Sukumo Folklore Museum is a small museum in Sukumo, Japan that showcases the traditional folklore and lifestyle of the local people.
What to see or do: Visitors can see artifacts and displays related to the local fishing industry, agriculture, and daily life, including tools, clothing, and household items.
There is also a section dedicated to the mythology and gods of the area.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the exhibit on the legendary figure Kappa, a mischievous water spirit said to inhabit nearby rivers and lakes.
The museum also offers workshops and events throughout the year, including traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in learning more about folklore and traditional life in Japan, this museum is definitely worth a visit. However, note that English language information is limited, so it may be helpful to bring a translator or Japanese-speaking guide.
Plan to spend about an hour exploring the exhibits, and consider pairing your visit with a stroll around the nearby Sukumo Castle ruins or a trip to the nearby hot springs.
12. Warashibe Coastal Park
A stunning coastal park in the Sukumo city of Japan, known for its picturesque scenery, sandy beach, and crystal-clear water.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy beach or enjoy a refreshing swim in the ocean. Beach volleyball and camping are also popular activities here.
Don’t miss: The sunset at Warashibe Coastal Park is breathtaking. Make sure to stay until the end of the day to witness the sun slowly sinking into the vast ocean.
Insider travel tips: It can get crowded during peak season, so try to visit during weekdays if possible. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
The park also offers shower facilities and rental equipment for beach activities.
13. Makino Botanical Garden
Makino Botanical Garden is a vast nature reserve that specializes in the conservation of rare and endangered plant species. It is named after Tomitaro Makino, a renowned botanist who discovered many new plant species during his lifetime.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the garden’s various sections, each showcasing different plant species from around the world. The garden is divided into different areas such as Japanese gardens, tropical rainforests, and Alpine meadows.
There’s also an impressive greenhouse with a collection of exotic plants.
Don’t miss: The garden’s iconic feature is the enormous wisteria arbor that is covered in beautiful and fragrant flowers from spring to summer.
Visitors can also see the rare and endangered Ezo-shanaku, a plant that was discovered by Tomitaro Makino.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the garden during spring to see the blooming wisteria arbor.
14. Sukumo Marine Biological Laboratory
The Sukumo Marine Biological Laboratory is a research station and aquarium located in Sukumo City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can observe a variety of marine creatures, such as sea anemones, jellyfish, and seahorses, in the aquarium section of the facility.
In the research section, visitors can interact with scientists and see their ongoing research on marine biology and related fields.
Don’t miss: The touch pool, where visitors can touch sea urchins and starfish, and the dolphin show, where skilled trainers interact with the facility’s resident dolphins.
Insider travel tips: – The facility offers various guided tours, including a night tour that allows visitors to see the aquarium’s nocturnal creatures.
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