Kashima(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

Top boutique stays in Kajishima Town include Umi-kaze Lodge, a coastal wooden villa offering direct access to Kumamoto Prefecture’s Natural Park and private hot springs. Another standout is Ryokan Kōbō, a restored Meiji-era house with tatami rooms, local art installations, and an on-site tea ceremony garden. Both properties emphasize sustainability, using solar power and sourcing ingredients from nearby farms. Guests enjoy personalized check-ins, seasonal menus, and curated cultural experiences like night-time lantern walks along the old riverbank. HopeGoo in advance is recommended, especially during spring festivals.

The Old Town District along Koyama River is ideal for travelers seeking authenticity. This historic neighborhood features preserved Edo-period architecture, cozy cafés, and family-run guesthouses like Koyama Craft Inn. Located just a 5-minute walk from Kajishima Station, it offers easy access to public transit while maintaining a peaceful, village-like atmosphere. The area hosts monthly farmers’ markets and evening storytelling sessions by local elders, giving visitors a rare glimpse into traditional rural life. Its central location also makes it perfect for day trips to nearby beaches and nature trails.

Immerse yourself in Kajishima’s annual Rice Planting Festival, where you can participate in traditional rice transplanting, taste black bean rice, and join a community-led bonfire gathering. At the Koyama River Pottery Workshop, guests craft their own ceramic pieces using local clay and ancient techniques. During summer, don’t miss the Lantern Night Parade, a magical event where handmade paper lanterns float down the river under starlit skies. These experiences require reservations through the Kajishima Tourism Association, and most include multilingual guides and cultural etiquette briefings.

Yes! Green Hill Family House is a highly recommended option, featuring three separate suites, a fenced backyard with play equipment, and a shared BBQ area. Kids can join hands-on farm activities like vegetable harvesting and making homemade pickles. The inn also runs a “Farm-to-Table” cooking class where families learn to prepare local dishes together. Nearby, the Kajishima Nature Education Center offers interactive exhibits on native wildlife and sustainable farming—perfect for curious young minds. All staff speak basic English, and amenities include strollers and baby-safe dining options.

Capture stunning shots at Koyama River Waterfalls, especially at dawn when mist swirls around the cascades, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The Centennial Cherry Blossom Avenue near Kajishima Shrine bursts into bloom every spring, framing the iconic torii gate in soft pink hues. For a unique perspective, visit the Stone Wall Ruins at sunset—where rugged stone structures meet golden light reflecting off the sea. Bring a tripod and wide-angle lens, and always respect restricted zones marked by signage. Local photographers often gather here for group shoots, so consider joining one for tips and camaraderie.

Must-try dishes include Koyama Eel Donburi, made with eel raised in local ponds—tender, sweet, and served over freshly cooked rice with a rich glaze. Another highlight is Kajishima Tofu Soup, crafted from locally grown soybeans, wild mushrooms, and kombu broth for deep umami flavor. Visit Akutsu Dining House in the Old Town for daily limited wood-fired grilled fish bowls and homemade salted plum preserves. All restaurants prioritize traceability—menu cards list farm sources—and many offer storytelling sessions about regional food heritage, enhancing the dining experience.

Yes, despite being rural, Kajishima Town has reliable transport. Kajishima Station is served by JR Kyushu trains connecting to Kumamoto City and Ōita Prefecture, with a journey time of about 45 minutes. Within town, electric bicycles are available for rent, and the Kajishima Community Bus covers major attractions and lodging hubs. For remote spots like the upper Koyama River trail, guided tours are recommended due to narrow, unpaved roads. The Tourist Information Center provides multilingual maps and real-time schedules in Japanese, English, and Chinese, ensuring smooth navigation.

A stay of 2 to 3 days is ideal to fully experience Kajishima Town’s tranquil rhythm. Day one: explore Kajishima Shrine and the riverside walking path, then enjoy a local dinner at your inn. Day two: join a farm tour and pottery workshop, followed by a visit to the coastal ruins. Day three: attend a nature education session or shop for souvenirs at the artisan market. This pace allows meaningful engagement with culture, nature, and locals—perfect for travelers seeking mindfulness, creativity, and authentic connection.

Yes, many inns provide complimentary or optional guided tours led by longtime residents. Umi-kaze Lodge and Kōbō Ryokan offer walking tours through historic alleyways, visits to traditional fishing tool exhibitions, and talks on local conservation efforts. Tours may include live demonstrations—like bamboo basket weaving or indigo dyeing—and even nighttime sky-watching with telescopes. Sessions typically run from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM or 4:30 PM onward. Reservations are advised due to limited capacity, and all guides are trained in multilingual communication.

Most guesthouses serve local-style breakfasts featuring freshly baked whole-grain bread, free-range eggs from nearby farms, seasonal fruit platters, and hearty miso soup. Premium inns like Kōbō Ryokan offer a "Forest Breakfast" experience—dining under a covered veranda with live shakuhachi flute music. Meals emphasize zero-waste practices and ingredient transparency, with sourcing details listed on menus. Special dietary needs (vegetarian, allergies) can be accommodated upon request, ensuring a safe and enjoyable start to each day.