Little Kyoto Nishio :Enjoy matcha & the first classic book museum

Nishio , Japan

Little Kyoto Nishio :Enjoy matcha & the first classic book museum

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About this experience

Nishio City Historical Park is a new historical and cultural center that conveys the life of the past by partially restoring “Nishio Castle,” which was the center of the Nishio clan‘s Rokumangoku castle town until the Edo period. In this plan, you can learn about the history of Nishio by visiting the cityscape of
the former castle, which is likened to the park and Little Kyoto, and visiting a temple (Seiganji) related to the Matsudaira family who served the Tokugawa family , with explanations by a local guide who knows Nishio City well.

Iwase Bunko is Japan's first old book museum that preserves and publishes more than 80,000 books in a wide range of fields and eras, from classical books including important cultural properties to modern practical books. With this plan, you can see and touch printed matter (scrolls), which is considered to be the oldest in the world?, and gorgeous picture scrolls from the Edo period, and experience making Japanese-style books.

Available options

Little Kyoto Nishio :Enjoy matcha & the first classic book museum

What's included

Matcha tea experience with Japanese sweets

Transfer fee (bus fare)

English-speaking guide

Goshuin at Seiganji Temple

Japanese-style book making experience

Insurance

Japanese kaiseki cuisine lunch

Nishio's famous dumplings

Detailed itinerary

・Visit Nishio City Historical Park (Nishio Castle), Kyu Konoe Residence (with matcha and Japanese sweets)
＊Enjoy high-quality matcha from Nishio at the former residence house used by the court noble in Nishio city historical park. (Along with Uji, Nishio is a famous production area of matcha with special manufacturing method.）
＊A local guide living in Nishio City carefully explains the history of this area
＊Viewing beautiful Japanese garden is a special treat in each season

・Walking around Nishio Town in Little Kyoto
(Sakanamachi, Nakamachi, and tasting of the famous dumplings in Nishio)
＊Walking through the mazed streets where you can feel the atmosphere of Kyoto.
＊Tasting the local specialty “HOSE” mitarashi-dango (dumplings)

・Visit Seiganji Temple
＊Get a Gosyuin(red ink stamp) at a temple related to the Tokugawa Shogun family.

・Japanese kaiseki lunch at Japanese restaurant "Iku"
＊Enjoy traditional kaiseki style cuisine unique to "Little Kyoto Nishio".

・Visit the Edo period picture scrolls and the oldest printed matter at the old book museum "Iwase Bunko“
＊Visit Japan's first classic book museum Iwase Bunko Library. Browse the oldest printed matter in the world and picture scrolls

・Japanese-style book making experience
＊Making Japanese bound book using traditional Japanese paper as a souvenir

What's not included

Souvenirs

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

MEITETSU(Nagoya Railroad) Nishio Station in front of the ticket gate

About Nishio

Nishio is a charming city in Aichi Prefecture, renowned for its traditional Japanese sweetfish (ayu) and beautiful natural landscapes. The city offers a blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Top Attractions

Nishio Castle

Nishio Castle, also known as Handa Castle, is a well-preserved castle with a rich history. The castle grounds offer beautiful views and a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (castle grounds) or ¥300 (museum)

Nishio City Museum

The Nishio City Museum showcases the city's history and culture, including exhibits on the famous Japanese sweetfish (ayu) and local crafts.

Museum 1-2 hours ¥300

Shiroyama Park

Shiroyama Park is a beautiful park located on a hill, offering panoramic views of Nishio and the surrounding countryside. The park is home to various seasonal flowers and trees, making it a popular spot for picnics and walks.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Nishio Ayu no Yu

Nishio Ayu no Yu is a traditional public bathhouse where visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak while savoring the city's famous Japanese sweetfish (ayu). The bathhouse offers a unique cultural experience and a chance to unwind.

Cultural 1-2 hours ¥500-¥1,000

Nishio Market

Nishio Market is a bustling market where visitors can sample local delicacies, including the famous Japanese sweetfish (ayu). The market offers a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and traditional snacks.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for food and goods

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ayu (Japanese Sweetfish)

A small, sweet fish that is a local delicacy, often grilled and served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Dinner Contains fish

Hegi Soba

A type of buckwheat noodle dish that is a local specialty, often served with a savory broth or sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian option available

Nishio Miso

A locally produced miso paste that is used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and marinades.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian/vegan options available

Ayu Sake

A local sake brewed with ayu fish, offering a unique and delicious flavor.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking in Shiroyama Park Ayu fishing in Ayu no Sato Visiting Nishio Ayu no Yu Strolling through Nishio Market Exploring Nishio Castle Visiting local museums and temples Ayu fishing Boat tours on the nearby rivers

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city's cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn are particularly beautiful.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

Japan Standard Time (JST, GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Nishio is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, travelers should always take basic precautions to protect their belongings and personal safety.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight to deter pickpockets
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas

Getting there

By air

Chubu Centrair International Airport • 25 km from Nishio

By train

Nishio Station

By bus

Nishio Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trains are efficient and widely used. IC cards like Suica or Manaca can be used for payment.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None commonly used

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Nishio Ayu no Sato Handa

Day trips

Okazaki

15 km from Nishio • Half day to full day

Okazaki is a historic city known for its well-preserved castle and traditional samurai district. The city offers a variety of cultural experiences and attractions, including museums, temples, and shrines.

Toyohashi

30 km from Nishio • Full day

Toyohashi is a historic city known for its well-preserved castle and traditional crafts. The city offers a variety of cultural experiences and attractions, including museums, temples, and shrines.

Nagoya

40 km from Nishio • Full day or overnight

Nagoya is a major city in Aichi Prefecture, offering a variety of cultural, historical, and modern attractions. The city is known for its museums, temples, and shopping districts.

Festivals

Nishio Ayu Festival • August Nishio Summer Festival • July Nishio Autumn Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit Nishio Castle early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
Try the local ayu dishes at Nishio Market or Ayu no Sato for an authentic taste of the city's famous sweetfish
Explore the city's traditional crafts and workshops, such as those that produce Nishio's famous miso paste and hegi soba noodles
Take a day trip to the nearby cities of Okazaki, Toyohashi, or Nagoya to experience more of the Aichi Prefecture's culture and history
Visit during the Nishio Ayu Festival in August for a unique and memorable experience, featuring fireworks, food stalls, and various ayu-related activities