ABOUT IZUSHI
Izushi is a castle town popular for its nostalgic atmosphere of old Japan. The town has many interesting attractions, including the Izushi Castle Ruins, Samurai House Karoyashiki, and Eirakukan Kabuki Theater. There are also many local specialties such as Izushi Pottery, Yanagi-gori (willow craft), and Izushi Sara Soba noodles served on five small plates.
Strolling the town in a kimono will transport anyone back into the time of samurai.
Strolling the town in a kimono will transport anyone back into the time of samurai.
Torii gates of Arikoyama Inari Shrine
Torii gates of Arikoyama Inari Shrine
Stroll the preserved streets in a rental Kimono
Retro shops along Otemae Street & Shinkoro Clock
Sukyo-ji Temple Garden
TOP RECOMMENDED EXPERIENCES IN IZUSHI
EIRAKUKAN
KABUKI THEATER
Built in 1901, this is one of the oldest Kabuki theaters in Japan. Various performances are performed even today, including grand Kabuki. On days with no performances, visitors can explore the theater's mysterious workings behind and below the stage.
SUKYOJI
TEMPLE
Sukyoji Temple was built in 1392. This was the family temple where the ruling family of Izushi Castle had worshipped for generations. Here the Buddhist monk Takuan Soho created his namesake pickled daikon radish (takuan), now popular all over Japan, and for this reason the temple is also referred to as “Takuan Temple.” Takuan Soho was also the instructor to the great swordsman Musashi Miyamoto.
IZUSHI TRADITIONAL CRAFTS
IZUSHI POTTERY
Izushi Pottery is created with one stone called kakitanitoseki.
At the 1904 World Expo, Izushi Pottery gained international recognition after receiving a gold medal.
Now, it is registered as one of Japan’s national traditional crafts.
At the 1904 World Expo, Izushi Pottery gained international recognition after receiving a gold medal.
Now, it is registered as one of Japan’s national traditional crafts.
YANAGI-GORI (willow craft)
Yanagi-gori (willow craft) is wickerwork that is made by hand using a species of willow that thrives in the Toyooka area. This sturdy and supple material produces durable items.
SPECIALTY GOURMET OF IZUSHIIZUSHI SARA SOBA
Soba noodles in Japan are usually served in a large dish, but Izushi sara soba is traditionally served on 5 small plates for a single serving. There are about 40 soba noodle shops in Izushi that showcase this interesting serving method.
Use your chopstick to measure how many plates of soba you have eaten. 20 plates stack up to the height of a single chopstick!
Use your chopstick to measure how many plates of soba you have eaten. 20 plates stack up to the height of a single chopstick!
Bookable Experiences & Activities
Meditate, Drink Tea, and Chat with a Local Buddhist Monk (with English-speaking guide)
From 7,000 JPY
IZUSHI YEAR-ROUND
GETTING TO IZUSHI
A short 35 min. drive from Kinosaki OnsenRent a car and take a 35 minute drive to Izushi
Driving to Izushi from Kinosaki takes about 35 min.
There is plenty of paid parking at the Izushi Tourism Center centrally located to Izushi Castle Ruins, Eirakukan, and many soba shops.
*Rental cars can be picked up and returned in Kinosaki Onsen
*Rental cars may be equipped with Japanese or English car naviagtion system. Check with the dealer at the time of your booking for details.
*Rental cars may be equipped with Japanese or English car naviagtion system. Check with the dealer at the time of your booking for details.
Take the local bus from Kinosaki to Izushi
SAMPLE ITINERARIES
(Winter) Luxury Crafts, Theater, Hot Springs, and Shopping
(Year-Round) Time Travel in Izushi Castle Town
(Year-Round) Rural Japan and Exquisite Silks
(Dec-Feb Route) Travel the Japanese Countryside with the Kinosaki Must-Visits Pass Premium!
(Year-Round) Hidden Castle Towns in the West
