Iwakura

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Iwakura's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Iwakura Adventure 1
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Iwakura Cherry Blossom Park. Enjoy a leisurely walk among the blooming trees and take plenty of photos.

afternoon
:

Cafes nearby offer delightful local cuisine, perfect for lunch. Afterward, explore the Iwakura Community Center to learn about the local culture and history.

evening
:

As the sun sets, take a stroll along the Kiso River. The beautiful river views create the perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening.

day 2
Iwakura Experience 2
morning
:

Visit the revered Iwakura Shrine to start your day with a peaceful experience. Take time to appreciate the traditional architecture and tranquil surroundings.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local izakaya, where you can taste authentic Japanese food. Afterwards, head to the Iwakura Zoushi Art Museum to admire local art.

evening
:

Visit a nearby onsen for a relaxing soak after a busy day. Indulge in dinner at a local restaurant featuring seasonal ingredients.

day 3
Nature Escapade 3
morning
:

Hike up to the scenic Iwakura Yama for breathtaking views. The early morning air is refreshing, and the trails are less crowded.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit while taking in the panoramic vistas. Descend in time to explore the shops in Iwakura for souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a riverside eatery that specializes in grilled fish. Enjoy the calming ambiance as you reflect on your day.

day 4
Iwakura Culinary Day 4
morning
:

Join a local cooking class to learn how to make sushi. You'll get to shop at the local market for fresh ingredients.

afternoon
:

Taste your creations for lunch and share them with fellow cooking enthusiasts. Later, take a stroll to discover quaint cafes for some matcha treats.

evening
:

Visit a local sake brewery to learn about the brewing process and sample various types. Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner for an exquisite culinary experience.

day 5
Cultural Immersion 5
morning
:

Start the day at the Iwakura Town Historical Museum to learn about the region’s history. Engage with interactive exhibits that are fun and educational.

afternoon
:

Take a guided walking tour of the historic district to see well-preserved traditional houses. Stop for lunch in a local noodle shop for some delicious soba.

evening
:

Attend a local cultural performance if available, such as a tea ceremony or traditional dance. Dinner at a cozy izakaya to chat about your discoveries.

day 6
Exploration Day 6
morning
:

Explore the Iwakura Open Air Museum, where you can see traditional architectural styles from different eras. Enjoy the open-air environment as part of your experience.

afternoon
:

Visit nearby craft workshops that focus on pottery or textiles for engaging demonstrations. Grab lunch at a local café known for organic ingredients.

evening
:

Walk around the beautifully lit gardens of Iwakura in the evening. Wind down with a delicious dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant.

day 7
Scenic Journey 7
morning
:

Take a bike ride through Iwakura's scenic countryside, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful landscapes. Stop to take photos of the rice paddies and distant mountains.

afternoon
:

Refuel with a packed lunch at a scenic viewpoint. Continue exploring the quiet paths that lead to hidden gems around Iwakura.

evening
:

Return to town and have dinner at a local diner featuring regional specialties. This is a great way to end an active day.

day 8
Water Adventure 8
morning
:

Rent a kayak and paddle along the Kiso River for a delightful morning on the water. The gentle current makes it a perfect starting point for your day.

afternoon
:

After kayaking, head to a lakeside café for a refreshing lunch. Enjoy the views of the water and surrounding nature.

evening
:

Join a sunset boat tour on the river, experiencing the beauty of Iwakura from a unique perspective. Dine at a restaurant offering bento boxes for a unique twist.

day 9
Stargazing 9
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to a local farm to learn about organic farming practices. Enjoy a fresh breakfast featuring local produce.

afternoon
:

Participate in a farm activity like fruit picking, which is both fun and educational. Treat yourself to a light lunch at the farm's café.

evening
:

Head to the countryside for a stargazing event if available. Find a local spot for dinner that serves grilled specialties to conclude your day.

day 10
Relaxation Retreat 10
morning
:

Begin with a yoga class at a local studio that focuses on mindfulness. This sets the tone for a conscious and calm day.

afternoon
:

Visit a wellness center that offers spa treatments like massages and facials. Enjoy a healthy lunch at a nearby vegan café.

evening
:

Spend a peaceful evening walking through the serene parks of Iwakura. Conclude your day with a light dinner at a restaurant specializing in vegetarian cuisine.

Discover Iwakura

Read more in our Iwakura 2024 Travel Guide.

Iwakura Travel Guide