Kitakata,
Kitakata is a charming city located in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. Known for its delicious ramen noodles, Kitakata boasts numerous ramen shops that attract food lovers from near and far. The city is also famous for its traditional Japanese sake breweries, offering visitors a chance to taste authentic sake.
With its well-preserved historic buildings and peaceful countryside surroundings, Kitakata offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Kitakata
morning:Start your day with a visit to Kitakata Ramen Street, where you can sample different varieties of the local specialty. Then head to Kitakata City Museum to learn about the history and culture of the area. End your morning by visiting the Eirin-ji Temple.
afternoon:Enjoy a traditional lunch at Tsukemen Kogen Kitakata, known for its delicious dipping noodles. Afterwards, explore the historic streets of Oyakikouji, lined with charming traditional buildings. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Sakkou Studio and see how Kitakata's famous wakamono dolls are made.
evening:For a night-out, head to Kura Sake Bar to taste a variety of local sakes in a cozy atmosphere.
Natural Beauty
morning:Embark on a nature-filled morning with a visit to Tsurugajo Castle, known for its picturesque surroundings and historic significance. Have an early lunch at Kashiwazaki Shokudo to enjoy a range of fresh and locally sourced dishes.
afternoon:Afterwards, drive to the scenic Otakizawa Canyon and take a leisurely walk along the beautiful nature trails. Make sure to stop by Yanaizu Sakagura for a unique sake tasting experience, featuring local brews and traditional snacks.
evening:Head to Kadowaki Ryokan for a blissful evening of relaxation in a traditional Japanese inn.
Cultural Delights
morning:Start your day with a trip to the Kitakata Lacquer Museum, where you can admire exquisite lacquerware and even try your hand at creating your own piece. Then, visit the charming Asaichi Morning Market to shop for local produce and handmade crafts. Be sure to grab a snack from one of the vendors offering fresh seafood and other treats.
afternoon:Indulge in a delightful lunch at Bannai Shokudo, known for its sumptuous curry and rice dishes. Next, take a stroll to the Kitakata Furusato Village, where you can experience the traditional lifestyle of the region through exhibits and workshops.
evening:For a night-out, head to the lively Izakaya Yamaneko to enjoy a variety of small plates and drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
Art and History
morning:Begin your day with a visit to Kitakata Folk Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits that illuminate the local history and heritage. Then, make your way to the Yuki Yama Brewery to learn about the brewing process and sample some of their finest sake.
afternoon:For a satisfying lunch, visit the popular Tanakaya Soba for a taste of their renowned buckwheat noodles. After lunch, immerse yourself in the traditional craft of Kitakata at the Kitamura Silk Mill, where you can witness silk production techniques and even try weaving yourself.
evening:End your day at Kakehashi, a cozy cafe and bar where you can unwind with a refreshing drink and enjoy live music performances.
Kitakata Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Kitakata Ramen
A unique style of ramen featuring flat, curly noodles and a soy sauce-based broth. It's often topped with green onions, bamboo shoots, and tender slices of chashu pork. Visit Ramen Senmon Homangu for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
Sasakama
A traditional Kitakata dish made from wheat flour, soy sauce, and sugar, which is kneaded into a dough, cut into thin sheets, and then dried. Find high-quality Sasakama at Kitakata's local food markets or shops.
Sake
Kitakata boasts excellent sake due to the pristine water from the region. The sake brewed here is a must-try for enthusiasts, and the Kitakata Sake Brewery offers tours and tastings.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Kitakata Morning Market
A vibrant marketplace offering fresh produce, local snacks, and craft items. Try traditional street food like yakisoba noodles, takoyaki, and imagawayaki filled with sweet red bean paste.
Pet sitters in Kitakata
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!