Nakatsugawa,
Nakatsugawa is a historic town located in the Gifu Prefecture of Japan. It is known for its picturesque setting surrounded by mountains and lush forests. The town is home to several traditional wooden buildings that have been well-preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's past.
Nakatsugawa also serves as a popular starting point for hikers looking to explore the nearby Magome and Tsumago post towns along the ancient Nakasendo trail.
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 Nakatsugawa
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Nakatsugawa Museum of History and Art, where you can learn about the local culture and history. Then, take a stroll through the picturesque Nakatsugawa Castle Park. For breakfast, try the delicious pastries at Cafe Komeda ☕️.
afternoon:In the afternoon, explore the charming Magome-juku, a well-preserved post town on the Nakasendo Trail. Don't miss the opportunity to try the local soba noodles for lunch at Kikyo-ya. After lunch, take a leisurely walk along the scenic Magome Street.
evening:For a relaxed evening, head to Nakatsugawa Soba Dojo for a hands-on experience in making soba noodles. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at Hana No Mai, known for its traditional Japanese cuisine. Later, unwind with some local sake at a nearby izakaya.
Nature and History
morning:Embark on a morning hike in the picturesque Ena Valley, known for its lush greenery and beautiful waterfalls. After your hike, visit the Enakyo Wonderland for a serene boat ride along the crystal-clear waters. For breakfast, try the delightful treats at Mori-mi Bakery 🍞.
afternoon:After a morning in nature, visit the Ena Gorge for stunning views and a relaxing walk along the river. For lunch, savor the local flavors at Kappo Ryokan Sasanoki, a charming restaurant known for its regional dishes. After lunch, visit the historical Ena Castle.
evening:In the evening, head to the Enakyo Onsen for a soothing soak in the hot springs. For dinner, indulge in a luxurious kaiseki meal at a traditional ryokan, complete with exquisite seasonal delicacies.
Cultural Exploration
morning:Spend your morning exploring the Nakatsugawa Taisho Roman Kan, a museum dedicated to the Taisho period. Then, visit the Tsukechi Gorge for a tranquil and scenic walk surrounded by nature. For breakfast, try the mouthwatering dishes at Tsukechi-no-Shokutaku 🍳.
afternoon:In the afternoon, visit the Nakatsugawa Kimono Museum to learn about the art and history of kimono. Afterward, head to the historic Nakasendo Walking Trail for a leisurely stroll and immerse yourself in the rich history of the area. For lunch, savor the flavors of the region at the quaint Ume no Hana restaurant.
evening:For an evening filled with local culture, attend a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at a local teahouse. Afterward, enjoy a delicious dinner at Hoto Fudo, known for its hearty noodle soups. Then, take a leisurely stroll through Yasunari Kawabata Literary Path for a peaceful end to the day.
Local Delights and Crafts
morning:Begin your morning with a visit to the Nakatsugawa Morning Market, where you can browse and purchase local produce and artisanal goods. Then, head to the Nakatsugawa Rekishi no Michi Museum to discover the historical artifacts and stories of the area. For breakfast, enjoy some traditional Japanese seafood at Sushi Yu 🍣.
afternoon:Visit the Nakatsugawa Shrine and take in the serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture. Then, explore the Nagara River Ukai Museum to learn about the traditional cormorant fishing culture. For lunch, savour the delicious flavours at Kisoji Ryokan.
evening:In the evening, experience an authentic tea ceremony at a local teahouse. Afterward, explore the Nakatsugawa night market and sample various street foods and local snacks. For a night out, head to a nearby karaoke bar and enjoy a lively evening of singing and fun with locals.
Nakatsugawa Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Sansai Soba
Sansai Soba is a hearty noodle dish featuring buckwheat soba noodles topped with an assortment of mountain vegetables, providing a deliciously unique taste of the local flora. For an authentic experience, head to Soba Dokoro Ibuki, renowned for its flavorful Sansai Soba.
Must-Try!
Hoba Miso
Hoba Miso is a regional specialty where a miso-based mixture is grilled on a magnolia leaf along with various ingredients such as mushrooms and vegetables, producing a wonderfully rich and aromatic dish. Yama no Ie is a fantastic place to savor this traditional delicacy.
Tsumago Ocha
Tsumago Ocha, the local tea, is a must-try for tea enthusiasts. The tea, grown in the nearby area, offers a uniquely smooth and refreshing flavor, and can be enjoyed at any of the traditional tea houses scattered around the town.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Nakatsugawa Morning Market
The Nakatsugawa Morning Market is a vibrant hub of local culinary treasures. Here, visitors can sample an array of fresh produce, local snacks, and pickles while immersing themselves in the lively market atmosphere.
Food Stalls along Nakasendo Trail
Exploring the Nakasendo Trail unveils a range of charming food stalls offering regional delicacies such as skewered mountain vegetables, simmered fish cakes, and steamed buns, providing a delightful opportunity to savor local street food.
Pet sitters in Nakatsugawa
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!