Nishiawakura Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful countryside town of Nishiawakura in Okayama, Japan with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover must-visit attractions, exciting outdoor activities, delicious local cuisine, and much more!


Introduction to Nishiawakura

Nishiawakura is a charming countryside town located in Okayama Prefecture in the Chugoku region of Japan. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality of its people, Nishiawakura offers a unique and authentic Japanese experience. The town is surrounded by lush mountains, pristine rivers, and serene forests, creating a peaceful and idyllic atmosphere. Nishiawakura is an ideal destination for travelers seeking to explore rural Japan, and experience the true essence of Japanese culture.

List of Places to Visit in Nishiawakura

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Nishiawakura Village Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the region through a collection of artifacts, traditional crafts, and interactive exhibits.
  • Seisui-ji Temple: This beautiful temple is one of the oldest in the town, and is known for its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings.
  • Kumano Shrine: The Kumano Shrine is a sacred Shinto shrine located in the heart of Nishiawakura. It is a popular destination for visitors seeking to experience the traditional culture of Japan.

Natural Attractions of Nishiawakura: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hiruzen Herb Garden: This beautiful garden is filled with a variety of aromatic herbs and flowers, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
  • Hiruzen Ski Resort: During the winter months, the Hiruzen Ski Resort is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.
  • Katsuo-ji River: The Katsuo-ji River is a perfect spot for fishing and boating. It is also a great place for a peaceful walk along its banks while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nishiawakura

One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Nishiawakura is by hiking or biking. The town is full of scenic trails and routes, suitable for both experienced and novice hikers and bikers. The following are some of the most popular hiking/biking routes in Nishiawakura:

  • Hiruzen Plateau Walk: This 7-kilometer trail takes you through the beautiful Hiruzen Plateau, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
  • Karasugawa Valley Trail: The Karasugawa Valley Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that takes you through a deep and narrow valley, surrounded by lush forests.
  • Maezawa Nature Trail: This scenic trail takes you through the beautiful Maezawa valley, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, rivers, and forests.

Best Things to Do in Nishiawakura: Activities and Tours

  • Sake Brewery Tour: Take a tour of the Hiruzen Sake Brewery and learn about the traditional methods of sake making. You can also sample some of the delicious local sake.
  • Cycling Tour: Take a guided cycling tour of the town, and explore its rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
  • Traditional Crafts Workshop: Participate in a traditional crafts workshop and learn how to make pottery, woodwork, or bamboo crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nishiawakura

Day 1: Arrival in Nishiawakura and check-in at your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the town center, and visit the Nishiawakura Village Museum.

Day 2: Take a hiking or cycling tour of the Hiruzen Plateau. Stop by the Hiruzen Herb Garden for a picturesque lunch break.

Day 3: Visit the Kumano Shrine, and explore the nearby Katsuo-ji River. Finish the day with a relaxing soak in one of the town’s hot springs.

Day 4: Participate in a traditional crafts workshop, and learn a new skill.

Day 5: Take a tour of the Hiruzen Sake Brewery and sample some of the local sake.

Day 6: Visit the Seisui-ji Temple, and take a stroll through the serene forests that surround it.

Day 7: Departure from Nishiawakura.

Food and Drink Scene of Nishiawakura

Must-Try Dishes

  • Soba Noodles: Nishiawakura is known for its delicious soba noodles, made from locally grown buckwheat.
  • Hiruzen Yakitori: Hiruzen Yakitori is a specialty dish that consists of skewered chicken cooked over a charcoal fire, and is often served with a side of sake.
  • Vegetable Tempura: Vegetables are a staple of the local diet, and are often prepared in a light and crispy tempura batter.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: Nishiawakura is home to several sake breweries, and is known for its high-quality sake.
  • Green Tea: The town is also known for its delicious green tea, which is grown in nearby tea fields.

Where to Stay in Nishiawakura: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hiruzen Resort: This luxury resort offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and is a popular destination for visitors seeking a relaxing and peaceful retreat.
  • Nishiawakura Hotel: This traditional Japanese-style hotel offers comfortable rooms, a hot spring bath, and delicious local cuisine.
  • Guesthouse Tomiya: This friendly guesthouse is located in the heart of Nishiawakura, and offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in Nishiawakura: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pottery: Nishiawakura is known for its beautiful pottery, which is made using traditional techniques.
  • Woodwork: The town is also known for its fine woodwork, which is often made from locally sourced wood.
  • Green Tea: Take home some of the delicious locally grown green tea as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Nishiawakura

Nishiawakura has a rich cultural heritage, and its people are proud of their traditional customs and practices. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local culture and customs, and to participate in cultural activities and festivals whenever possible. The town is also known for its warm hospitality and friendly people.

Best Time to Visit Nishiawakura

The best time to visit Nishiawakura is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its most beautiful. The town also hosts several festivals and cultural events during these seasons, which are worth attending.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nishiawakura

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Participate in cultural activities and festivals.
  • Try the delicious local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the environment.
  • Disrespect the local people or their customs.
  • Ignore the rules and regulations of the town.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nishiawakura

Nishiawakura is a safe and peaceful town, and crime is rare. However, visitors are advised to take standard precautions, such as keeping their valuables safe and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Nishiawakura

Nishiawakura has several medical facilities, including clinics and hospitals. Visitors should also take standard health precautions, such as washing their hands frequently and staying hydrated.

Getting to Nishiawakura: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nishiawakura

  • Okayama Airport: The nearest airport to Nishiawakura is Okayama Airport, which is located approximately 70 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Nishiawakura

  • Hiruzen Bus Station: The Hiruzen Bus Station is located in the center of the town, and offers bus services to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can also rent a car and drive to Nishiawakura. The town is easily accessible by road, and there are several rental car companies located near Okayama Airport.

How to Get Around in Nishiawakura

The easiest way to get around Nishiawakura is by car or bicycle. However, the town is also accessible by bus, and there are several taxi services available.

Where to Go Next from Nishiawakura: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kurashiki: Kurashiki is a picturesque town located approximately 60 kilometers from Nishiawakura, and is known for its beautiful historic district, museums, and galleries.
  • Tottori Sand Dunes: The Tottori Sand Dunes are located approximately 100 kilometers from Nishiawakura, and are one of the largest sand dune formations in Japan.

Conclusion

Nishiawakura is a hidden gem in Japan, offering visitors a unique and authentic experience of rural Japan. Whether you are interested in exploring the natural beauty of the town, delving into its rich history and culture, or simply relaxing and enjoying the warm hospitality of its people, Nishiawakura has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today, and discover the beauty and charm of Nishiawakura!

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