Tsuwano Travel Guide

Read our Tsuwano Travel Guide and discover the best places to visit, eat and stay in Japan. Get essential travel tips and tour itinerary here.


Introduction to Tsuwano

Tsuwano is a small town located in Shimane, Japan. It is nestled in the Chugoku region of Japan, making it a great place to visit for those who wish to see the country’s countryside. Tsuwano is known for its historical landmarks, natural beauty, and local culture. A visit here is a must for any tourist looking to immerse themselves in Japan’s rich and vibrant culture.

List of Places to Visit in Tsuwano

Here are some of the top attractions in Tsuwano that every traveler should have on their list:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tsuwano Catholic Church: This is the oldest stone church in Japan, and it is a must-visit for history buffs.

  • Tonomachi Street: This street is lined with traditional Japanese buildings and has an old-timey atmosphere.

  • Katsushika Hokusai Museum: This museum is named after the famous artist Hokusai, who is known for painting the Great Wave off Kanagawa.

  • Tsuwano Castle: Built in the 14th century, this castle played an important role in many historic battles.

Natural Attractions of Tsuwano: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Taikodani Inari Shrine: This shrine is famous for its thousands of torii gates and beautiful scenery.

  • Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this silver mine has scenic walking trails and is rich in history and architecture.

  • Mominoki Park: A beautiful park with a river running through it, making it an ideal spot for picnics and walks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tsuwano

Tsuwano has a lot to offer when it comes to outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Here are some top trails and routes:

  • Tonomachi Street: This street is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride while taking in the views of the traditional Japanese buildings.

  • Mt. Aonoyama: The hike to the top of Mt. Aonoyama offers incredible views of Tsuwano and its surrounding countryside.

  • Tsuwano Cycling Route: This 30-kilometer cycling route goes through Tsuwano and its surrounding areas, making it an ideal way to see the town and more.

Best Things to Do in Tsuwano: Activities and Tours

There are many things to do in Tsuwano for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best activities and tours:

  • Cooking Classes: Learn how to cook Japanese cuisine and immerse yourself in local culture.

  • Sake Brewery Tours: Tour local sake breweries and sample different varieties of sake.

  • Kimono Rentals: Rent a kimono and immerse yourself in Japanese culture for a day.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tsuwano

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Tsuwano:

Day 1 Arrive in Tsuwano, and take a stroll through the town’s historic Tonomachi Street.
Day 2 Visit the Tsuwano Catholic Church and Taikodani Inari Shrine.
Day 3 Hike to the top of Mt. Aonoyama and enjoy breathtaking views of Tsuwano.
Day 4 Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare Japanese cuisine.
Day 5 Visit the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine and Mominoki Park.
Day 6 Tour local sake breweries and sample different varieties of sake.
Day 7 Rent a kimono for the day and immerse yourself in Japanese culture.

Food and Drink Scene of Tsuwano

Tsuwano has a diverse food and drink scene, with many local specialties for you to try. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages in Tsuwano:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Soba: Tsuwano is known for its delicious soba noodles, which are made with buckwheat.

  • Kakinohazushi: This is a traditional sushi dish made with mackerel wrapped in persimmon leaves.

  • Hatto: This dish is made with handmade soba or udon noodles, vegetables, and meat, and is a favorite among locals.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: Sake is a Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. In Tsuwano, local sake breweries produce some of the finest rice wines in Japan.

  • Green Tea: Tsuwano is famous for its green tea, which is grown in the surrounding mountains.

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

Tsuwano has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from traditional Japanese inns to modern hotels. Here are some top picks:

  • Tsuwano Hostel: This is a clean and affordable hostel located in the heart of Tsuwano.

  • Kumonoyu: This is a traditional Japanese inn that offers guests a unique cultural experience.

  • Katsuragi-an: This is a comfortable and modern hotel with excellent amenities.

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

Tsuwano has many locally made products that are perfect souvenirs to bring back home with you. Here are some top choices:

  • Tsuwano Soba Noodles: Tsuwano soba is a local specialty and makes for a delicious souvenir.

  • Kumiko Woodcrafts: Tsuwano is renowned for its intricate woodcrafts, such as Kumiko wood carvings.

  • Green Tea: Tsuwano is famous for its green tea, which is a popular souvenir among tourists.

Local Culture and Customs of Tsuwano

Tsuwano has a unique and distinctive culture that is deeply rooted in its history and heritage. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Politeness and Respect: Japanese people place a great deal of importance on politeness and respect, and it is essential to follow this custom while in Tsuwano.

  • Shinto and Buddhism: Tsuwano has many shrines and temples, and these are essential places of worship for locals.

Best Time to Visit Tsuwano

The best time to visit Tsuwano is in either spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its most beautiful. The cherry blossom in spring and autumn leave season are particularly spectacular.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tsuwano

Here are some basic customs and etiquette that every tourist should keep in mind while in Tsuwano:

Do:

  • Bow: A bow is a traditional Japanese greeting, and it is customary to bow when meeting someone.

  • Remove Shoes: It is customary to remove your shoes before entering buildings, homes, or temples.

Don’t:

  • Eat While Walking: It is considered rude to eat while walking in Tsuwano.

  • Wear Shoes Inside: Wearing shoes inside is considered impolite and disrespectful.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tsuwano

Tsuwano is a safe town, and incidents of crime are rare. However, tourists should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Health in Tsuwano

Tsuwano has good medical facilities, and pharmacies are widely available. However, tourists are advised to carry any necessary medications with them, as English-speaking doctors and pharmacists can be hard to find.

Getting to Tsuwano: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tsuwano is easily accessible by train or bus from major cities in Japan. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Tsuwano

The nearest airport to Tsuwano is Hiroshima Airport. From there, you can take a train or bus to Tsuwano.

Bus Stations Near Tsuwano

Tsuwano has a bus station with regular services to neighboring towns and cities. Bus services are a great option if traveling locally in Shimane Prefecture or nearby.

Other Options

Tsuwano is also accessible by train, with the nearest train station located in Yasugi. From Yasugi, it’s easy to hop on a short connection train to Tsuwano

How to Get Around in Tsuwano

Tsuwano is a walkable town, and most places of interest are within walking distance of each other. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or take a taxi to get around.

Where to Go Next from Tsuwano: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many places to visit close to Tsuwano, making it an excellent base for exploring the region. Here are some recommended day trips and nearby destinations:

  • Hiroshima: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome.

  • Matsue: A lively city with a rich history and picturesque castle.

Conclusion

Tsuwano is an incredible town that offers visitors a chance to experience and immerse themselves in Japanese culture and history. With picture perfect scenery and many activities to choose from, a visit to Tsuwano is a must for anyone looking to get off the beaten path in Japan.

Tsuwano Castle Tsuwano Castle Tsuwano's Historic District Tsuwano's Historic District Tsuwano Catholic Church Tsuwano Catholic Church Chapel of Saint Maria Chapel of Saint Maria