Kuwana
桑名市
Things to Do in and Around Kuwana
Kuwana City is a historic port town located in the northern part of Mie Prefecture, facing Ise Bay. It is known for Rokkaen, which is associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu, and the culinary culture of "hamaguri" (clams) that has continued since the Edo period. It has good access from Nagoya and retains the atmosphere of a post town on the Tokaido Fifty-three Stations. It is also known as the gateway to Ise Jingu, making it a city where you can enjoy both historical exploration and culinary delights.
Where is Kuwana?
Kuwana City is located in the northern part of Mie Prefecture, bordering Aichi Prefecture. To the north, the Kiso Three Rivers (Kiso River, Nagara River, and Ibi River) flow, beyond which lie Yatomi City and Aisai City in Aichi Prefecture. To the east, it is close to Nagoya City, and to the west, it borders Toin Town in Inabe District and Inabe City in Mie Prefecture. To the south is Yokkaichi City, and it is also an area facing Ise Bay.
Additionally, the Isewangan Expressway and the Tomeihan Expressway pass through, making it convenient to visit by highway bus or car.
Getting Around
Kuwana City is accessible from Nagoya Station in about 20 minutes via the Kintetsu Nagoya Line, and about 30 minutes via the JR Kansai Main Line. The main station in the city is "Kuwana Station," which is served by both Kintetsu and JR.
From the Nagoya area, the Kuwana IC on the Tomei Expressway is also convenient. Within the city, Mie Kotsu buses are in operation, but if you're touring the sightseeing spots, a combination of local buses and walking is recommended.
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About Kuwana
Kuwana City, located in the northern part of Mie Prefecture, is a town rich in history and culture. During the Edo period, it flourished as a post town on the Tokaido, and even today, many places retain the remnants of that era.
The Home of "Hamaguri"
Kuwana is famous for its "hamaguri" (clams). Kuwana-produced clams, especially known as "Kuwana no Yaki Hamaguri," have been treasured since ancient times. In the Edo period, they were known as offerings to the shogunate and are counted among Japan's three great clams. Every spring, the "Kuwana Hamaguri Festival" is held, attracting many people to enjoy fresh clams.
Rokkaen - The Mansion of a Meiji-era Merchant
Rokkaen is the mansion of Seiroku Moroto, a wealthy merchant from the Meiji era, and is designated as an important cultural property of Japan. It features a unique blend of Japanese and Western architectural styles, conveying the lifestyle of the affluent during that time. The gardens are also beautiful, offering seasonal landscapes and serving as a valuable cultural heritage of Kuwana City.
Kyuka Park and Kuwana Castle Ruins
Kuwana Castle was built in the early Edo period and is now maintained as Kyuka Park. In spring, about 300 cherry trees bloom, making it the premier cherry blossom viewing spot in Kuwana City. From the castle ruins, you can enjoy the majestic scenery of the Kiso Three Rivers, providing a space where history and nature harmonize.
Shichiri no Watashi - A Historic Ferry Crossing
"Shichiri no Watashi" was an important ferry crossing used by travelers visiting Ise during the Edo period to cross the Kiso River. Many people traveling the Tokaido passed through here, and it is known that Matsuo Basho also used this crossing on his journey in "Oku no Hosomichi." Today, a monument stands, allowing visitors to reflect on the past.
Ishidori Festival - A Traditional Event with Over 400 Years of History
The "Ishidori Festival," which colors the summer of Kuwana City, is a traditional event with over 400 years of history and is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The sight of giant floats parading through the city is overwhelming, and the festival, with its "Yaryanse" chant, is a summer tradition of Kuwana City.
Tado Shrine - A Popular Power Spot
Tado Shrine, located in Tado Town, Kuwana City, has long been revered as a god of prosperous business. The unique "Tado Mairi" style of worship involves running up the stone steps of the shrine to have wishes granted. Additionally, there is a great camphor tree over 1000 years old on the grounds, making it a popular power spot.
Kiso Sansen Park - A Leisure Spot to Enjoy Nature
Kiso Sansen Park, spanning Kuwana City and surrounding areas, is a vast park developed in the region where the Kiso, Nagara, and Ibi Rivers converge. Facilities such as the 138 Tower Park offer opportunities to enjoy seasonal flowers and nature, as well as activities like cycling and barbecuing.
Kuwana
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