Kendonya Handmade Udon
Located just steps away from Keihan Fushimi Inari Station, this handmade udon shop has been a favorite for over 25 years since its opening in 1995, following the owner's 10 years of dedicated training. The shop's name derives from a phrase meaning "to make udon humbly and earnestly."
The flavor is awesome! Plus, it's handmade—so tasty!
Nezameya
Nezameya, located right next to a torii gate at the entrance of Fushimi Inari Taisha's rear path, has been serving food since 1540. Its name is said to have been given by the famous Toyotomi Hideyoshi. While visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha to pray for his mother's health, Hideyoshi sought a place to rest. This establishment, open early in the morning, was the only available option. Pleased with being able to enjoy tea, Hideyoshi named the eatery “Nezameya,” inspired by his wife’s name, Ne-Ne.
You have to try the eel rice here! The old Kyoto-style wooden building has such a classic vibe—it's two stories and really represents the local food scene.
Kyoto Cuisine Rokusei
Established in the 32nd year of the Meiji era (1899), this renowned Kyoto cuisine restaurant boasts a history of over 120 years. Currently situated along the Biwako Canal near Heian Shrine in the Okazaki area, it stands as a testament to the enduring tradition and culinary excellence of Kyoto's gastronomic culture.
You can sit by the table, enjoy the view of a Japanese garden, and savor delicious food. Their seasonal kaiseki cuisine is also very famous.
Tempura Endo Okazaki Residence
Located near Heian Jingu Shrine, in the Okazaki area along the Biwako Canal, this tempura restaurant is a slice of Kyoto charm. A popular establishment with its main shop in Yasaka, the "Okazaki Residence" branch opened in 2016.
This is my favorite place for tempura—so delicious!
Yugayamaenchi (Old Yamaguchi Clan Nanto Residence Garden)
This 1.3 ha parkland is located at the southern end of Nara Park, south of Ukimido and Sagi-ike Pond. The park was additionally designated as a national cultural property, "Nara Park of Scenic Beauty," in 1927, as a place with a spectacular view of Mt. This area was once the villa of Kichirobei Yamaguchi, who was active in the Osaka business world during the Meiji and Taisho periods, and there is historical evidence that writers and artists once exchanged with each other here.
This place is great for holding meetings or tea gatherings and other events!
Spring Water Garden Shimeiso
Shimabara City has long been blessed with an abundance of spring water, earning it the title of "City of Water". Particularly in the Shinmachi district, the residents are known for their lives closely intertwined with the spring water. Strolling through the town, one encounters canals filled with koi fish swimming about at almost every turn.
You can sit on the veranda and enjoy the view of the spring water garden. It's such a relaxing place to visit~
Shoyeido Kunjyukan
Kunjyukan, operated by Shoyeido, is a hub for information on incense with over 300 years of history. On the first floor is Koh-labo "Exploring Incense", offering a variety of interactive fragrance experiences.
They sell incense used for tea ceremonies here, as well as incense sticks for study rooms and other spaces. There are also portable sachets you can carry with you~~
Nakamura Tokichi Honten, Uji Main Store
Founded in 1854, the first year of the Ansei era, this tea specialty store is located in Uji, a region nationally renowned for its high-quality Japanese tea.
I wasn't really into matcha or green tea before, but if you're visiting Uji, you should definitely stop by here for a cup of tea.
Itohkyuemon Uji Main Store Tea Room
Itohkyuemon, a long-established tea shop founded in 1832 (Tenpo 3), is located in Uji, one of Japan's leading producers of high-quality tea leaves. While preserving the traditions passed down since its founding, the shop continuously develops new matcha sweets, introducing new values of tea to the world.
You can feel how spacious and comfortable the environment is as soon as you walk in~ There are plenty of seats in the Itohkyuemon tea room.
Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observatory
The viewpoint is a popular spot to overlook the village of Ogimachi in Shirakawa, Gifu Prefecture, known by the name "Shirakawa-go," from an elevated position. Ogimachi Castle was a small mountain castle built atop a 60-meter hill with dimensions of approximately 60 meters east-west and 50 meters north-south; now, only remnants like earthworks remain.
This observatory is a must-see in Shirakawa-go~ It's the perfect spot to view the famous World Heritage site and the beautiful, picture-perfect scenery of the Gassho-style village.