Take a Stroll Back in Time at Takehara, Hiroshimas Little Kyoto

Tucked away along the serene Seto Inland Sea, the quaint town of Takehara offers a captivating glimpse into Japan’s past. Often dubbed "Hiroshima’s Little Kyoto," this well-preserved historical haven beckons travelers to step back in time and enjoy its captivating cultural heritage. From indulging in a traditional multi-course wa-yen dinner to savoring handcrafted soba noodles at a century-old sake brewery, Takehara’s unique blend of culinary and architectural delights promises to enchant the senses. As you stroll through the town’s charming streets, the tranquil atmosphere and meticulously maintained buildings leave little doubt why Takehara is considered a true gem of Japan’s Setouchi region.

Key Points

• Explore the well-preserved historical buildings and tranquil atmosphere of Takehara, a picturesque town often referred to as ‘Hiroshima’s Little Kyoto’.
• Indulge in a traditional wa-yen full course dinner showcasing the town’s renowned salt and locally-sourced ingredients.
• Start the day with a breakfast featuring a selection of Japanese and Western-style dishes at the NIPPONIA HOTEL.
• Enjoy handcrafted soba noodles alongside the renowned sake at a century-old Fujii Shuzo Co., Ltd. brewery.
• Conveniently begin and end the day at the NIPPONIA HOTEL’s front desk/restaurant building, the designated meeting point.

Overview of Takehara, Japan

Takehara, a picturesque town in Japan’s Hiroshima Prefecture, is often referred to as ‘Hiroshima’s Little Kyoto‘ for its well-preserved historical buildings and tranquil atmosphere.

Nestled along the Seto Inland Sea, Takehara boasts a rich history dating back to the 17th century, when it thrived as a salt-producing center.

Today, the town’s well-preserved merchant houses, traditional machiya townhouses, and quaint alleyways transport visitors to a bygone era.

Takehara’s charming streets are lined with unique shops, cafes, and artisan workshops, offering a glimpse into the region’s traditional crafts and local culture.

Whether strolling through the historic Takehara Saltworks or admiring the stunning natural scenery, this captivating town provides a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Dinner: Wa-yen Full Course

One of the highlights of a visit to Takehara is the opportunity to indulge in a traditional wa-yen (和膳) full course dinner, showcasing the town’s renowned salt and locally-sourced ingredients.

This multi-course culinary experience takes diners on a flavorful journey through Takehara’s rich culinary heritage. Each dish is meticulously prepared, highlighting the natural umami flavors of the salt and the freshness of the locally-grown produce.

From delicate sashimi to hearty meat dishes, the wa-yen dinner celebrates the harmony of flavors that’s central to Japanese cuisine. Diners will savor the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory notes in every bite, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for Takehara’s unique culinary offerings.

Breakfast at NIPPONIA HOTEL

Guests at the NIPPONIA HOTEL in Takehara can start their day with a delightful breakfast, featuring a selection of traditional Japanese and Western-style dishes.

The hotel’s culinary team prepares a bountiful spread, including fluffy tamagoyaki (Japanese-style rolled omelette), savory grilled fish, and a variety of fresh seasonal fruits.

Guests can also enjoy a range of breads, jams, and other accompaniments, as well as a selection of hot beverages to kickstart their day.

The breakfast is served in the hotel’s cozy dining area, providing a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy the local flavors and fuel up for the adventures ahead in Takehara’s historic Saltworks Town.

Soba Noodle Lunch at Sake Brewery

After savoring the traditional Japanese breakfast at the NIPPONIA HOTEL, guests can head over to the nearby Fujii Shuzo Co., Ltd. sake brewery to indulge in a delectable soba noodle lunch.

The century-old brewery offers a unique culinary experience, allowing visitors to enjoy handcrafted soba noodles alongside their renowned sake. The noodles are made fresh on-site, with the buckwheat flour sourced from local farms, ensuring a truly authentic taste of the region.

As diners slurp up the springy noodles, they can admire the brewery’s historic architecture and learn about the meticulous craft of sake-making. This midday meal is a perfect complement to the culture of Takehara, offering a delightful blend of tradition and flavor.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The meeting point for this Takehara excursion is the NIPPONIA HOTEL’s front desk/restaurant building, located at 1-4-16 Honmachi, Takehara, Hiroshima 725-0022, Japan.

Travelers should arrive at this designated rendezvous spot promptly at 13:00 to begin their immersive cultural journey through Hiroshima’s ‘Little Kyoto’.

The experience includes:

• A Japanese wa-yen (和膳) full course dinner using Takehara’s salt and local ingredients
• Breakfast at the NIPPONIA HOTEL
• Soba noodle lunch at the Fujii Shuzo Co., Ltd. sake brewery

At the end of the day, guests will be returned to the same meeting point, fully immersed in the historic charm and culinary delights of Takehara.

Timing and Opening Hours

This cultural experience in Takehara is available from December 11, 2024 through February 26, 2025, operating daily from 13:00 to 16:00. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and enjoy the local culture during these set hours. The timing allows for a leisurely exploration of the town, with ample time to savor the included meals and activities.

Timing	Details
Start Time	Confirmed upon booking
End Time	Back at meeting point
Days of Operation	Monday – Sunday
Opening Hours	13:00 – 16:00
Duration	Full day experience

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can cancel their booking up to 6 days in advance for a full refund.

For a 50% refund, they must cancel 2-6 days before the experience.

However, if they cancel less than 2 days prior, no refund will be provided.

This flexible cancellation policy ensures that guests have the freedom to adjust their plans without financial penalties, promoting a stress-free travel experience.

It’s important to note that the experience may be cancelled if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met, in which case an alternative will be offered.

This policy reflects the tour provider’s commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility.

Experiencing Takehara’s Local Charm

Visitors to Takehara can enjoy the town’s delightful blend of history, culture, and local cuisine, uncovering its deserved moniker as ‘Hiroshima’s Little Kyoto’.

Strolling through the well-preserved historic district, travelers are transported back in time, marveling at the traditional machiya townhouses and picturesque canals.

The local salt industry, which has thrived for centuries, is celebrated at the Takehara Saltworks, where visitors can learn about the meticulous salt-making process and savor the town’s signature ‘wa-yen’ full-course dinner.

Complementing the cultural experience, the soba noodles at the nearby sake brewery offer a delightful taste of Takehara’s culinary heritage, showcasing the town’s commitment to preserving its unique local flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Experience?

The recommended attire for this experience is casual and comfortable. Visitors should dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable. Walking shoes are advised for the strolling and sightseeing activities throughout the day.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

The tour likely accommodates various dietary restrictions. Guests should notify the local provider in advance of any special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or food allergies, so they can be properly accommodated during the included meals.

Can I Explore Takehara on My Own Before or After the Tour?

Yes, you can explore Takehara on your own before or after the tour. The tour is focused on set activities, but you’re free to wander the town’s historic streets and sights outside the scheduled events.

Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Experience?

Guests can extend or customize the experience by contacting the local provider. They may be able to add additional activities, meals, or adjust the itinerary to suit individual preferences, though availability and costs may vary.

What Are the Popular Souvenirs or Local Products to Buy?

Popular local souvenirs from Takehara include salt-based products like salt candies and salt seasoning, as well as sake from the Fujii Shuzo brewery. Visitors can also find traditional Japanese ceramics and handicrafts that capture Takehara’s historic charm.

Recap

Takehara’s well-preserved historical buildings, tranquil atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage make it a captivating destination.

Visitors can dive into the town’s past by savoring a traditional wa-yen dinner, relishing handcrafted soba noodles, and experiencing the peaceful ambiance of a Japanese-style breakfast.

Immersing oneself in Takehara’s local charm is a truly enchanting step back in time.