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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Ichinomiya sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled amidst the shimmering coast of the Pacific Ocean and the verdant hills of Japan’s Aichi Prefecture, the city of Ichinomiya is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
From the tranquil shrines to the lively festivals, and the scrumptious seafood to the quaint streets, Ichinomiya offers an immersive cultural odyssey that leaves nothing but fond memories and a yearning for more.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Ichinomiya:
1. Ōmiya-jinja Shrine
Ōmiya-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Ichinomiya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a peaceful stroll around the spacious shrine grounds, admire the impressive torii gate, and visit the shrine’s main hall, which is filled with intricate wooden carvings and decorations.
The shrine is also known for its beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom in the spring.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the shrine’s “mamemaki” festival, held on Setsubun (a traditional Japanese holiday) in February.
During the festival, visitors can participate in throwing soybeans to drive out evil spirits and bring good luck for the year ahead.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re visiting during the summer, be sure to check out the shrine’s annual “Wasshoi Hyakuman-nin Matsuri” festival, a lively event featuring dancing, street performances, and traditional food stalls.
2. Masumida-jinja Shrine
Masumida-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Ichinomiya City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the shrine’s main hall and other buildings, admire the vermilion-colored torii gates, and stroll through the surrounding park and gardens.
The shrine also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the famous Toubata Matsuri in April and October.
Don’t miss: The shrine’s iconic red torii gate, which stands at a height of 12 meters and is the largest in Japan, is a must-see.
Visitors should also take the time to climb the stairs to the top of the hill for panoramic views of Ichinomiya City.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit Masumida-jinja Shrine during weekdays to avoid the crowds that flock to the shrine on weekends and holidays.
Visitors should also wear comfortable shoes for climbing the stairs to the top of the hill and bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the city.
Finally, be sure to try the local specialty, “miyagawa mochi”, a soft rice cake filled with sweet red beans that is sold in shops near the shrine.
3. Nagasawa Park
A beautifully landscaped park located in the city of Ichinomiya, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a peaceful stroll through the park’s lovely gardens, featuring a variety of beautiful floral displays and a tranquil pond. Catch a glimpse of the historic Inari Shrine, which is said to be over 800 years old.
Take a break at the park’s tea house and enjoy a cup of matcha while taking in the stunning scenery.
Don’t miss: The seasonal displays of cherry blossoms during springtime and colorful autumn leaves in the fall. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a traditional Japanese festival or cultural event in the park.
Insider travel tips: Nagasawa Park is a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing), so arrive early or on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
Entrance to the park is free, but there is an admission fee for the tea house. Consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the park’s many scenic spots.
4. Tōgan-ji Temple
Tōgan-ji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Ichinomiya, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the temple’s stunning architecture and explore its gorgeous gardens. The temple is also home to a variety of Buddhist statues and artifacts that are available for viewing.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the temple’s main hall, which features beautiful frescoes that depict scenes from the life of the Buddha.
Additionally, the temple grounds are known for their gorgeous cherry blossoms in the spring.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to take your shoes off before entering the temple. Also, be sure to stop by the temple gift shop to pick up souvenirs and traditional Buddhist handicrafts.
5. Shinmei-jinja Shrine
Shinmei-jinja Shrine is a grand Shinto shrine located in Ichinomiya, Japan. It was established over 2000 years ago and is one of the most important shrines in the area.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the shrine’s expansive grounds and admire the impressive architecture of the main hall, offering hall, and other buildings.
You can also participate in traditional Shinto rituals such as offering prayers, purification, and buying amulets.
Don’t miss: The annual “Nagoshi-sai” festival that takes place in August is a must-see. Visitors can enjoy traditional music, dancing, and performances and buy local goods and food from vendors.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as the shrine grounds are spacious and there are many stairs to climb.
6. Ono Castle Ruins
Ono Castle Ruins is a historic site located in Ichinomiya.
What to see or do: Ono Castle Ruins offers a glimpse into the history of Japan. Visitors can walk the grounds and explore the remains of the castle walls, gates, and towers.
The area is also popular among hikers due to its scenic location.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the view from the top of the ruins. It offers a stunning panorama of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring water as the terrain can be uneven and the climb uphill. It is also recommended to visit during the autumn season when the foliage is at its peak.
7. Tsūtenkyō Bridge
Tsūtenkyō Bridge is a charming suspension bridge that spans over the picturesque Takahara River in Ichinomiya, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a stunning view of the Takahara River and the surrounding forests as you walk across the bridge.
The bridge is surrounded by thick greenery and a beautiful natural landscape, making it an ideal spot for photography and enjoying the Japanese countryside.
Don’t miss: If you visit during autumn, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the fall foliage as the entire area is awash with vivid colors.
The bridge also looks particularly beautiful when lit up at night.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the bridge can be quite slippery, especially when it’s raining. Additionally, there are no handrails on the bridge, so exercise caution when crossing.
Plan to visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene surroundings.
8. Hiyoshidai Park
Hiyoshidai Park is a scenic hillside park located in Ichinomiya City, Japan.
What to see or do: From the top of the park, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding cities and mountains. There are also hiking trails, cherry blossom trees, and a large field for picnicking and sports activities.
Don’t miss: The park is particularly beautiful in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Insider travel tips: For the best views, head to the observation deck at the top of the hill.
The park can get quite crowded during peak cherry blossom season, so be sure to arrive early in the morning to secure a good spot for picnicking.
Additionally, be sure to wear comfortable shoes if you plan on hiking the trails, as some areas can be quite steep.
9. Ichinomiya City Museum of History
The Ichinomiya City Museum of History is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Ichinomiya City in Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the permanent exhibitions showcasing the history of Ichinomiya City through various artifacts, documents, and replicas. The exhibits are arranged chronologically, taking visitors from the ancient period to the modern era.
There are also temporary exhibitions that change periodically throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the replica of the Hashihaka Kofun, a keyhole-shaped burial mound from the Kofun period (3rd to 7th century).
Visitors can enter the replica and explore the interior of the tomb.
Insider travel tips: – The museum offers English audio guides for foreign visitors.
10. Misogi-ike Pond
Misogi-ike Pond is a small, picturesque pond located in the city of Ichinomiya in Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The pond is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the walking path and admire the scenic views.
Don’t miss: There is a small shrine located on the edge of the pond that is worth a visit. The shrine is dedicated to Izanami and Izanagi, the gods of creation in Japanese mythology.
Insider travel tips: The pond is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season in the spring when the trees that surround the pond are in full bloom.
It is also a popular spot for birdwatching. Bring a camera and binoculars to spot some of the local bird species.
11. Kasumigaura Bay
A picturesque bay located in Ichinomiya, Japan, famous for its natural beauty and recreational activities.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy various water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, and boating. There are also several beaches to relax on and enjoy the stunning views.
In addition, there are several parks and walking trails along the bay.
Don’t miss: The sunset over the bay is breathtaking and not to be missed. There are also several traditional Japanese restaurants in the area serving fresh seafood.
Insider travel tips: Renting a bike is a great way to explore the area and take in the beautiful scenery.
The best time to visit is in the summer months when the weather is warm and the water is perfect for swimming.
It’s also recommended to bring sunscreen, as it can get quite hot during the day.
12. Sakuragi-ike Pond
Sakuragi-ike Pond is a serene and picturesque body of water located in Ichinomiya, a city in Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a relaxing walk or bike ride around the pond, surrounded by lush greenery and cherry blossom trees. Boating and fishing are also popular activities on the pond.
Don’t miss: The iconic Shinto shrine, Sakuragaoka Shrine, is located on the shores of the pond and is a must-see attraction. Visitors can also enjoy the seasonal cherry blossom festival held at the pond in spring.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit the pond during weekdays or early in the morning on weekends.
13. Tado-jinja Shrine
Tado-jinja Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Ichinomiya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. It is believed to be one of the oldest shrines in Japan.
What to see or do: The shrine is famous for its architecture, which includes a beautiful gate, a main hall, and several smaller buildings. Visitors can take a stroll through the shrine’s peaceful grounds, admire the traditional architecture, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the shrine’s impressive main hall, which is decorated with intricate carvings and features a unique thatched roof.
Visitors can also see a sacred well that is said to have healing properties and a large, ancient tree that is believed to be over 1,000 years old.
Insider travel tips: Visit the shrine early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
14. Kita-no-Hinode Park
Kita-no-Hinode Park is a picturesque park located in Ichinomiya City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The park boasts various seasonal flowers and welcomes visitors all year round. It offers beautiful views of Mount Komaki and the Minami Alps.
Visitors can take a relaxing walk on the trails, have a picnic, play sports on the sports grounds or let kids play in the playground.
Don’t miss: During early spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the park turns into a sea of pink. Admire the beautiful trees alongside the walking paths and enjoy a sakura-themed picnic.
Insider travel tips: – The recommended time to visit is from late March to early May to enjoy the best of the cherry blossoms and spring flowers in the park.
15. Okishima Shrine
Okishima Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Ichinomiya city in the Aichi Prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful shrine grounds, which are surrounded by lush forests and feature various traditional structures, such as the main hall and the offering hall.
The shrine is also home to a sacred rock formation called “Hitotsumatsu,” which is believed to have protective powers.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the nearby “Okishima Ryokuchi,” a picturesque park with walking trails and a large pond.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the shrine’s annual festival, held in October, to experience lively celebrations and witness traditional performances.