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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Kuwana sharing quite a few of those!
Kuwana, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Japan, is an enchanting destination bursting with a plethora of exciting things to do.
From ancient temples to modern amusement parks, Kuwana promises something for everyone.
So let’s pack our bags and embark on a journey to explore the thrilling wonders of Kuwana.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kuwana:
1. Nagashima Spa Land
Nagashima Spa Land is one of Japan’s largest amusement parks, located in Kuwana.
What to see or do: The park features over 50 rides, including some of the fastest and tallest roller coasters in all of Japan. There are also attractions for children, a large water park, and a spa with natural hot springs.
Don’t miss: The Steel Dragon 2000 roller coaster, which held the record for the longest roller coaster in the world when it opened in 2000.
Also, check out the park’s illuminated winter wonderland during the holiday season.
Insider travel tips: Consider bringing a change of clothes if you plan on visiting both the amusement park and the water park. The lines for popular rides can be long, so consider purchasing a Fast Pass to skip the wait.
Additionally, there are various discounts available for foreign tourists, so be sure to inquire upon entry.
2. Nabana no Sato
Nabana no Sato is a theme park located in Kuwana, Japan. It is famous for its beautiful flower displays, light shows, and seasonal events.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the stunning flower gardens and enjoy the picturesque scenery. Be amazed by the spectacular light shows that illuminate the park at night, including their famous winter illuminations.
Experience seasonal events, such as the tulip festival in spring or the autumn foliage festival in the fall.
Don’t Miss: The Tunnel of Light is a highlight of the winter illuminations, and it’s a must-see experience. Admire the millions of LED lights that transform the park into a magical wonderland.
Insider travel tips: Nabana no Sato can get very crowded, especially during peak season and popular events. Consider visiting during the day to avoid crowds, or go during the week instead of weekends.
Book tickets in advance to skip the long lines and save time. Don’t forget to try some of the local food stalls, which offer a wide variety of Japanese snacks and delicacies.
3. Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima
Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima is a large shopping outlet located near the Nagashima Spa Land amusement park in Kuwana, Japan.
What to see or do: Shopaholics can indulge in retail therapy at over 200 branded stores that offer discounts of up to 70%. The mall also has several restaurants, cafes, and a food court where visitors can sample local Japanese cuisine.
Don’t miss: The mall’s unique design features a modern jazz motif with saxophone-shaped benches and jazz music playing in the background. Visitors can also enjoy a scenic view from the observatory deck on the 3rd floor.
Insider travel tips: Take advantage of the free shuttle bus service that runs from Kuwana station to the mall.
The mall can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, so it’s advisable to visit during weekdays for a better shopping experience.
4. Yokkaichi Port Building
Yokkaichi Port Building is a historical landmark situated in the city of Kuwana, Japan. It was built in 1929 and served as a base for maritime transport in the past.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the architecture of the building and explore its various sections. There is also a museum that showcases the history of the port.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the observation deck on the top floor of the building which offers panoramic views of the port and surrounding areas.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit Yokkaichi Port Building during the weekdays to avoid crowds. Also, be sure to check the weather before going to make the most out of the observation deck.
5. Suzuka Circuit
Suzuka Circuit is a world-renowned motorsport race track located in the city of Suzuka, Japan.
What to see or do: Attend a Formula One race or other motorsport event, or take a tour of the facility to see the iconic figure-eight layout, pit garages, and famous corner sequences.
Don’t miss: The Suzuka Circuit amusement park, located adjacent to the track, offers a variety of thrilling rides and attractions for all ages.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets in advance for major events, and take advantage of the free shuttle bus service that runs between the train station and the circuit.
6. Suzuka Forest Garden
Suzuka Forest Garden is a beautifully landscaped garden located in Kuwana, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll around the garden and enjoy the picturesque scenery, which includes a variety of seasonal flowers, trees, and ponds.
There are also several attractions within the garden, such as the “Forest Adventure” aerial obstacle course and a petting zoo.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the rose garden, which features over 15,000 roses of 600 different varieties. In the spring, the garden’s cherry blossom trees are also a must-see.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the autumn season for a breathtaking display of fall foliage.
7. Matsusaka Castle
Matsusaka Castle is a historic Japanese castle located in the city of Matsusaka in Mie Prefecture. The castle, originally built in the 16th century, has been restored and its keep serves as a museum today.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle keep, which features exhibits on the history and culture of Matsusaka. The top floor offers great views of the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the castle’s beautiful moat and surrounding gardens. Additionally, the nearby Matsusaka Beef Center offers a chance to sample the famous local delicacy.
Insider travel tips: – The castle can be easily reached by train or bus from the nearby cities of Nagoya or Osaka.
8. Kuwana City Museum
The Kuwana City Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the city, featuring a collection of art, artifacts, and other displays.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore various exhibitions that showcase the rich history and cultural heritage of Kuwana.
The museum has a wide range of collections, including traditional art, archaeological finds, and items related to the local history and lifestyle.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the exhibit on Kuwana’s famous winter festival, which features impressive floats and illuminations.
The museum also houses a replica of a traditional Japanese house, which gives visitors a glimpse into the local heritage.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s website to see if there are any special exhibitions or events.
9. Mikimoto Pearl Island
A small island in the Ise-Shima Bay dedicated to the birthplace of cultured pearls.
What to see or do: Take a boat ride to the island where you can visit the Pearl Museum and learn about the history of cultured pearls.
Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens and watch a live pearl harvesting demonstration. You can also shop for stunning pearl jewelry at the gift shop.
Don’t miss: The Ama divers, who are female divers trained to find pearls in the ocean.
They offer a demonstration of their diving and pearl collecting skills, and you can even try your hand at pearl diving under their guidance.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines and crowds. Consider visiting during the week for a more peaceful experience.
Be sure to try some of the local seafood options on the island as they are fresh and delicious.
10. Oyada Shrine
A small but popular Shinto shrine located in Kuwana, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the peaceful grounds, admire the vibrant red torii gates, and make offerings to the deity of the shrine.
Don’t miss: The shrine is particularly well-known for its stunning cherry blossom displays in the spring, which attract crowds from all over Japan.
Insider travel tips: Kuwana can be easily reached from Nagoya by train, and the shrine is located within walking distance of the station. Be sure to check the local cherry blossom forecast to time your visit appropriately.
11. Tsu Bairin
A famous tonkatsu (deep-fried pork cutlet) restaurant located in Kuwana, Japan.
What to see or do: Feast on the mouth-watering tonkatsu that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, served with freshly grated radish and homemade sauce.
Don’t miss: The premium tonkatsu made from Berkshire pork, which is known for its high quality and rich flavor.
Insider travel tips: Be prepared to wait in line as this restaurant is extremely popular. Also, be sure to try the different dipping sauces offered at the table to enhance the flavor of the tonkatsu.
12. Tado Taisha Shrine
Tado Taisha Shrine, a Shinto shrine located in Kuwana, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the beautiful grounds of the shrine, including the main hall and several smaller buildings. Admire the intricate architecture and intricate details of the shrine’s buildings.
Watch the daily rituals performed by the priests and local worshipers. Take a stroll through the nearby forest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The annual Tado Festival which takes place in April and May, featuring traditional music, dance, and parades. The shrine also holds events throughout the year, including mochitsuki (rice-cake pounding) and tea ceremonies.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the shrine grounds are quite expansive. Take some time to learn about the history and significance of the shrine before visiting for a deeper appreciation.
Consider bringing a small offering such as coins or flowers to leave at the shrine.
13. Yuki Shrine
A charming Shinto shrine located in the city of Kuwana, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the traditional architecture of the shrine’s buildings and gates, including the striking vermilion-painted main gate.
Take a leisurely stroll around the lush gardens surrounding the shrine, which are particularly stunning during spring when cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Don’t miss: The shrine’s famous annual festival, Yuki Shrine Grand Festival, held every October, featuring lively processions, music, and dance performances.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the day or during the week to avoid crowds.
If visiting in October for the festival, book accommodation well in advance and arrive early to secure a good spot to watch the procession.
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the serene gardens while taking in the beauty of the surrounding nature.
14. Ise-Shima National Park
Ise-Shima National Park is a stunning natural park located in the Mie Prefecture of Japan. It covers an area of 208.
2 square kilometers and is renowned for its beautiful coastlines, forests, and islands.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and swimming.
The park is also home to several historic landmarks and cultural sites, such as the Ise Grand Shrine, an ancient Shinto shrine with more than 2,000 years of history.
Don’t miss: A visit to the Meoto Iwa, two sacred rocks connected by a rope, is a must-see attraction for tourists as it symbolizes the unity of marriage.
Additionally, the Ago Bay, known for its seafood, is famous among foodies who can savor the delicious local dishes while enjoying the beautiful bay views.
Insider travel tips: Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes as there are plenty of trails to explore. It’s best to start exploring the park early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Visitors can also rent bicycles or cars to explore the park at their own pace.
15. Mikimoto Pearl Museum
Mikimoto Pearl Museum is a fascinating museum located in the city of Kuwana, Japan that tells the captivating story of pearls and the legendary Mikimoto family.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s extensive collection of pearls and learn about the history of pearl diving, cultivation, and the groundbreaking pearl manufacturing techniques developed by the Mikimoto family.
The exhibitions are informative and interactive, offering a hands-on experience for everyone interested in pearls.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the Akoya pearl production process and observe Mikimoto’s skilled technicians working in the pearl factory.
You can also purchase genuine Mikimoto pearls right from the source at the museum shop.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to join a guided tour to get the most out of your visit and learn more about the pearls.
Plan your visit during the week, as weekends can be crowded.
Don’t forget to stop by the onsite restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious Japanese meal with a beautiful view of the sea.