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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Saijo.
Saijo, a hidden treasure nestled in the heart of Japan, boasts a plethora of activities that will bewitch any traveler.
From savoring the tantalizing local cuisine to marveling at the stunning natural scenery, Saijo promises to indulge your senses and enrich your spirit.
Come and explore this enchanting town, and discover the sublime delights that await you at every turn.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Saijo:
1. Saijo Sake Brewery Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and production of sake, located in Saijo, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the sake-making process, view historical tools and equipment, and sample different types of sake. Guided tours are available in Japanese and English.
Don’t miss: Tasting the locally produced sake, which is known for its high quality and unique flavor profiles.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit during the autumn months, when the brewery district of Saijo holds its annual sake festival. It’s also recommended to book a tour in advance, as the museum can get busy during peak season.
2. Ishii Brewery
Ishii Brewery is a small craft brewery located in the town of Saijo in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a tour of the brewery facilities to learn about the beer-making process and sample some of Ishii Brewery’s award-winning beers.
The tour includes a visit to the brewery’s fermentation room, bottling line, and warehouse.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out Ishii Brewery’s tasting room, where you can try a variety of their beers, including their signature IPA.
You can also purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs.
Insider travel tips: – Book your brewery tour in advance, as spots can fill up quickly.
3. Gion Shrine
Gion Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Saijo, located in the Ehime prefecture in Japan. The shrine is a popular site for traditional Shinto weddings.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the shrine’s beautiful architecture and pristine gardens.
In addition to weddings, the shrine is also a popular spot to offer prayers for good fortune and to experience traditional Japanese customs.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the shrine’s famous red torii gate – a striking contrast against the greenery surrounding the shrine.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit during the annual Gion Festival held in July for an unforgettable display of traditional Japanese culture.
Also, don’t forget to bring a small offering to leave at the shrine to show respect for the deity revered there.
4. Josenji Temple
Josenji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Saijo, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. It was founded in 1175 by the monk Kakua, and it is famous for its beautiful gardens and stunning architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple complex, which includes several buildings and gardens. The main hall, built in 1704, is an impressive example of traditional Japanese architecture.
The gardens are also a must-see, with a pond, waterfall, and a variety of trees and plants.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the temple’s famous ceiling painting, which depicts the 1000-armed Kannon. This impressive work of art is said to have been painted by the famous artist Sotatsu Tawaraya.
Insider travel tips: If you visit the temple during the autumn season, you’ll be treated to a stunning display of fall foliage.
Also, try to time your visit for early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the temple is less crowded.
Finally, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery!
5. Taisan-ji Temple
Taisan-ji Temple is a Zen Buddhist temple located in Saijo, Ehime prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The temple offers visitors a serene and peaceful atmosphere with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can walk around the temple’s various gardens and admire the traditional Japanese architecture of the buildings.
You can also participate in meditation sessions guided by the temple’s resident monk.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to explore the temple’s serene and beautiful gardens, including the moss garden, rock garden, and bamboo grove.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many stairs to climb.
6. Senjukaku Mansion
A historic mansion located in Saijo, Ehime Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the mansion’s beautiful traditional Japanese architecture and gardens, including several rooms with intricate tatami mat flooring and sliding doors.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests from the mansion’s balcony.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the mansion’s opening hours before visiting, as they vary by season. It’s also worth exploring the charming town of Saijo and trying local specialties like sake and citrus fruits.
7. Hiroshima Prefectural Agriculture Center
Hiroshima Prefectural Agriculture Center is a research and development facility for agricultural practices.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a tour of the center to learn about the different agricultural techniques employed.
The center has a variety of vegetable gardens, orchards, and greenhouses, where visitors can see and learn about how the crops are grown.
Don’t miss: The center has a large farmer’s market where visitors can buy fresh produce grown on site. It is also home to a restaurant that serves food made from ingredients grown at the center.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the center’s website for information on seasonal events and workshops. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs made from materials grown on site, such as honey, fruit jams, and pickles.
8. Taishoya Kimono Shop
A traditional kimono shop located in Saijo, Japan.
What to see or do: Taishoya Kimono Shop offers a wide range of new and vintage kimonos, as well as accessories such as obi (sashes) and geta (traditional wooden sandals).
Visitors can browse through the collection or even try on a kimono for a truly authentic experience.
Don’t miss: The shop also offers kimono rental services, allowing visitors to wear a kimono while exploring the nearby sights of Saijo, such as the beautiful gardens and historic temples.
Insider travel tips: – The staff at Taishoya Kimono Shop are very friendly and helpful. They can offer advice on how to wear a kimono correctly and can even assist with fittings.
9. Ota Ginzan Art Museum
A contemporary art museum located in the rural town of Saijo, Hiroshima.
What to see or do: Explore the antique building, which is a former sake brewery, and discover a variety of exhibits showcasing the work of both Japanese and international artists.
Don’t miss: The outdoor sculpture garden featuring unique works of art set against the picturesque mountain landscape.
Insider travel tips: After visiting the museum, take a stroll through the charming streets of Saijo and try some of the local sake. Additionally, check the museum’s schedule in advance for any special events or exhibits.
10. Ishizaki Koen Park
A beautiful and serene park located in Saijo, a city in the Hiroshima Prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Take a relaxing stroll along the park’s walking paths, explore the various gardens filled with colorful flowers and plants, relax on the benches and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and have a picnic with family or friends in the designated picnic area.
Don’t miss: The park’s stunning cherry blossom trees, which bloom in early April and create a gorgeous pink canopy throughout the park.
Also, check out the park’s large pond, which is home to a variety of aquatic life, including koi fish, turtles, and ducks.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting Ishizaki Koen Park during the Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place every April. Arrive early to beat the crowds and bring comfortable shoes for walking.
Additionally, be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and beautiful gardens.
11. Ohara Museum of Art
The Ohara Museum of Art is a private museum located in the city of Saijo, Japan. It was founded by Magosaburo Ohara, a local businessman and art collector, in 1930.
What to see or do: The museum has an impressive collection of Western art, including works by renowned artists such as Monet, Renoir, Matisse, and Picasso.
Visitors can see paintings, sculptures, and other artworks from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is Monet’s famous painting, ‘Water Lilies’. The museum also has a beautiful garden that is worth exploring, especially during the spring and autumn seasons.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit the museum on a weekday.
12. Saijo Castle Ruins
Saijo Castle Ruins is a historic site that represents the former castle town of Saijo.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the castle, walk through the park and gardens, and discover the historical significance of the site.
Don’t miss: The site offers a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains. Don’t miss out on taking a stroll through the cherry blossom trees in the spring.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking to do.
13. Saijo Koryu Center
A cultural center in the town of Saijo, Japan.
What to see or do: Experience traditional Japanese culture through various workshops such as calligraphy, tea ceremony, and flower arrangement. Attend local events and performances, or explore the historical town of Saijo.
Don’t miss: Trying out sake, the famous traditional Japanese rice wine that is produced in Saijo. Take a guided tour of the local breweries and learn about the history and process of sake-making.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during the annual Saijo Sake Festival held every October, where you can taste over 900 different types of sake from local breweries.
Don’t forget to purchase some souvenirs from the Saijo Koryu Center’s gift shop, featuring unique handmade crafts by local artisans.
14. Yuki Sake Brewery
Yuki Sake Brewery is a 100-year-old sake brewery located in Saijo, the sake brewing capital of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the brewery to learn about the sake-making process, from the polishing of the rice to the fermentation and bottling.
The tour also includes sake tastings in the brewery’s tasting room.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try the brewery’s signature sake, known as Yuki no Bosha (Cabin in the Snow), which has won numerous awards.
Insider travel tips: Visit the brewery during the autumn months, as that is when the rice used for brewing is harvested, and the aroma of the fresh rice permeates the town.
Additionally, if you’re interested in purchasing sake, the brewery offers a wide selection, with many varieties only available at the brewery itself.