The Mikawa region of Aichi prefecture, which was a crossroad of different cultures, people, and goods between east and west. Nishio city is also known as “Little Kyoto of Mikawa,” Nishio Castle, which was the castle of the Nishio Domain’s , which yields 60,000 koku of rice during the Edo period. It is said to have started from Saijo Castle, which was built by Ashikaga Yoshiuji in the early Kamakura period. The historical park, which conveys the majesty of the castle town, has rebuilt and restored a part of Nishio Castle, where you can enjoy the nature of the four seasons and think about history while looking at historical buildings. It is still a place of relaxation for its citizens.

“Iwase Bunko”, Japan’s first old book museum, preserves and publishes about 80,000 books in a wide range of fields and eras, from classical books including important cultural properties to modern practical books. We have a unique exhibition where you can learn while experiencing the long history and rich culture of Japanese books.

Price: JPY 11,000 per person (2–14 participants) / Duration: 6 hours

Highlights

• Enjoy high-quality matcha from Nishio at the former residence house used by the court noble in Nishiocity historical park. (Along with Uji, Nishio is a famous production area of matcha with special manufacturing method.）
• A local guide living in Nishio City will carefully explain the history of this area.
• Viewing the beautiful Japanese garden is a special treat in every season.
• Walking through maze-like streets where you can feel the atmosphere of Kyoto.
• Tasting the local specialty “HOSE” mitarashi-dango (dumplings)
• Get a Goshuin (red ink stamp) at a temple associated with the Tokugawa shogun family.
• Visit Japan's first classic book museum Iwase Bunko Library. Browse the oldest printed matter in the world and picture scrolls
• Making Japanese bound book using traditional Japanese paper as a souvenir
• Enjoy traditional kaiseki cuisine unique to “Little Kyoto Nishio.”

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