Tsuwano Castle Town Walk One Day Course

Tsuwano is a small castle town nestled in the mountains, often called the little Kyoto of Sanin. Along the white walled Tonomachi street runs a canal where colorful carp swim, a local trademark. Together with the Taikodani Inari Shrine, known for its thousand torii, and the castle ruins on the hilltop, this one day route takes you around at a relaxed pace on foot.

Course Route

9:00 Start at Tsuwano Station Pick up a town map at the station and set off into the retro streets.

9:30 Stroll Tonomachi street Head to Tonomachi, lined with white plaster walls. Watching the carp swim in the canal, take your time at sites that blend Japanese and Western styles, such as the former domain school and the Catholic church.

11:00 Taikodani Inari Shrine Climb the approach lined with vermilion torii to Taikodani Inari Shrine. Counted among the five great Inari shrines of Japan, it is beloved as a deity for granting wishes.

12:00 Lunch Try a local dish such as uzumeshi at an eatery in town.

13:30 Tsuwano Castle ruins Ride the chairlift up the hill to the castle ruins. From the ruins, where stone walls remain, the tile roofed castle town spreads out below.

15:00 Tea and souvenirs in town After coming down, browse sweet shops and craft stores on your way back to the station.

Highlights

The greatest charm of Tonomachi street is the scene woven by white walls and carp in the canal, especially lovely when the irises bloom in early summer. The approach to Taikodani Inari Shrine, lined with vermilion torii, opens up more scenery the higher you climb. The view from the castle ruins takes in the whole castle town cradled among the mountains, letting you grasp the shape of the town at a glance.

Access and Tips

The center of Tsuwano is small enough to cover on foot, and even the walk from Tonomachi to the shrine is manageable. A chairlift makes the climb to the castle ruins easy. There are slopes and stone paving in town, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Each season brings festivals and flowers at their best, so a little research beforehand adds to the trip.

A Quick Tip

You can drive most of the way up to Taikodani Inari Shrine, but climbing the torii lined approach on foot brings a different sense of accomplishment. If you have the time and energy, choose to walk up for your visit.