Enjoy Toyama Travel
Best Toyama Japan travel Guide Blog .
Toyama Where Every Visit is an Adventure!
Enjoy Toyama Travel
Best Toyama Japan travel Guide Blog .
Toyama Where Every Visit is an Adventure!
Discover the Charm of Takaoka and Himi in Toyama
Toyama Prefecture, nestled in the heart of Japan, is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. Divided into five distinct areas, each offers a unique experience waiting to be explored. This time, we'll delve into the captivating allure of Takaoka and Himi, two regions brimming with historical landmarks, natural beauty, and culinary delights.In Takaoka, immerse yourself in its nostalgic cityscape, from the iconic Zuiryuji Temple to the quaint Kanaya-cho adorned with rows of houses featuring a thousand lattice windows, and the charming Yamachosuji with its earthen storehouses. A highlight awaits at the Ameharashi Coast, ranked among Japan's top 100 beaches for its picturesque blend of white sands, blue pines, and abundant reefs. On clear days, catch sight of the majestic Tateyama mountain range, adding to the area's scenic allure. In Himi and Shinminato facing Toyama Bay, treat yourself to the freshest seafood delights like yellowtail and firefly squid.
Takaoka Daibutsu
Takaoka, known as the cultural hub of Toyama, seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Renowned for its thriving medicine industry, the city exudes a sense of timeless charm. Here, you'll encounter Japan's renowned Great Buddhas, towering symbols of Buddhist heritage. Explore the intricate craftsmanship of these colossal statues and immerse yourself in the tranquility of their surroundings.
Takaoka Daibutsu, counted among Japan's three great Buddha statues alongside those in Nara and Kamakura, is a symbol of Takaoka's excellence in local bronze craftsmanship. It took 26 years, starting in 1907, to complete, showcasing the pinnacle of the region's bronze-making skills. Revered as the epitome of Takaoka's bronze artistry, it has been cherished throughout the years. When the poet Yosano Akiko visited Takaoka, she reputedly praised the Takaoka Daibutsu as handsome, highlighting its finely chiseled features.
Ameharashi Coast
Named among Japan's top 100 beaches, it's steeped in legend, including MINAMOTO no Yoshitsune's refuge at Yoshitsune Iwa near Amaharashi Station, inspiring the name 'Amaharu.' On clear days, behold the 3000-meter Tateyama mountain range across the sea. Recognized as a place of scenic beauty for its views along the Ariso Sea.
Kaiomaru Park
At Kaiomaru Park, explore the large training sailboat Kaiomaru, known as the "Lady of the Sea," in its operational form. The Shinminato Ohashi Bridge, the largest cable-stayed bridge on the Sea of Japan coast, now stands open, offering a breathtaking backdrop of the Tateyama Mountain Range and Toyama Bay. Illuminated daily from sunset until 22:00, the view of the Shinminato Ohashi Bridge and the sailboat Kaiomaru side by side is simply spectacular.
Kanaya-machi
Following the establishment of Takaoka Castle, Toshinaga Maeda, the second lord of the Kaga Domain, brought seven metal casters from Nishibu-Kanaya in Tonami to the Kanayamachi area. Providing them with plots of land measuring 180 meters long and 90 meters wide, Lord Maeda laid the foundation for the town's first metal foundries. Additionally, he extended special privileges to the metal casters, including tax exemptions, to support their endeavors. This support led to the flourishing of the metal casting industry in Kanayamachi, now recognized as its birthplace. Today, traditional lattice-front houses still grace the stone-paved streets of Kanayamachi, preserving its four-century-old charm. In 2012, Kanayamachi became Japan's first designated area of Important Preservation District of Historic Buildings among all metal casting towns.
The vibrancy of Kanayamachi is particularly evident during the Goinsai Festival on June 20th, a celebration of gratitude in honor of Toshinaga Maeda. A highlight of the festival is the "Yagaefu Machi Nagashi," where locals of all ages dance through the streets of Kanayamachi to the rhythm of the old metal casters' work songs, the night before the festival.
Zuiryu-ji Temple
Zuiryuji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple in Takaoka, recognized by the Japanese government as a national treasure. The temple was completed circa 1659 to mourn the death of the retired local lord, Maeda Toshinaga. His mausoleum is situated approximately one kilometer to the east from the temple.
Zuiryuji has a symmetric layout with corridors connecting its buildings in a manner typical of Soto Zen monasteries. The temple is comprised of various buildings, including its imposing Sanmon Gate that meets visitors on their way through the temple's inner grounds.
Takaoka Kojo Park
Takaoka Castle Park, situated in central Takaoka, occupies the site where the city's former castle stood briefly during the early Edo Period (1603-1868). Though the castle has long vanished, remnants of its foundations linger, accompanied by moats now repurposed as scenic waterways for leisurely boat rides. The park offers expansive lawns perfect for picnics, verdant wooded areas with winding trails, and over a thousand cherry trees that draw crowds for hanami, typically in early to mid-April.
Constructed in 1615, the castle met a swift demise, succumbing to a new Tokugawa Shogunate decree limiting each feudal domain to one castle. At the time, Takaoka fell under the jurisdiction of the formidable Maeda Clan from Kanazawa Castle within the Kaga Domain.
Yansanma Festival
Grand Spring Festival of Yansanma at Kamo Shrine
Himi
Gateway to Scenic Beaches and Gastronomic DelightsNestled along the picturesque coastline of Toyama Bay lies the charming town of Himi. Famous for its scenic beaches and delectable seafood, Himi offers a feast for the senses. Indulge in freshly caught delicacies straight from the sea, from succulent crabs to plump shrimp, served in traditional Himi style.
Himi Banyagai
Well off the usual tourist routes, but well worth making the effort to visit, the Himi Banyagai, a gourmet restaurant, shopping mall and market overlooking the wide, picturesque Toyama Bay in the fishing town of Himi just north of Toyama City is fast becoming a popular destination. Try the many local specialties including Himi udon noodles, Himi beef, Himi curry, and other dishes that can only be savored in Himi. Himi Banyagai offers some of the best seafood in Japan. The sushi is particularly good as are the bento box style meals. The view of the Tateyama Mountain Range across the bay is a spectacular sight that can only be enjoyed from this location.
gourmet restaurant
himi udon
Himi Udon, also known as Himi noodles, is a local specialty dish around Himi City in Toyama Prefecture.
matsuri(Festival in Toyama) 富山の祭り
Uchikawa
Uchikawa offers a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of days gone by, along with the scent of the sea and a rich history and culture cultivated in this port town. For those planning a trip to Toyama, Uchikawa is a must-visit destination.
Highlights include the Marine Park Sea King Maru, sightseeing boat cruises, and over 10 unique bridges that showcase different charms during the day and night. It's an ideal recommendation for those seeking an extraordinary experience and a leisurely time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
