Izushi
Izushi, a Little Kyoto in Tajima
Izushi, the “Little Kyoto of Tajima.”
Izushi is a castle town that preserves its historic charm, where traditional streetscapes coexist with the everyday lives of its people. Centered around the ruins of Izushi Castle and the iconic Shinkorō Clock Tower, the old town is dotted with traditional machiya townhouses, temples, and historical landmarks such as the Oryu Lantern—remnants of a bygone era. A stroll through the town reveals the distinctive atmosphere of a classic “Little Kyoto.”
Another highlight is Izushi Eirakukan, the oldest surviving kabuki theater in the Kinki region. Still in use today, it serves as a cultural hub where kabuki performances continue to be staged. In recent years, it has also gained attention as a filming location for the movie Kokuhō, further enhancing its cultural significance. The harmony between historic townscape and traditional performing arts is a unique charm of Izushi.
The town is also blessed with seasonal beauty. In spring, cherry blossoms color the castle ruins, while in autumn, vibrant foliage envelops the town. With its rich history, culture, natural scenery, and the local specialty Izushi soba, Izushi warmly welcomes visitors as the “Little Kyoto of Tajima.”
Sightseeing Highlights in Izushi
Izushi Castle Ruin
Enjoy the beautiful contrasting scenery between the thirty-seven vermillion tori shrine gates and the castle itself. This is also a popular site to enjoy the spectacular view of cherry blossoms in spring.
Shinko-ro Tower
In the early Meiji period, the tower was used for informing people of the time by drumbeat. Now used as a clock tower.
Sukyo-ji Temple
This temple was rebuilt by the priest Takuan, who was said to have invented Takuan, a Japanese pickle made with radish. It is a family temple for successive governors.
Izushi Eirakukan
The oldest surviving kabuki theater in the Kinki region, where performances are still held today.
It has also gained attention as a filming location for the movie Kokuhō.
Important Annual Events in Izushi
Hatsu-uma Taisai Festival
This is a festival in Tajima area welcoming in spring where people pray for success in business and a rich harvest in the following autumn. Many stalls will be set up and some tens of thousands of people come to enjoy the festival.
Sakura Cherry Blossom Festival
When the cherry blossoms are at their peak, this popular competition of soba buckwheat noodle speed-eating will be held.
Nobori Japanese Flag Waving
Accompanied by the sound of Take-bora, an instrument made from bamboo, various kinds of Japanese traditional long flags will be swung by participants. This festival is related to the legend of the sun god, Amenohiboko, who was said to have developed the Tajima area.
Atago Fire Festival
To pray for good health, a huge bunch of straw will be lit and people swing it around. The glimmering light in the darkness creates a mystical scene.
Izushi Danjiri Festival
A dynamic spectacle with mikoshi portable shrines clashing into each other is called “Kenka” fighting danjiri, and creates a spectacular scene for visitors. The festival is to pray for a rich harvest.
Castle Festival
The Daimyo Gyoretsu feudal lord’s procession which recreates the scene of Sankin Kotai from the Edo period will be held. The skillful handling of spears by participants is a must see.
Traditional Crafts of Izushi
Izushi-yaki Porcelain
This porcelain has a smooth transparent white as a base color. It has a silk-like tone and delicate sculptured shape produced by an accomplished artisan’s skill.
Izushi Chirimen Fabric
Izushi Chirimen is regarded as one of Japanese great traditional textiles with elegant patterns and colors and the smooth texture of silk.
Kiryu Craft
A legend recounts that the sun god, Amenohiboko, planted salix, a material which is used for making Kiryu products. In the olden days, Yanagigori, a woven basket, was the top selling line and now bags and folk art products are especially popular.
Food & Specialties of Izushi
Izushi Soba Buckwheat Noodles
Izushi soba is served on a small Izushi porcelain plate and one portion is served divided into five small plates of soba. “Freshly milled, made by hand and just boiled”; this is the essence of Izushi soba.
- Access
- From Toyooka Station on the JR Sanin Main Line, take the Zentan Bus for about 30-min. to get to Izushi Eigyo-sho
- Contact
- NPO Tajima-no-Kuni Izushi Tourism Association
- TEL：0796-52-4806 / FAX：0796-52-4815
- E-mail： info@izushi.co.jp
- URL： https://www.izushi.co.jp/