Nihonmatsu
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Nihonmatsu's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a visit to the Nihonmatsu Castle ruins, where you can stroll through the beautiful gardens and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding area. After exploring the castle, head to the nearby historic streets where traditional wooden houses and shops line the pathways, offering a glimpse into the past. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café, sampling some freshly made Japanese pastries.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Kameoka Park, famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, where you can take a leisurely walk and enjoy the serene environment. Stop by the Nihonmatsu City Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region through engaging exhibits. For lunch, try a local specialty at a nearby restaurant, such as soba noodles or sushi made from fresh ingredients.
As the sun sets, take a stroll along the Abukuma River, where you can watch the reflection of the city lights shimmering on the water. Consider dining at a traditional izakaya, where you can savor a variety of local dishes and drinks in a cozy atmosphere. End your evening with a visit to a local onsen, soaking in the warm waters and reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Begin your day by visiting the Nihonmatsu Fire Festival, which takes place annually in early August, witnessing the vibrant parades and traditional performances. Immerse yourself in the festivities by joining in the dance and trying on traditional yukata clothing provided at the festival. Enjoy a breakfast of festival foods such as yakitori and sweet dumplings from local vendors.
Continue to embrace the cultural experience by participating in workshops, learning about Japanese calligraphy and origami from local artisans. Afterward, indulge in a bento box lunch prepared by community members, featuring seasonal ingredients and traditional flavors. Spend the afternoon watching demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as pottery and textile weaving, connecting with local artists.
As the day winds down, find a good spot to watch the stunning fireworks display that caps off the festival, lighting up the night sky with bursts of color. Afterward, mingle with locals and fellow festival-goers, sharing stories and enjoying the lively atmosphere. Conclude the evening by trying out a local sake bar, tasting different varieties of this traditional Japanese rice wine.
Set off early to the Abukuma Highlands, where you can hike through lush forests and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a picnic breakfast among nature, surrounded by the chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves. Take your time to explore the various trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and unique rock formations.
In the afternoon, visit the Abukuma Cave, one of Japan's largest limestone caves, where you can marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Join a guided tour to learn about the geological history of the area while navigating through the illuminated pathways. After exploring the cave, enjoy a hearty lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in local cuisine.
As evening approaches, return to Nihonmatsu and head to a viewpoint overlooking the city, where you can watch the sunset paint the sky in shades of orange and pink. Dine at a local restaurant known for its grilled fish, catching the essence of the region's fresh catch. Spend your evening relaxing in a local café, sipping matcha while reflecting on the beauty of the day's experiences.
Begin your day with a scenic drive to Lake Inawashiro, one of Japan's largest lakes, known for its stunning views of Mount Bandai. Rent a bicycle and ride along the picturesque lakeside paths, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Stop for a light breakfast at a lakeside café, where you can enjoy views of the water and mountains.
In the afternoon, indulge in water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding, allowing you to experience the beauty of the lake from a different perspective. Take a break for lunch at a local eatery that offers fresh fish dishes caught from the lake. Afterward, visit the Inawashiro Museum to learn more about the region's natural history and local wildlife.
As the day comes to a close, find a quiet spot along the shore to watch the sunset over the lake, creating a magical ambiance. Treat yourself to a lakeside dinner featuring local specialties, such as river fish and seasonal vegetables. Spend your evening relaxing by the fire at a nearby lodge, sharing stories with fellow travelers and reflecting on the day's adventures.
Start your day at the Nihonmatsu City Arts and Crafts Center, where you can admire and purchase local handmade crafts. Participate in a pottery workshop, where you will learn the basics of shaping clay and creating your own unique piece. Enjoy a light breakfast at the center's café, featuring artisanal bread and locally sourced jams.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Nihonmatsu Folk Museum to explore the region's traditional crafts and folk art. Engage with local artisans who showcase their skills, from indigo dyeing to textile weaving. After this immersive experience, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant known for its seasonal dishes and creative presentation.
As evening approaches, attend a local art exhibition showcasing the works of emerging artists from the region. Mingle with the artists and fellow art enthusiasts, engaging in discussions about the creative process. Conclude your evening at a trendy café, sipping a unique flavored latte while enjoying live music from local performers.
Set out for a scenic drive through the Tohoku region, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of mountains and valleys. Stop at roadside stalls to sample local snacks, such as mochi and grilled corn, while taking in the picturesque landscapes. Your first stop should be the scenic viewpoints along the Bandai-Asahi National Park, perfect for capturing photographs.
Continue your journey to the picturesque town of Aizuwakamatsu, famous for its samurai heritage and historic sites. Visit the Tsuruga Castle, where you can learn about the feudal era and explore the stunning gardens surrounding it. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, specializing in Aizu's famous sake and regional dishes.
As the sun sets, return to Nihonmatsu and enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, where you can indulge in a variety of small plates and fresh seafood. Take a leisurely evening walk along the streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and the sounds of local life. End your day at a local bar, trying out different varieties of shochu, a distilled spirit popular in the region.
Begin your day at the Nihonmatsu Morning Market, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and shop for fresh produce, handmade goods, and local delicacies. Sample some fresh fruits and snacks from vendor stalls, immersing yourself in the local culture and flavors. After exploring the market, head to a nearby café for a breakfast featuring seasonal ingredients.
In the afternoon, join a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Japanese dishes, such as sushi or tempura, using fresh ingredients sourced from the market. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch, savoring the delicious flavors you created. Spend the afternoon visiting local farms or sake breweries, learning about the production processes and tasting the products.
As night falls, dine at a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood and seasonal dishes, allowing you to taste the region’s culinary diversity. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Nihonmatsu, enjoying the blend of historic and modern architecture. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local dessert shop, sampling traditional sweets like daifuku and matcha ice cream.