Riverside Sawara Half Day, Edo Era Charm near Narita

Welcome to a half-day journey through time in the enchanting town of SAWARA, just a short train ride away from Narita Airport. As you step off the train, you'll be transported back to the Edo era, where the town flourished as a vital transportation hub at the intersection of the Tone and Ono rivers. This historic district has been recognized as a Japan Heritage site and has even earned a spot in the prestigious Michelin Green Guide.

Your expert tour guide will meet you at either Narita Airport or JR Narita Station and take you on a captivating stroll through the well-preserved streets of SAWARA. You'll be amazed by the nostalgic atmosphere that still lingers in every corner of this charming town. If you'd like, you can even rent a bicycle or take a relaxing boat cruise (reservation needed) along the scenic rivers.

But the real highlight of this tour is the Tokun Sake Brewery, where you'll learn all about the 190-year-old tradition of sake-making. The knowledgeable staff will walk you through the entire brewing process and show you how the sake is stored for optimal flavor. And, of course, no visit to the brewery would be complete without a free tasting of their delicious sake. Be sure to browse their shop for a variety of sake, sweets, a facial lotion made with sake, and other unique souvenirs to take home.

Don't miss this unforgettable opportunity to experience the rich history and flavors of SAWARA on your next layover at Narita Airport!

Itinerary

Step into the Past: Begin Your Time-Travel Adventure at Sawara Station
‍Begin your journey through time as you step off the train at Sawara station, a stunning recreation of a traditional Japanese house that perfectly captures the essence of this historic riverside town. Take a moment to admire the statue of Tadataka Ino, the visionary cartographer who created the first map of Japan.

If you're feeling adventurous, head over to the Sawara Information Center and rent a bicycle to explore the charming streets of Sawara at your own pace. This is a fantastic way to soak up the nostalgic atmosphere and immerse yourself in the town's rich history. Get ready to discover hidden gems and stunning scenery around every corner!

Embark on a Spiritual Sojourn: Climb the Cedar-Lined Steps to Suwa Shrine's Serene Summit
‍Next on your time-travel adventure is a visit to Suwa Shrine, where you'll be transported to a peaceful world of spiritual tranquility. Follow the path under a majestic torii gate and climb up 128 stone steps that are flanked by towering cedar trees. As you reach the top of the hill, you'll be greeted by the serene main hall and several small shrines nestled in a tranquil grove.

This shrine is a beloved destination for locals, who flock here on New Year's Day and other special occasions to pray for good health and happiness for their families. If you're lucky enough to visit in October, you can witness the stunning Autumn Festival, a three-day celebration held on the second Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of the month. During this festival, you'll have the chance to see Japan's tallest figurines, which tower roughly four meters high, carried on floats in a spectacular display of pageantry and tradition. Don't miss this awe-inspiring spectacle!

Raise a Glass to Tradition: Discover the Time-Honored Craft of Sake-Making at Tokun Brewery
‍Indulge in a sensory feast at Tokun Sake Brewery, where the secrets of sake-making have been passed down through generations for over 190 years. This historic brewery offers an insightful guided tour that will take you through the intricate process of crafting Japan's beloved beverage. Your knowledgeable guide will provide a translation in English, so you can fully appreciate the fascinating details of the art of sake-making.

After the tour, treat your taste buds to a complimentary sake tasting and savor the unique flavors of this delectable drink. Whether you're a sake connoisseur or a first-time taster, you're sure to be impressed by the exceptional quality and nuanced taste of the brewery's offerings.

Step Back in Time: Stroll Through the Nostalgic Old Town of Sawara and Savor Its Unique Delicacy
‍Explore the charming historic old town of Sawara, located on the banks of the Ono River. As you walk through the narrow streets, you'll be transported back in time to the Edo period, with its traditional houses, weeping willow trees, and quaint shops.

The district has been recognized as a Japan Heritage site, and many of the old houses have been turned into history museums, artisan workshops, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Don't miss the chance to sample the local specialty, baked eel with sweet soy sauce, which is sure to tantalize your taste buds!

Take a leisurely boat ride (reservation needed, 1300 yen/adult) along the tranquil river for a unique perspective on the historic landscape. As you float past the old buildings and charming scenery, you'll gain a new appreciation for the timeless beauty of Sawara.

FAQ

‍1. What is the history behind Sawara, and how has it preserved its nostalgic Edo era charm?
‍Sawara is a historic river town that flourished as an important transportation point during the Edo era. The town retains its nostalgic atmosphere with well-preserved traditional houses, artisan shops, and serene weeping willow trees lining the tranquil riverside.

2.  What is the significance of the statue of Tadataka Ino in front of Sawara Station?
The statue of Tadataka Ino stands in front of Sawara Station, paying homage to the legend who made the first map of Japan. It is a symbol of the town's rich cultural heritage and historical significance.

3. What can I expect to see at Suwa Shrine, and what is the significance of the Autumn festival?
‍Suwa Shrine is a serene hilltop shrine accessible via 128 stone steps lined with tall cedar trees. The main hall and small shrines are surrounded by a quiet grove and are visited by locals during family events and New Year's Day. The Autumn festival is held for three days in October, featuring floats carrying Japan's highest figurines (roughly four meters).

4. Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
‍Unfortunately, the tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the uneven terrain in some of the locations we visit.

5. Is food included in the tour?
No, food is not included in the tour. However, our guide will recommend some great local restaurants where you can try delicious Japanese cuisine.

‍Key Takeaways

Sawara is a historic district that has been recognized as a Japan Heritage site and is just a short train ride away from Narita Airport.

The town flourished during the Edo era as a vital transportation hub at the intersection of the Tone and Ono rivers.

The Suwa Shrine is a peaceful world of spiritual tranquility, and visitors can climb the cedar-lined steps to reach its serene summit.

Tokun Sake Brewery offers a guided tour that explains the intricate process of crafting Japan's beloved beverage. Visitors can also taste the sake and purchase souvenirs at the shop.

Sawara's old town has traditional houses, artisan workshops, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

Visitors can sample the local specialty, baked eel with sweet soy sauce, and take a leisurely boat ride along the Ono River for a unique perspective on the historic landscape.

The tour package does not include transportation fees, lunch, bicycle rental, or boat cruise costs.

Overall, this tour offers visitors the opportunity to experience the rich history and flavors of Sawara, a charming town that has retained its nostalgic atmosphere over time.

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