投稿日：2024年08月23日
Embrace the splendor of autumn in Tsuwano, where vibrant foliage transforms the landscape into a canvas of rich reds and golden hues.
This season offers a tranquil escape and a chance to soak in the serene beauty of Tsuwano’s traditional charm.
Cultural Events
Tsuwano Imoni: Traditional Local Soup
(3rd Sunday of October)
Considered one of the “Three Great Imoni of Japan”, Tsuwano imoni is a type of traditional soup characterized by its simple but elegant taste of taro grown in the volcanic soil at the foot of Mt. Aono. It is added alongside sea bream into a broth made from kombu and yuzu peels.
During the Imoni Festival on the 3rd Sunday of October, visitors can indulge in free servings of hearty imoni stew and savor complimentary local sake, adding a delicious taste of Tsuwano to your experience.
Imoni celebrations are held in autumn in each district, and serve as a way to strengthen bonds in the community as locals gather around massive pots of soup to enjoy the scenery, drink local sake, sing and dance.
Tenjin Festival: Experience the Excitement and follow the Procession! (Nov)
The Tenjin Festival in Tsuwano is held in celebration to Tenjin, the Shinto deity of scholarship and learning.
Central to the festivities is the procession of mikoshi, or portable shrine, which is carried through the streets of downtown Tsuwano by enthusiastic participants.
Local sake is served freely to the participants at each rest stop during the procession and Iwami Kagura is usually performed at the end, creating a lively and immersive experience that highlights the rich cultural heritage of Tsuwano.
Activities
Chestnut Feast: A Gourmet Experience of Autumn’s Star Ingredient (Oct)
In October, Tsuwano transforms into a chestnut lover’s paradise, with local sweet shops and restaurants crafting delectable chestnut-inspired dishes. Take a leisurely stroll through town and savor a variety of mouthwatering creations, from rich desserts to savory treats. It’s a delightful culinary journey where every stop offers a new chestnut delight to experience and enjoy.
Unkai: A Spectacular Sea of Clouds from the Tsuwano Castle Ruins
(Oct-Nov)
Unkai translates literally to the “sea of clouds” and occurs when a blanket of clouds forms over valleys with the surrounding mountains peeking through like islands in an ocean.
This breathtaking natural phenomenon happens during Autumn and the Tsuwano ruins transform into a “Castle in the Sky”.
This lasts for a few hours at sunrise.
The chairlift opens early everyday during this special occasion.
Yuna Unkai Tour: Historic Tsuwano Castle Trek & Uzumemeshi Breakfast at the Summit (Oct-Nov)
Yuna Sustainable Tourism offers various tours including the special Unkai & Breakfast Tour, where participants can enjoy trekking to the castle ruins and enjoy a local dish called uzume-meshi while enjoying this spectacular view.
*Yuna offers this tour throughout the year, but the Unkai experience is available only during this period.
Hori Teien: Magical Evening Light Display
（Nov）
Hori Teien, also known as Hori Gardens, is a historically significant and beautifully maintained Japanese garden and Edo-period mansion of the Hori Family in Tsuwano.
Approximately 300 years ago, the Tokugawa Shogunate seized control of the area due to its valuable copper mine and entrusted the Hori family with its management. Renowned as the “Mining Kings,” the Hori not only managed this copper mine but also played a crucial role in overseeing the renowned silver mine of Iwami Ginzan, solidifying their legacy in the region’s mining history.
This 18th-century residence is now open to visitors and you can explore a collection of historical artifacts, including a striking suit of samurai armor, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
The garden features classic elements of traditional Japanese landscape design, including tranquil ponds, carefully arranged rocks, stone lanterns, and scenic walking paths.
In autumn, Hori Gardens transform into a nighttime wonderland, open to visitors until 9:00 PM.
Enjoy the enchanting glow of the garden’s illuminated pathways and foliage, creating a magical and serene evening experience.
Golden Autumn at Tsuwano’s Temples and Shrines
As autumn paints Tsuwano in a tapestry of fiery reds and golden yellows, take a serene journey through its historic temples and shrines.
The crisp fall air and brilliant foliage create a breathtaking backdrop as you explore these sacred sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s rich spiritual heritage.
Recommended Places : Taikodani Inari Shrine, Yomeiji Temple, Yasaka Jinja, Washibara Hachimangu Shrine, Otome Toge (St Mary’s Chapel)
All Year Round
Steam Locomotive: a Nostalgic Journey through the Countryside
The steam locomotive that operates between Shin-Yamaguchi and Tsuwano offers a nostalgic and scenic journey through the picturesque countryside of Japan’s Shimane and Yamaguchi Prefectures.
This historic train provides passengers with a unique travel experience, reminiscent of the early 20th century.
Runs on weekends from March to November.
Iwami Kagura:
Traditional Performance of the Gods
(min twice a month)
Iwami Kagura is a traditional Japanese performing art from the Iwami region in Shimane Prefecture, characterized by vibrant and dramatic dance performances. This folk theater combines dance, music, and elaborate costumes to depict mythical stories and historical legends, often involving gods, demons, and heroes. It features energetic and expressive movements, dynamic drum and flute music, and colorful masks, making it a captivating cultural experience that showcases the rich heritage of the Iwami region.
It is performed regularly at the Community Center in Tonomachi Street, as well as at the Roadside Station Nagomi no Sato.
For more information, please contact
the Tsuwano Tourism Association at tsuwanok@tsuwano-kanko.net