Category: Area

Yoshida Castle – Surrounded by the Natural Moat of the Toyokawa River | Toyohashi City

A Natural Fortress Protected by Rivers

Yoshida Castle in Toyohashi was built at the point where the Toyokawa River makes a wide bend and joins with its tributary, the Asakura River. These natural waterways served as moats, enhancing the castle’s defenses and making it a true natural stronghold. Standing on slightly elevated ground, the castle offers a view of the meandering Toyokawa, and with few tall buildings in the area, visitors can still imagine the scenery as it once appeared centuries ago.

Today, a reconstructed keep has been built, making the site a popular sightseeing spot. The remaining stone walls and moats allow visitors to stroll through the grounds while experiencing the atmosphere of the Sengoku period.

Although it is called “Yoshida Castle,” it stands in present-day Toyohashi City because the area was once known as “Yoshida.” Both the castle and its castle town shared the same name, giving visitors deeper insight into the historical connection between the place and the castle.

A Castle Linked to Renowned Generals

Several prominent warlords in Japanese history once ruled Yoshida Castle.

One was Sakai Tadatsugu, a loyal retainer of Tokugawa Ieyasu. He was counted among both the “Four Heavenly Kings of Tokugawa” and the “Sixteen Generals of Tokugawa.” His role as lord of Yoshida Castle highlights the strategic importance of the site.

Another notable figure was Ikeda Terumasa, later famous for his large-scale renovation of Himeji Castle. At Yoshida, Terumasa strengthened the castle’s defenses by building stone walls around the honmaru (main bailey) and expanding the grounds with secondary and tertiary enclosures and samurai residences. Had he governed the area longer, Yoshida Castle might have evolved into a grand early modern fortress on par with Himeji. In this sense, Yoshida can be seen as a “phantom great castle” that never reached its full potential.

Now Part of Toyohashi Park

Today, Yoshida Castle is located within Toyohashi Park, serving as a beloved relaxation spot for both locals and visitors. The spacious park can be enjoyed with a leisurely one-hour stroll and is especially famous for its cherry blossoms, attracting crowds of people for hanami (flower viewing) in spring.

The combination of stone walls, the reconstructed keep, and the seasonal beauty of nature makes it a place where history and scenery can be enjoyed together. Walking along the flow of the Toyokawa River, visitors can imagine the lives of people in the Sengoku period and spend a special moment immersed in both history and nature.

Access

3 Imahashi-cho, Toyohashi City (inside Toyohashi Park) 440-0801

About 10 minutes from JR/Meitetsu Toyohashi Station on the Toyotetsu City Line.
Get off at “Shiyakusho-mae” stop and walk 5 minutes.

2025年9月16日
Luxury Beef Cuisine in a Traditional Japanese Setting – Steakhouse Mori Farm｜Handa, Aichi

A Special Space in a Renovated Traditional House

Located in Handa City, Aichi Prefecture, Steakhouse Mori Farm is a popular destination where you can enjoy steak, shabu-shabu, and sukiyaki.

What makes it unique is its interior, created by renovating a large traditional Japanese house. Spacious private rooms allow you to dine comfortably with family or friends without worrying about your surroundings. Inside, you’ll even find maple trees and guardian statues, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that feels like stepping into another world. The balance of traditional Japanese aesthetics and playful design makes for a truly special dining experience.

Exquisite Beef Dishes, Featuring Chita Beef

The highlight of Mori Farm is, of course, its beef dishes. The restaurant serves carefully selected cuts of beef, including the locally renowned Chita Beef, which you can savor as steak, sukiyaki, or shabu-shabu. First-time visitors often choose between steak or sukiyaki—whichever you order, the flavor and tenderness are sure to impress.

The photo shown here features beef other than Chita Beef, but it’s still delicious enough to make you want more rice. In the case of sukiyaki, rice refills are free, and the sweet-savory broth pairs perfectly with the beef, making it hard to stop eating. To finish, the house-style udon is also outstanding, leaving you satisfied until the very last bite.

A Course Meal That Includes Dessert

Your meal concludes with dessert. Along with fresh melon, you can choose coffee or ice cream—but be prepared, the ice cream comes in a surprisingly large size. Its sweetness and coolness refresh your palate after the rich meal, while the generous portion ensures you end your dining experience feeling truly indulged.

The greatest charm of Mori Farm is that you can relax in a spacious private room and enjoy delicious cuisine to your heart’s content. If you’re visiting Handa, this is a restaurant you won’t want to miss.

Access

2-84 Hiiragi-cho, Handa, Aichi 475-0916

2025年9月12日
Bars Lined Up in the Alluring Nishiguchi District｜Toyohashi

A Bar District with Post-War Charm

Just a few minutes from the west exit (Shinkansen side) of Toyohashi Station, you’ll find a retro street where small bars stand shoulder to shoulder. Formed during Japan’s post-war reconstruction, this area still retains a strong Showa-era atmosphere. Neon signs and wooden facades glow against the night, creating a nostalgic yet slightly mysterious mood.

On both sides of the street, you’ll discover red lantern izakaya pubs, yakiniku restaurants sending up savory smoke, and even international spots serving pizza and Mexican cuisine. A simple stroll is exciting in itself—you’ll be drawn in by laughter and the clinking of glasses from the alleys, and before you know it, that “just one drink” might turn into an evening of bar-hopping.

Small-Scale Bars with Big Personality

Most establishments are two stories, with cozy first floors featuring counters of just 7 or 8 seats. The close quarters make it easy to strike up conversations with locals and owners, even on your first visit. Some places also offer upstairs seating or private rooms, perfect for settling in with friends—or for stopping by alone on a whim.

At the counter in particular, the aromas from the kitchen, the sizzling sounds of cooking, and casual chats with the owner all become part of the experience, naturally encouraging you to order another round.

Redevelopment Looms—A “Now or Never” Experience

Although this area sits right next to the station, it has remained largely untouched for decades. Recently, however, aging buildings and new city planning discussions have raised the possibility of redevelopment. If that begins in earnest, the days of this Showa-style nightlife district may be numbered.

That’s exactly why now is the time to experience its charm. Immerse yourself in the nostalgic, bustling warmth of this community, where memories of post-war Japan still linger, and enjoy a uniquely Toyohashi night before it changes forever.

Access

Hanada Ichiban-cho, Toyohashi, Aichi 441-8013

2025年9月12日
A Taste of Hida Beef in a Modern, Comfortable Setting – Gyu-Zanmai Yakiniku | Nagoya, Tenpaku
If you’re visiting Nagoya, one dining spot you shouldn’t miss is **Gyu-Zanmai Hirabari**. Here, you can indulge in Japan’s world-renowned **Hida beef**, along with premium cuts of domestic black wagyu, served fresh and prepared with care.

The Craft Behind the Melt-in-Your-Mouth Flavor – Exploring the World of Hida Beef, Gifu’s Renowned Wagyu

The Gyu-Zanmai Commitment

To bring out the best flavor of Hida beef, the restaurant follows strict standards:
- Secret house-made sauce that pairs perfectly with top-grade rice
- Fresh cuts prepared within 20 minutes of leaving refrigeration
- Skilled knife work tailored to each cut of meat
- Meat processed in the restaurant’s own certified factory for safety and quality
Every dish reflects craftsmanship and pride, turning yakiniku into an art form.

Clean, Comfortable Dining

Travel meals should be enjoyable and relaxing.
The interior of Gyu-Zanmai Hirabari is bright, modern, and spotless, with touches of traditional Japanese design. Spacious tables allow groups and families to dine comfortably without feeling crowded.

Premium Beef at Honest Prices

Despite serving high-quality Hida beef, prices remain reasonable. Guided by the idea of making **Japanese yakiniku culture accessible to everyone**, the restaurant offers a premium dining experience at a price that travelers can enjoy with confidence.

Easy Access in Nagoya

Located just **one minute on foot from Hirabari Station*
- on the Tsurumai Subway Line, the restaurant is easy to reach. It’s a perfect stop to wrap up your day of sightseeing with a delicious Japanese barbecue experience.
  
  Reservations Recommended
  
  As one of the area’s most popular yakiniku spots, reservations are highly recommended. Avoid the disappointment of being turned away by booking in advance.
  
  For international visitors, online reservations are available—quick, simple, and accessible from your smartphone or laptop, even if you’re not confident in Japanese.
  
  Access
  
  Gyu-Zanmai Hirabari
  2F, 2-1407 Hirabari, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0011
  
  1-minute walk from Exit 2, Hirabari Station (Tsurumai Line)
2025年9月12日
Beautiful Approach Path and Magnificent Main Hall – Harina Jinja Shrine｜Nagoya, Tenpaku

Located in Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya City, “Harina Jinja” is a venerable shrine with over 1,100 years of history, quietly nestled in a peaceful residential neighborhood. Despite being just a 10-minute walk from Hirabari Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line, it boasts a spacious approach path and grounds. The moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in a sacred atmosphere far removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

For Autoproject, Inc. which operates this website, Harina Jinja holds special significance. As our local tutelary deity, we receive daily protection and blessings from this sacred place.

What Is a Ujigami?

Over a Thousand Years of History in an Elegant Setting

According to ancient documents, Harina Jinja was founded around 900 AD, making it one of Nagoya’s most historically significant shrines. While the current shrine buildings have been beautifully maintained and are impeccably clean, you can truly feel the weight of over a millennium of history within its grounds.

The shrine is said to have deep connections with Ise Grand Shrine and Atsuta Shrine, and has been gathering the faith of people since ancient times.

Multiple Deities and Diverse Blessings

One of Harina Jinja’s attractions is that it enshrines many different deities. In addition to the main hall, the grounds contain multiple auxiliary shrines, with the “Shinmei-sha” alone housing six additional shrines. It’s rare to find a shrine with so many gathered deities, allowing it to answer the diverse prayers of its visitors.

The blessings offered are equally diverse, including good fortune, protection from misfortune, academic success, health, traffic safety, and business prosperity – making it a reliable source of support for various aspects of life. It’s believed that during the Edo period, as people gathered at this important point along the “Hirabari Highway,” various deities were successively enshrined here as the center of regional faith.

Surrounded by Vibrant Vermillion Torii Gates

The rows of vermillion torii gates standing before Harina Inari Shrine are truly spectacular. Each time you pass through a gate, your mindset shifts from the ordinary to the extraordinary, creating a sense of spiritual focus. Few shrines in Nagoya offer the sight of so many torii gates lined up together.

They’re also perfect for photography, so be sure to capture a memorable shot during your visit.

Finding Inner Peace in Tranquility

Unlike nationally famous shrines such as Ise Grand Shrine or Atsuta Shrine, Harina Jinja typically doesn’t see large crowds of visitors. As a result, time flows peacefully within the grounds, allowing you to truly feel the sacred atmosphere.

The ability to quietly clasp your hands together, reflect on yourself, and make inner vows about future goals and wishes is one of Harina Jinja’s unique charms.

Allow Extra Time for New Year’s Visits

During the first three days of the New Year, the shrine receives enormous numbers of visitors, and worship can take over three hours. If you prefer a more leisurely visit, we recommend coming at a different time of year. The mild seasons of spring and autumn are particularly ideal, when the natural beauty of the grounds is at its peak and perfect for strolling.

Access Information

Address

175 Oaza Hirabari Daikon-ga-koshi, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0021

Access

10-minute walk from Hirabari Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line

2025年9月12日
Enjoy Japanese, Western & Chinese Set Meals Plus Izakaya Favorites! Relax in a Spacious Popular Tavern – Tengu Daihall Nagoya Hara | Nagoya, Tenpaku

Located just steps from Hara Subway Station in Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya City, “Tengu Daihall Nagoya Hara” is an izakaya that excels at serving hearty set meals alongside traditional tavern fare. Whether you visit for lunch or dinner, this popular local spot caters to a wide range of dining needs as both a set meal restaurant and izakaya.

Extensive Japanese, Western & Chinese Set Meals Perfect for Travelers

One of Tengu Daihall’s greatest attractions is the incredible variety of set meals available. With options spanning Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine, you can choose whatever suits your mood on any given day.

They offer grilled fish set meals and other traditional Japanese dishes, making it perfect for international travelers who want to “try Japanese fish dishes beyond sushi.” Rice portions can be ordered as regular, large, or extra-large servings, ideal for those wanting to savor Japan’s delicious rice to their heart’s content.

Izakaya-Style Small Plates and Drinks Available Too

Since this is fundamentally an izakaya, they offer an extensive menu of small plates and appetizers. You can easily order some snacks alongside your set meal and enjoy them with drinks. The casual atmosphere that allows drinking from lunchtime onward is another reason why both tourists and local regulars love this place.

Spacious Table Seating for a Relaxed Dining Experience

The interior features generously sized tables spread throughout a roomy space. Each seating area has partitions, creating a semi-private booth feeling that’s popular with families and groups.

The spacious seating arrangement provides a comfortable environment where you can enjoy conversation and linger over your meal. Whether it’s a lunch break or an evening gathering, you can dine in a relaxed atmosphere.

Instagram Perks Offer Weekly Freebies

At Tengu Daihall, simply following their Instagram account earns you exciting perks. For example, they offer weekly rotating freebies like complimentary fried chicken, ice cream, or drinks that have proven extremely popular.

Even small complimentary items like these can make your travel memories or everyday meals more enjoyable. Feel free to follow them and take advantage of these great deals.

Featured on TV! A Popular Spot Even in Suburban Nagoya

Despite being located in the somewhat suburban area of Hara in Tenpaku Ward, this restaurant has been featured on television for its unique menu and great value services. It has now become famous enough to attract customers from outside the city.

Known by those in the know as the “ultimate value restaurant,” it’s definitely worth a visit as part of your Nagoya sightseeing.

Weekend Reservations Recommended

Weekends and holidays tend to get particularly busy, so we recommend making reservations if you’re planning to visit. As a convenient set meal spot to drop into during your sightseeing and an izakaya where you can enjoy the local atmosphere, Tengu Daihall Nagoya Hara is sure to be a satisfying dining experience.

Access Information

Address

Hara 1-2106, Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi 468-0015

Access

1-minute walk from Hara Subway Station

2025年9月12日
Experience Japan’s Festival Spirit Now! “Genki-ssu! Hekinan”｜Hekinan City, Aichi

A vibrant summer event where modern Japan’s festival culture comes alive

Every August in Hekinan City, Aichi Prefecture, the annual summer festival “Genki-ssu! Hekinan” brings together local energy and contemporary Japanese festival culture. Unlike traditional festivals with bon odori dances and mikoshi (portable shrines), this event invites everyone to dance freely, join performances, and celebrate side by side—blurring the line between performer and audience.

The Sounds of Summer in Japan – Discovering the Charm of Bon Odori

This flagship event of Hekinan draws not only local residents but also many visitors from across Japan and abroad. Generations and nationalities come together, creating a true sense of unity in the heart of summer.

Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss

Taste Hekinan’s Local Flavors

The festival grounds are filled with food stalls offering both classic Japanese festival snacks and Hekinan’s own regional specialties. From sizzling street food to nostalgic treats, the lively calls of vendors and the aroma of grilled delights set the festive mood.

Dance in the Parade – Everyone’s Invited!

A signature attraction is the dance parade, where groups perform in creative costumes with original choreography. Unlike the fixed style of bon odori, each team showcases its own way of expressing the joy of dance. The energy is contagious—you’ll feel uplifted whether you’re performing or simply watching.

Live Music and Performances

On the main stage, dance teams and live bands keep the excitement going. From local students to professional artists, the lineup is diverse and dynamic. International groups also join in, adding a multicultural flair and making the festival a true celebration of diversity.

A Day to Feel Japan’s Passion

“Genki-ssu! Hekinan” is more than just a local festival—it’s a chance to experience the vitality of modern Japan. Surrounded by music, dancing, and smiles, you’ll step out of the everyday and into an atmosphere of pure celebration.

For travelers, it’s also an opportunity to discover a side of Japan far from the quiet and reserved stereotype. Here, you’ll encounter passion, energy, and joy shared openly by everyone around you. Joining the festival—whether by chance or by plan—will surely become one of your most unforgettable memories of Japan.

Discover Today’s Japan in Summer Hekinan

True to its name, “Genki-ssu!” is a festival that fills you with energy. Watch, dance, eat, or simply soak it all in—however you take part, it’s a summer experience like no other.

Venue

Around Hekinan City Hall

Official Website

2025年9月11日
Italian Restaurant “Tenmentabo Aiueo” – A Favorite of Akira Toriyama | Nagoya, Tenpaku

A must-visit spot where you can step into Toriyama’s world

Beloved worldwide, Dragon Ball has captured the hearts of generations. I still remember visiting Germany around the year 2000, when I spotted the German edition in a local bookstore. Recognizing the scene made me feel as if I suddenly understood German—such is the universal power of Toriyama’s storytelling.

More Than Just Dragon Ball – Who Was Akira Toriyama?

One of the restaurants Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump, was known to frequent is the Italian eatery Tenmentabo Aiueo, located in the Hirabari area of Nagoya’s Tenpaku Ward.

Inside, you’ll find autographed illustrations and sketches from both Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump Arale-chan, giving the entire restaurant the feel of stepping into Toriyama’s creative universe. For fans, this is truly a special place worth visiting at least once.

Generous Portions and Outstanding Flavor

What makes “Tenmentabo Aiueo” stand out isn’t only its connection to Toriyama—it’s also renowned for its hearty portions and delicious food.

Each dish is about 1.3 times the size of a typical restaurant serving, yet dishes are reasonably priced and authentically prepared. It’s easy to see why locals have continued to support this restaurant for so many years.

For those who love oversized meals, there are also special “big portion” courses, perfect for sharing with friends. Stopping by here during your trip is a fun way to enjoy both good food and lively conversation.

A Stylish Space with Japanese-Western Charm

The interior is clean, spacious, and blends Japanese and Western design for a warm, relaxing atmosphere. It’s the ideal setting to enjoy a leisurely meal while savoring the restaurant’s generous servings.

With space for up to 30 guests, the restaurant can also accommodate group dinners and casual parties, making it a great choice for travelers dining in groups.

Summary

For fans of Akira Toriyama, Tenmentabo Aiueo is nothing short of a pilgrimage spot. For food lovers, it is also a hidden gem offering outstanding flavor and impressive portions. Whether you come for the connection to Toriyama’s world or simply for the food, it promises to be a memorable dining experience.

Access

Address

3-704 Hirabari, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi

Subway

Hirabari Station (Tsurumai Line), Exit 1 – about 3 minutes on foot

2025年9月10日
Ueda Hachiman Shrine – A Historic Sanctuary in a Peaceful Residential Area | Nagoya, Tenpaku

A majestic shrine nestled in a city known for its livability

The Ueda district of Nagoya’s Tenpaku Ward is a quiet residential area, beloved for its comfortable lifestyle, with local cafés and coffee shops scattered throughout the neighborhood. Amid this calm setting stands Ueda Hachiman Shrine, a spiritual landmark with a history dating back to the 1400s, making it over 600 years old.

The enshrined deity is Emperor Ōjin, who was once revered by the Genji clan and many samurai warriors as their guardian. Even today, the shrine remains deeply respected by the local community.

What Is a Hachimangu Shrine?

A Place Steeped in History

One of Ueda Hachiman Shrine’s most fascinating aspects lies in its location. It is built on an ancient burial mound believed to date back to around the 6th century. This area is thought to have once been the site of a small settlement, making the shrine grounds a rare place where traces of everyday life and spirituality have been interwoven for centuries.

While locals may pass by without much thought, visitors often find themselves amazed to discover such deep layers of history hidden in this quiet neighborhood.

Summer Ritual: Purification Through the“Chinowa”Ring

Every July, around Marine Day, the shrine hosts the traditional Shinto ritual called “Nagoshi no Harae,” or the Great Summer Purification. A large ring made of reeds, known as a chinowa, is set up at the entrance. Worshippers walk through the ring to pray for good health and protection from illness.

Although performed at many shrines across Japan, few people actually experience this ritual firsthand, making it a rare and memorable event for travelers.

The Striking Arch Bridge

Within the shrine grounds stands a rare and unusually steep arched bridge (soribashi). With its athletic, almost daring slope, it is not recommended for small children or those unsteady on their feet.

Traditionally, rivers near shrines serve as symbolic boundaries between the human world and the sacred realm. Since Ueda Hachiman Shrine does not have a river, this distinctive arched bridge may instead act as a symbolic border, adding a deeper spiritual meaning to the experience of crossing it.

A Calming Retreat Just Minutes from the Station

Located only about 5 minutes on foot from Ueda Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line, the shrine is easily accessible. Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood just off the main road, many first-time visitors are pleasantly surprised to find such an impressive shrine in this residential setting.

Unlike bustling tourist spots, Ueda Hachiman Shrine offers a serene and welcoming atmosphere—a perfect place to slow down, reflect, and recharge.

Visitor Information

Address

3-605 Ueda-nishi, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi
Phone: 052-808-3818

Access

About a 5-minute walk from Ueda Station (Tsurumai Subway Line)

2025年9月10日
An Authentic Hidden Italian Gem That Feels Like Getting Lost in the Forest – Trattoria esse | Anjo City
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life in an extraordinary space that feels like being deep in the forest. That’s exactly what you’ll find at “Trattoria esse,” a hidden Italian restaurant in Anjo City. Surrounded by tranquility and lush greenery, you can savor authentic Italian cuisine enhanced with distinctly Japanese attention to detail.

A Luxurious Escape in a Forest Hideaway

Both the exterior and interior of the restaurant evoke a forest cottage retreat. You’ll find yourself immersed in an otherworldly sanctuary surrounded by greenery, offering the kind of leisurely dining experience that’s simply impossible to find at urban Italian restaurants.

Extensive Menu of Authentic Italian Cuisine

Every dish is meticulously prepared, with a prix fixe style menu offering 5-10 choices each for antipasto, pasta, risotto, and main courses. The seasonal ingredients shine in every dish, ensuring that whatever you choose will be absolutely delicious. An excellent selection of Italian wines is also available, perfect for pairing with your meal.

House-Made Bread is Another Highlight

The freshly baked house-made bread is a simple yet outstanding creation that lets the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through. The staff will gladly bring you additional warm bread as needed, ensuring you’re completely satisfied throughout your meal. When enjoyed with olive oil or the sauces from your dishes, the flavors become even more remarkable.

Warm, Attentive Service for Complete Relaxation

The staff provides exceptionally thoughtful and friendly service. Table clearing and service flow seamlessly, ensuring you’re always comfortable throughout your visit. While they may not be entirely confident with English, their gestures and attentive care more than make up for any language barriers, allowing international guests to dine with complete peace of mind.

Summary

Trattoria esse is truly deserving of its “hidden gem” reputation, offering perfect harmony between exceptional food, ambiance, leisurely pace, and service. With Anjo Koen Denpark nearby, it makes for an ideal travel itinerary to visit the park followed by an elegant Italian dinner.

Access Information

Address

Fukugama-cho Sarumachi 41-1, Anjo, Aichi
Phone: 070-3523-1313

Access
- About 15 minutes by car from JR Anjo Station
- Approximately 2.7km from JR Mikawa-Anjo Station
2025年9月10日