Offbeat NAGOYA｜Discover the unexpected side of Nagoya & Tokai region

Tag: Highlights

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

    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.

  • Bars Lined Up in the Alluring Nishiguchi District｜Toyohashi

    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

  • Beautiful Approach Path and Magnificent Main Hall – Harina Jinja Shrine｜Nagoya, Tenpaku

    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

  • Experience Japan’s Festival Spirit Now! “Genki-ssu! Hekinan”｜Hekinan City, Aichi

    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

  • Ueda Hachiman Shrine – A Historic Sanctuary in a Peaceful Residential Area | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    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)

  • Comfortable Baths, Restaurant, and Relaxation Spaces – Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu | Kita Ward, Nagoya

    Comfortable Baths, Restaurant, and Relaxation Spaces – Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu | Kita Ward, Nagoya

    Located on the banks of the Shonai River in Nagoya’s Kita Ward, Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu is a beloved local super-sento (large public bath). Renovated in 2021, the facility has been completely refreshed, offering a clean and welcoming environment. Every visit leaves you feeling comfortable and relaxed, making you want to return again and again.

    Refresh Your Mind and Body in Beautifully Maintained Baths

    The bath area offers a wide variety of baths, allowing visitors to choose based on their fatigue or mood. In addition to classic options like jet baths, electric baths, and carbonated springs, there are also unique and individual baths to enjoy.

    Among them, the author’s personal favorite is the “lying-down bath”. Designed slightly deeper than similar baths at other facilities, it allows you to fully immerse your neck and torso. Even in winter, you won’t feel your stomach getting cold, and the gentle warmth spreading throughout your body is wonderfully relaxing.

    The outdoor open-air bath also provides a view of the Shonai River, offering an extraordinary sense of escape that makes you forget you’re still in the heart of Nagoya.

    Detox and Relax in the Stone Sauna

    Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu also features a variety of stone saunas. Each room differs in temperature and humidity, allowing visitors to choose according to their physical condition or preference.

    The stone sauna’s main appeal is its ability to refresh the body from the inside through sweating. Spending time slowly sweating while reading or chatting is truly a “rejuvenating experience.” Many couples and groups of friends visit, and unlike gender-segregated baths, everyone can enjoy it together, which adds to its popularity.

    Satisfying Restaurant and Relaxation Spaces

    After bathing or enjoying the stone sauna, visitors can relax and have a meal in the spacious restaurant area. The calm interior enhances the relaxing atmosphere, making it comfortable for families as well as solo visitors.

    The menu offers a wide range of Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes, including set meals, noodles, rice bowls, and desserts. Seasonal specialties are also available, keeping even frequent visitors interested.

    In summer, a cold dish after a refreshing bath is especially enjoyable, while in winter, savoring a meal with a warm, relaxed body is simply perfect.

    Refresh Your Hair and Mind with the Onsite Haircut Service

    Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu also has a barber shop on-site. Getting your hair done before bathing allows you to soak in the water feeling fresh and renewed. There are convenient set menus that combine a haircut and bath, making it ideal for those who want to make the most of their time.

    In busy daily life, visiting as a “self-care day” is highly recommended.

    Access

    1-132-1 Nishi-Ajima, Kita-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 462-0016

    From Sakae Station (Oasis 21 Bus Terminal)

    Board City Bus No. 8 bound for Nyoijiutaku / Suibunbashi at Platform 4 → Get off at Shinkawanakabashi → About 5 minutes on foot

    From Kurokawa Station

    Board City Bus bound for Nyoijiutaku / Suibunbashi at Platform 9 → Get off at Shinkawanakabashi → About 5 minutes on foot

  • Village Vanguard Flagship Store – The Birthplace of “Virevan”｜Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Where the playful bookstore culture began

    Village Vanguard is famous across Japan as the “bookstore you can play in.” Its very first store opened in 1986 in Ueda, a quiet neighborhood of Tempaku Ward, Nagoya. Even today, this flagship location keeps the same quirky atmosphere that started it all, offering visitors a mix of discovery, surprise, and fun.

    From the outside, the shop looks more like a casual garage store than a typical bookstore. Step inside, and you’ll find warm wooden floors, winding staircases, and a playful layout that makes browsing feel like an adventure. True to the brand’s spirit of creativity, even the displays are unusual—watches and wallets, for example, are arranged on a billiards table.

    An extraordinary find in an ordinary neighborhood

    The surrounding area of Ueda is a calm residential district. Against this everyday backdrop, the Village Vanguard flagship feels like a hidden world of subculture. The contrast between the quiet streets and this imaginative space makes the visit all the more memorable.

    A “not-so-Japanese” Japan that fascinates travelers

    The store is not limited to books. Visitors can browse through fashion, accessories, food items, novelty goods, and much more. The eclectic selection feels like wandering through an overseas marketplace, creating a sense of stepping outside Japan while still being in the heart of Nagoya.

    For international travelers, this flagship store often becomes a highlight of their trip. Unlike the many branch stores across the country, the Ueda location preserves the original style of Village Vanguard. For fans, it’s considered a kind of “pilgrimage site” where they can connect with the roots of the brand.

    Why you should visit

    Among the many Village Vanguard stores nationwide, the flagship in Tempaku Ward stands out with its unique atmosphere. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone who wants to experience Japanese subculture, discover unusual souvenirs, or simply enjoy a bookstore that is anything but ordinary. Visiting the birthplace of “Virevan” is more than shopping—it’s a cultural experience in itself.

    Access

    1-515 Uedanishi, Tempaku Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0058
    A 10-minute walk from Ueda Station on the subway.

  • Sharing the Charm of Authentic Mirin with the World — Sugiura Mirin | Hekinan City

    Sharing the Charm of Authentic Mirin with the World — Sugiura Mirin | Hekinan City

    A One-of-a-Kind Hon-Mirin Born of Tradition and Innovation — “Aizakura” by Sugiura Mirin

    Since 1924, Sugiura Mirin, based in Hekinan City, Aichi Prefecture, has been dedicated to crafting hon-mirin, or authentic mirin, using time-honored techniques passed down through generations.

    The Power Behind the Sweetness – Discovering the World of Mirin, Japan’s Traditional Sweet Rice Seasoning

    Hekinan: A Coastal Town Steeped in Flavor and Fermentation

    Their flagship product, Aizakura, is a genuine mirin made from steamed Japanese rice and carefully cultivated rice koji. It undergoes a traditional fermentation process followed by slow aging for over six months. Aizakura comes in both one-year and three-year aged varieties, each offering a deep umami flavor and rich aroma.

    While a perfect match for classic Japanese dishes, Aizakura’s versatility extends far beyond. It enhances sauces, noodle soups, and marinades, and even pairs beautifully with French or Italian cuisine, desserts, and more — elevating the flavor of any dish it touches.

    SADAJIRO Premium — A 23-Year-Aged Liquid Masterpiece

    Crafted with the same care and technique as Aizakura, SADAJIRO Premium is a luxurious sweet sake that has been aged for 23 years. The result is a lusciously dense and mellow flavor profile, balanced with subtle tannins and a touch of acidity.

    On the palate, it envelops the tongue with a velvety texture and reveals a complex, lingering aroma. SADAJIRO Premium is ideal as a refined aperitif, a dessert pairing, or a premium gift for those who appreciate exceptional Japanese craftsmanship.

    The Sugiura Legacy — Tradition Preserved, Taste Rediscovered

    Sugiura Mirin is a historic mirin brewery founded in 1924. As artificial “mirin-style” condiments became popular, the company faced difficult times. However, under the leadership of current president Yoshinobu Sugiura — the fourth-generation successor — the original recipe of founder Sadajiro Sugiura was revived.

    Thanks to this revival, the authentic taste of hon-mirin has found its way back into the kitchens of top chefs and discerning consumers. Today, Sugiura Mirin continues to expand internationally, sharing Japan’s traditional flavors with the world.

    The brewery has also gained national recognition through appearances on major Japanese television programs, further highlighting the value of real mirin.

    Visit the Brewery — Experience the Heart of Mirin Making

    Sugiura Mirin welcomes visitors by reservation to tour the brewery and explore the traditional methods behind their products. Guests can also purchase mirin and aged sake directly on-site.

    While the tours are conducted in Japanese, international visitors can still enjoy the atmosphere of an authentic Japanese brewing facility — from the aroma of the fermenting rice to the precision of hand-crafted processes. It’s a cultural experience that speaks beyond language.

    Dishes You Can Create with Aizakura — A Touch of Fermented Elegance

    Fermented BBQ Pork

    A sugar-free BBQ delight, naturally sweetened with Aizakura mirin and sweet rice koji. This special fermented BBQ sauce—made with ketchup, soy sauce, and the depth of aged mirin—slowly infuses into tender pork.

    Baked low and slow in the oven, the result is a golden, caramelized exterior with a moist and juicy interior. Thanks to the power of fermentation, the meat becomes exceptionally tender, with an umami-rich flavor that will have you reaching for another bite. Perfect with both rice and sake.

    Japanese-Style Bolognese with Miso and Mirin

    A nourishing, Japanese take on the classic Italian bolognese. This fusion dish combines savory miso and authentic mirin to deliver a surprisingly light yet deeply flavorful sauce.

    Easy to prepare and rich in taste, it’s a healthy weeknight option that brings together the best of both worlds—comforting pasta with the soul of Japanese cuisine.

    Restaurants Where You Can Enjoy Dishes Made with Aizakura

    Nouka Restaurant Hana no Ya

    A 10-minute drive from Sugiura Mirin.

    This cozy countryside restaurant offers set meals featuring vegetables from its own farm and handmade sausages. A perfect spot to experience wholesome, seasonal Japanese flavors enhanced with Aizakura mirin.

    Kobanten Hanare Ittou

    Just a 5-minute drive from Sugiura Mirin.

    A refined Japanese restaurant known for its creative cuisine centered around heirloom and locally grown vegetables. Traditional yet inventive dishes are beautifully complemented by the deep flavor of Aizakura.

  • Spend 3–4 Hours Enjoying Shopping, Dining, and Movies at Prime Tree Akaike

    Located in Nisshin, Aichi – Just Outside Nagoya

    Prime Tree Akaike, located in Nisshin City, Aichi Prefecture, is a large-scale shopping complex offering a wide range of entertainment options—from shopping and dining to catching the latest films. Thanks to its convenient access from Nagoya, it’s a popular destination for weekend outings.

    With an average stay of around 3 to 4 hours, the facility is perfect not only for shopping but also for relaxing meals and movie-going. It’s a great spot for families, couples, and international visitors alike.

    Spacious and Clean Interiors for a Comfortable Experience

    The facility is bright, clean, and has a refreshing atmosphere. The wide walkways make it easy for strollers and wheelchairs to move around comfortably. With over 180 stores covering everything from fashion and lifestyle goods to electronics and cosmetics, there’s something for every taste.

    The dining options are equally diverse, including a food court and full-service restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a more refined Japanese meal, you’ll find plenty to choose from—ideal for lunch with friends or dinner with the family.

    Quality and Reliability Backed by the Seven & i Group

    As a shopping mall operated by the Seven & i Group, Prime Tree Akaike offers peace of mind and quality service. Inside the on-site supermarket, you’ll find a wide variety of exclusive items such as Seven Premium products, known for their excellent balance of quality and value. These items are beloved by locals—and I personally shop here often for my favorites.

    Catch the Latest Movies at TOHO Cinemas Akaike

    The mall also houses TOHO Cinemas Akaike, where you can enjoy the newest films with top-tier seating and sound systems. Whether you’re taking a break during your travels or planning a special movie date, it’s a fantastic place to unwind. From animated features for kids to the latest international releases, the lineup is diverse. It’s one of my favorite movie theaters and a go-to spot for cinema outings.

    International Brands Welcomed by Overseas Visitors

    Prime Tree Akaike is home to many globally recognized brands, making it accessible and enjoyable for visitors from abroad—even those who aren’t fluent in Japanese. Here are a few highlights:

    • Starbucks Coffee: A globally loved café offering Japan-exclusive menu items
    • 7-Eleven: Japan’s iconic convenience store—great for snacks and everyday needs
    • UNIQLO: A Japanese global fashion brand known for its quality and affordability
    • TOHO Cinemas: Offers foreign films with subtitles, ideal for international movie fans

    Experience Japanese Cuisine in a Casual Setting

    If you’re a tourist looking to explore Japanese food culture, Prime Tree has you covered. The mall features a variety of restaurants where you can enjoy uniquely Japanese flavors.

    • Tonkatsu Ma Maison: Known for its crispy breaded pork cutlets and juicy meat
    • Kamakura Pasta: Offers Japanese-style pasta in a calm, elegant setting
    • Blue Seal Ice Cream: A colorful Okinawan-born brand, perfect for dessert

    Easy Access and Local Atmosphere

    Just a 4-minute walk from Akaike Station (on the Tsurumai and Meitetsu Toyota Lines), Prime Tree is easily reachable by train. If you’re driving, there’s plenty of parking, though traffic can get congested after noon—so it’s best to arrive earlier in the day. The surrounding area is a quiet residential neighborhood, offering a relaxed atmosphere for your shopping and dining experience.

    Conclusion

    Prime Tree Akaike is a convenient and well-rounded facility where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and movies all in one place. Whether you’re a tourist on a short stop or looking for an indoor activity on a rainy day, it’s a “just right” shopping mall that welcomes both locals and visitors from around the world.