8 Must-Visit Historical Tourist Spots in Kiryu

Have you ever come across the name Kiryu? Kiryu, located in the eastern part of Gunma Prefecture, is famous as the production area of Kiryu textiles. Its origins are said to date back about 1,300 years, boasting a long history.

In Kiryu, which holds such a wonderful culture, there are many historical spots to explore. Touring Kiryu in its calm atmosphere will surely soothe your soul. This time, we’ll introduce eight must-visit, charming spots in Kiryu for your sightseeing.

1. Houtokuji Temple

Houtokuji is a Zen temple with over 550 years of history, founded during the Muromachi period. Its main hall is built in the Zen sect’s “Hojo-style,” which was commonly constructed during the Muromachi period, especially within the Rinzai sect. Currently, this style can only be found in a few temples in the Kanto region, making Houtokuji a must-see when visiting Kiryu.

One of the highlights of this historic temple is its rich natural surroundings. In May, the Peony Festival is held, and in November, the Autumn Leaves Festival attracts many visitors eager to witness the stunning beauty. Visiting Kiryu during these periods can be particularly rewarding. The temple also offers a Zen meditation experience, which makes it feel approachable and relatable.
A popular attraction at Houtokuji is its illustrated goshuin (temple stamps). Some are available only for a limited time, and they’re incredibly cute! If you can get a limited edition during your visit, it would make for an extra special memory.

2. Natural Dyeing Research Institute

The Natural Dyeing Research Institute (Someiro) is a recommended spot for creating lasting memories during your visit to Kiryu. With a long tradition of textile production, Kiryu remains a hub for many crafts. This institute offers workshops led by knowledgeable instructors, covering everything from natural dyes to chemical dyes.

A highlight of visiting is that you can participate in plant dyeing or hand-weaving workshops by making a reservation. Deciding what colors to use, boiling the dye, and completing each step is an enjoyable experience. The items you create also make wonderful souvenirs from your trip.

3. Hikobe House

If you want to feel close to history in Kiryu, this is the place to go. The "Hikobe House" is a traditional Japanese house that is over 400 years old. This house, designated as a National Important Cultural Property, belonged to an old family that settled in this area in 1561. Amazingly, descendants of the family still live here today. It’s fascinating to see a place that is not only historically significant but also currently in use as a residence.

Walking through the thatched-roofed nagaya gate feels like stepping into a different time, where the pace of life seems slower. Inside, you can see treasures like the fused tree, designated as a natural monument, and a letter sent by Yukichi Fukuzawa. If you time your visit right, you might even get a guided tour.

Positioned along the same line as Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, it’s also considered a power spot. The beauty of the house is worth seeing in any season, making it a must-visit attraction when you come to Kiryu.

4. Yotsuji no Saika

Why not enjoy local cuisine in a special spot in Kiryu? "Yotsuji no Saika" is the former residence of Saito Kappei, a prominent figure in the Kiryu textile industry. The storehouse was constructed in 1878, and the main house dates back to the Taisho period, giving visitors a true sense of history.

While the architecture itself is worth seeing as a tourist attraction, the highlight here is the weekend-only dining experience. You can enjoy Gunma Prefecture’s famous local dish, "Okkirikomi Udon," in this historic setting. This dish features wide noodles with plenty of vegetables, served hot and chewy in a large pot. It also comes with inari sushi for a hearty, satisfying meal. The atmosphere of the old house will warm both your heart and your stomach.

Name: Yotsuji no Saika
Address: 2-1-45 Higashihisakata-cho, Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture
Official/Related Website URL: http://saisei.kiryu.jp/yoyaku.html

5. Bakery Cafe Renga

With its striking red brick walls and sawtooth roof, "Bakery Cafe Renga" stands out. The first thing to note is the building’s history. This cafe repurposes a weaving factory from the Taisho era and is the only remaining sawtooth-roofed brick factory in Kiryu. The structure, designed with skylights essential for factory operations, allows natural light to stream in. Starting your morning bathed in this light sounds delightful—this could be the perfect starting point for your Kiryu sightseeing adventure.

Inside this historical building, you can enjoy a variety of breads. The spacious and stylish interior, featuring sofa seating, offers a cozy and relaxing experience. With so many types of bread to choose from, you’re sure to find your favorite.

A delightful bonus is that you can receive a free bag of sugar-dusted fried bread crusts. They make for a handy snack to take along while sightseeing. Located across from the previously mentioned "Yotsuji no Saika," you can double your sightseeing fun by visiting both spots.

6. Mizunuma Station Onsen Center

"Hot springs right on the train platform?!" Such a rare station can be found in Kiryu. The Mizunuma Station is on a line where a trolley train operates on specific days. You can enjoy a train journey and a hot spring bath, which is an exciting combination.

The bathhouse features large windows, offering views of the opposite bank of the Watarase River and lush greenery while you soak. There’s even a signal light in the indoor bath that changes color when a train's departure is near—a unique and fun touch only possible at a station-based hot spring. It’s the perfect place to hop off during your Kiryu sightseeing and take a relaxing break.

7. Kiryu Meiji-kan

"Kiryu Meiji-kan" is a white Western-style building constructed in 1878 as the Gunma Prefectural Hygiene Office. It is also designated as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government, making it a place where you can truly feel history. This early Meiji-era Western-style architecture was even used as a village office at one time.

Inside, you can see meeting rooms, terraces, and exhibits such as a piano from the Meiji period. Those who love Western-style buildings will particularly enjoy this spot. Plus, the fact that you can take photos is a delightful feature. It’s the perfect opportunity to capture memories if you’re visiting as a tourist.

On the first floor, the café offers coffee and cakes along with the retro sound of a phonograph. Surrounded by antiques, you can spend time that feels completely removed from daily life. Experiencing the Meiji-era atmosphere in Kiryu is a wonderful idea.

8. Okawa Museum of Art

Located in Kiryu City, the "Okawa Museum of Art" is a must-visit spot for art enthusiasts. The collection focuses primarily on modern Japanese Western-style paintings, gathered over 40 years by Eiji Okawa, a native of Kiryu City.

The museum features numerous small exhibition rooms, creating an enjoyable maze-like experience as you explore. Each room is equipped with sofas, giving the impression of viewing art in your own home. It’s a chance to indulge in a sophisticated mood during your sightseeing journey.

On the second floor, the tea room offers drinks and light meals. Even if you’re not visiting the museum, you can stop by just for the tea room, making it a convenient place to rest during your travels.

◎Summary

In this guide, we introduced eight recommended sightseeing spots in Kiryu. From historical buildings to rich nature and scenery, Kiryu is packed with many attractions.

Exploring various spots seems fun, but focusing your sightseeing on something like building tours, visiting temples and shrines, or taking a train tour according to your preferences also sounds enjoyable. Since Kiryu is rich in nature, the scenery changes significantly depending on the season, which is another charm of the area. Be sure to enjoy your own unique sightseeing experience in Kiryu.

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8 Must-Visit Historical Tourist Spots in Kiryu