Kuwana City: A Tourist Destination Just 30 Minutes from Nagoya! Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions

Located in the northern part of Mie Prefecture, Kuwana City is often seen as the gateway from Nagoya due to its proximity—just across the Kiso River from Aichi Prefecture. However, many travelers may have simply passed through on their way to the famous Ise Grand Shrine, without realizing the city's own unique charm.

In reality, Kuwana is one of Mie Prefecture’s top tourist destinations, offering historical landmarks, diverse leisure attractions, and delicious local cuisine. Once a flourishing post town along the Tokaido route, Kuwana has now developed into a thriving commuter town for Nagoya, welcoming visitors year-round.

This fall, why not explore the hidden gems of Kuwana City? Whether you’ve been bypassing it on your way to Nagoya or Ise-Shima or have never set foot in Mie Prefecture before, now is the perfect time to plan a visit. Discover the charm of Kuwana and make it your next weekend getaway!

1. Tadotaisha Shrine

Ise Jingu, affectionately known as "O-Ise-san," is one of Japan’s most famous shrines. In Kuwana City, you’ll find another sacred site closely tied to Ise Jingu—Tadotaisha Shrine. This shrine enshrines the third child of Amaterasu Omikami, the main deity of Ise Jingu.

Also referred to as the "Northern Ise Grand Shrine," Tadotaisha has been revered since ancient times. There is even a saying: "If you visit Ise, you must also visit Tado. If you don’t, your pilgrimage is incomplete." Nestled in lush nature, the shrine’s tranquil and solemn atmosphere warmly embraces its visitors.

Beyond religious purposes, Tadotaisha Shrine is also a recommended place for relaxation. Every autumn, it hosts the famous Yabusame Festival, attracting many visitors. Nearby, Mount Tado features a scenic park offering a panoramic view of Ise Bay. The park is accessible via a 3.5 km hiking trail, making it a great spot to visit after your shrine pilgrimage.

2. Nagashima Resort

Nagashima Resort, located in Nagashima Onsen, is home to some of Japan’s top-tier leisure facilities. This includes Nagashima Spa Land, one of Japan’s largest amusement parks, featuring Guinness World Record-certified attractions and a massive water park open in summer.

Another must-visit within the resort is Nabana no Sato, a vast garden showcasing seasonal natural beauty and one of the world’s most spectacular illuminations, attracting visitors from across Japan. The resort also boasts Jazz Dream Nagashima, one of Japan’s largest outlet malls, and the Nagoya Anpanman Children’s Museum & Park, a favorite among families.

One of the top highlights of Nagashima Resort is its hot spring experience. The vast "Yuami no Shima" hot spring facility is among the largest in Japan, offering both overnight stays and day-use options with excellent services. Whether for relaxation, shopping, or entertainment, Nagashima Resort provides an all-in-one experience for visitors of all ages. Convenient direct buses from Nagoya make access easy, and year-round events keep guests coming back.

3. Shichiri no Watashi

The Shichiri no Watashi was the key gateway for pilgrims traveling to Ise Grand Shrine. It got its name because the boat journey from Atsuta’s Miya-no-Watashi in Nagoya to Kuwana’s ferry crossing covered a distance of seven ri (around 27.5 km). As the 42nd post town on the Tokaido route, it flourished as an important hub for travelers heading eastward into Ise Province. At this historic site, you’ll find the "Ise Province First Torii Gate," marking the entrance to this sacred journey.

Some may remember the recent media coverage of the Shikinen Sengu—Ise Grand Shrine's once-in-20-years rebuilding tradition. What many don’t know is that not only the shrine itself but also this torii gate was rebuilt during that time, reinforcing its significance in the pilgrimage. Around the area, historic landmarks such as Joya-to (night lanterns), Toki no Kane (Time Bell), pine tree-lined streets, and traditional townhouses preserve the atmosphere of the past. A stroll along the calm Kiso River, with its refreshing breeze, is a wonderful way to take in the history and natural beauty of the place.

4. Tado Green Farm

A hidden gem in Kuwana, Tado Green Farm offers a hands-on experience of harvesting seasonal fruits and vegetables. One of the must-try activities here is strawberry picking! (Reservations are required, and the farm operates only in-season, so be sure to check in advance.) Since the strawberries are grown in greenhouses, visitors can enjoy the experience regardless of the weather.

The farm also features a covered barbecue area with a spacious lawn where kids can play freely. Visitors can choose from convenient options like the Omakase Tebura Course (everything is prepared for you) or the Girls' Party Course, both popular among guests. A café and a direct sales shop are also on-site, making it a great stop for travelers looking for a short but enjoyable break. Don’t forget to try their famous souvenir—the Ichigo Roll, made from freshly picked strawberries grown on the farm!

5. Rokkaen

Designed by British architect Josiah Conder—renowned for creating the iconic Rokumeikan—Rokkaen is a historically significant structure that has been designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Completed in 1913 (Taisho 2), it has retained its original form, making it a rare architectural gem that represents the Taisho era. One of its most striking features is the harmonious blend of Western and Japanese architectural styles, evident in the Western-style mansion, Japanese-style residence, storehouses, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Its breathtaking beauty, reminiscent of a scene from a classic film, must have left a lasting impression on the Japanese people of that era.

The seamless integration of Japanese and Western design reflects Josiah Conder’s deep admiration for both Japan and his home country, the United Kingdom. Following renovation work in the summer of 2014 (Heisei 26), Rokkaen has been restored to an even more stunning state. Visitors can also enjoy a delightful meal at a nearby restaurant while taking in the scenic views of this magnificent historical estate.

6. Kyuka Park & Chinkoku Shukoku Shrine

Spanning approximately 7.2 hectares, Kyuka Park (Kyuka Kōen) was built on the former Honmaru and Ninomaru ruins of Kuwana Castle. The park’s name, "Kyuka," is derived from "Kuwana," an ancient term historically used to refer to the city.

One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Kuwana Suigo Boat Tour, a leisurely cruise through the moat, which covers 60% of the park’s area. This event is especially popular in spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Every April, the Sakura Festival is held, followed by the Azalea Festival in May, along with various seasonal events that make Kyuka Park a beloved gathering place for the community.

7. Ando Food Sample Workshop

Even for us Japanese, the quality of modern food samples is truly astonishing! Japan's craftsmanship in creating hyper-realistic food replicas is world-renowned, making them the number one souvenir choice among foreign tourists. I once mistook a sample for real food and tried to touch it—but that’s a story for another time! At Ando Food Sample Workshop in Kuwana City, you can experience the unique opportunity of making your own food replica. It's not every day you get to create a lifelike food sample with your own hands!

You can make realistic parfaits, donuts, and even Nagoya’s famous Tonkatsu Steak (Tonteki)—perfect for sharing on social media. If you're traveling with foreign friends or children, this hands-on activity is sure to delight them. Be sure to check out their official blog, "Taberaremasen" (Not Edible), where they regularly update information on workshops and events. Don't miss out!

8. Tadokyo Gorge

Tadokyo Gorge is a breathtaking natural retreat that transforms with the seasons. In spring, lush greenery surrounds the area, while in summer, it becomes a crystal-clear natural swimming pool. Unlike artificial pools, the water here stays pure and fresh thanks to the natural flow of the river—no chlorine or chemicals needed! It’s a favorite summer spot for local children, offering a refreshing experience unlike any other pool or beach.

During the open season, various seasonal events take place, adding to its charm. In autumn, the gorge is adorned with vivid fall foliage, while in June, visitors can witness the mesmerizing fireflies that light up the night. Don’t forget to visit Misogi Falls, a sacred purification waterfall standing at an impressive 25 meters high, which is also a purification site for Tado Shrine.

9. Waju no Sato

Kuwana, located at the confluence of the Kiso, Nagara, and Ibi Rivers, has a history of frequent flooding. Because of this, the local people have developed ingenious ways to coexist with water. One of Kuwana’s most distinctive cultural features is the "Waju" system—an essential method of flood prevention and water management. Even for us, living in a country surrounded by the sea, there are valuable lessons to be learned from Kuwana’s water-conscious way of life.

At Waju no Sato, visitors can explore Kuwana’s history, culture, and industries, and learn how the city has successfully adapted to life alongside water while protecting its communities from floods. The facility also offers hands-on activities that both children and adults can enjoy, such as seasonal vegetable harvesting in the farm and the Nori-making experience using seaweed harvested from the Kiso-Sanshō estuary.

For those looking for an educational summer project, Waju no Sato is a great place to visit. A particularly unique experience is the Waju Miso-Making Workshop, where participants can create their very own barrel of miso using locally grown rice and soybeans.

10. Hamaguri Plaza

Opened in 2010, Hamaguri Plaza is a must-visit destination in Kuwana, offering breathtaking views of the Ibi and Nagara River estuary from its observation deck. The facility also houses an exhibition room showcasing Kuwana’s rich fishing industry, making it an educational stop for visitors interested in the city’s maritime heritage. Serving as both a public hall and a local gathering place, Hamaguri Plaza is an integral part of the community.

One of the biggest highlights of Hamaguri Plaza is its in-house restaurant "Hamakaze," which serves fresh seafood sourced directly from Kuwana’s port. Tourists love the grilled Kuwana clams, served hot and plump right off the grill. The "Grilled Hamaguri Set Meal" is a top seller, so reservations are highly recommended.

Other seasonal specialties include the Shirauo (Icefish) Rice Bowl, available only in early spring, and a special version of Ise Udon topped with flavorful clams. These luxurious yet reasonably priced dishes make Hamaguri Plaza a fantastic place to enjoy local seafood.

◎ Summary

While Mie Prefecture is often associated with the famous Ise Jingu Shrine, the city of Kuwana also offers a wealth of exciting attractions! As a representative city of northern Ise, Kuwana is packed with nature, gourmet food, fun activities, and historical sites—so much so that one day isn’t enough to explore it all!

However, with just a 30-minute train ride or a 40-minute drive from Nagoya, you might find it surprisingly easy to visit! Offering a variety of attractions that cater to both adults and children, Kuwana is the perfect destination for a family trip this autumn. Why not plan a visit to Kuwana and experience its hidden charm?

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Kuwana City: A Tourist Destination Just 30 Minutes from Nagoya! Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions