Great Access from Hiroshima! Discover Edo Period Elegance in Takehara for Your Summer Getaway

Takehara is renowned as Hiroshima’s “Little Kyoto,” a town that retains its traditional streets and a tranquil ambiance. Accessible within around 1 hour from Hiroshima, it’s an ideal destination for a quick retreat. When visiting the town, you should explore the following noteworthy attractions: stunning scenic spots, sweets crafted using local salt and sake, and traditional crafts. Seize this opportunity to wander through the captivating streets of Takehara.

Relax at Saryo-Ichie, A Nostalgic Japanese-Style Cafe Retreat

Saryo-Ichie is a charming Japanese-style cafe in the heart of Takehara’s Machinami Preservation District, utilizing a historic folk house over a century old. Formerly known as Isobe-Tei House, it became a confectionery haven and cafe in 2019. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee, matcha, and sweets while a serene inner garden adds to the ambiance. If your schedule permits, consider immersing yourself in the past by engaging with the owner, who can share tales of Isobe-Tei House and the cafe’s origins within this evocative space that resonates with history. Delight in their assortment of sweets infused with locally produced salt, including Karinto, salted candy, and salted Arare. Moreover, you can relish dishes infused with Takehara’s sake. It’s a perfect spot to unwind between strolls.

Hours	11:00AM-5:00PM (Open only on weekends and holidays)
Address	3-10-34 Hommachi, Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Access	Take Kaguyahime Highway Bus from Hiroshima Station to Takehara Chuo Station Stop for about 1 hour, then walk 7 minutes from the stop.
URL	https://saryo-ichie.net/

Enchanting Views of Takehara at Saihoji Temple & Fumeikaku: The Symbolic Vermilion Halls!

Saihoji Temple & Fumeikaku is the Kannon-do Hall that offers a panoramic view of Takehara town, representing Takehara’s essence. This temple, perched on a hill, has been a cherished must-see for visitors to Takehara, boasting a history of admiration. Since the pathway incorporates numerous stairs and slopes, we recommend wearing comfortable footwear like sneakers. Originally, Fumeikaku was constructed as a hall to house a wooden statue of the Eleven-faced Kannon, an important cultural asset of the prefecture. Its distinctive vermilion pillars stand out, serving as the heart of Takehara’s landscape. The view from the stage, inspired by Kyoto’s Kiyomizu Temple, presents a splendid townscape echoing the nostalgic ambiance of the Edo era. Allow yourself to relish the breathtaking view and feel like you’ve journeyed through time.

Hours	8:00AM-6:00PM
Address	3-10-44 Hommachi, Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Access	Take Kaguyahime Highway Bus from Hiroshima Station to Takehara Chuo Station Stop for about 1 hour, then walk 8 minutes from the stop.

Explore Traditional Crafts at Takehara Machinami Bamboo Workshop – Create Memorable Souvenirs!

Takehara Machinami Bamboo Workshop is in the historic Machinami Preservation District. This workshop, housed in an old warehouse, creates and sells bamboo handicrafts. Bamboo crafting experiences require no reservation, allowing beginners to enjoy the process with the thoughtful guidance of skilled artisans. These sessions last 45 minutes to an hour, with the pinwheel-making workshop being popular. Imagine strolling through Takehara’s streets while proudly carrying your handcrafted pinwheel — a perfect travel memory and souvenir. A wall of heart-shaped pinwheels behind the workshop is a popular photo spot. Capture delightful snapshots and enjoy!

Hours	9:30AM – 4:00PM, Irregular holidays (Visitors must arrive by 2:30 PM for the bamboo craft experience; reservations are required by the day before for groups of five or more.)
Address	3-12-14 Hommachi, Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Access	Take Kaguyahime Highway Bus from Hiroshima Station to Shingai Stop for about 1 hour, then walk 7 minutes from the stop.
URL	https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057387371966&locale=ja_JP