Izushi, Hyogo Prefecture: A Hidden Gem of Samurai History, Soba, and Kabuki

If you are looking for a destination that blends history, traditional cuisine, and authentic cultural experiences then Izushi is the place for you to explore. It is located in Hyogo Prefecture, next to Toyooka and Kinosaki Onsen. Izushi is one of Japan’s best-kept secrets. Often called the “Little Kyoto of Tajima,” this charming town offers a rare glimpse into Edo-period Japan.

Perfect for travellers interested in samurai history, Japanese castles, regional soba noodles, and kabuki theatre, Izushi is an ideal day trip or overnight getaway from Kyoto, Osaka, or Himeji.

✦ Explore Samurai-Era Japan

Izushi thrived as a samurai castle town in the Edo period. Today, it retains much of its historical charm with preserved samurai residences, traditional white-plastered walls, and stone-paved streets. 

Don’t miss the annual Izushi Castle Festival in November, where locals parade through town in full samurai Armor and kimono.

✦ Visit Reconstructed Izushi Castle

Izushi Castle was originally built in 1604 by the Koide clan. While the original structure is mostly gone, parts of the castle — including gates and watchtowers — have been beautifully reconstructed. Climb the stone steps for a sweeping view of the town, especially stunning during cherry blossom season.

Nearby, you’ll find the Shinkoro Clock Tower, a symbol of Izushi and one of Japan’s oldest Western-style clock towers — perfect for photos.

✦ Taste Izushi Soba

Izushi is famous for its Izushi soba, a unique style of buckwheat noodles served in multiple small plates (usually five per person). Locals recommend eating it with grated yam, wasabi, raw egg, and green onions — a ritual as much as a meal.

There are over 40 soba restaurants in the area, many housed in old merchant buildings.

✦ Taste Izushi Sake

Izushi Shuzo is a local Sake Brewery which was founded in 1708. Stop to explore the brewery and have a sake tasting.

✦ Experience Traditional Kabuki at Eirakukan Theatre

Built in 1901, Eirakukan is one of the oldest kabuki theatres in Kansai and a rare chance to experience this iconic Japanese performance art in an authentic rural setting. Even if there’s no live show during your visit, you can tour the theatre, see the stage mechanisms, and imagine the drama of kabuki unfolding before your eyes.

How to Get to Izushi

From Kyoto or Osaka:

Take the JR Limited Express “Kounotori” to Toyooka Station (about 2.5–3 hours).

From Toyooka, take the Zentan Bus to Izushi (approx. 30 minutes).

 

If you are looking for a private guided tour to learn about Izushi please send us request here Contact - H.I.S Travel UK

Izushi offers different activities like making traditional Japanese sweets, willow craft.