2026 Iga Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in July)

Challenge the highest level of shame😂😂😂😂 We took the Ninja Train to the Ninja Village in Iga~ You can dress up as a ninja at the service desk, and then enter the Ninja Village to experience being a ninja for a day! The scenes inside are beautiful and can be photographed at will, and are very suitable for ninja costumes~ There are also guides explaining the ninja's props and ninjutsu. At the end, you can also experience shooting darts. Many children at the scene dress up as little ninjas, which is very cute~

Ueno Ninja Village 🥷 Hartley live-action version! The mechanism house is super cool. When introducing it, Mr. Ninja really just pulled and pushed it and it disappeared 😂 Keep your eyes focused! There is also a ninja show of shuriken shooting which is quite cool. The whole ninja village is not very big, with just a few main houses plus some museums and shops! But it's a good place to take photos. After watching the ninja show, you will want to move as flexibly as a ninja🤣 #Japan#Mie Prefecture#Ueno#Ise#Ninja#Shuriken#Organization#familytravel

#Accommodation #Iga #Ninja I stayed in Iga, the city of ninjas. I stayed in an old house called Shinobu-sha. It was a farmhouse with a field behind it, and I could see the idyllic scenery from the window. There was a fluffy futon spread out, and I was able to rest. When I folded up the futon in the morning, I noticed swords and shuriken, and had a fun photo shoot with my family. I would like to stay here again when I go to Iga.

Iga Ueno Castle was built by Todo Takatora, a master castle builder. The current castle tower retains the atmosphere of the Warring States period. Inside the three-story castle, weapons, armor, and other items related to the Todo family are on display. The ceiling on the top floor is decorated with 46 colored paper pieces by artists such as Yokoyama Taikan, and the view overlooking the entire castle town from there is exceptional. #Couple trip #Breathtaking views #Historical sites #Spring trip #Castle #Mie Prefecture

Mokumoku is an agricultural park that consistently produces, processes, and sells with the themes of nature, agriculture, and handicrafts! You can enjoy agricultural and natural experiences 🙆‍♀️💓 You can experience various things depending on the season, such as milking cows, interacting with and feeding animals, making sausages and bread, and more⭐️ Buffet restaurants, barbecue restaurants, etc. You can also stay overnight, and the food is delicious! It was a dome-shaped cottage! There was also a hot spring, which was relaxing ♨️ (There is a bath in the room, so it's safe for small children) Only for guests staying overnight, there was a feeding and milking experience in the morning, which was a very fun experience 😚 [Igari Mokumoku Handmade Farm] Address: 3609 Nishiyufune, Iga City, Mie Prefecture #Theme park #Hot spring #Ranch #Gourmet #Couple trip #Hot spring trip #Play at the theme park #Amazing nature #Accommodation experience #Trip with children

Iga Ueno Castle in Iga City, Mie Prefecture Iga City is also known as the birthplace of the ninja. The castle built there is a representative spot in Mie Prefecture, and has been designated as a Mie Prefecture cultural asset. Iga Ueno Castle was built by the master castle builder Todo Takatora. Its stone walls are the tallest or second tallest in Japan. The current castle tower was restored by Kawasaki Masaru in 1935, but the interior of the wooden building retains the atmosphere of the Warring States period. The ceiling on the top floor is decorated with 46 colored paper pieces by Yokoyama Taikan and others, and the view overlooking the entire castle town from there is exceptional! ! #breathtakingview #Japanesescenery #summertrip #summertrip#breathtakingview

My first visit to Spain was absolutely fantastic. I went with a friend as part of a group of six, guided by Edi and April. They handled every detail, allowing us to enjoy amazing meals, stunning hotels, and unforgettable experiences. We saw a dramatic Flamenco show, took a fun cooking class in a hotel courtyard (even though I don’t cook!), had a private tour of a historic olive grove, and explored each city—Madrid, Seville, Cordoba, and Granada—with knowledgeable and friendly local guides. Having a private van and driver (the adorable Pablo) was such a luxury. Staying in 4-star hotels in Seville and Priego de Cordoba felt like a real treat. I’m already excited to return and explore northern Spain!

At Iga Ueno Castle, we encountered real samurai and kunoichi! 🥷✨ We took commemorative photos with children dressed in ninja costumes, creating a wonderful memory. 1. Thrilling! Iga Ninja Special Forces Show The ninja demonstration show, held right next to Iga Ueno Castle, is a must-see! The action using real weapons is so impressive that even adults will be captivated. The children were glued to the training unfolding before their eyes. The show costs 600 yen per person. Also, the Ninja Museum is fun with all sorts of tricks and mechanisms! Note that there is a separate fee for this. 2. Even the Station Square Becomes a Training Ground!? Ninja events are also held in the station square, with plenty of attractions like shuriken throwing and ninja training! You can have plenty of fun with "station square training" even before heading to the castle, making it perfect for families with children. 3. A Real Shuriken Throwing Experience You can actually throw shuriken within the castle grounds. Hitting the target with a shuriken, which is surprisingly heavy, is quite difficult, but the feeling of satisfaction when you hit it will be a memory you'll cherish forever! The children also enjoyed trying again and again. This is held year-round, so you can easily go and try it. 💡 Sightseeing Points The castle is within walking distance from the station. We recommend walking around and looking for ninja traps throughout the town. A must-see for ninja lovers, so be sure to check it out! #IgaUenoCastle #NinjaDemonstrationShow #NinjaMuseum #ShurikenExperience #MieTourism #FamilyTravel #MustSeeSightseeing

I went to Ueno-shi Station on the Iga Railway, also known as Ninja-shi Station! From the moment I stepped off the train, a world of ninjas unfolded before me, and both adults and children were incredibly excited, so here's my report! 1. The station is a treasure trove of photo spots! Ninjas are hidden all over the station, and just finding them is fun! There are plenty of photo spots, so taking pictures in ninja costumes is fantastic. 2. The Ninja Train is incredibly cool! The "Ninja Train," designed by Leiji Matsumoto, is a must-see. Not only the exterior, but also the interior features ninjas on the ceiling and shuriken designs scattered throughout, showing attention to detail. Even the handrails are shaped like shuriken! Just riding the train is incredibly exciting! 💡 Sightseeing Tips • Access: You can walk from the station to the castle, so you can fully enjoy it even without a car. Ninja fans should definitely check it out! ❣️ #NinjaCityStation #UenoCityStation #IgaRailway #NinjaTrain #MieTourism #MustSeeSpot

My brother and I transformed into ninjas in Iga Ueno, the home of ninjas! This is a report on our experience at "Danjiri Kaikan," one of the many costume rental shops we highly recommend. 1. Right next to the castle! Convenient location for sightseeing Danjiri Kaikan is located right next to Iga Ueno Castle, so it's incredibly convenient to change into our costumes and then stroll around the castle and castle town. Perhaps because the Ninja Festa was also taking place, the town was overflowing with little ninjas, creating a fantastic festival atmosphere! 2. From adults to children! A wide variety of costumes This shop has a great selection of costumes not only for children but also for adults. While the classic black seems to be the most popular color, there are many other options (pink and light blue too!), so it's fun to have siblings or family members wear different colors! There's also a photo spot outside, so we were able to enjoy taking some great commemorative photos. ⚠️ Important Notes for Visitors · Payment is cash only: Cashless payment is still a bit premature for ninja training (?), so cash is required! · Avoid crowds: It gets quite crowded during long weekends and events, so completing registration early is the key to a smooth experience. This is an experience that kids will absolutely love, so please give it a try! #IgaUeno #NinjaExperience #DanjiriHall #TravelWithKids #IgaUenoCastle #FamilyTrip #HiddenGemPhotoSpot

Visiting Iga Ueno Castle in Mie Prefecture, I was not only amazed by Japan's highest stone walls—built by the legendary castle architect Todo Takatora—but also deeply moved by the true essence of "the beauty of selfless devotion." This elegant ancient fortress, affectionately known as "Hakuho Castle" (White Phoenix Castle), features a pure-wood main keep that is actually not an original ancient relic. Instead, it was rebuilt during the Showa era by a locally-born politician, Kawasaki Katsu. He poured his entire personal fortune into the project and rallied local residents to help fund the reconstruction. Seeking no personal gain, their only goal was to restore their hometown's historical treasure and preserve this magnificent cultural landmark for future generations. Strolling through this tranquil Top 100 Japanese Castle, watching the pristine white walls blend with seasonal cherry blossoms and autumn maples, this timeless, selfless devotion feels even more profoundly moving than the towering stone walls themselves. This place is more than just the hometown of ninjas; it is a fortress that embodies the goodwill and enduring spirit of those who came before us. Its serene and profound historical charm is truly worth savoring.

Take the Kintetsu Railway and get off at Iga-Kambe Station, then transfer to the Iga Railway and head to Uenoshi Station. Right as you step out of the station, you'll be greeted by a ton of ninja-themed stuff! Iga Ueno Castle is just about a 10-minute walk from the exit. There's also a shopping street right next to the station. Although not many shops are open, taking a stroll, spending the day here, and enjoying the local scenery is still a fantastic choice!

From late April to mid-May, Yuno Park in Iga City is ablaze with azaleas! This park naturally hosts about 15,000 azalea plants, one of the largest in the Kansai region, including major varieties such as Satsuki azalea, Rhododendron obtusum, and Kurume azalea. Located at the southernmost tip of Suzuka Quasi-National Park, Mt. Maemoku and Mt. Atomoku are covered with blooming azaleas, creating a magnificent sea of flowers. Strolling through the park, visitors can admire the different azalea varieties up close, experiencing their unique colors and shapes. The entire mountain is embraced by blossoms, as if stepping into a fairy tale, bringing peace and joy to the heart. Whether you are a photography enthusiast or a nature lover, you will find your own delight here. Yuno Park is well-equipped with facilities including parking lots and restrooms. It is about a 10-minute drive from JR Tsuge Station or about 10 minutes by car from the Meihan National Highway "Kami-Tsuge IC." Come to Yuno Park and immerse yourself in this brilliant sea of azaleas for a feast for both the eyes and the soul!

#springtravel Visiting Iga Ueno Castle in Mie Prefecture is an absolute blast for anyone who loves a good view and a bit of mystery. This spot is famous for having some of the highest stone walls in all of Japan, and looking down from the top is definitely a thrill. The castle itself has a striking white exterior that looks amazing against a clear blue sky. The interior is just as cool, featuring a unique wooden ceiling decorated with beautiful paintings. Since the area is the legendary home of the Iga ninja, the whole park has a fun and adventurous energy. You can wander through the surrounding grounds and enjoy the seasonal flowers or check out the nearby ninja museum. It is a great place for a casual day trip filled with local history and epic photo spots.

🥷 Iga-ryu Ninja Museum – The Ninja Village of Iga Ueno Iga Ueno, located in Mie Prefecture, is renowned as the birthplace of the Iga Ninja, one of Japan's most famous ninja clans alongside the Koga Ninja. Today, the main attraction here is the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum, situated within the grounds of Iga Ueno Castle in the historic town of Iga Ueno. History of the Iga Ninja The Iga region, historically a secluded mountainous area, gave rise to a group of warriors skilled in: · Espionage · Infiltration · Secret planning · Use of specialized weapons The Iga Ninja played a significant role during Japan's Sengoku period (Warring States era), often hired by daimyo for covert missions such as spying and intelligence gathering. Highlights of the Ninja Museum 🏠 Ninja House The museum's highlight is a traditional Japanese house equipped with numerous hidden mechanisms, including: · Secret sliding doors · Escape routes · Underground passages · Hidden weapon compartments Guides demonstrate how ninjas transformed ordinary houses into places for hiding or escaping. ⚔️ Ninja Weapon Exhibition Room This room showcases a variety of ninja weapons, such as: · Shuriken (throwing stars) · Ninja swords · Wall-climbing hooks · Camouflage tools · Espionage equipment Many of the items on display are authentic artifacts used in the past. Getting There From Nagoya: Take the Kintetsu train to Uenoshi Station. Walk approximately 10–15 minutes to reach the Ninja Museum. Alternatively, you can travel from Osaka, which takes about 1.5–2 hours.

Planning a trip to Iga City in February? Don’t miss 🗡️ Iga Ueno Castle and the Iga Ninja Museum! Ninja fans, this is your ultimate pilgrimage spot! 😎 ✨ Basic Information · Address: Marunouchi, Ueno, Iga, Mie 518-0873, Japan · Location: Ueno Park, Iga City · Opening Hours: Open year-round, 09:00-17:00 💸 Estimated Costs (per person) · Ueno Castle Admission Fee: 600 yen · Ninja Museum Entry Fee: 1000 yen · Ninja Performance Show: 600 yen (Limited showtimes, check the schedule in advance!) 🏞️ Attractions/Facilities Overview · Iga Ueno Castle: Immerse yourself in Japanese history · Ninja Museum: Features numerous secret ninja artifacts and explanatory plaques—authentic and fascinating! · Ninja Performance Show: Sit in the front-middle rows for a chance to interact with ninjas! Many foreign tourists attend, and some performances include English explanations—very thoughtful! 💡 Travel Tips Consider staying in Iga City for convenience. While you’re there, visit Iga Department Store to pick up ninja-themed souvenirs to take home! 🛍️ 😍 Why We Recommend It After exploring the museum, enjoy the interactive ninja performance—maximum engagement! The atmosphere is electrifying, with so many international visitors experiencing ninja culture together. It’s amazing! 🎭 This ninja experience is a must-visit. A February trip will be unforgettable!

We went to Iga Ueno Castle, where kids can try out ninja cosplay! There's a facility on-site where you can learn about things like what ninjas lived and what they ate. We also tried throwing shuriken, which was surprisingly difficult. The shuriken were also quite heavy. If you're a ninja fan, you can see both the castle and the experience. Iga Ueno Castle is a reconstructed castle, so it's not a traditional castle. #ninjaexperience #ninja #igaueno #igauenocastle #japan

Let’s talk about the ultimate ninja day trip: Iga! 🤺🌞 If you’re anywhere near Kyoto and in search of some hands-on fun (and secret tunnels), the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum is where it’s at. Easily the coolest thing in town, this spot lets you check out real ninja artifacts, watch demos, and even try stealth tricks yourself — ninja selfies included. Top Spot to Visit: Iga-ryu Ninja Museum Address: 117 Uenomarunouchi, Iga, Mie 518-0873, Japan Hours: 09:00–16:00 (Mon–Fri), 09:00–16:30 (Sat–Sun) Plan to arrive in the late morning for smaller crowds. The exhibition hall is packed with interactive displays and the live ninja show is a must! Snap photos in front of all the ninja gear — the indoor setups make it perfect even if the weather doesn’t cooperate. Personal tip: If you’re big on immersive experiences but picky about food and hotels, skip staying overnight in Iga. Dining and accommodation options here are honestly forgettable — save yourself the so-so meals and make Iga a day trip from Kyoto instead. Take a local train in the morning and you can be back in Kyoto for a way better dinner and sleep. Getting Around: Just hop a JR train to Iga-Ueno Station, then walk or taxi to the museum. Super easy. Food: Don’t bank on the local options. Bring snacks or plan to eat back in Kyoto where the restaurant scene’s next-level. Key Tips: No need for a ninja-like passport, but bring yen for souvenirs. Spring and autumn are best for mild weather. #IgaNinja #JapanDayTrip #KyotoTravel #NinjaMuseum

#NovemberDestinations2025 #IgaCity #Ninja #BashōOkiMemorialHall #IgaUenoCastle #UenoCastle 🏯 Iga Ueno Castle: Even before approaching, you can feel the "aesthetics of the Sengoku period warlords × the silence of the ninjas." Upon arriving in Iga Ueno, what struck me first wasn't the castle itself, but the "ninja atmosphere" emanating from the entire city. The streets are adorned with ninja paintings, life-size cardboard cutouts, symbols, coded messages, and even manhole covers feature ninja designs. This isn't just cutesy pretense— 📌 This is the true hometown of ninjas: the birthplace of the Iga-ryu ninjutsu. Further towards the castle, the height of the walls immediately caught my eye. The stone walls of Iga Ueno Castle are among the tallest in Japan, exceeding 30 meters in height. Just standing below and looking up, you can feel a sense of oppression—"Conquering this castle would be excruciatingly painful." ⸻ 🔥 Takatora Todo's Aesthetics: Not Building a Castle, But a "Masterpiece of the Sengoku Period" Iga Ueno Castle was originally built during the Tensho era, but most of what we see today was rebuilt by the renowned general Takatora Todo in the early Edo period. Takatora is widely recognized as a "castle-building genius" in Japanese history, having participated in the construction of over 20 castles. A classic description of him circulating online is: "Of all the famous castles in Japan, eight or nine out of ten were built by Takatora." When Takatora rebuilt Iga Ueno Castle: · Used extremely high stone walls, resulting in incredibly strong defenses. · Created winding passageways that followed the terrain. · Designed the castle tower to be both elegant and symbolically powerful. But fate played a cruel trick—the magnificent castle tower was canceled before completion due to political changes. What we see today is a wooden castle tower rebuilt in the Showa era based on historical records, but the Sengoku aesthetics are still clearly visible. ⸻ 🥷 Why did Iga become the home of ninjas? (History + Travel Experience) The Iga region was an "autonomous dominion" in ancient times, geographically isolated and crisscrossed by mountains and forests, not entirely under the control of daimyo. To protect themselves, farmers, samurai, and ronin gradually developed: · Intelligence warfare · Mountain warfare tactics · Disguise and stealth techniques · Use of gunpowder and tools · Infiltration and sabotage techniques This is the prototype of what later became known as the Iga-ryu ninja. They weren't anime characters "jumping around in black," but real intelligence agents from the Sengoku period. Therefore, the Iga region and the area around Ueno Castle have always been imbued with ninja culture. ⸻ 🏯✨ Stepping into Ueno Castle Keep: Every window seems to tell a story of Sengoku aesthetics Although the keep isn't an original building, it's full of atmosphere. The sound of footsteps on the wooden floorboards, the slightly aged scent of wood, the displayed weapons, armor, and swords—all instantly transport you back 400 years. Looking out from the top floor of the castle tower: · The entire castle town is visible. · Layered mountains in the distance. · A gentle breeze rustles through the cherry and pine trees. At that moment, I understood that Takatora designed this place not just as a military stronghold, but as a stage "where the master could see the world." ⸻ 🥷🏛 Iga-ryu Ninja Museum: This is the true life of a ninja (right next to the castle). A visit to Ueno Castle is incomplete without seeing the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum next door, which has received rave reviews online. Inside it includes: ✔ Ninja Houses (with hidden doors and underground passages) You can see for yourself: · Hidden compartments in the floor · Disguised mechanisms · Quick escape tunnels · Hidden weapon storage spaces This isn't just an anime; it's real architectural ingenuity. ✔ Authentic ninja weapons on display Shuriken, kusarigama, gunpowder tools, grappling hooks… each one is a product of the intelligence warfare of the Sengoku period. ✔ Ninja Performance Show Ninjas will actually perform shurikenjutsu, swordsmanship, and wall-running techniques live, including actual combat moves. The atmosphere is incredibly high-energy. ⸻ 🚶♂️🌸 Castle Town Stroll: A Gentle Journey from the Shadow of the Warring States Period to Modern Times Outside the castle lies a tranquil town, preserving its old-world charm. Available items include: · Ninja-themed desserts · Black ninja soft serve ice cream · Ninja pancakes · Shuriken-shaped charms · Handmade weapon shops · Old-fashioned street cafes It's easy to lose track of time while strolling around. The cherry blossoms in spring and the maple leaves in autumn reflecting off the white castle tower are breathtakingly beautiful. ⸻ 🌅 Conclusion: Iga Ueno Castle is not just an ordinary castle; it's an intersection of "Warring States Survival Wisdom × Ninja Culture × Military Aesthetics." Other castles offer grandeur, history, and stories of warlords. But Ueno Castle in Iga offers a breathtaking experience: the simultaneous convergence of three forces: 1. The shadow and wisdom of ninjas 2. The castle-building art of Takatora Todo 3. The overwhelming presence of Japan's highest-grade stone walls A visit here is not just about touring a castle, but stepping into a living history of the Sengoku period. #MiePrefecture

The Iga Railway, operating in Iga City, Mie Prefecture, has a history of over 100 years and is an indispensable mode of transportation for local residents and travelers from all over the world. The most famous attraction here is the Ninja Train, a unique and memorable train. Additionally, keep an eye out for other special trains in operation, such as the Hukunin Train.

Iga Ueno Castle is located in Iga City, Mie Prefecture, and was built over 400 years ago as the residence of the local feudal lord. The current Iga Ueno Castle was reconstructed using original materials. You can climb the west wall of Iga Ueno Castle to enjoy a serene and tranquil view of the castle surrounded by lush greenery. Nearby, there is also the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum.

#falladventures What is this place? The Ota Weir (Ota-seki) is a historic stone flood control structure and irrigation dam on the Daidō River in Iga, Mie Prefecture. Built in the Edo period (1684), its most unique feature is the Yaguramon—a pyramidal, stepped stone tower that looks like a submerged castle keep. This "Underwater Castle" functioned as a water gauge and a spiritual guardian for the weir, a masterpiece of Edo-era civil engineering. Why This Place for a Solo Traveler? This is a destination for the solo traveler who loves hidden history and industrial archaeology. There are no crowds, just the sound of flowing water. You can take your time examining the ingenious stonework, contemplating the sheer effort of its construction, and photographing the mysterious Yaguramon from different angles. It’s a place to appreciate a quiet, practical beauty that has served its community for over 300 years. Your Solo Itinerary: · The Approach: Walk from Mogi Station along the river, enjoying the rural scenery. · Study the Structure: Examine the weir's curved stone face and the unique Yaguramon tower rising from the water. · Reflect by the River: Find a spot on the bank to sit and appreciate this unsung feat of engineering that blends function with a almost mythical form. Essential Tips: · Check water levels. The Yaguramon is most photogenic when the water level is moderate, not too high or low. · Wear sturdy shoes. The paths near the river can be uneven. · Combine with Iga Ueno. Pair your visit with a trip to the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum to explore another unique aspect of the region's history. #SoloIndustrialHistory

We stayed at the "Eins Iga" guesthouse! You can watch TV in the living room or play games on the many screens. The room is a dormitory, but it's properly separated by curtains. There are coin-operated showers, but the host recommended Ichinoyu nearby, so we went there. It's about a 5-minute walk, I think? You can pay with PayPay! The atmosphere seems nice, but there were a lot of tattooed guests, so my husband came home early... 🤭 The hostess at the guesthouse was very kind and comfortable. They also had pianos and other instruments. We had a great time playing The Game of Life and Go in the evening! 📍Location: Iga City, Mie Prefecture #IgaCity

Mokumoku Handmade Farm in Iga Mokumoku Handmade Farm is a company based in Mie Prefecture that handles everything from primary industries like agriculture and dairy farming to secondary industries like bread and ham making, and even tertiary industries like its own restaurant and retail store. I recently visited Mokumoku Handmade Farm. In addition to the Mokumoku Handmade Farm restaurant and shop, this factory farm offers hands-on sausage and bread making experiences and vegetable harvesting. The products offered at the farm are not only safe but also delicious, and it's no wonder that the bread, sausage, and craft beer have won awards in their respective competitions. This facility encourages not only producers but also consumers to learn and reflect, offering a variety of experiences to learn about sustainable agriculture and food safety, from adults to children, at various levels. With accommodation and a hot spring available, this innovative facility, unlike traditional factory farms, offers not only learning opportunities but also various ways to enjoy the producers, consumers, and delicious products. Address: 3609 Nishiyufune, Iga City, Mie Prefecture, 518-1392 Recommended Point: Next-generation factory farm Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars) #Mie #Experience #Handmade #Iga

I went to Kanaya, a famous sukiyaki restaurant in Iga City. I made a reservation in advance, but they were fully booked by 6 PM, so I'd prefer to come at 5 PM. Reservations seem essential. At 8,470 yen per portion, it's pricey, but I think it's worth it. The meat is from Iga. The rice is from Iga, too. The onions are apparently from Awaji. The staff prepares the carefully selected ingredients right in front of you. When the meat is sprinkled with sugar, it's truly a work of art. It's within walking distance from Uenoshi Station. There's ample parking, so it might be worth going just for that. #IgaUeno #Sukiyaki #Kanaya #TabelogTop100Restaurants

Iga Ueno Castle, located in Iga City, Mie Prefecture, was originally built in 1585 by the Sengoku period warlord Tsutsui Sadatsugu. It was later extensively expanded by Todo Takatora. The castle is most famous for its high stone walls, which are among the tallest in Japan (approximately 30 meters), offering both defensive functionality and aesthetic appeal. The current wooden castle tower was reconstructed in 1935, funded by local educator Kawasaki Katsu. To visit, take the Kintetsu train to "Iga-Kambe Station," transfer to the "Iga Railway," and get off at "Ueno-shi Station." From there, it's about a 5–10 minute walk to the castle site. I visited early in the morning, and there were hardly any foreign tourists. The stone walls were truly impressive. If you're planning to visit both Osaka and Nagoya, consider stopping by here for an hour or two. 🕰️ Opening Hours: Castle Tower: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:45 PM) 💰 Admission Fee: Adults: ¥600

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip Shirafuji Falls in Iga City, Mie Prefecture is a beautiful waterfall with a drop of about 15m located upstream of the Takigawa River. In spring, wisteria flowers and autumn leaves color the waterfall, making it a healing spot that shows the different expressions of the seasons🍂 It is a mysterious place where history and nature blend together, where the legend remains that the brave warrior Sadatsugu once defeated a giant lizard✨ I visited during the autumn foliage season. The red and yellow leaves that fall into the waterfall basin are reflected on the water surface, and I was moved by the scenery that looks like a painting. The tranquility that is not too touristy is also attractive, and it is perfect for a "solo trip" to calm your mind🌿 🚃【Access】 ・Address: Yamahata, Iga City, Mie Prefecture ・Car: About 15 to 20 minutes from Meihan National Highway "Iga IC" "Kamitsuge IC" etc. ・Parking: Available (free)🅿️ ・Toilets and gazebo available. There are stone steps up to the waterfall, so wear comfortable shoes👟 🧭【Travel Tips】 ・The best time to see the autumn leaves is mid- to late November🍁 ・There is a bridge that takes you all the way to the waterfall basin! On days with lots of water, it's very impressive💦 ・There are few people in the morning, so you can quietly enjoy the sound of the waterfall🎧 ・It's also a good idea to visit the nearby "Reizan" and "Iga no Kuni Oyamada Onsen" as a set◎♨️ ・Watch your step after the rain! It's slippery, so be careful⚠️ Shirafuji Falls #Iga City #Autumn leaves spot #Legendary waterfall #Healing nature Domestic travel #Couple travel #Solo travel #Absolutely free travel

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip Aoyama Plateau, which straddles Iga City and Tsu City in Mie Prefecture, is a plateau area at an altitude of about 800m and is a spectacular spot located in the center of Muro Akame Aoyama Quasi-National Park 🌄 You can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons, such as azaleas in spring, green grasslands in summer, Japanese silver grass in autumn, and frost-covered trees in winter 🍃❄️🌸🍂 The huge windmills lined up near the summit are particularly impressive, and you can travel to feel the sky along with the sound of the wind. The day I visited was a clear day, and I was moved by the blue sky, windmills, and the view that stretches all the way to Ise Bay in the distance ✨ It's perfect for driving, hiking, and picnics. You can't miss this place if you're looking for a "free trip to feel the sky and wind"! 🚃【Access】 ・Car: From National Route 165 "Aoyama Kogen Entrance" to the Aoyama Kogen Park Line → Approximately 20 minutes to the summit ・Train: From Kintetsu "Nishi Aoyama Station" or "Higashi Aoyama Station" take the hiking trail (approximately 2 hours walk) ・Parking: There is a free parking lot near the summit 🅿️ *The road is narrow in some places. Drive slowly and safely! 🧭【Travel Tips】 ・The best place to take photos of the windmills is around the Hisai Sakakibara Wind Power Plant📷 ・It's a good idea to visit the surrounding natural spots such as Nunobiki Falls and Okuyama Atago Shrine as well◎ ・Hiking trails are well maintained, but hiking boots are recommended👟 ・The plateau is cool in summer, so it's also recommended as a summer getaway🌬️ ・Enjoy hot springs and lunch at Menard Aoyama Resort♨️🍴 Aoyama Plateau #Amazing view of the windmills #Plateau drive #Ise Bay view #Muro Akame Aoyama Quasi-National Park Domestic travel #Couple travel #Solo travel #Absolutely free travel