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Isesaki: A Hidden Gem in Japan’s Tochigi Prefecture
Japan has always been known for its natural beauty, rich history, and modern technology. However, when it comes to exploring the country, most travelers tend to stick to the popular cities like Tokyo or Kyoto. But what about the lesser-known cities that have just as much to offer? Allow me to introduce you to Isesaki, a small city located in the southern part of Tochigi Prefecture.
Scenery
Isesaki’s natural beauty is something that catches the eye of every nature lover out there. The city is surrounded by stunning mountains, such as Mount Takayama, and it provides a breathtaking view to the visitors. One should not miss out on the city’s famous Watarase River, as it offers a picturesque view while walking or biking down the riverbank.
What I Like and Dislike
What I like the most about Isesaki is the fact that it’s not as crowded as Tokyo or Kyoto, and you can explore the city without worrying about big crowds. The people are friendly and welcoming, and it’s a great place to learn about Japanese culture and traditions. However, what I dislike about Isesaki is the lack of English speakers around the city, as it can be challenging to communicate with locals here.
Cost of Living
The average cost of living in Isesaki is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Japan. One can expect to spend around $80-$110 per day on food, transportation, and accommodation.
Top 20 Points of Interest in Isesaki
1. Watarase River (4-4 Chome Ousao)
2. Takatsudo Castle Ruins (2 Chome-5 Koganei)
3. Isesaki City Museum (1 Chome-2-2 Owaricho)
4. Suga Shrine (1 Chome Suga)
5. Isesaki Joshi Park (3 Chome Suga)
6. Isesaki Jinja Shrine (1 Chome-2-2 Himegami)
7. Hanzoemon Street (2 Chome-1-1 Otemachi)
8. Hikokiyama Park (1 Chome Hachimyogo)
9. Akagi Kogen Farm (11 Fukuokacho Akagi)
10. Togo Shrine (1087-3 Honcho)
11. Watarase Yusuikan (3-12-6 Ohtsuka)
12. Isesaki Intsugumi Shrine (1-21-13 Amamihigashi)
13. Oishi Gakuen Memorial Art Museum (1-18-17 Shimonijimachi)
14. Isesaki Ichi-no-kura (1327-2 Okada)
15. Kaminarimon Gate (1 Chome-18-20 Himegami)
16. Kinugawa Rubber Gun Museum (3-15-3 Higashi)
17. Matsuzakaya Isesaki (1 Chome-4-1 Otemachi)
18. Tazawa Lake (2 Chome-17-7 Honcho)
19. Yoshimizu Shrine (1 Chome-1-1 Miyajuku)
20. Karasawayama Castle Ruins (Miyajuku)
Top 20 Popular Street Food
1. Yaki imo (grilled sweet potato) – 100 Yen
2. Takoyaki (octopus balls) – 400 Yen
3. Okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake) – 500 Yen
4. Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) – 150 Yen
5. Kurekkusu (crispy crepe) – 200 Yen
6. Kakigori (shaved ice) – 350 Yen
7. Oden (Japanese hot pot) – 200 Yen
8. Mochi (sweet rice cakes) – 200 Yen
9. Taiyaki (fish-shaped waffles with sweet filling) – 200 Yen
10. Korokke (deep-fried potato croquettes) – 300 Yen
11. Nikuman (meat buns) – 150 Yen
12. Ramen (Japanese noodle soup) – 800 Yen
13. Gyoza (dumplings) – 300 Yen
14. Onigiri (rice balls) – 150 Yen
15. Kashiwa Mochi (red bean-filled rice cakes) – 200 Yen
16. Curry Pan (fried dough stuffed with curry) – 200 Yen
17. Soba (buckwheat noodles) – 600 Yen
18. Dango (dumplings made from rice flour) – 100 Yen
19. Yakisoba (Japanese stir-fried noodles) – 500 Yen
20. Kushiage (deep-fried skewers) – 400 Yen
Top 10 Hotels and Airbnb
Hotels
1. APA Hotel Isesaki-Eki Minami – $50 per night – 3.8 (Yelp)
2. Comfort Hotel Isesaki – $60 per night – 4 (TripAdvisor)
3. Hotel Route Inn Isesaki Inter – $70 per night – 4.1 (Booking.com)
4. Isesaki Daiichi Hotel – $75 per night – 3.8 (Expedia)
5. Hotel Sunroute Isesaki – $80 per night – 3.6 (TripAdvisor)
6. Hotel Barbizon – $90 per night – 4.2 (Booking.com)
7. Hotel Select Inn Isesaki – $95 per night – 4.4 (Expedia)
8. Hotel Route-Inn Court Isesaki – $100 per night – 4 (Yelp)
9. Hotel Livemax Isesaki – $100 per night – 4.4 (Booking.com)
10. Toyoko Inn Isesaki Ekimae – $110 per night – 4.1 (TripAdvisor)
Airbnb
1. Private 1BR apartment – $40 per night – 4.9 (Airbnb)
2. Traditional Japanese House – $60 per night – 4.8 (Airbnb)
3. Modern Apartment – $80 per night – 4.6 (Airbnb)
4. Cozy Guesthouse – $90 per night – 4.7 (Airbnb)
5. Spacious Tatami House – $100 per night – 4.9 (Airbnb)
Top 5 Recommendations
1. APA Hotel Isesaki-Eki Minami – It is an affordable yet comfortable option for travelers with a prime location and good reviews.
2. Comfort Hotel Isesaki – The hotel’s top-tier amenities, and central location make it an excellent choice for groups and families.
3. Traditional Japanese House – The home is ideal for a more unique experience that immerses you in the traditional culture of the country.
4. Cozy Guesthouse – Suitable for budget travelers, the guesthouse offers a warm atmosphere and friendly staff.
5. Private 1BR apartment – This option is perfect for solo travelers or couples who prefer privacy and excellent amenities.
Three-Day Trip Itinerary
Day 1:
1. Visit Watarase River
2. Explore Takatsudo Castle Ruins
3. Check out Isesaki City Museum
4. Visit Suga Shrine
5. Enjoy a cup of coffee at Cafe Himeji
Day 2:
1. Visit Isesaki Joshi Park
2. Explore Isesaki Jinja Shrine
3. Walk through Hanzoemon Street
4. Check out Hikokiyama Park
5. Buy souvenirs from Karasawayama Castle Ruins
Day 3:
1. Visit Akagi Kogen Farm
2. Explore Togo Shrine
3. Visit Matsuzakaya Isesaki
4. Check out Yoshimizu Shrine
5. Have lunch at Nishikiya Honten
Where to Find Good Food nearby
1. Cafe Himeji (1 Chome-7-28 Fukuokacho)
2. Suzeya (2 Chome-5-24 Otemachi)
3. Isesaki Ramen Sankichi (3 Chome-3-7 Fukuokacho)
4. Hourai Soba (1 Chome-1-14 Himegami)
5. Nishikiya Honten (1 Chome-4-11 Otemachi)
Conclusion
Isesaki is the perfect spot to escape the crowds of major cities in Japan while still enjoying the beauty of nature and learning about the country’s culture. With affordable food and accommodation, this city is an excellent place to add to your Japan travel itinerary. I give Isesaki a rating of 8 out of 10 stars.
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