Izushi Castle Town

Izushi's castle town has kept the same street layout for around 400 years, making it one of the more intact Edo-period townscapes you can walk through in the Kansai region. The Shinkoro Clock Tower at the castle entrance was completed in 1881 and still keeps time, one of the oldest working clock towers in Japan. Traditional red clay sake cellar buildings line parts of the route, with tastings of local Sasa Zuru sake available. Izushi is also the home of sara soba, buckwheat noodles served across more than 50 shops in small stacked plates, a format designed so diners can sample and share. Kimono rental is available for those who want to tour in period dress.