10 Sights & Landmarks in Hamamatsu That You Shouldn't Miss

An old temple with a history of over 1000 years. Iinoya is the hometown of the Ii family, and Ryotanji is their family temple. Naotora Ii, the main character of the Taiga drama series "Naotora: The Lady Warlord," which tells the history of Japan, priesthood (Breaking the relationship with the family, leaving the world, receiving commandments and becoming a monk) at this temple. Kobori Enshu's Ryotanji Garden in the backyard of the main hall is a nationally nominated scenic spot. The temple building is a cultural property nominated by Shizuoka Prefecture. It has many treasures such as Nobunaga Oda's relics and items related to the Ii family. You can enjoy the flowers and greenery of the four seasons whenever you visit, and the atmosphere is known as Little Kyoto in Hamamatsu. Closed: August 15th, December 22nd-27th * The museum may be temporarily closed when a typhoon approaches.

Houkouji is the head temple of the Houkouji sect of Rinzai Buddhism, founded in 1371. It is a tourist temple that keeps various cultural properties such as the Shaka Triad, a National Important Cultural Property. You can enjoy a walk in the woods, Zen experience, and sutra transcription in the quiet temple precincts surrounded by deep greenery. Also, please try its seasonal Shojin Ryori (vegetarian cuisine).

A Zen Buddhist temple opened 700years ago. The garden by a Japanese landscaper known as Kobori Enshu of Heisei and the 1,000 years old Buddhist statue are amazing. “The World’s Biggest Hannya Sutra" of Shoko Kanazawa, a genius calligrapher with Down syndrome, was displayed here. With the size 4m x 16m, you can feel the kindness of Shoko. There are other highlights such as hell & heaven map.

It is a tea room in the city, which was located in Hamamatsu Castle and designed by architect Yoshio Taniguchi. On the opening day, a tea ceremony service performed with tables and chairs with a price of 400 yen (with Japanese-style confectionery) is served from 10 am to 4 pm. Enjoy the changing seasons of the garden throughout the year. Holidays: Monday (Open on public holidays) / New Year holidays

Akihasan Hongu Akiha-jinja Shrine pays tribute to the famous Akihasan, which is said to be one of the most sacred mountains in the Tokai region. It was founded in Wado 2 (709 AD). In the Middle Ages, it was called "Akiha Daigongen" (God of Fire) and was widely known throughout the country as a highly virtuous god. It was given the highest rank as a god by the Imperial Court. Many great swords were also donated to the shrine by famous warlords. Furthermore, during the Edo period, Akihakou (Group for worshiping Mt. Akiha) was formed all over the country, and the main road was crowded with worshipers. Even today, rituals are performed in traditional ways and are respected throughout the country. (Prayer reception is from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm) (All day worship and prayer are possible from New Year's Eve to New Year's Day)

Introducing the origin and history of the Hamamatsu Festival, which is held in May every year, as well as seeing the kites actually used at the Hamamatsu Festival, rare kites from all over the country, and the gorgeous Goten Yatai (palace-like floats) exhibition. It is a facility where you can hear the sound of enthusiasm and excitement of Hamamatsu Festival. The Hamamatsu Festival goods and Hamamatsu souvenirs are sold in the hall, and we also hold a mini kite making class every day. Parking is not available during the Hamamatsu Festival (May 3-5). Please come by the shuttle bus. Closed days: 12/29-12/31