Lost in Time: Exploring Iwamura – Gifu’s Forgotten Samurai Town

#summervacay Iwamura (岩村町)**, located in **Gifu Prefecture**, is a beautifully preserved **Edo-period** town often called the **"Little Kyoto of Mino"** (美濃の小京都). With its steep slopes, samurai residences, and nostalgic atmosphere, it’s a hidden gem worth exploring. ### **Why Visit Iwamura?** ✅ **One of Japan’s Top 3 Castle Towns on a Hill** (日本三大山城の一つ) ✅ **Well-preserved Edo-era streets & samurai houses** ✅ **Iwamura Castle Ruins** (岩村城跡) – Stunning views & history ✅ **Quaint cafés, local crafts, and sake breweries** ### **Top Things to Do in Iwamura** 1. **Explore Iwamura Castle Ruins** 🏯 - The castle was once known as the **"Castle in the Sky"** due to its elevation. - The ruins offer panoramic views of the Kiso Mountains. 2. **Walk the Samurai District (武家屋敷通り)** 🏮 - Stroll along cobbled streets lined with **old merchant houses & samurai residences**. - Visit **Dendoji Temple (伝燈寺)** and **Iwamura History Museum**. 3. **Try Local Sake & Delicacies** 🍶 - Iwamura is famous for **Mino sake**—visit **Iwamura Brewery (岩村醸造)**. - Try **"Goheimochi" (五平餅)**, a grilled rice cake with miso paste. 4. **Visit Iwamura’s Hidden Cafés & Shops** ☕ - Stop by **"Café Enaka" (カフェ えなか)** for a cozy break. - Buy handmade **washi paper** and traditional crafts. ### **How to Get There** - **From Nagoya**: Take the **JR Chuo Line to Ena Station (恵那駅)**, then a **30-min bus/taxi** to Iwamura. - **From Tokyo**: Take the **Shinkansen to Nagoya**, then transfer to the JR Chuo Line. ### **Best Time to Visit** 🌸 **Spring (April)** – Cherry blossoms around the castle ruins. 🍁 **Autumn (Oct-Nov)** – Stunning fall foliage.