Exploring Sakurai City
A Supreme Journey to Sakurai,
the Sacred Home of Imperial Sumo
Timeless Sakurai, an Ancient City Carried Through the Ages
In the historic land of Yamato, Sakurai has long flourished as a place where Japan’s faith and culture first took shape.
The memory of the nation’s first imperial sumo bout and the dignified presence of Japan’s oldest shrine define this city. Here, the craftsmanship preserved over millennia and the blessings of the land come together, creating a place where the spirit of history and quiet devotion still lives on.
Like turning the pages of a story woven across eternity, every step into Sakurai offers a moment that stirs your heart—a chance to encounter the essence of Japanese culture.
FEATURE
Exploring Ancient Energy and Master Craftsmanship
On a journey through Sakurai, you encounter authentic passion passed down through generations. Junihashira Jinja and Sumo Jinja preserve the origins of sumo culture, where ancient wrestlers once faced each other using nothing but their own skill and strength.
Standing within these sacred grounds—watched over by the imposing gorintō monument and powerful statues of wrestlers—you can feel the quiet presence of the competitors whose spirit has endured through the ages.
In Miwa, where noodle‑making has been honed over countless generations, a hand‑stretching experience offers a luxurious moment to appreciate the quiet passion and refined craftsmanship poured into each strand of dough.
The bold memory of ancient sumo battles and the tradition conveyed through the fingertips come together here. These two distinct lineages weave a story that reveals the profound depth of Sakurai as a sacred place.
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HIGHLIGHT
DAY 1 HIGHLIGHT
A Journey Through the Birthplace of Imperial Sumo and Japan’s Oldest Sacred Sites
After visiting Junihashira Jinja, associated with the sumo pioneer Nomi no Sukune, and experiencing the powerful presence of its wrestler statues, you enjoy authentic Miwa Sōmen in its hometown. The day continues with a visit to Ōmiwa Jinja, Japan’s oldest shrine, which venerates Mt. Miwa as its sacred object, followed by a stop at an ancient temple that houses the National Treasure Monju Bosatsu statue. A moment of calm awaits with traditional confections from a long‑established shop.
As the day comes to a close, you retreat into quiet surroundings while watching the sunset turn the Yamato Sanzan a deep shade of red—a serene retreat to end your first day.
DAY 2 HIGHLIGHT
A Journey of Scenic Beauty at Hase‑dera, Hand‑Stretching Craft, and Yamato Cuisine
Visit Hase‑dera, a celebrated temple known for its seasonal flowers and picturesque covered stairway, then enjoy a lunch featuring rich and flavorful dishes made with the local Yamato yam. In the afternoon, you take part in a traditional hand‑stretching experience in the birthplace of sōmen, learning the art of drawing out the dough with graceful precision.
To conclude the day, savor an exceptional French dinner at a luxury auberge, where local vegetables and regional ingredients are elevated into refined cuisine. As you dine, the view of the Yamato Sanzan completes a truly exquisite evening.
DAY 3 HIGHLIGHT
A Journey to the Sacred Site of Kōjin Worship and Hand‑Made Soba in the Mountain Valleys
Begin your morning at Kasayama Kōjin, a shrine embraced by deep mountain silence, where a peaceful visit in the clear, open grounds offers a quiet sense of renewal. After your time at the shrine, enjoy Kasa Soba, born from the passion of local artisans, and take part in an authentic soba‑making experience using stone‑milled buckwheat flour—followed by savoring the freshly made noodles.
With a simple handmade sweet to take home, you conclude your journey surrounded by the richness of nature and the blessings of the land, a fitting finale to your time in Sakurai.
Into
Sakurai
City
TOUR PLAN
Facility Information
10:00
After Arriving at Sakurai Station, Visit Junihashira Jinja
At Junihashira Jinja, associated with the sumo pioneer Nomi no Sukune, you can immerse yourself in the origins of early sumo culture. Walk through the grounds lined with commemorative monuments and gorintō towers, and be sure to see the impressive wrestler statue supporting the base of the guardian dog. Feel the dynamic energy unique to the birthplace of sumo.
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11:30
Enjoy Famous Miwa Sōmen Along the Approach to Ōmiwa Jinja
Before visiting Ōmiwa Jinja, stop for a delicious meal at Sōmen‑dokoro Morisho or Miwa Sōmen Fukujindō, both located along the shrine’s approach. Savor the exceptional smoothness and traditional broth of Miwa Sōmen, a specialty born in its place of origin. Pair it with local kakinoha‑zushi for a blissful lunchtime experience.
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13:00
Visit Ōmiwa Jinja, Japan’s Oldest Shrine
Head to Ōmiwa Jinja, one of Japan’s oldest shrines. Known for its unique style of worship, the shrine has no main hall; instead, it venerates Mt. Miwa directly as its sacred object. Passing through the grand torii gate and walking through the forested grounds, you can feel the powerful atmosphere of this ancient sacred site.
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14:15
Visit Shiratamaya Eiju Honten, Maker of “Mimuro” Confections
After your shrine visit, stop by the historic Japanese confectionery Shiratamaya Eiju Honten, known for its signature mimuro monaka. The fragrant mochi‑rice shell paired with refined sweet bean paste is exceptional. Enjoy it with matcha for a luxurious moment to unwind and savor the lingering beauty of your journey.
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15:15
Visit Abe Monju‑in, Temple of Wisdom
Continue to Abe Monju‑in, one of Japan’s Three Great Monju temples. Known as a guardian of learning and wisdom, the temple houses the National Treasure Mounted Monju Bosatsu statue, an awe‑inspiring masterpiece. In this historic temple—said to be where Abe no Seimei once trained—enjoy a quiet moment of reflection.
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17:00
Check‑in
Arrive at HOTEL NARA SAKURAI no SATO, nestled within the serene rural landscape of Yamato. As evening falls, admire the breathtaking sunset over the Yamato Sanzan and surrounding mountains, with the sky shifting into soft gradients of color. A refined retreat awaits, offering deep rest in the quiet countryside.
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10:00
Visit Hase‑dera, the Temple of Flowers
Head to Hase‑dera, a historic temple celebrated in the Manyōshū, Japan’s oldest anthology of poetry compiled in the 8th century. Climb the iconic Noborirō corridor, which winds upward like a streak of lightning, and enjoy sweeping views of seasonal flowers in full bloom. Those who wish may arrive early to join the refreshing morning service. Surrounded by the harmony of nature and history, spend a serene moment in quiet reflection.
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12:00
Lunch at Tororomeshi Yamato
Enjoy a refined lunch at Tororomeshi Yamato, a restaurant that uses the richly flavored Yamato Kurokawa Maruimo, a specialty nurtured by the natural abundance of Nara Prefecture. Savor dense and velvety grated yam over rice, the signature tororo kabayaki, and delicate somen served in an exceptional broth. Experience the deep earthiness, strong viscosity, and natural richness of this remarkable ingredient for a truly satisfying midday meal.
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14:00
Experience the Art of Oil‑Free Sōmen Dough Made with Yoshino Kudzu
In the birthplace of sōmen, take part in a premium hand‑stretching experience using a traditional dough made with Yoshino kudzu instead of oil. Feel the remarkable elasticity transmitted through your fingertips and appreciate the gentle, traditional craftsmanship with all five senses. The noodles you stretch can be taken home as a souvenir.
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16:00
Check In at AUBERGE de SENVIE to Savor Nara’s Landscape and Cuisine
Arrive at AUBERGE de SENVIE, a serene retreat with views of the Yamato Sanzan. Here, exceptional cuisine awaits—crafted with local produce and traditional vegetables grown with care by regional farmers, elevated through refined French techniques. In this tranquil setting, welcome an evening of fine dining that sharpens all five senses and celebrates the rich character of Nara.
09:00
Check‑out from the Hotel
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10:00
Explore the Sacred Origins of Sakurai: Kasayama Kōjin and the Pure Waters of Kagami‑ike
Visit Kasayama Kōjin, a revered mountain shrine known as the birthplace of Japan’s traditional Kōjin worship, associated with the hearth and fire deity. In this quiet sanctuary—visited by ascetics and monks since ancient times—spend a clear and refreshing morning surrounded by deep forest stillness. Nearby, the sacred waters of Kagami‑ike offer a tranquil moment to appreciate the purity of nature.
Facility Information
12:00
Soba‑Making Experience and Lunch at Kasa Soba, Born from Local Community Spirit
At Kasa Soba, a project created to revitalize the local community, enjoy an authentic soba‑making experience using stone‑milled buckwheat flour produced in the region. After crafting your noodles, savor freshly made soba along with seasonal local vegetables. For a simple yet addictive treat, take home their signature soba karintō, a sweet snack that captures the warmth and passion of the area.
15:00
Thank You for Your Visit — Continue to Your Next Destination
Optional Excursion to Katsuragi City
Just a short distance away, Katsuragi City offers cultural highlights that complement your visit to Sakurai.
This area is the hometown of Kehaya, the legendary rival who fought Nomi no Sukune in the origins of sumo. At the Katsuragi Sumo Museum Kehaya‑za, you can step into a real sumo ring and experience the cultural roots of the sport. You may also enjoy a tour of the local sake brewery Umenoyado, followed by shopping at its on‑site store. Discover the unique blend of history and culinary culture that defines Katsuragi.
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• Your itinerary can be customized to match your preferred number of days, activities, and budget.
• If you would like to discuss a tailor‑made Sakurai City tour, feel free to contact the concierge using the form below.
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