Introduction
Kakegawa is a calm and picturesque city in Shizuoka Prefecture, historically flourishing as a castle town centred around Kakegawa Castle. Surrounded by serene landscapes, it offers visitors peaceful moments of reflection amidst nature. In this article, I will introduce some of the must-see places in Kakegawa, along with its rich cultural heritage.
City Profile
Location of Kakegawa City
Kakegawa (掛川) is located in the western part of Shizuoka Prefecture, about 90 minutes from Tokyo by the Shinkansen ‘Kodama’ trains. During the Edo period, Kakegawa served as a key post town along the historic Tokaido Road, and remnants of that era can still be found throughout the city today.
Local Specialties
Thanks to its mild climate and fertile land, Kakegawa is renowned for its Tea Production. The town is revitalising the local area by creating tea-based sweets, offering a fresh take on traditional flavors. In addition to tea, it is also known for its Wasabi, grown in the pristine waters flowing from mountains. These local specialties provide visitors with a unique and memorable culinary experience.
Place to Visit
1. Kakegawa Castle
Kakegawa Castle was originally built in the 15th century and today stands as a landmark of the city. Meticulously reconstructed in the 1990s, it remains one of the few wooden castles in Japan. From the top of the castle’s tower, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding landscapes, making it a must-visit spot there.
Additionally, you should not forget to visit The Nearby Palace with its beautifully maintained Japanese garden. The well-preserved buildings and historical exhibits offer insights into how the local people have worked to protect and preserve their precious cultural heritage.
2. Kakegawa Bird and Flower Park
Kakegawa Bird and Flower Park (Kakegawa Kachoen) is a wonderful destination where visitors can interact with various birds and enjoy seasonal flowers. The feeding experience, especially popular with families and groups, allows guests to hand-feed their favourite birds while enjoying the harmonious chorus of bird songs. It’s a fun and engaging experience for all ages.
Visitors can stroll through meticulously maintained gardens that showcase a vibrant array of blooms throughout the year. This floral display enhances the park’s atmosphere, making it a picturesque spot for photography and relaxation. It is an ideal place for those seeking interactions with nature and avian life.
Local Pride
1. Tea Production
Kakegawa has a rich Tea Culture and locals are proud of producing high-grade green tea, especially deep-steamed Fukamushi Tea. This variety undergoes extended steaming, enhancing its robust flavour and vibrant green colour. The softer leaves create a fuller-bodied tea, cherished for its smooth mouthfeel.
The town proudly boasts its deep-steamed tea, which has won numerous awards and is recognized nationwide for its high quality. Additionally, locals are making efforts to incorporate it into sweets and other products, making it more familiar to many visitors. It truly is a source of Local Pride.
2. Sawayaka Steakhouse
Sawayaka Steakhouse is a beloved local chain known for its juicy hamburg steaks in Shizuoka Prefecture. Their most famous dish, the “Genkotsu Hamburg Steak,” is a thick, round hamburger patty seared on the outside and juicy on the inside. Once your dish arrives, the staff cooks it at the perfect level of doneness. Enjoy the sound of cooking and taste of local cuisine.
After that, the staff will ask for your feedback on the taste. Share your honest opinion and enjoy a pleasant conversation with the locals. The steakhouse is a place filled with joy and smiles. However, it’s so popular that you might have to wait for over an hour to get a seat. I recommend visiting during off-peak hours to avoid long wait times.
Conclusion
Today, I picked up Kakegawa Area, a calm and picturesque city. Also, the city is a well-balanced town, where nature, history, and cultural resources are harmoniously integrated. The blend of history and natural wonder offers these unique experiences to you.
Although it is a small town where Nozomi and Hikari trains don’t stop, Various charms are packed there. Once you unpack it, you’ll experience the people’s warmth and the deepness of its local culture. It Is Your Time To Taste The Flavour.
