Kiyosu, Japan
Region: Aichi
Geographic Coordinates: 35.199800, 136.853000
Climate: Data not available.
Population: 69809
Language: Japanese
Kiyosu, Located in the Aichi Prefecture of Japan, Is a historic city that offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. Nestled along the banks of the Yahagi River, Kiyosu is known for its picturesque landscapes and its close proximity to Nagoya, Making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. One of Kiyosu’s most notable attractions is Kiyosu Castle. Originally built in the 15th century, This magnificent fortress played a significant role during Japan’s Sengoku period.
Although much of the original structure was destroyed over time, Visitors can still explore the castle grounds and admire its beautiful gardens. The castle also houses a museum where you can learn about its storied past through various artifacts and exhibits. Another must-visit site in Kiyosu is Inuyama Castle. Located just a short distance away from Kiyosu Castle, Inuyama Castle stands proudly atop a hill overlooking the town below. Dating back to 1537, It is one of Japan’s oldest surviving castles and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from its observation deck.
For those interested in traditional Japanese culture, Kiyosu has several temples worth exploring. Choen-ji Temple boasts stunning architecture with intricate wooden carvings and serene gardens perfect for relaxation and meditation. Additionally, Nishiharu Shrine provides visitors with an opportunity to experience Shinto rituals firsthand while immersing themselves in tranquil surroundings. Nature lovers will find solace at Yamazaki River Park—a serene green space along Yahagi River—where they can enjoy leisurely walks or rent bicycles to explore its vast trails lined with cherry blossom trees during springtime or vibrant foliage during autumn. Food enthusiasts will be delighted by Kiyosu’s culinary offerings as well.
The city is famous for hitsumabushi—a grilled eel dish served over rice. Many restaurants in Kiyosu specialize in this local delicacy, Allowing visitors to savor the authentic flavors of the region. In terms of accessibility, Kiyosu is conveniently located near Nagoya, Making it easily reachable by train or bus. Visitors can also take advantage of the city’s proximity to Nagoya to explore other nearby attractions such as Nagoya Castle or the Toyota Museum. Overall, Kiyosu offers a perfect blend of history, Culture, And natural beauty.
Whether you are seeking a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past or simply looking for a peaceful retreat from bustling city life, This charming city has something for everyone.
- Kiyosu Castle: This historic castle was originally built in the 14th century and played an important role during the Sengoku period. Although most of the original castle was destroyed, its main keep has been reconstructed and now serves as a museum.
- Kiyosu City Historical Museum: Located within Kiyosu Castle, this museum provides visitors with insights into the history and culture of Kiyosu City and its surrounding areas.
- The Battle of Komaki and Nagakute Reenactment: Every year in September, a reenactment of one of Japan’s significant historical battles takes place at various locations around Kiyosu City. The event attracts many visitors interested in Japanese history.
- Horiuchi Park: This expansive park offers beautiful cherry blossoms during springtime, making it a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). It also has walking trails, sports facilities, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
- Inae River Green Road: A scenic cycling path along the Inae River that connects several parks and attractions in Kiyosu City. It’s an ideal way to enjoy nature while exploring the city.
- Tsukude Shrine: A Shinto shrine known for its unique architecture featuring red torii gates lining up along stairs leading to the main hall.
- Konoe-jo Site Park: Located near where Konoe-jo Castle once stood (a castle from which Toyotomi Hideyoshi ruled), this park offers beautiful views over rice fields with Mount Ibuki visible on clear days.
While these are some popular landmarks in Kiyosu, the city is also well-connected to nearby cities like Nagoya and offers easy access to other attractions in Aichi Prefecture.
- Automotive Industry: Kiyosu is situated near Nagoya, which is known as the Motor City of Japan. As a result, many automotive manufacturers and related businesses have established their presence in Kiyosu. Companies like Toyota Motor Corporation and Denso Corporation have manufacturing facilities or offices in the area.
- Electronics Industry: Kiyosu hosts various electronics companies that contribute to its economy. These include Panasonic Corporation, which has a production facility in the city.
- Pharmaceutical Industry: The pharmaceutical sector also plays a significant role in Kiyosu’s economy. Companies like Meiji Seika Pharma Co., Ltd., manufacture pharmaceutical products within the city.
- Logistics and Distribution: Due to its strategic location near Nagoya Port and Chubu Centrair International Airport, Kiyosu serves as an important hub for logistics and distribution activities for various industries.
- Retail and Services: The city has numerous retail stores, supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, and other service-oriented businesses that cater to both local residents and visitors.
- Agriculture: While not an industrial sector per se, agriculture also contributes to Kiyosu’s economy with farming activities such as rice cultivation.
It’s worth noting that this list represents some of the major industries present in Kiyosu; however, there may be additional smaller-scale businesses operating within the city as well.
- Battle of Kiyosu (1477): The Battle of Kiyosu was fought between the forces of Oda Nobunaga and Imagawa Yoshimoto during the Sengoku period (1467-1615). This battle marked one of Nobunaga’s early victories and solidified his position as a rising power in central Japan.
- Oda Nobunaga (1534-1582): Perhaps the most famous historical figure associated with Kiyosu is Oda Nobunaga, one of Japan’s most influential warlords during the late 16th century. He was born in Nagoya Castle but spent much time in Kiyosu Castle, which served as his base for expanding his territory.
- Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537-1598): Another prominent figure from Japanese history associated with Kiyosu is Toyotomi Hideyoshi. He served under Oda Nobunaga and later became one of Japan’s three unifiers after Nobunaga’s death.
- Siege of Kiyosu Castle (1584): After Oda Nobunaga’s death, there was a power struggle among his successors known as the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600). In 1584, Hashiba Hideyoshi (later Toyotomi Hideyoshi) besieged and captured Kiyosu Castle from Shibata Katsuie during this period.
- Tokugawa Ieyasu: Although not directly related to any specific event in Kiyosu itself, Tokugawa Ieyasu is worth mentioning due to his connection to both Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Ieyasu later became the founder and first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled Japan for over 250 years.
- Kiyosu Castle: Kiyosu Castle served as a key strategic location during the Sengoku period. It was initially built in the late 14th century by Shiba Yoshishige and later became one of Oda Nobunaga’s bases. Though largely destroyed, some ruins and reconstructed parts can still be visited today.
- Kiyosu City Museum of History: This museum showcases various artifacts, documents, and displays related to the history of Kiyosu. It provides valuable insights into the castle’s history, battles fought in the region, and influential figures associated with it.
These are just a few examples of notable historical events and people connected to Kiyosu. The region has witnessed many more significant events during its long history in shaping Japan’s feudal era.
- Kiyosu Castle: This historical castle was originally built in the 15th century and offers a glimpse into the region’s feudal past. Visitors can explore the reconstructed castle tower, learn about its history in the museum, and enjoy panoramic views of Kiyosu from the top.
- Kiyosu City Museum of History and Folklore: Located near Kiyosu Castle, this museum showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the city’s history, culture, and folklore. It provides insights into local traditions, industries, and notable figures through interactive displays.
- Horiuchi Family Residence: This traditional Japanese house belonged to a wealthy merchant family during the Edo period (1603-1868). Visitors can tour its well-preserved rooms with beautiful architectural features like sliding doors (fusuma) and tatami flooring.
- Okazaki Castle Park: Although technically located in neighboring Okazaki city, this park is easily accessible from Kiyosu. It features ruins of Okazaki Castle along with picturesque gardens that change beautifully with each season.
- Aichi Prefectural Ceramic Museum: Situated nearby in Seto city (known for its ceramics), this museum houses an extensive collection of pottery spanning centuries. It offers various exhibits on ceramic art styles from both Japan and abroad.
- Inuyama Castle: Just a short journey away from Kiyosu is Inuyama Castle – one of Japan’s oldest surviving castles dating back to 1537 AD. The castle offers stunning views over Inuyama city and hosts various cultural events throughout the year.
- Meiji Mura Museum: While slightly further away in Inuyama city, Meiji Mura is worth a visit for history enthusiasts as it showcases over 60 preserved buildings from Japan’s Meiji era (1868-1912). These structures include Western-style mansions, schools, and churches.
- Kiyosu City Sports Park: If you are looking for outdoor activities, this expansive park offers various sports facilities, jogging trails, and picnic areas. It’s a great place to relax or engage in recreational activities.
These attractions offer a mix of historical, cultural, and natural experiences near Kiyosu that can enrich your visit to the region.
- Kiyosu Baseball Club: The Kiyosu Baseball Club is one of the oldest baseball teams in the region. It was established in 1925 and has been actively participating in local leagues and tournaments ever since.
- Kiyosu F.C.: Kiyosu F.C. is a local soccer (football) club that competes in various regional leagues and tournaments. The team was founded in 1986 and has grown to become an integral part of the soccer community in Kiyosu.
- Aichi Triathlon Club: Although not exclusive to Kiyosu, the Aichi Triathlon Club has members from various cities including Kiyosu. The club participates regularly in triathlon events across Japan, promoting fitness and endurance sports.
- Tennis Clubs: There are several tennis clubs within or near Kiyosu that provide opportunities for residents to play recreational or competitive tennis.
It’s important to note that these teams might have different divisions or age groups catering to different skill levels or age ranges within their respective sports communities.
- Kiyosu Castle Festival: Held annually in October, this festival celebrates the history and heritage of Kiyosu Castle. Visitors can enjoy various traditional performances, parades, samurai reenactments, and food stalls.
- Kiyosu Autumn Festival: Also known as Kiyosu Aki Matsuri, this festival takes place in November and features lively processions with portable shrines (mikoshi), traditional music and dance performances, street food vendors, and fireworks.
- Yagotoyama Hachiman Shrine Spring Festival: Held at Yagotoyama Hachiman Shrine in April or May each year, this festival involves a procession of mikoshi (portable shrines) through the city streets accompanied by music and dancing.
- Kiyosu Plum Blossom Festival: Taking place from late February to early March at Togan-ji Temple’s plum grove area called Umegahara, this festival celebrates the blooming of plum blossoms with tea ceremonies, live performances, local food stalls offering plum-themed delicacies like plum wine and sweets.
- Daidogei World Cup in Kiyosu: This international street performance competition is held every October where talented performers from around the world gather to showcase their skills in various genres such as juggling acrobatics magic shows etc., entertaining visitors with their impressive acts.
- Asuke Illumination Festival: Although not directly located in Kiyosu but nearby Asuke Town (part of Toyota City), it’s worth mentioning due to its popularity among locals and tourists alike. Taking place during December-January period at Asuke Castle Ruins Park & surrounding areas; it offers stunning light displays illuminations and winter-themed activities.
These are just a few examples of the cultural events and festivals that take place in and around Kiyosu. It’s always recommended to check local event calendars or tourist information centers for the most up-to-date information on specific dates and details.
- Hitsumabushi: A famous Nagoya specialty dish consisting of grilled eel served over rice. Many restaurants in Kiyosu serve delicious hitsumabushi, including Hitsumabushi Bincho.
- Miso Katsu: A variation of the traditional Japanese dish tonkatsu topped with a rich miso sauce. You can try this unique dish at places like Yabaton or Misokatsu Yabaton Kiyosu Ekimae.
- Ankake Spaghetti: A Nagoya-style spaghetti dish featuring a thick tomato-based sauce with various toppings like sausage, mushrooms, and cheese. Restaurants like Sakuraya or Spaghetti House Ankake offer excellent ankake spaghetti options.
- Tebasaki Chicken Wings: Nagoya is famous for its spicy chicken wings called tebasaki. Enjoy these flavorful wings at popular establishments such as Yamachan or Torikai Sohonke.
- Unagi (Eel): As an inland city near the fertile waters of the Kiso River, Kiyosu offers fantastic unagi dishes made from locally sourced eels at places like Unakichi or Unagi no Nedoko.
- Ramen: You can find various ramen shops throughout the city serving different styles of this beloved Japanese noodle soup dish, such as Ippudo Ramen or Menya Ichimonjiya.
- Sushi: For sushi lovers, there are several sushi restaurants offering fresh and delicious seafood options in Kiyosu, including Sushiro or Kyotaru Zengoro Honten.
These are just a few examples of the popular local cuisine and restaurants you can explore while visiting Kiyosu, Japan.
- Kiyosu Castle Park: This park surrounds the historic Kiyosu Castle ruins and offers beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. Visitors can enjoy walking around the castle grounds, exploring historical sites, and taking in scenic views.
- Kiyosu Green Park: A large recreational park with various facilities such as a baseball field, soccer field, tennis courts, jogging paths, playgrounds for children, and picnic areas. It’s a perfect place for outdoor activities or leisurely walks.
- Futaba Riverside Park: Situated along the Yahagi River, this park provides walking trails amidst lush greenery and beautiful river views. There are also picnic spots available to relax while enjoying nature.
- Arakogawa Park: Located near Arako Station on the Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line, this park features a large pond where visitors can rent rowboats or pedal boats to explore its surroundings. The park also has walking paths lined with cherry blossom trees during springtime.
- Higashi-Kiyosu Sports Center: A sports complex offering various indoor facilities such as swimming pools (including an Olympic-sized pool), gymnasiums for basketball/volleyball/badminton/tennis practice or games.
- Tatsuta Nature Park: Situated on Mount Tatsuta near Kiyosu City Hall, this nature park provides hiking trails through forests adorned with seasonal flowers like azaleas during springtime.
These are just a few examples of public parks and recreational activities available in Kiyosu; there may be additional options depending on personal interests and preferences.
