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.