Ichinomiya

Ichinomiya means 'first shrine' (in the sense of most important) and Masumida was the principal shrine of Owari Province (now Aichi). The ornate shrine is surrounded by pleasant grounds, including a pool with carp and turtles, which are a pleasant place to stroll on a summer day. The main gate has been refurbished, to restore the carving and gilding. Masumida plays host to most of the town's festivals, including New Year celebrations, the Tanabata festival in late July, and an annual craft fair.

'Ichino-mi-ya' can be read as the number '138', and so the number crops up regularly in the local area. Ichinomiya Twin Arch 138 is the tallest arch-style tower in Asia, at (you guessed it) 138 m tall. An observation platform at 100 m (admission ¥500 for adults) gives a panoramic view of the Kiso Valley. One sight of note is the nearby village which is constructed entirely on an island in the middle of the Kiso River. The tower is surrounded by parkland, which is especially pleasant during cherry-blossom season. The park is easily accessible by bus from Ichinomiya station.

Held from Thursday to Sunday of the last weekend in July, this is reputed to be one of the three biggest Tanabata festivals in Japan, and attracts up to 1.3 million visitors annually. The streets are strikingly decorated and bustling with festival-goers in yukata, centering around Masumida Shrine, and the festivities include a parade to dedicate local products to the shrine, bon-dancing - which anyone is welcome to join in, live music of all kinds, and the usual summer festival stalls and attractions.