Ando, Kawanishi & Miyake Towns
- NARA Visitor Center & Inn
- Jun 18
- 10 min read
Discovering Ando, Kawanishi, and Miyake: A Trio of Hidden Gems in Rural Nara
Nestled side by side in the heart of the Nara Basin, Ando Town, Kawanishi Town, and Miyake Town offer a refreshing escape from the bustle of Japan’s major cities. These compact communities are shaped by fertile plains, gentle rivers, and a shared legacy of craftsmanship and culture. Each town brings its own character-Ando with its peaceful streets and whimsical landmarks, Kawanishi as the birthplace of Noh theater and home to lush river landscapes, and Miyake, Nara’s smallest town, renowned for its deep roots in traditional manufacturing. Together, they form a unique destination where history, artistry, and rural charm blend seamlessly.
Ando Town: Where History and Whimsy Meet in Rural Nara
Ando Town
History and Whimsy Meet in Rural Nara
Tucked away in the northwestern reaches of the Nara Basin, Ando Town (安堵町) is a place where history, culture, and a touch of the unexpected quietly coexist. The very name “Ando” means “relief” or “living in peace,” and it’s hard not to feel a sense of calm as you spend time here. Ando Town offers a wealth of cultural and historical sites.
Its compact size-just over 4 square kilometers-makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll or cycling adventure. The town’s proximity to Horyuji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and easy access from JR Horyuji Station mean it’s an ideal side trip for those exploring the greater Nara area
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Kakashi Park
Amid the classic rural vistas of Ando Town, visitors are greeted by something truly out of the ordinary: a towering 12-meter scarecrow modeled after Prince Shotoku, one of Japan’s most revered historical figures. This colossal figure is located in Kakashi Park. Standing sentinel over the paddies since April 2018, has become both a local landmark and a symbol of the town’s playful spirit. Conceived by the Kakashi (Scarecrow) Production and Exhibition Committee with help from local groups, this giant figure was designed to surprise not only the local sparrows but also anyone passing through the tranquil rice fields.
The choice of Prince Shotoku as the scarecrow’s motif is deeply rooted in local history. The statue stands along the ancient Taishi-michi, the very road once traveled by Prince Shotoku as he journeyed between Ikaruga Palace (now Horyu-ji Temple) and Asuka. Appropriately, the scarecrow faces northwest toward Horyu-ji Temple, as if keeping watch over the legacy of the Asuka period.
While the Shotoku Taishi scarecrow is undoubtedly the park’s star attraction, it shares the grounds with a whimsical cast of other scarecrows crafted by various local organizations. Each one strikes a different pose and exudes its own personality-some playful, others comical-ensuring that every visitor leaves with a smile.
Who was Prince Shotoku?
Prince Shotoku (574–622) was a visionary statesman and regent during Japan’s Asuka period, renowned for his pivotal role in shaping early Japanese governance and culture. Serving as regent under Empress Suiko, he introduced sweeping reforms inspired by Chinese models, including the Twelve Level Cap and Rank System and the Seventeen Article Constitution, which laid the groundwork for a merit-based bureaucracy and promoted the values of harmony and ethical governance.
A devout Buddhist, Prince Shotoku championed the spread of Buddhism in Japan, commissioning the construction of iconic temples such as Horyu-ji Temple and Shitenno-ji Temple, and authored influential Buddhist commentaries.
His diplomatic initiatives, including sending envoys to China, fostered cultural exchange and helped define Japan’s identity as the “Land of the Rising Sun”. Prince Shotoku’s legacy endures as a symbol of enlightened leadership, religious tolerance, and the pursuit of harmony in Japanese society.
Prince Shōtoku (1878), photo by PHGCOM, Musée Guimet, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Taishi-michi
Walking the footsteps of Prince Shotoku
Taishi Michi is a straight, 28-kilometer road running across the Nara Basin, connecting Ikaruga-no-Miya (now Horyu-ji Temple) and Oharida-no-Miya in Asuka. According to legend, Prince Shotoku traveled this route during the Asuka period, often accompanied by his attendant Choshimaro and riding his horse, Kurokoma. He is said to have used this road daily when he withdrew from court to study Buddhism at Ikaruga-no-Miya, and the road’s name, “Taishi Michi,” reflects these journeys. The route remains a symbol of Prince Shotoku’s commitment to Buddhism and his influence on early Japanese history.
Nearly the entire path is paved and suitable for walking in comfortable shoes, but be aware that some sections have frequent vehicle traffic. There are a few convenience stores along the way, but options are limited, so it’s best to bring your lunch. Vending machines for drinks are available at various points. If you want to split the walk, Kintetsu Tawaramoto Station is about halfway and makes a good stopping point. Several train stations are near the route, allowing you to adjust your walk to your pace. At the end of the route, Asuka Station offers local specialties at the Asuka Yume Market and souvenirs at the Asuka Visitor Center “Asuka Bito no Yakata”
Ubusuna-no Sato TOMIMOTO
Ubusuna-no-Sato TOMIMOTO (うぶすなの郷 TOMIMOTO) is the historic birth home of Tomimoto Kenkichi, one of Japan’s and Nara’s most celebrated potters who lived between 1886 and 1963. This former residence houses two luxury guest rooms and a restaurant, which is also open to the public. The location is close to the historic Horyu-ji Temple World Heritage Complex.
Both guest quarters are spacious, incorporating a separate ‘living room’ with a garden view, and a stylized semi-open private bathroom. Accommodations include breakfast and dinner in traditional Japanese ‘kaiseki’ style. For non-staying guests, a reservation for the restaurant requires a three-day advanced booking. A pottery painting experience is available with one day’s advanced notice.
Access:
Address: 1442 Higashiando, Ando-cho, Ikoma-gun, Nara, 39-1061
Tel: 0743-56-3855
Natural Yeast Bakery Araki
Araki is a bakery and café in Ando Town, Nara Prefecture, specializing in naturally leavened bread, cakes, and cookies. The shop stands quietly among rice fields that blends into the rural landscape. Many first-time visitors are surprised to find a bakery here, but the storybook cottage look is sure to catch the eye, even if the small shop sign doesn't.
Inside, the space is warm and inviting, with a lodge-like atmosphere created by the use of knotty wood throughout. Interesting books and art pieces decorate the shop adding to the ambience. Customers can enjoy bread, cakes, and cookies, as well as light meals at tables or in a small raised seating area. The menu includes a selection of light meals like pizza toast with mini cake and juice, and seasonal vegetable soups paired with a selection of breads. The menu changes with the seasons and kakigori shaved ice is introduced for the summer months. The shop’s pace is unhurried, and the time from order to service matches the relaxed mood.
Araki’s bread is made with homemade natural yeast from organic raisins, Japanese wheat, organic rye, and natural salt-with no eggs, dairy, or oil. The loaves are dense and substantial, with a firm chew that brings out the flavors of the grain and yeast. Baked goods like scones and muffins feature seasonal fruits and vegetables, with sweetness kept in check. The shop’s display counter is lined with a variety of breads and baked goods, creating a pretty display that you almost don't want to disturb.
Araki’s second floor serves as a small gallery and shop, offering a curated selection of books, handmade goods, and crafts. Visitors will find a range of books, as well as hand-dyed accessories, woodblock prints, embroidered handkerchiefs, and glass jewelry from local artisans. The space also features simple leather goods, recycled cotton socks and hats, fair trade baskets and utensils, unique soft toys, and pottery. Many items highlight natural materials and thoughtful design, making the second floor a quiet extension of Araki’s focus on craftsmanship and everyday living.
The overall experience-location, building, tableware, and food-reflects a consistent, unadorned simplicity that lets the honest flavors and textures shine. The bakery also operates an online shop, making their bread and cookies accessible to those unable to visit in person.
Access:
Address: 190-1 Matoba, Kubota, Ando, Ikoma District, 639-1064
Tel: 0743-57-9300
Hours: 10:30 - 18:00
Take out: 10:30 - 18:00
Eat in: 10:30 - 16:00
*Last order: 15:30
Closed: Sunday (except the 1st Sunday of each month), Monday & Tuesday
Parking available
Kawanishi Town: Birthplace of Noh & Rivers
Kawanishi Town is located in the flatlands of northeastern Nara Prefecture, within the Nara Basin. The town is shaped by the Yamato River, which splits into the Asuka, Tera, and Soga rivers as it flows through the area. With a population of about 8,000, Kawanishi is a compact, community-oriented town surrounded by fertile farmland.
Kawanishi is best known as the birthplace of the Kanze school of Noh, one of Japan’s most important theatrical traditions and the local library houses a rich collection of Noh materials. Today, Kawanishi balances its deep cultural heritage with a peaceful rural lifestyle, offering visitors glimpses of traditional Japan alongside everyday local life.
Yuzaki Menzuka Park
Yuzaki Menzuka Park is a quiet, unassuming green space along the Terakawa River, but it holds a special place in Japanese culture as the legendary birthplace of the Kanze school of Noh. Every first Saturday in April, the Sakura Festival brings the park to life, drawing visitors with its cherry blossoms, fresh spring leaves, and the historic Menzuka mound. During peak bloom, the park and a 750-meter stretch of sakura lining the river are softly illuminated at night, transforming the area into a peaceful, almost ethereal scene.
The Legend of Menzuka and Yuzaki Nebuka
Menzuka is named after a local legend: long ago, a Noh mask and a bundle of green onions are said to have fallen from the sky at this very spot. Villagers buried the mask and planted the onions, which flourished and became the local heirloom vegetable known as “Yuzaki Nebuka.” This green onion, still celebrated in the region, is prized for its sweet flavor and soft leaves, and features prominently in local cuisine
Founders of Noh: Kan’ami and Zeami
Kan’ami (1333–1384), born Yuzaki Kiyotsugu, was a pioneering actor, playwright, and musician who transformed the popular Sarugaku theater by blending song, dance, and drama into a new art form. He established the Yuzaki troupe in Yamato, which evolved into the Kanze school-now one of the most prominent Noh traditions. Kan’ami’s innovative works and refined performances attracted the attention of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, who became a key patron after witnessing a performance in 1374.
Kan’ami’s son, Zeami (c.1363–1443), trained under his father and soon distinguished himself as both a brilliant actor and the chief theorist of Noh. With Yoshimitsu’s patronage, Zeami further developed Noh into a sophisticated, aristocratic performance art, beloved by the upper classes and refined into the style seen today. Zeami wrote and revised many plays, and his treatises on the philosophy and aesthetics of Noh-still studied by performers and scholars-helped shape the art’s enduring legacy. Together, Kan’ami and Zeami are credited with creating Noh in its present form and establishing the Kanze school as a leading force in Japanese theater.
Access:
Address: Kawanishi, Shiki District, Nara 636-0202
Chikamichi Ramen
Chikamichi Ramen is a well-regarded ramen shop located in Kawanishi, Nara Prefecture, about a 5 minute walk from Kintetsu Yuzaki Station. The shop is known for its dedication to niboshi (dried sardine) ramen, with a menu that also features curry ramen, tsukemen, and classic flavors like shoyu, shio, and miso, making it a versatile spot for any visitor. The owner trained at a renowned Niboshi ramen shop in Tokyo before opening Chikamichi Ramen, first as a food truck and later as a permanent restaurant.
The interior features a wood-accented design with a clean, welcoming atmosphere. Seating is at a counter, with 15 seats arranged in an L-shape, providing a relaxed dining experience. The spacious parking lot in front of the shop makes it convenient for drivers.
Chikamichi Ramen uses only natural ingredients, with a focus on additive-free broths. Noodles are sourced from a Tokyo maker, and toppings include thick-sliced chashu, seasoned eggs, menma, naruto, nori, and green onions. The signature “Goku” Niboshi Ramen highlights the rich, umami flavor of dried sardines, balanced by a well-crafted broth and carefully selected ingredients.
Ordering is done via a ticket machine at the entrance. The shop also offers a mobile app with special perks for users. Background music changes daily, adding to the shop’s relaxed vibe.
Access:
Address: 909-1 Yuzaki, Kawanishi, Shiki District, Nara 636-0202
Tel: 0745448764
Hours:
Lunch: 11:00 - 14:30 | Dinner: 18:00 - 20:00
Closed: Tuesday & the 1st of each month
Miyake Town: Nara's tiniest and mightiest
Miyake Town is the smallest town in Nara prefecture and the second smallest in all of Japan. Nestled in a fertile plain overlooked by the Kongo and Katsuragi mountain ranges, it is known for its rich natural landscape and deep historical roots, with references in the ancient Man’yoshu poetry anthology.
The town has a long tradition of craftsmanship, particularly in the production of baseball gloves and textiles, once accounting for the majority of Japan’s glove manufacturing. Today, Miyake balances its legacy of skilled manufacturing with efforts to revitalize its traditional homes and foster international cultural exchange, all while maintaining a quiet, community-oriented character.
Yoshikawa Kiyoshi Shoten
吉川清商店 - World Class Baseball Gloves
Since 1952, Yoshikawa Kiyoshi Shoten has crafted baseball gloves in Miyake Town - a small community with a long tradition of leatherwork. The factory stands just a short walk from Kintetsu Tajima Station, in a town once known as the heart of Japanese glove-making. Here, each glove is made with careful attention, reflecting both inherited skill and a quiet commitment to quality. Using carefully selected leathers such as North American steerhide and Japanese wagyu, every step-from cutting and sewing to assembly and lacing-is performed in-house, mostly by hand, with a small team of dedicated artisans
The workshop itself is arranged in three distinct parts. At the front, a small display area doubles as a meeting space and office, where visitors can view sample gloves and discuss requests. Beyond this, the first section of the workshop is dedicated to cutting and treating the leather-a process that sets the foundation for each glove. The third area, slightly raised, is where the sewing and detailed craftsmanship take place. Here, artisans work by hand, assembling, stitching, and finishing each glove with care.
Yoshikawa Kiyoshi Shoten specialize in gloves that are super durable that become more comfortable the longer they are used, gradually molding into the player's hand. This approach is not only technical but also personal-each glove is shaped by the craftsman’s intent to support every player’s journey. Over the decades, the factory has produced gloves for major brands as well as its own original line, “bro’s.” Drawing on years of experience in both mass production and custom work, the team can accommodate a range of needs-from efficient, standardized batches to individually crafted, fully custom gloves. The “bro’s” series, in particular, is designed for players who want a glove they can break in themselves, tailored to their hand and style of play.
Yoshikawa Kiyoshi does not offer formal factory tours, but visitors are welcome to stop by and observe the workshop. English is not widely spoken, so communication may be limited, but the team is accommodating. Groups can also arrange visits with advance notice to ensure the best experience.
Access:
Address: 395-1 Tajima, Miyake, Shiki District, Nara 636-0214
Tel: 0745-56-2427
Miyake Town's original manhole cover
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Author: NARA Visitor Center & Inn
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