There are several distinct themes to choose from when planning a trip to Maniwa: the historic preservation district of Katsuyama, the town’s fermentation culture, and cycling in the wider area. A six-and-a-half-hour biomass tour is also available for groups. This lets you choose between historic streetscapes, culinary experiences, a specific cycling route, and a more extensive group program.
Katsuyama: Historic Streets and Visitor Attractions
In Maniwa City, the streets of the historic preservation district of Katsuyama stretch for one kilometer along the river. Traditional shops and old houses line the streets. Visitors can stroll there and visit craft shops, cafés, or the local brewery. The walk therefore offers several specific options for things to see and do. The district serves as a sightseeing base for Maniwa City.
Fermentation Culture and Regional Cuisine
A fermentation culture has been nurtured in Maniwa City for generations, thanks to its clean water and cold climate, and its traditional methods are passed down. This culture includes soft water from the Asahi River and medium-hard water from the Bicchu River, as well as locally grown Omachi rice, wild grapes, and Jersey cow’s milk. The diverse food culture includes sake, miso, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, as well as cheese, wine, and craft beer. Sake, wine, beer, miso, soy sauce, and cheese are also produced in the area.
Maniwa Haccos shares Maniwa’s food culture. The group consists of seven Maniwa artisans connected through fermentation across different industries. In Maniwa City, visitors can tour the workshops and breweries of Maniwa Haccos and sample fermented foods and drinks. This gives you a chance to learn about fermentation culture through both its products and the group’s different crafts.
Group Tour of the Biomass Economy
For groups, the one-day Maniwa Biomass Tour offers a distinct focus: an overview of the biomass economy and sustainable living in Maniwa. The program runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., for a total of 6.5 hours. Plan it as a substantial part of your day rather than a brief stop. If you would like to take part, check the available dates in advance.
Cycling in the Maniwa Area
Cycling in the wider Maniwa area is considered suitable for both beginners and experienced cyclists. One specific option is the 30-kilometer Hiruzen Cycling Road, a loop around the highlands. If you are first deciding whether to cycle in general, its suitability for beginners and experienced riders can help you choose; for a specific ride, the Hiruzen Cycling Road’s length is a clear guide.
Regional Train Information
In the wider region, a train connection runs from Shin-Osaka Station via Okayama and Tsuyama to Chūgoku-Katsuyama Station. From there, it is a five-minute walk to the historic preservation district of Katsuyama, which serves as a sightseeing base for Maniwa City. Check current departure times when planning your specific journey.
Discover more destinations: Kagamino, Kurashiki, Asakuchi, Setouchi, Tsuyama, Hayashima, Tamano, Okayama
For the main travel overview: Okayama Prefecture.
