Cultivating Tradition : Bonsai Artistry and Time-Honored Cuisine
To truly appreciate the art of bonsai, deeply embedded in the Japanese aesthetic, a visit to the Omiya Bonsai Village is a must. After immersing yourself in bonsai, savor the traditional taste of Saitama with grilled kabayaki eel, presenting both the culture and tastes of Japan at their finest.
Start
Ueno Station (9:15 AM)
Approximately 35 minutes : From Ueno Station, take the JR Utsunomiya Line for 33 minutes to meet up at Toro Station, and walk to the Bonsai Walking Tour (Omiya Bonsai Museum, Bonsai Village), then walk back to Toro Station
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
【English guided tour】
Omiya Bonsai Village
Our tour will take you on a leisurely stroll through the renowned Omiya Bonsai Village, a true mecca for bonsai enthusiasts, with an expert guide who shares your love of bonsai. Omiya Bonsai Village is one of the rare places where bonsai artisans reside and collaborate. Creating and perfecting this unique art form. At its height, the village boasted more than 30 bonsai gardens; today, six of these magnificent gardens are open to visitors. Over the course of three hours, we'll visit the Bonsai Museum and three distinctive bonsai gardens in the area, each with its own unique style and flavor. Our guide, steeped in knowledge and passion for bonsai, will provide fascinating insight into the cultivation and care of these miniature masterpieces, enhancing your appreciation of the art form.
Approximately 20 minutes : From Toro Station (JR Utsunomiya Line 12 mins) to Urawa Station (6 mins walk) to Unagi Masuya
1:20 PM - 2:20 PM
Savor Renowned Kabayaki Eel at a Historic Restaurant in Urawa!
Unagi Masuya
Urawa is a former post town famous for its abundant eel harvest. The legacy of Urawa Unagi eel stretches back around 200 years, beginning with the town's warm hospitable custom of offering grilled eels to travelers, drawing great praise. Today, approximately 30 restaurants continue this tradition, serving the delicacy and preserving the essence of Urawa's culinary heritage. Established in 1888, Unagi Masuya is now led by the 5th generation proprietress. Here, guests can indulge in delicious eel dishes skillfully prepared by artisan chefs, maintaining a focus on traditional flavors.
Approximately 30 minutes : Walk 7 minutes from Unagi Masuya to Urawa Station, and take the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line for 19 minutes to Ueno Station
Goal
Ueno Station(3:00 PM)