Maizuru is a city unlike anywhere else in Japan. Home to incredible fish markets and a slew of hidden spiritual hotspots, there’s no better way to explore the area in depth than by getting around on foot. If you’ve visited the famous red brick sites and viewed the landscape of the city from the Gorou Sky Tower, it’s time for the intimate walking tour. Here’s our guide.
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![A Walk Around Maizuru]()
A Walk Around Maizuru
The best way to kick start your walk through the city of Maizuru is by visiting the Maizuru Fish Market which takes place along the coast at the city’s roadside station Michi-no-Eki Maizuru Port. Constantly abuzz with local fishermen and chefs buying and selling fresh catches from the neighbouring ocean, the energy here is simply electric. Known as the largest fish market in Kyoto, it can be considered essentially the heart and soul of the prefecture’s seafood. Pick out some fresh fish to start your day and once you have made your purchase, ask for it to be cooked right there in front of you. Now you’ve filled up you should be ready to go and check out some of the best local sites of Maizuru.
![A Walk Around Maizuru]()
A Walk Around Maizuru
Sitting an easy 10-minute walk from Nishi-Maizuru Station is Asashiro Jinja aka Asashiro Shrine, an iconic local site. Established in 672, it’s said that this temple has watched over the city of Maizuru throughout its history. Every four years, the shrine hosts Yoshiwara no tachifuri, a traditional sword practicing performance. Throughout the year locals make the pilgrimage to worship this shrine and pray for good fortune.
![A Walk Around Maizuru]()
A Walk Around Maizuru
One important stop off to make on your journey though the area is at Keirin Temple. This historic site was founded by an important local figure by the name of Chikuo Yusen in 1401. It's said that this Buddhist temple holds spiritual forces which helped the prominent Japanese samurai Hosokawa Yusai, during his battles in the Sengoku period (c. 1467 – c. 1603). Even those with little knowledge on the history of Japan can enjoy the beauty of the area by witnessing the exotic atmosphere of the precinct's Chinese influenced buildings and culture.
![A Walk Around Maizuru]()
A Walk Around Maizuru
Once you’re done exploring the temple grounds it’s time to head on over to Enryuji Temple, located not too far from Nishi-Maizuru Station. This humble temple rests at the foot of Mt. Atago sitting on the western side of Maizuru. The legend of this site is that it was built by Gyoki, a Japanese Buddhist priest of the Nara period (AD 710 - 794). Having become a monk at the age of 15 at Asuka-dera, a temple in Nara, Gyoki went on to be one of the area’s most important spiritual and religious figures of the Nara area.
![A Walk Around Maizuru]()
A Walk Around Maizuru
- Maizuru Brick Park
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