Aichi, Interview, Food Cheyenne Aichi, Interview, Food Cheyenne

Conversations Across Japan: The Story Behind Nitto Jozo

During a recent visit to Hekinan in Aichi Prefecture, I interviewed Yoichi Ninagawa, president of Nitto Jozo. The company is best known for its shiro tamari, a wheat-based seasoning used in a similar way to soy sauce. We discussed the history behind the brewery, the challenges of introducing a new product to a traditional market, and how food producers can preserve their craft while adapting to changing tastes. Our conversation offered a glimpse into Mikawa’s food culture and the people working to keep it alive.

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Aichi, Central Japan, Food, History Cheyenne Aichi, Central Japan, Food, History Cheyenne

Beyond Downtown Nagoya: 10 Places to Visit in Aichi Prefecture

Most travelers pass through Aichi Prefecture on their way to somewhere else. Those who take the time to explore will find historic castles, pottery, sake breweries, a unique food culture, and much more that many visitors never see. Here are ten places to visit in Aichi beyond downtown Nagoya that are worth adding to your Japan itinerary.

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Travel, Central Japan, Aichi, Sake Cheyenne Travel, Central Japan, Aichi, Sake Cheyenne

Sawada Sake Brewery Tour

Discover the history of sake brewing on the Chita Peninsula with a visit to Sawada Brewery. Located in Tokoname, just a short trip from Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture, this tour offers a fascinating look into traditional sake production. Sawada Brewery is one of the few in Japan led by a female president. Whether you're a sake lover or simply curious about regional culture, this educational tour is a hidden gem that highlights local craftsmanship and history beyond the typical tourist experiences.

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If you said you wanted to see autumn in Japan but wanted to avoid some of the busiest places, these are the places I’d send you to. When people plan trips to Japan in autumn, they often focus on the same destinations which can lead to places b
If you said that you wanted to experience traditional Japanese culture in Aichi, these are some of the places I’d send you. Hekinan is a small city with a surprisingly deep connection to traditional food and culture. At Nitto Jyozo, you can l
If you said that you wanted to experience the Nakasendo Trail, these are the places I’d send you. Magome-juku in Gifu Prefecture is often the beginning point to hike to Tsumago-juku. The stone road winds uphill between various shops, cafes, a
When people think of Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya or Ghibli Park probably come to mind. However, Aichi has much more to offer than many travelers realize. Over the years, I have explored Aichi and visited some fascinating places that don’t always