目次
- 1 What is “Kindergarten Study Abroad” by KitChike Hike Corporation?
- 2 Takehara Townscape Preservation District: Just a Short Walk from Chuo Kodomo-en!
- 3 Wake Up Early on Weekends! Experience the Serene Zen Meditation at Shoun-ji
- 4 Extend Your Journey to “Rabbit Island”
- 5 Family Fun! Top 3 Ways to Enjoy Okunoshima Island!
- 6 3. Capture Memories! Photo Spots Galore
- 7 Within Walking Distance from Chuo Kodomo-en! Top 3 Recommended Restaurants!
- 8 Top 2 Recommended Cafes for a Relaxing Time in the Suburbs of Takehara City!
- 9 Don’t Miss Out on Just Kindergarten Study Abroad! Please Fully Enjoy Takehara!
What is “Kindergarten Study Abroad” by KitChike Hike Corporation?
Nursery school study abroad is an experience where you can “live a relaxed childcare life in a different region and nursery school from your daily life.” Children can play freely in nature, and parents have an environment where they can balance work and childcare while living. It is operated by Kitchen Hike Co., Ltd., and is in collaboration with nursery schools all over Japan, from Hokkaido in the north to Kagoshima in the south. In the case of Takehara City, you stay in a villa at the Setouchi Golf Resort, and the children attend Chuo Kodomo-en (Central Children’s Garden). For more details, please see the link.
From here on, we’ll introduce spots perfect for couples to enjoy while their child is at nursery, as well as places ideal for family outings on the weekends!
Takehara Townscape Preservation District: Just a Short Walk from Chuo Kodomo-en!
The Takehara Townscape Preservation District, a leading tourist attraction in Takehara, is located very close to the Central Children’s Garden, where the nursery school study abroad is situated. It’s recommended to tour this area while dropping off or picking up your child. The bamboo craft experience we’ll introduce later is also a great activity to try with your child on a day off.
The Takehara Townscape Preservation District preserves streetscapes from about 350 years ago, where you can feel the ambiance of the Edo period. Many people still live there, and as a gesture of hospitality to visitors, flowers and bamboo crafts are often displayed at the entrances of homes.
The Seihouji Fuumeikaku, which offers a panoramic view of Takehara town; the Ebisudo, a deity of business; the former Matsusaka family residence, a representative merchant’s building; and the statues of Masataka Taketsuru and Rita, who were models for the serial drama novel “Massan,” are indispensable tourist spots outside the Takehara Townscape Preservation District.
Now, let’s introduce some recommended spots within the Takehara Townscape Preservation District!
Experience Bamboo Craft at “Machinami Take Kobo”
Takehara is a town known for its bamboo craftsmanship, which can be seen throughout the town. Here, you can actually try your hand at making bamboo crafts.
At the Machinami Bamboo Workshop, you can experience making bamboo crafts with guidance from artisans. The fact that you can participate without a reservation is a pleasant point! While small groups can experience this at the Machinami Bamboo Workshop, larger groups will need to make a reservation due to limited space, and the venue will be discussed accordingly.
This time, we tried making a double-bladed windmill! The key part of the windmill is the axle. Weaving this part can be quite challenging. According to the artisans, children often pick up the technique quicker and do a better job than adults. Since it was a quiet weekday, I was able to learn and work one-on-one with an artisan. Adjusting the force was tricky, and sometimes the shape turned out to be uneven… but no worries! The artisan would adjust it for you.
A variety of Japanese-patterned wings are available, so you can make your own adorable windmill.
It took about an hour and a half to complete. It was more challenging and time-consuming than expected, and the time required can vary significantly from person to person. During my visit, there were four artisans present, and it was impressive to see them working together in a friendly atmosphere. I was welcomed into their circle, and I spent a heartwarming time with the local grandparents, which felt very cozy.
Also, the artisans sell their handmade bamboo crafts, making souvenir shopping enjoyable.
Focusing on crafting is not only fun for children but also provides meaningful time for adults who usually cannot afford to slow down. Be sure to take some time to experience this.
Wake Up Early on Weekends! Experience the Serene Zen Meditation at Shoun-ji
Here, we introduce ways to enjoy the weekend!
It takes about 30 minutes by car from the Setouchi Golf Resort. If you’re taking the train, it’s about a 10-minute walk from JR Tadanoumi Station to Shounji Temple. Cars can be parked on the sandy vacant lot on the hill in front of the temple or in any available space within the temple grounds.
We Tried Zazen Meditation!
At Shounji Temple, you can experience zazen (seated meditation) for free! Participation is open to everyone, with no age restrictions, so anyone can join. If it’s your first time participating, it’s preferable to contact them in advance. Participants range from locals to foreign tourists. Typically, there are about 7 to 8 participants, but sometimes as many as 20.
This zazen experience has been ongoing for about 50 years, and some locals have been attending for a long time. It seems to be widely open to the community, with college students participating as part of their club activities or training camps.
The zazen sessions are held every Sunday at the following times (end time is approximate):
April to September: 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM
October to March: 5:30 AM to 7:30 AM
Though you need to consult in advance, they can accommodate other days and times if it suits your schedule. However, if you wish to enjoy interaction with other participants, it’s recommended to join during the above times! Also, since it gets noisy outside during the day, participating in the quiet early morning is ideal.
The session includes zazen, chanting sutras, eating porridge, and finally, interacting with other participants while drinking matcha tea.
First, the head priest will give a brief lecture on how to sit, posture, breathing, and other aspects of zazen. After about 30 minutes of zazen, sutras are chanted.
Then, porridge is served. This time it was enzyme brown rice porridge (the photo shows white rice porridge). On January 7th, for example, seven-herb porridge is served, varying by the day. This part is generally conducted in silence (except for chanting).
During the matcha tea time, the atmosphere completely changes from solemnity, and everyone happily chats freely. Even as a newcomer, I felt very welcomed and comfortable. From hidden gems in Tadanoumi where Shounji Temple is located to discussions about game meat, it was enjoyable to engage in a community different from everyday life.
The day flew by, and we disbanded around 8:30 AM after lively conversations. It was a quick three hours. After disbanding, if time allows, we do a bit of cleaning up.
What is “Shounji Temple,” Associated with Ura Soukatsu and Kobayakawa Takakage?
Let’s touch a little on Shōun-ji Temple here. Shōun-ji was founded in 1570 and completed in 1581. The founding priest was Iten Keiboku, the sixth generation of the now-defunct Shingon-ji Temple in Yano, Aki District. Its mountain name is Gangyetzusan. It is a Soto Zen temple established by Ura Munekatsu, the lord of Kagiyoshi Castle, as his family temple.
Ura Munekatsu was a member of the Kobayakawa clan and played an active role in the Ishiyama Honganji War as the naval commander of the Murakami Navy under Kobayakawa Takakage. At Shoun-ji Temple, there remains an ammunition depot (designated as an Important Cultural Property of Takehara City) that is said to have been sent to Ura Munekatsu by Kobayakawa Takakage.
Shoun-ji Temple features a distinctive appearance with two gates, the main gate and the middle gate, and stone walls resembling those of a castle. It’s also rare to find a monument dedicated to brushes (a brush mound) here. Moreover, the temple offers a tranquil atmosphere with a view overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, where one can gaze out for hours.
Practicing zazen allows for a quiet moment to face oneself, something not easily done amidst our busy daily lives. Why not take this opportunity to participate?
Extend Your Journey to “Rabbit Island”
If you’re staying in Takehara, visiting “Rabbit Island,” Okunoshima, is a must! It’s about a 30-minute drive from the Setouchi Golf Resort to the gateway to Okunoshima, Tadanoumi Port. From JR Tadanoumi Station, it’s approximately a 5-minute walk. Moreover, since it’s about a 20-minute walk from Shoun-ji Temple, which we introduced earlier, it’s also a great idea to visit Okunoshima after experiencing zazen!
Family Fun! Top 3 Ways to Enjoy Okunoshima Island!
1. Cycle Around! A Complete Tour by Bike
Okunoshima is a small island with a circumference of about 4 km. It’s small enough that you can walk around the entire island, but how about cycling with the whole family? It’s not often you get the chance to cycle together, right? Okunoshima has very few cars, so it’s safe.
Bicycles can be rented at Kyukamura Okunoshima. There is a free shuttle bus from the second pier where the ferry arrives to Kyukamura Okunoshima, or you can walk there.
Fill out the necessary information on the application form found in the first-floor lobby and apply at the front desk. The rental period is for 2 hours. There are electric bicycles and bicycles for children available, and there’s also rental of child seats (for children under 15 kg) for those who can’t yet ride a bike, so the whole family can enjoy.
2. Feeding the Rabbits! An Experience to Remember
Since you’ve come all the way to Rabbit Island, be sure to feed and interact with the rabbits. Note that rabbit food is not available for purchase on Okunoshima, so remember to buy it at Tadanoumi Port before taking the ferry. When you return the empty food bag, you’ll receive a postcard, so don’t forget.
I will also share some important points about feeding the rabbits. For the safety of both the rabbits and yourself, as well as for the environment, please be sure to follow these guidelines.
- Always take leftover food with you!
Do not leave food that rabbits have not finished eating; take it back with you. - Do not feed or interact with rabbits on or beside roads where cars pass!
Make sure it’s a safe place for both rabbits and people. - Do not put your hand near the rabbit’s mouth!
You may want to feed them directly, but there’s a risk of being bitten. Be especially careful with small children. - Do not feed rabbits anything that is not suitable for them!
Eating sweets, bread, onions, or pet food for dogs and cats can make them sick. - Do not pick up or chase after rabbits!
It can cause injuries. Additionally, there’s a risk that pathogens carried by rabbits could infect humans.
Let’s follow these guidelines to feed and interact with rabbits safely and enjoyably.
3. Capture Memories! Photo Spots Galore
Next, we’ll introduce photo spots recommended for family photo shoots!
First is the classic rabbit ear sound collector. This is located by the sea near the Okunoshima Visitor Center. The rabbit’s head part rotates, so try taking cute photos whether it’s facing backward or forward!
Next is the second pier. The second pier, resembling rabbit ears, is also a famous photo spot. Enjoy taking poses with your children.
Lastly, the tunnel near the power station ruins. It looks great whether you shoot towards the sea or the power station side. Taking a photo with a silhouette of a person in the middle of the tunnel is also stylish!
Moreover, Tadanoumi Port has plenty of photo spots too! Make sure to take lots of photos before crossing over to Okunoshima.
Within Walking Distance from Chuo Kodomo-en! Top 3 Recommended Restaurants!
Now, let’s introduce some dining establishments recommended for adult lunches while your child is at nursery school!
1. Enjoy a Luxurious Lunch with Authentic Italian Using Local Ingredients at “Trattoria M”
Trattoria M is a locally popular exquisite Italian restaurant! Be sure to make a reservation in advance. Note that they are open for lunch on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
The calm and modern Japanese interior is perfect for a lunch date without the kids. Looking at the board over the counter makes you want to come back for a night drink.
The lunch menu offers a choice between pasta lunch, pizza lunch, and two types of lunch courses (Seto Momiji Pork Lunch Course & Takehara Taoshita Beef Lunch Course). All options are quite filling, ensuring a satisfying meal. The steak in the Takehara Taoshita Beef Lunch Course is tender and rare, with a refreshing sauce that perfectly complements it!
The “Homemade Bacon and Takehara ‘Chufuro Egg’ Carbonara” from the pasta lunch is not too heavy, allowing you to easily finish off a generous portion of pasta.
Do visit for a cost-effective yet luxurious lunch!
2. Exquisite Tonkotsu Ramen Near Takehara Station at Makotoya
When in Takehara, one must-visit place is Makotoya. Every menu item, from the soup to the noodles, is delicious! Even those accustomed to Hakata’s tonkotsu ramen will be satisfied.
The impact of the soupless tantan noodles when served is unforgettable. Topped with a blanket of green onions and seaweed, with the noodles and sauce hidden underneath, mix them well before eating. It’s deliciously spicy and addictive.
The interior mainly features counter and table seating, but there’s also one tatami mat table, making it a precious spot where even families with small children can enjoy ramen comfortably.
3. Taste Takehara’s Local Specialty Okonomiyaki, “Takehara-yaki,” at Horikawa
Horikawa is located within the previously introduced Takehara Townscape Preservation District.
When it comes to Hiroshima Prefecture, okonomiyaki comes to mind. For Takehara City, it’s Takehara-yaki. This local okonomiyaki variation incorporates sake lees into the batter.
Horikawa’s “Junmai Ginjo Takehara-yaki” is a slightly sophisticated okonomiyaki with a hint of sake aroma. The menu also offers a variety of ingredients, including unique options like cheese and mochi, making it fun to try different flavors with the family!
The restaurant has counter, table, and tatami seating, allowing you to choose the most comfortable option. There are also toys available for babies, so you don’t have to worry about keeping children entertained while waiting. It’s a recommended spot for couples during the weekdays or for the entire family on weekends!
All the restaurants introduced are within walking distance from the Takehara Townscape Preservation District, so you can easily plan a schedule that includes sightseeing in the morning and heading to lunch afterward or vice versa. Be sure to visit.
Top 2 Recommended Cafes for a Relaxing Time in the Suburbs of Takehara City!
Next, we would like to introduce a recommended café worth visiting while your child is being looked after!
1. Rice Flour Donuts at Tamariya RICE DONUT: Safe for Kids and Adults Alike!
Tamariya RICE DONUT is located about a 30-minute drive from the Seto Inland Sea Golf Resort, and approximately 20 minutes by car from Chuo Children’s Garden, in a region rich with nature.
The commitment of Tamariya RICE DONUT is to offer “things that are good for the body and cute.”
The rice flour donuts are made from the gentlest, most organic ingredients possible. They are safe enough for even small children to eat. And their adorable appearance is sure to lift your spirits!
The interior is a spacious area. It’s nice for couples to enjoy some leisurely time together, and taking out donuts as souvenirs for your children is also a great idea.
2. Enjoy Artisan Bean-to-Bar Chocolate at “Asahi Chocolate”
This place is located about a 2-minute drive from Tamariya RICE DONUT, which we introduced earlier. If you are visiting these two stores in succession, please be cautious as the roads are very narrow. We strongly recommend not following the shortest route on the navigation system but instead heading out to the national highway first!
Asahi Chocolate is a café that utilizes a closed-down elementary school. Upon visiting, you might wonder if there really is a café operating there, but signs and banners make it easy to find your way. The café, set in a classroom, feels nostalgic and very relaxing.
You’ll find a selection of very smooth and pleasant-to-taste bean-to-bar chocolate tablets. The stylish packaging will lift your spirits! Treat yourself!
The café menu is also extensive, with the popular ice chocolat being refreshingly sweet without being too rich, making it deliciously drinkable. Enjoying delicious chocolate while looking out at the pastoral landscape from the café window offers a moment of relaxation that’s hard to find in everyday life.
Of course, both cafés are comfortable places to visit with your family on weekends. They are close to Hiroshima Airport, so it’s recommended to stop by on the first or last day of your trip!
Don’t Miss Out on Just Kindergarten Study Abroad! Please Fully Enjoy Takehara!
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