[Held on Wednesday, April 8] Hayashima Walking Tour Course ～ Discover the stories of Hayashima you can only notice by walking

To learn about a town’s character and history, it’s a good idea to explore it on foot.

But if you walk around by yourself, it may end up being just an ordinary stroll, and you may only notice things you already know. At times like that, don’t you wish someone knowledgeable could show you around?

The “Hayashima Town Walking Tour” will be held in Hayashima Town on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. You’ll be guided by knowledgeable members of the Hayashima Tourism Volunteer Guides, giving you the chance to deepen your knowledge.

What is the Hayashima Town Walking Tour?

The Hayashima Town Walking Tour is an event where you can enjoy a variety of experiences and discoveries while walking around Hayashima Town. It will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, starting from either Hayashima Town Central Community Center or JR Hayashima Station. Both groups will walk the same route, so you can choose either starting point with confidence.

▼The route is about 6.6 km long and visits the following places in order:

1. JR Hayashima Station (introduction to the new station building)
2. Ryujinja Shrine, the starting point of the Ukita Embankment
3. Anyo-in Temple
4. Konpira Lantern
5. Kiyosumi Family Residence
6. Koike Confectionery (freshly grilled dango)
7. Site of the Togawa Family Jinya
8. Hayashima Park
9. Ki, Kiri, Sato (boxed lunch)
10. Mizote Family Residence (exterior)
11. Funamoto Kojinja Shrine
12. Central Community Center (hands-on igusa rush-grass washing and crafting experience)
13. Tour ends at around 3 p.m.

Interview with the Hayashima Tourism Association

We spoke with a representative of the Hayashima Tourism Association about what makes the Hayashima Town Walking Tour appealing.

How did the Hayashima Town Walking Tour come about?

Representative

Hayashima is “a town that was once an island” and has “a highway that flourished during the Edo period,” so it is an area rich in history that you can only discover by walking around. To help both local residents and visitors learn about its appeal, the Hayashima Tourism Volunteer Guides Association is organizing this walking tour.

Have you held a similar tour before?

Representative

Yes, it was held last year (2025), so this will be the second time.
Rather than simply walking around town, this time you’ll also stop at a long-established Japanese confectionery shop and enjoy a boxed lunch in a traditional house, engaging all five senses.

Is there a particular place along the route where you’d especially like participants to take their time and experience it fully?

Representative

We’ll have special mitarashi dango prepared. Freshly made dango enjoyed along the way is exceptional. We hope you’ll also look forward to the workshop using igusa rush grass.

Who would you like to take part?

Representative

Everyone is welcome! In particular, people like those below may enjoy it even more.

• People interested in history and culture
• People who want to learn more about Hayashima
• People who enjoy walking in nature
• People who enjoy exchanging with local residents
• People who want to spend a relaxing spring day

Do you have a message for anyone who would like to participate?

Representative

It’ll be a day full of discoveries, with surprises of “Wow!” and moments of “That makes sense!” at every turn. Come enjoy spring in Hayashima with us.

From the Writer

The Hayashima Town Walking Tour looks very appealing, offering not only a walk but also food and hands-on activities. As the weather warms up, why not give it a try?

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