Iwamura Castle Town & Iwamura River, Ena, Gifu

Iwamura Castle Town & Iwamura River Promenade, Ena City, Gifu Prefecture. Flowing alongside one of Japan's Top 100 Historic Castle Towns, the crystal-clear Iwamura River reflects beautifully preserved Edo-period merchant houses and samurai district facades. Famed for the legendary 16th-century female feudal ruler Lady Otsuya, the town is home to the historic 200-year-old Iwamura Brewery making 'Onna Joshu' sake, traditional Matsuuraken Castella bakeries, and smoky walnut-sesame Gohei Mochi skewers. ✦ Must-Visit Highlights: ▸ Historic Edo Machiya: Wander along an atmospheric 1.3-kilometer streetscape of intact Edo-period wooden townhouses. ▸ Artisan Sake & Sweets: Sample acclaimed 'Onna Joshu' craft sake and original Edo-recipe Portuguese Castella sponge cake. ▸ Fresh Grilled Gohei Mochi: Savor freshly toasted rice cakes smothered in fragrant sweet walnut and sesame glaze.