Nestled between Osaka and Kyoto, Hirakata is known as the town where nature coexists with modern urban city planning. As such it has its own unique culture and many historical spots, not readily found in either Kyoto or Osaka. This tour takes you down the oldest path in Japan connecting Tokyo with Osaka and introduces you to the culture that derives its roots from this trade route.

Experience the rich nature, culture and history that Hirakata has to offer.

We will borrow the cute bikes from the tourist information center Syuku56 that first opened its doors in 2024.

▼The tour will take you through the streets of Hirakata, where you can discover the remnants of the old trade town and medieval highway, letting you experience the atmosphere of Hirakata in the past. Travel down the same path as countless warriors and merchants have before you.

One of the main highlights of the tour is a visit to a long-established miso maker and salt koji making as well as miso paste sampling. The Kitamura Miso store boasts over a 100 years long history and their tradition of making miso by hand is becoming increasingly rare. Only this tour offers you a unique chance to experience this miso shop deeply rooted in the city of Hirakata.

▼Make your own salt koji
First, let’s start with making the popular condiment, salt koji. Koji is the base of fermentation used to make miso, and when this koji is mixed with water and salt, a delicious salted koji is produced. Make your own salted koji as you listen to the fun and light-hearted stories from the store owner.

▼Tasting of various miso flavors
Miso is one of the most typical seasonings and ingredients of Japanese cuisine and it offers a wide range of types with different flavors and colors. You will be given a detailed lecture and get to compare various miso products. If you find one that you particularly like you can purchase it on the spot as well. Hand-made local miso makes for the perfect souvenir.

You next stop will be the Okami Shrine. Its precincts are full of interesting spots, including an Inari Shrine with its red torii gate and a power spot with a "zero magnetic field" that makes directional magnets go crazy.

▼Enjoy the view
There is an observatory located near the shrine grounds. Legend has it that warriors built their dwellings because of the beautiful view of the scenery.

Kagiya is a large building located next to the Yodo River. Throughout history it has been used not only by people walking along the Tokaido Highway but also as an inn for people waiting for boats during the Edo period. It is said to have been a very popular spot, hosting countless visitors. This tour includes a special lunch reminiscent of the meals consumed in the Edo Period, offered in an authentic setting. The room is booked out privately assuring both privacy and authenticity of the experience.

▼Feel the history and culture through the fascinating exhibits
The museum is filled with exhibits focused on Hirakata's history and culture, including realistic exhibits with miniatures, videos, and mannequins.

▼Kagiya-style hospitality
The Kagiya Bento boxed lunch is provided by a local restaurant and it is the pinnacle of their craft. It includes “Gonbo-jiru”, a special local soup favored by travelers over two centuries ago.

After lunch, enjoy cycling along the Yodo River. Let the river breeze soothe your body and soul.

Sweets made with melty and smooth sweet potatoes are a fairly recent specialty of Hirakata. Treat yourself to something nice as a reward for a day of cycling.

Return to the tourist information center and enjoy a bit of shopping after returning your bicycle. In addition to the sweet treats from the sweet potato shop you just enjoyed, there are many products from local Hirakata stores available at the center - a perfect opportunity to take home more than just your memories of a fun day in Hirakata.