Unveiling The Realities Of Love In Iga Ueno
To love well requires both skill and intuition. Love itself is mysterious. It often arrives unexpectedly, slipping stealthily past defenses, before making its presence known. Couples must master the virtue of patience, as they learn the language of their beloved’s heart. Adaptability is required, in order to grow and change together, as is trust, so that both sides surrender to the vulnerability of true connection.
For those wishing to hone their competency in the above, Iga Ueno, the heartland of Japan’s ninja, may be the perfect place to train.
Good for:
- Day trip dates
- Culture lovers
- History buffs
Quick points:
- Less touristy than other Kansai spots
- Preserved cityscape scenery
- Multiple train transfers to navigate
Some say ninja still roam in Iga Ueno. The fact no one has seen them just means they’re very good.
Safe from the hordes invading Kyoto and Osaka, a visit to Iga Ueno feels like gaining access to a hidden lair. However, the region is keen to dispel its fog of secrecy and attract more tourists, so couples will find a wide range of experiences on offer. While many are ninja themed, there are also plenty of romantic and cultural activities to enjoy.
I Am Ninja
From cosplay to deeper cultural explorations, there are ninja flavoured experiences for all tastes.
Ninja Henshin-dokoro rents out costumes for couples who love a photo-op and want to immerse themselves fully in the ninja life. Thus disguised, couples can sneak their way through the trick doors and passages of Igaryu ninjutsu museum’s reconstructed ninja house and examine the world’s largest collection of authentic artifacts left over by the secretive shinobi.
Ashura, the Iga ninja group, stages choreographed combat with real weapons, and there are bull’s eye painted target boards for those who would love to fling a ninja star for themselves.
The museum offers bilingual explanations, and guided tours (Japanese only).
Herb Sauna
The herbs Makomo and Yomogi (mugwort) were utilized by the ninja for their medicinal properties. These herbs played a crucial role in health and stamina enhancement, as well as overall wellness, helping ninja endure the demands of their double lives. Yomogi, prized for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities, was used to cleanse wounds, stop bleeding, and soothe muscle pain. Makomo, meanwhile, was believed to improve circulation and aid in recovery. Ninja consumed these herbs as teas or in ball shaped pellets when requiring a quick boost of energy.
Learn about Japanese medicinal herbs and how the ninja in Iga Ueno used them.
The experience lasts for around 40 minutes and includes refills of herb tea.
Weaving Hearts Together
Makoto Shinkai’s sweet film, Your Name, brought global attention to the ancient art of kumihimo weaving. This traditional Japanese form of braiding creates strong, decorative cords with intricate patterns. Samurai used the durable silk cords to secure their armor and swords, and they are used to this day for kimono sashes.
Within the film, the threads serve as a poignant metaphor, connecting the lovers across time and space. In Iga Ueno, couples can weave their own intricately braided cords into a symbol of the strength and endurance of their bond.
Iga is one of Japan’s three major kumihimo regions.
While a little intimidating at first, the artisans at Matsushima Kumihimo kindly and clearly demonstrate the techniques, supporting any slip-ups along the way. Of course, this can be the perfect opportunity for dexterous lovers to show their skills for additional fun and flirtation.
The colours of the silk threads can be customised to taste or one’s Hogwarts House.
Food Options
For lunch, Dengaku-za Wakaya serves Tofu Dengaku, a traditional, vegetarian dish with roots in the Edo period. The beautifully preserved wooden restaurant offers a course meal with a large variety of dishes to enjoy at a reasonable price.
Sweet, savoury, yuzu… the many options of Tofu Dengaku to try.
A meticulously presented vegetable cocktail to start the lunch course.
For sake lovers, a tasting experience at Kikuno Shoten is the perfect way to end a wonderful day out together. Founded in 1909, Kikuno Shoten works directly with many breweries in the Iga region. The sake selection changes with the seasons, making return visits fresh. From November to March, they offer cloudy sake, perfect for chilly nights, while May to August is all about classic, smooth sake – ideal for summer evenings together.
How To Get There
Getting to Iga Ueno is an adventure in itself, requiring a few transfers but rewarding fearless duos with a scenic journey through the countryside. Taking the JR line, transfer at Kusatsu station to Tsuge station, and from there to Iga-Ueno station. Hop on the cute Iga Tetsudo Line to Ueno-shi Station for the final short stretch. Alternatively, take the Kintetsu line to Yamato-Yagi station and catch the Iga Tetsudo directly from there. Either way, the trip takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on transfer times.
Conclusion
Like a well-trained ninja, love moves unseen yet leaves an undeniable mark. Whatever your stage in the search for true love, whether you are in the midst of Omiai and help with introductions, months into dating in Japan, or deep into a long lasting relationship with your perfect life partner, there are likely some hidden sides to your relationship which fresh experiences could unveil and bring into the open. In Iga Ueno, whether you’re slipping through hidden ninja doors, unwinding in a cloud of herb-infused steam, or weaving a silken symbol of your bond, every experience here offers a chance to connect – both with history and with each other.