Understand

Once a gathering place for puppet handlers, Nishinomiya, located west of Kyoto, has a rich cultural background. Its name derives from a Shinto shrine that housed the Ebisu deity, believed to bring success to commercial activities. In the 18th century, the discovery of a natural water spring led to Nishinomiya becoming a prominent sake-producing community. Despite the devastation caused during WWII and the Great Hanshin Earthquake, the resilient community quickly rebuilt itself. Nishinomiya is also famous in the world of anime, serving as the setting for the Studio Ghibli film "Grave of the Fireflies" and the popular series "The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya." Explore the city's charm, but remember to respect the boundaries set by schools and private properties.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing