A Taste of Tradition and Culture in Toyama

Start your journey with a taste of history at one of Toyama’s last traditional candy shops. Malt candy, once an essential ingredient in Japan’s pill-making industry, was widely used before modern sugar became dominant. As one of the only shops that still makes this nostalgic treat, Shimakawa Candy Store offers not just sweets, but a glimpse into Toyama's medicinal history. Visitors can sample this artisanal candy while learning about its evolution through the Edo and Taisho periods.

Continue to a shop founded in 1936 that specializes in traditional Japanese-Chinese herbal medicine. Established by Minoru Ikeda, this family-run business began as a herbal wholesaler and later became known for producing “Hankontan,” a medicinal product once popular in the Edo period. The shop is a treasure trove of history and healing, making it an educational stop for those curious about Japan’s ancient wellness practices.

Next, discover the sacred Enmei Jizo along the tranquil banks of the Itachi River. Believed to possess healing powers, the site draws visitors from near and far hoping to benefit from its pure waters. Maintained with care by local residents, this serene area also offers a glimpse into the past with remnants of old pleasure quarters nearby. A perfect moment for spiritual reflection and peaceful exploration.

Cap off your cultural experience with a sumptuous kaiseki meal at Kagaya, a traditional Japanese ryotei with over 100 years of history. Located in the heart of Toyama, this renowned restaurant serves seafood from Toyama Bay paired with locally brewed sake. If available, enjoy a performance of Ecchu Toyama folk songs, adding a musical note to your cultural immersion.