Kintetsu Railway Monthly News in January 2026

Feb 11, 2026

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Kintetsu Railway Monthly News in January 2026

We meet again in Kintetsu Railway Monthly News in January 2026. This time, we’re taking you to different places and cafes that will make you fall even more in love with Japan. Let’s take a stroll, enjoy some great drinks, and savor this beautiful season together!

1. Explore Retro-Style Cafés in Imaicho [ 5 Jan 2026 ]

Imaicho is an old town that exudes a traditional atmosphere, with a history stretching back to the Muromachi and Sengoku periods. It retains a charming retro feel, making it a delightful place to explore. After wandering through the winding alleys lined with historic houses registered as cultural assets, consider stopping by one of these hidden cafés.

① Unomachi Coffee (うのまち珈琲店)

This bookstore café is known for its “seasonal fruit parfaits” and “colorful cream sodas.” It also offers lunch options, including Japanese-style curry made with dashi for a rich flavor. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, perfect for anyone who appreciates a slower pace of life.

② Hackberry

Just a short walk across the Sobu Bridge from the train station, you’ll find a large elm tree that marks the location of Hackberry. The café’s interior beautifully blends Japanese and Western architectural styles, and it serves lunch and dinner. The most popular dish here is the “Champagne Omelette Rice,” a visually stunning pink creation. Another must-try is the “Homemade Black Curry”!

③ Cafe Hakutai (茶寮百代)

This hidden café offers a tranquil atmosphere, with the storefront adorned with traditional Japanese white curtains. Inside, you can choose from tables or tatami mat seating while enjoying the serene view of a small garden. A highly recommended item on the menu is the delicately sweet “Apple Compote,” made with a whole apple and perfectly balanced in sweetness.

④ Cafe Kannadzuki (神奈月)

If you’re strolling around in winter, be sure to stop by for some “Zenzai” (a traditional Japanese sweet). Start with freshly grilled mochi that is fragrant and fluffy, perfectly complemented by sweet red bean paste. It’s so delicious you won’t want to stop! Additionally, they have cute cat-shaped toothpicks that add a playful touch to your visit. This café is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy some sweets indoors.

How to get there :

Get off the Kintetsu train at Yagi-Nishiguchi Station. It’s a short walk from there. (※From Osaka Namba, it takes approximately 1 hour.)

2. Experience and Savor ‘Traditional Smoked Katsuobushi’ in Okushima [ 9 Jan 2026 ]

Visit a traditional wooden hut by the sea in Okushima, where the ancient technique of smoking katsuobushi has been passed down through four generations. This original method is still preserved, and reservations are welcome for those who wish to observe the production process.

After watching the traditional smoking process, you can enjoy a delicious dashi soup served with hot rice and topped with katsuobushi! Come and experience the unique aroma and deep flavor of katsuobushi, the heart of Japanese cuisine, right at its source!

How to get there :

Take the Kintetsu train to Ugata Station and then take a Mie Kotsu bus for about 25 minutes. Get off at the Daioushogakkou-Mae bus stop. Then walk for about 5 minutes, or take a taxi for about 20 minutes. (※From Osaka Namba, it takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes; from Kintetsu Nagoya Station, it takes about 3 hours.)

3. “Dorogawa Onsen” A Hidden Gem in Midwinter [ 16 Jan 2026 ]

Dorogawa Onsen (洞川温泉) is a historic hot spring village located deep in a valley in Nara Prefecture. It has long served as a starting point for ascetics on their pilgrimage to the sacred Mount Omine, and it retains its traditional atmosphere to this day.

At night, the lanterns lining the streets create a serene ambiance, making it an ideal setting for a peaceful winter stroll that evokes the charm of bygone eras in Japan. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and embark on a relaxing journey as you soak in the rejuvenating hot springs.

※Photo taken last year.

Address :

Tenkawa, Yoshino District, Nara 638-0431

How to get there :

From Kintetsu Shimoichiguchi Station, take a taxi for about 40 minutes or a bus for approximately 70 minutes. (From Osaka Abenobashi, takes about 2.5 hours.)

Map :

4. The “ZIPANGU” themed illumination display at Nabana no Sato has begun! [ 21 Jan 2026 ]

Nabana no Sato, a garden situated in Mie Prefecture, features stunning flowers throughout all four seasons and currently hosts one of Japan’s largest illumination displays. The main area has been transformed into a dazzling spectacle with a “ZIPANGU” theme, featuring a majestic 35-meter-high golden Mount Fuji at its center. This grand display captures the essence of a spectacular Ukiyo-e painting!

The highlights don’t end there! You can also explore a large illuminated pond, the largest in the country, and a 200-meter-long illuminated tunnel adorned with warm, flower-petal-shaped LED lights. In 2026, be amazed by new features such as “Nami Illuminated Tunnel”, which stretches over 100 meters and features lights that gradually change colors like ocean waves, adding brightness and vibrancy to the winter night!

Address :

270 Komae, Nagashima-cho, Kuwana-city, Mie 511-1144, Japan

How to get there :

Take Kintetsu Railway to Kintetsu-Nagashima Station and then take a bus for about 10 minutes (during the illumination event)

Opening hours :

Daily, 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Illumination event runs until May 31st.
※Open until 10:00 PM on some days.

Map :

5. After visit Ise Grand Shrine, let’s take a stroll along “Oharaimachi” [ 26 Jan 2026 ]

“Oharaimachi” is a long, stone-paved street along the Isuzu River in front of the Inner Shrine (Naiku). It’s filled with souvenir shops and restaurants. The area also includes “Okage Yokocho,” which recreates the atmosphere of a town from the Edo to Meiji periods, making it a popular spot for shrine visitors.

～Okage Yokocho～
“Dangoro Chaya”
A teahouse that recreates the atmosphere of a traditional “resthouse” from the past.
We recommend their freshly made rice balls, Matsusaka beef skewers with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor, and their special sirloin steak!

“Ise Kadobakushu, Ise Inner Shrine Branch”
Refreshing craft drinks have a deep, rich aroma. They’re absolutely delicious paired with fried oysters! And if you walk through the small alley next to the shop called “Seiko,” you’ll find a riverside seating area with a fantastic atmosphere♪

～Oharai Machi～
“Akafuku Zenzai”
When visiting Ise for worship, you absolutely can’t miss the “Akafuku Main Branch.” The zenzai (winter treats) are a must-try, even if you have to queue.

“Tofuan Yamanaka”
Smooth and creamy soy milk soft serve ice cream with a rich, fragrant flavor that’s irresistible even in winter. The freshly fried Unohana Donuts are also very popular!

※Photos from last year.

How to get there :

Okage Yokocho, Oharaimachi

- Take the Kintetsu train to Ujiyamada Station and then take a bus for about 15 minutes to Jingu Kaikan Mae bus stop, then walk the rest of the way. (※Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes from Nagoya, approximately 2 hours from Osaka Namba.)