Exploring Yuasa Town with Norika Fujiwara
In the latest issue of the digital magazine "Tabi-Iro," actress Norika Fujiwara takes readers on a delightful journey through Yuasa Town in Wakayama Prefecture, known as the birthplace of soy sauce production. Published today, the September 2025 edition not only features Fujiwara on the cover but also highlights the town's unique culture and local delights.
Yuasa Town is renowned for its rich history and is officially recognized as a Japanese heritage site since 2017. With an area of just 20 square kilometers, this quaint town offers a compact but engaging experience filled with historical buildings and stunning coastal views. Fujiwara enthusiastically explored the town on a rental bicycle, emphasizing how cycling allows her to connect more deeply with the everyday lives of local residents. She remarked, "The pace of cycling feels just right—not too fast, not too slow. It helps you see things you might otherwise miss."
In this special issue, readers get to experience a two-day getaway with Fujiwara as she delves into local attractions, notably visiting the famed soy sauce brewery "Kakunaga," established in 1841. Immersed in the history of soy sauce production, she expressed her excitement about bringing back soy sauce as gifts for herself and friends.
Fujiwara also enjoyed a refreshing visit to Suhara Beach, where she playfully ran along the shoreline, shedding her shoes and showcasing a fun and carefree side.
Additionally, the magazine features an ongoing segment called "Area Feature," which spotlights sacred locations such as Koyasan in Wakayama and the harmonious urban landscapes of Hachioji and Machida in Tokyo. Readers can also look forward to an insider’s view of a luxurious stay at "Grasmere Osaka," a hotel blending the elegance of British culture with a stunning cityscape.
For those interested in sampling Yuasa's culinary offerings, the magazine lists various local specialties, including soy sauce, kanzuri miso, shirasu (whitebait), and mikan (mandarin oranges). These delightful treats are available for purchase at the "Yuyasanpo" antenna shop located within the "KITTE Osaka" complex, making it easy for readers to enjoy the tastes they experienced during their visit.
Furthermore, the magazine introduces Yuasa's vibrant festival calendar, featuring events such as the "Yuasa Festival" and the lively "Gyo Gyo Fish Festival," where visitors can savor freshly caught fish from Yuasa Bay, showcasing the town's rich traditions.
As Fujiwara takes on the role of honorary director of the Japan Pavilion for the Osaka Kansai Expo, her personal connection to Wakayama is notably significant, with her parents hailing from the region. "This charming town has become one of my favorites," she shared in an interview, emphasizing her love for the local atmosphere.
The September 2025 edition of "Tabi-Iro" paints a vivid picture of Yuasa Town's allure, inviting readers to explore its history, culinary landscape, and the warm hospitality of its people. Additionally, plans to release a pamphlet version of the magazine in early October are in motion, further promoting the region and encouraging tourism and potential relocations.
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or simply looking for inspiration for your next trip, the enchanting journey with Norika Fujiwara through Yuasa Town reminds us of the beauty found in every corner of Japan. The next issue of "Tabi-Iro," featuring actress Yui Ichikawa on the cover, will be released on September 25, 2025, promising even more adventures.
Stay tuned for further updates and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of "Tabi-Iro"!