Premium Shiroishi Japan

Go off the beaten path and discover the historic castle town of Shiroishi in Miyagi Prefecture. Once home to the powerful Katakura samurai clan, who were important retainers of the Sendai domain, you can still experience a bit of life as a samurai in the area around Shiroishi Castle, first established in the late 1500s and rebuilt in wood in 1995.

At the foot of the castle by the outer moat, explore the well-preserved 300-year-old Katakura Clan Samurai Residence, where you can enjoy a private tour and lunch in a beautiful historical setting.

After a personal tour of the house, sit down to a hearty lunch of the Shiroishi specialty of umen. These fine hand-pulled noodles have been a popular local dish since the Edo period (1603-1868) and are produced without using oil to coat the strands, making them quite healthy.

Savor a special course prepared by nearby restaurant Yamabukitei. The luxurious premium course includes special broth tailored to complement the warm noodles, along with a tempting range of side dishes made with seasonal local ingredients, and refreshing juices made from the pure water and renowned fruit of the nearby Zao region.

After lunch relax in the tranquil atmosphere by the traditional open hearth or engawa veranda, where you can take in views of the garden and listen to the clear waters of the Sawabata River trickling past through the outer moat of Shiroishi Castle.