What other travelers are saying about Kurokabe Square
1. “A Charming Escape into the Past”
If you love history and architecture, this old town is a dream come true. Every street feels like stepping into a storybook with its beautifully preserved historic buildings. The intricate facades and quaint cobblestone streets make it a perfect place for photos or a leisurely stroll. The area is bustling with unique shops selling handmade crafts and one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and the restaurants offer a fantastic variety of delicious food. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or a day trip, you’ll leave enchanted.
2. “A Perfect Blend of History and Modernity”
This old town strikes a wonderful balance between historic charm and vibrant modern life. The architecture is stunning—each building seems to have its own unique story to tell. The streets are lined with boutique shops where you can find everything from antiques to contemporary art pieces. The restaurants are equally impressive, offering a range of cuisines, from traditional dishes to international flavors. It’s the kind of place that invites you to explore every nook and cranny while savoring the atmosphere.
3. “A Shopper and Foodie’s Paradise”
This historic town is an absolute gem! The architecture is breathtaking, with charming details that reflect its rich past. But what makes this place truly special are the shops and restaurants. You can find unique, handcrafted items in the local boutiques—perfect for gifts or keepsakes. The dining options are equally impressive, with cozy cafes and gourmet eateries offering a variety of mouthwatering choices. Spend a day wandering the streets, and you’ll leave with a full belly and a happy heart.
4. “Hidden Gem of Timeless Beauty”
This old town is like a treasure chest waiting to be explored. The historic buildings are impeccably preserved, showcasing a variety of architectural styles that tell the story of centuries gone by. It’s not just a place to admire; it’s alive with activity! The charming shops offer unique items you won’t find anywhere else, and the restaurants are superb, serving everything from local delicacies to upscale cuisine. A must-visit for anyone who appreciates history, beauty, and a lively atmosphere.
Shopping streets near the train station. Love the local shops and restaurants there
'cause of Tuesday??? Not sure but most stores were closed in last Tuesday. Though some spots were still ready to try Japanese street foods. Except black and red ice cream sold at 96 cafe, other foods were so nice~
(Trip was made back then on 28 Nov 2019, 2 years before the Covid-19 Pandemic hit)
Stayed overnight at Nagahama and visited their Kurokabe Square, which was said to be a bustling tourist area popular with the locals.
But instead of a street bustling with activity, we were greeted to a quiet, almost empty street.
It seems what was once a lively town with crowds streaming down the streets, now lay barren as many merchants struggle to stay afloat while many others have closed, with some sections of the street having already turned into a ghost town.
We thought it was because we arrived on a Thursday afternoon, but we were greeted with the same scene when we returned the following Friday morning.
It is actually a pretty townscape, with historical architecture dating back to the Edo and Meiji era. Many interesting shops lined the streets, each with their own individual character and charm.
It’s very disheartening to see such places fade away. Hopefully the local government and community can revitalise this lovely little town.
Kurokabe Square in Nagahama was such a fun surprise. The area has a really charming vibe with lots of cute little shops to explore. One of the highlights for me was stumbling across the figure museum. I wasn’t expecting it but it ended up being such a fun and quirky stop. Watching the glass makers at work was also really interesting. It was amazing seeing the glassblowing process up close. It’s definitely a unique spot that’s worth wandering through if you’re in the area.
Kurokabe Square is a historic district in Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, famous for its traditional black-walled buildings and glassware shops. Visitors can explore glass museums, browse unique glass art galleries, enjoy local restaurants, and experience traditional Japanese architecture while shopping for handcrafted souvenirs.
To reach Kurokabe Square, take the JR Tokaido Main Line to Nagahama Station from Kyoto (1 hour) or Osaka (1.5 hours). The square is just a 5-minute walk north of Nagahama Station. The area is easily accessible by train and makes for a perfect day trip from Kansai region.
Kurokabe Square itself is free to explore and open year-round. Individual shops and museums typically open 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with some variations. The Kurokabe Glass Museum charges around 300 yen admission. Many glass workshops and galleries have their own schedules and small entrance fees.
Popular souvenirs at Kurokabe Square include handcrafted glass items like sake cups, vases, and decorative ornaments from local artisans. Visitors also buy traditional Japanese sweets, local Nagahama specialties, and unique glass jewelry. The area is renowned for its high-quality glassware and one-of-a-kind handmade pieces.
The best time to visit Kurokabe Square is during spring (cherry blossom season) and autumn (fall colors) for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Plan 2-3 hours to fully explore the historic district, visit glass museums, browse shops, and enjoy a meal. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
