Matsuzaki’s History
Starting from its rise to prosperity as a trading port, largely due to its sheltered cove providing an ideal haven in unfavorable weather. As business flourished, it necessitated the building of the town's many kura for storing commodities until they could be securely transported to Edo. Constructed of a durable timber frame and thick walls of stone and clay, many of these storehouses remain standing today, restored over the years and put to different uses.
Silk weaving came next on the town's timeline but was abandoned after losing out to Kyoto's silk makers; the mulberry trees that supplied food for the silkworms were then replaced with sakura saplings, specifically for the tender leaves used in sakuramochi, a traditional pink-colored mochi (rice cake) with red bean paste filling and wrapped in pickled Sakura leaf.
Matsuzaki remains the country's largest producer of pickled sakura leaves, which are also used in sushi and for adding a delicate aroma to steamed rice. After Japan opened its doors to foreign trade, some enterprising young men of the town brought back cattle from their travels, from which a budding dairy industry emerged but died out when one of the pioneers, Yoda Benzo, moved to Hokkaido and established a still thriving dairy industry on the northern island. Charcoal, too, became a major source of town revenue, transported by hand-drawn wooden carts and then loaded on riverboats rowed downstream to the port for lading on bigger vessels bound for Edo.
Our Matsuzaki Favorites
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Explore
Step into the tranquil realm of Matsuzaki, a town where nature's beauty is preserved in its purest form. Our Explore page takes you on a picturesque journey through the lush landscapes and serene sceneries that define Matsuzaki. Wander through verdant forests that whisper tales of time, stroll along peaceful coastlines with waves gently caressing the shores, and find solace in the quiet beauty of our countryside. Matsuzaki is not just a destination, but a haven for those seeking a moment of peace in the embrace of nature. Join us as we unveil the hidden gems and serene escapes of Matsuzaki, where every path leads to a discovery.
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Products
Discover the artistic heart of Matsuzaki through our exquisite collection of local products. Adorn yourself with the beauty of the sea with our Seaglass and Macrame-weaved jewelry, each piece telling the story of Matsuzaki's coastal charm. Explore our exclusive range of glass art and design, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and creativity of local artisans. Pamper your skin with the natural goodness of green papaya soap, a testament to Matsuzaki's dedication to organic and sustainable beauty. And delve into the serene world of Japanese floral art with our Ikebana coffee table book, a visual tribute to this timeless tradition. Each product in our collection is a piece of Matsuzaki, waiting to be cherished.
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Neo Gourmet
Embark on a culinary journey through Matsuzaki, where tradition meets innovation in our Neo-Gourmet collection. Savour the authentic taste of handcrafted Japanese soba noodles, a timeless classic reinvented in Matsuzaki's kitchens. Indulge in the fusion of flavors with our Unagi Tamago Donburi, a delightful blend of tender eel and perfectly cooked egg over rice. Experience the unique twist of Matsuzaki in our Karaage, each bite infused with locally-inspired seasonings, creating an unforgettable taste sensation. Join us in celebrating the blend of age-old recipes and modern culinary artistry that defines the neo-gourmet experience of Matsuzaki.
Visit Us
Izu is a popular travel destination for its mild marine climate, numerous onsen resorts, and exceptionally scenic landscape that varies from lush forested mountains and fertile valleys to miles and miles of jagged coastline and sandy beaches that draw holiday-makers in the summer. The peninsula juts out into the Pacific Ocean, with the east coast stretching along Sagami Bay and the west along Suruga Bay. Kamakura, where I live, shares Sagami Bay, and from our own beach we can see the peninsula's craggy outline on the southwestern end of the horizon, rather like the head and back of an enormous whale. Izu is part of modern-day Shizuoka, one of Japan's 47 prefectures, equivalent to provinces, created in 1888 as the country was emerging from its feudal past and adopting modern western way of life.
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