Welcome to Kato City Bicycle Hub! Your Gateway to History and World-Class Sake.
Hello from Kato City Bicycle Hub! We’re operated by the Kato City Tourism Association and ready to support your cycling adventures in Japan.
You’ll find us conveniently located right near National Route 372 in southeastern Hyogo Prefecture, a historic road that connects the ancient capital of Kyoto and the famous Himeji Castle.
—National Route 372: The Samurai’s Path from Himeji to Kyoto
Did you know that National Route 372, a modern road you can drive today, has a deep and fascinating history? It was once known as the “Kyo Kaido” (Kyoto Road), a profoundly important historical artery. Even now, this route serves as the main artery of our city, fueling its development. Along its path, shops line the streets and people bustle about, making it the heart of our local economy.
Right here in Kato City, Hyogo, we are perfectly situated along this very historic route. Just imagine samurai, clad in their distinctive armor, making arduous journeys along this road. They would depart from Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic symbol of Japan’s feudal past, heading east towards the majestic capital of Kyoto.
Their travels served various purposes. Some were on official duties, delivering vital messages or engaging in political negotiations for the Shogun. Others were part of “Sankin-kotai,” a system that required feudal lords to spend alternating periods in Edo (present-day Tokyo) and their home domains, often accompanied by vast retinues. For these warriors, it was more than just a physical journey; it symbolized their loyalty, ambition, and the intricate political landscape of feudal Japan. These processions often displayed the power and wealth of their lords, making for an impressive sight.
—Where Minamoto no Yoshitsune Once Raced
And this Kyo Kaido also bears the footprints of a legendary figure in Japanese history: Minamoto no Yoshitsune. During the Genpei War (a major civil war between two powerful clans), in 1184, Yoshitsune advanced along this very road from Kyoto to the Battle of Mikusa-yama (a significant local engagement), a prelude to the Battle of Ichi-no-Tani (one of the most pivotal battles of the Genpei War). It was right here in Kato City that he and his troops powerfully pressed forward, aiming for the Minamoto clan’s victory.
—Kato City’s Pride: Yamada Nishiki, The King of Sake Rice
Beyond the samurai’s legacy, Kato City holds another treasure in the modern era: “Yamada Nishiki”, renowned globally as “The King of Sake Rice.” Blessed with abundant nature and pristine water, Kato City is home to beautiful fields of Yamada Nishiki, cultivating the highest quality rice essential for exquisite Japanese sake.
Yamada Nishiki thrives in very specific conditions: mountainous areas opening to the east and west with significant day-night temperature differences, and terraced fields (tanada) with clay-rich, well-drained soil. Kato City possesses many areas that perfectly meet these criteria, making Yamada Nishiki production exceptionally vibrant here.
Notably, much of this area, through which the Kyo Kaido (present-day National Route 372) passes, is designated as a “Special A District” – the highest ranking for Yamada Nishiki production, making it a source of the finest quality Yamada Nishiki.
What’s more, much of Kato City is designated as a “Special A District,” the highest ranking for Yamada Nishiki production, solidifying our reputation as a source of the absolute finest quality.
However, Yamada Nishiki is a challenging variety to cultivate because its long stalks make it susceptible to lodging (falling over) due to heavy rain or typhoons. If it lodges before ripening, the grains become thin and the “shinpaku” (the white, starchy core vital for sake brewing) decreases, demanding incredibly meticulous management.
Currently, approximately 60% of Japan’s total Yamada Nishiki production comes from Hyogo Prefecture. Among this, Yamada Nishiki cultivated in Kato City is particularly esteemed for its superior quality, giving birth to many of the renowned sake brands prized by breweries across the country.
Honestly, to visit Japan and not taste sake made from Yamada Nishiki grown right here in Kato City would be a missed opportunity! You’ll surely be moved by its rich aroma and mellow flavor.
—Stop by Kato City Bicycle Hub!
When you’re passing through Kato City on your way to Kyoto or Himeji, we sincerely hope you’ll pause for a moment and feel the connection between past and present.
A Comfortable Rest Stop
Explore with Our Rental Bicycles
Bike Repair Tools & Air Pumps Available
Local Sake & Souvenirs
Our Friendly Staff
For all of you challenging yourselves with a cycling trip across Japan, if you encounter any difficulties, please don’t hesitate to stop by. We’re confident we can help you out!
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