Taste Japan’s best ayu in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture!🐟 Wild ayu raised in the pristine Seijo River in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, offer a supreme flavor that delights ayu lovers across the country. In fact, they won the Grand Prix at the “Ayu Tasting Contest” held in 2024 and were chosen as Japan’s top ayu!🥇 When you visit Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, be sure to try the wild ayu from the Seijo River. A uniquely fragrant and delicate taste awaits you here✊ Find retailers here🔽 https://www.shobara-info.com/5200...

＼ Autumn flavors from Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture — a town of farming! 🍎 Crisp and delicious! Want to grab freshly picked apples ✊ This time, we introduce seven apple farms with farm shops🍎 "I don’t have time for apple picking, but if I’m visiting Shobara I’d like to buy fresh apples to take home!" For those people, here are several apple farms with on-site farm shops to recommend! Why not drive around and visit several distinctive apple farms 🚗🎶 Find out more here 🔽 https://shobara-info.com/report/5318...

What is the heartwarming fall experience “Choudo Gari”? 💛 The highlight of the autumn outing season, Hirata Sightseeing Farm’s “Choudo Gari,” is a fruit-picking style where you exchange a ticket for the fruit of your choice. ♪ The key point is that you can take your time and enjoy fruit picking with no time limit. 🍇✨ At reception you receive a three-item set: ・a paper bag ・a ticket ・a farm map ! The farm map shows which fruits are available to harvest that day and how many tickets each requires, so head to the area that interests you. Harvesting scissors ✂️ and the like are provided at the entrance to each area, so you can come empty-handed. Staff will let fruits ripen to the perfect eating point, and you can eat chilled fruit right on the spot. 🍑 *On this visit we enjoyed a super-chilled peach♪* With so many fruits to harvest, it’s hard to decide which to pick! You can harvest Pione grapes and Shine Muscat, both specialties of Miyoshi. ✨ noqoo Labo’s seasonal fruit parfaits, and the old-merchant-house cafe noqoo’s noqoo burger and fruit curry, which make abundant use of orchard fruit, are also very popular. 🍔✨ You can feed snacks to cows and goats, take a break in the cafe, and relax in nature. This autumn, why not fully enjoy fruit picking at Hirata Sightseeing Farm in Miyoshi? (“Choudo Gari” runs until early November.) 🏠 Hirata Sightseeing Farm Address: 1740-3 Ueda-cho, Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture Phone: 0824-69-2346 Hours: 10:00–17:00 *Early opening*: From September 13 to October 19 the farm opens one hour earlier (from 9:00). Closed: March–November on Wednesdays and Thursdays; December–February on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays IG: https://www.instagram.com/hirata.farm/... *For business days and other details, please see Instagram.* This time, Natalie, who has been working at Miyoshi DMO as an international exchange staff member since July, experienced “Choudo Gari.” ☺️✨

Autumn appetites🍎✨ Have you heard of the local specialty “Takano apples” from Takano, Shobara City in Hiroshima Prefecture?✨ The cool climate and large temperature swings in Takano, Shobara City seem ideal for growing delicious apples! “Takano apples” are a little-known but proud specialty of Hiroshima Prefecture✨ If you drive along Takano’s “Apple Road,” where many orchards stand side by side, you can see Takano apples hanging on the trees in abundance😋💞 Why not stop by on a drive? Many orchards open from mid-September! Opening times vary by farm, and some farm shops close when they sell out, so it’s more reliable to call the orchard you plan to visit in advance✨ Please come and visit Shobara City in Hiroshima Prefecture! 🔽Orchards in Takano, Shobara City where you can pick apples🔽 https://www.shobara-info.com/report/4812... 🔽Orchards in Tojo, Shobara City where you can pick apples🔽 https://www.shobara-info.com/report/4813... For more information about orchards, please see the Shobara Tourist Navi website! https://www.shobara-info.com//

An inviting spot called “Omoshiro-so” opens in Tojo, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture! ☕✨ Cozy café sweets and quirky events to enjoy 🎪 On May 5, 2025, Omoshiro-so, a renovated traditional house, opened in the Tojo town center area. It operates as a café on most days and fosters local connections through a variety of events. We went to cover what interesting initiatives they’re running! 🎤 Read the full experience report here 🔽 https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5216... — Shop Details — Facility name: Omoshiro-so Address: 301-12 Tojo, Tojo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Phone: 08477-3-6660 (Mon–Sat 10:00–15:00) Hours: 10:00–15:00 Closed: Irregular Parking: Available — Omoshiro Square on site, 8 spaces

📣＼ Writer Recruitment! ／ Discover, interview, write about, and share the charms of Shobara City in Hiroshima Prefecture We are recruiting members for the "Shobara Travel Editorial Team" ✍️ ✅Love Shobara ✅Write at least one article per month ✅Experienced writers warmly welcomed 📌Application deadline: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 For details and to apply, click here🔽 https://www.shobara-info.com/special/special/4765... <What is the Shobara Travel Editorial Team?> The editorial team experiences and broadly shares seasonal topics, the latest information, classic spots, popular local food, and little-known attractions. <What will you do?> Each member will plan, structure, research, photograph, and write articles about attractive spots, local food and sweets, events, and other aspects of Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, that they find appealing. You will also join a planning and editorial meeting about once a month to confirm future coverage and schedules and to discuss ideas like "I want to try this kind of project!" with the whole team. [Experienced writers encouraged to apply] We welcome applicants who can make the most of their writing experience by proactively engaging in planning, structuring, reporting and photography, and writing. From timely seasonal pieces to in-depth reads, if you are interested in creating community-focused articles that boost Shobara City, please apply! [Beginners also welcome] If you worry, "I have no writing experience" or "I've never planned, reported, or photographed before…", that's okay! We will discuss submitted ideas in the monthly meeting to improve them and support you as a team. Start with articles you can write at your own pace and get comfortable step by step◎ Contact Shobara Tourism Promotion Organization (Shobara DMO), Attn: Okutani TEL 0824-75-0173 Email kanko@shobara.net Details URL https://www.shobara-info.com/special/special/4765...

[Day Trip] Limited Time Only! Enjoy Nature with Additional Geibi Line Trains and a Free Shuttle Bus｜Dive! Hiroshima The JR Geibi Line "Rapid Shobara Liner," operating on weekends and public holidays through November 24, 2025 (45 days total), departs Hiroshima Station at 9:07 AM and runs to Bingo-Ochiai Station in Saijo-cho, Shobara City, without requiring a transfer at Miyoshi Station! 🚃 Dive! Hiroshima introduces a plan that takes you from Bingo-Saijo Station to Hiroshima Prefectural Citizen’s Forest via a free shuttle bus (reservation required). Enjoy hiking, BBQs, and memorable photo spots✨ Find the full article here🔽 https://www.shobara-info.com/news/5177...

Summer vacation has arrived! 😍 This time, for those looking for a “special summer experience” in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, we introduce a hidden gem where you can find healing in the satoyama and try handloom weaving: Rikoori Workshop. It’s perfect for summer research projects and sure to offer adults a soothing, heartwarming time ✨ Great for summer research too. Enjoy a calming handloom weaving experience in Shobara’s natural surroundings We posted an “Editorial Report” on the Shobara Tourist Navi website! 🧶 Read the full experience report here 🔽 https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5174... ~ Shop Details ~ Facility Name: Rikoori Workshop Address: 615-75 Nagata, Kuchiwa-cho, Shobara City Phone: 0824-89-2501 Hours: 10:00 or 13:00 (times can be adjusted to suit you) Reservations: Required — by phone only Experience Fee: 1 hour experience 1,000 yen + materials from 1,000 yen (tax included) (Please tell them what you want to weave when making a phone reservation)

To the unknown summer scenery of Japan——Shobara rural woodlands Rafting experience! 🌊 Why don't you dive into the nature of Shobara, Hiroshima Prefecture? Surrounded by idyllic rural woodlands, Shobara offers a healing rafting adventure down a gentle river. It is a trip where you can get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and encounter the real "Japan countryside". 🚣 ♀️ The charm of 🚣 ♀️ Shobara rural woodlands Rafting ・ Even beginners can rest assured that there is a Local guide! Rafting on the Saijo River ・Superb view of Four Seasons (cherry blossoms in Spring, Fresh greenery in summer, Autumn leaves in autumn) ・ You can come into contact with Nature such as fish and mountains ・Recommended for families, couples, and solo travelers! Drive is one and a half hours from Hiroshima city and Access is good. Day trip or Accommodation ◎ Why don't you go on an adventure that will make you feel this summer? ✨ Click here for details and reservations▽ https://www.shobara-info.com/2500...

Summer Festival & Fireworks Festival in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture is hot! 🔥 Here are 5 Events currently announced in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture from July ~ August. (1) Bihoku Summer Festival 2025|National Bihoku Hillside Park (1st photo) 【Held in】2025/07/19 (Sat) ~ 2025/08/31 (Sun) 9:30~18:00 (Last entry until 17:00) 【Place】National Bihoku Hillside Park 【Address】4-10 Mikkaichi Town, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 【Contact】National Bihoku Hillside Park 0824-72-7000 In the middle of summer, a big frolic in Bihoku! The "Jabu Jabu Pond" where you can enjoy playing in the water and the "Beetle Dome / Stag Corner" have also started to be opened to the public! Other, tree climbing, Canadian Canoeing, and other summer events that can only be enjoyed in summer! Please take this opportunity to visit us! Click here for Events Information▽ https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5141... (2) Summer Festival that connects sweetfish, river, and people|Sweetfish no Sato Park (2nd ~ 3rd photo) 【Held in Date & Time】2025/07/26 (Sat) 10:30~15:00 【Place】Sweetfish no Sato Park 【Address】1641-1 Nagata, Kuchiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 【Inquiry】Sweetfish no Sato Park TEL 0824-89-2244 【Contents】This is a project to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the establishment of Shobara City. You can also eat sweetfish that has become the No.1 in Japan! Let's continue to protect Nature, which is the property of Shobara City! Stalls are also available! (Salt-grilled sweetfish / Manjii hand-made Soba (limited to 70 meals of chilled bukkake Soba noodles) / Kuchiwacho "New Moon Markets" meeting (with multiple stalls) / Osaka Takoyaki Konamon / Fukupan (egg sandwich) / Draft beer sales / Local sake sales / Kitchen car C&J etc.) Click here for Events Information▽ https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5090... (3) 2025 Tojo "Yuka Festival" (4th photo) 【Held in Date】2025/08/10 (Sun) 17:00 Open / 17:40 Start 【Place】Shobara City Tojo Elementary School Ground 【Address】1342 Kawahigashi, Tojo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 【Inquiry】Tojo "Yuka Festival" Executive Committee (Tojo Town Chamber of Commerce and Industry) TEL 08477-2-0525 【Contents】In my hometown Tojo! Let's have a summer festival! It is an annual summer festival in the Castle Town of Tojo. The fireworks that echo through the Mountainous Area are a sight to and, and Many Stalls gather and it is very lively. The Ground Self-Defense Force is also coming! Stage events, stalls Village, and this year's princess of the traditional event "Odori" in Tojo Town, Shobara City, which takes place around November, will also be introduced. Click here for Events Information▽ https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5131... (4) Hoshimi Markets|Sakura Shokudo directly managed by farmers (5th photo) 【Held in Date & Time】2025/08/11 (Mon) 16:00~20:30 (rain or shine) 【Place】Shokusaikan Shobara Yume Sakuranai Farmer's Directly Managed Sakura Shokudo 【Address】291-1 Shinjo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 【Inquiry】Sakura Shokudo directly managed by farmers TEL 0824-75-4516 【Contents】This is the children's night market of Sakura Shokudo. You can enjoy food, miscellaneous goods, Workshops, fortune telling, therapy, etc. 【Notes】 ・ Stalls are subject to change, so please note. ・ Admission to the venue is free, but various workshops, experience corners, and product purchases will be charged. ・Please take your garbage home with you. Click here for Events Information▽ https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5132... (5) The 43rd Shobara Yoitoko Festival and Shobara Summer Festival Fireworks Festival (Photos 6~8) 【Held in Date】Shobara Good Cousin Festival will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025 Fireworks festival will be held on Sunday, August 24, 2025 【Place】Around Shobara City Office 【Address】 1-10-1 Naka Honmachi, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 【Inquiry】The 43rd Shobara Yoitoko Festival Official Instagram ▷ https://www.instagram.com/yoitokomtsuri43/... This year's theme is "Burn Your Heart" For a record of festival's Information and Held in, please check the official Instagram of the 43rd Shobara Yoitoko Festival! The next day, Annual event! The Shobara Summer Festival fireworks festival is held. When the details come out, we will announce them on the Shobara Kanko Navi Home page. < Organizers> Shobara Yoitoko Festival Steering Committee, Shobara Good Toko Festival Executive Committee Click here for Events Information▽ https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5124... Shobara City Tourist Information Site "Shobara Tourism Navi" ▷ https://www.shobara-info.com//

At the National Bihoku Hillside Park (Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture), the hydrangeas that color the early summer in Japan are in Best time to visit! ✨ About 100 varieties and 10,000 "hydrangeas" planted in the Hiba-no-Sato hydrangea garden and Japanese cedar trees are in Best time to visit! Best time to visit is expected to continue until early July. Hydrangea flowering status (as of June 29) 【Name】Hydrangea 【Flowering state】Best time to visit 【Flowering period】Mid-June ~ mid-July *Best time to visit is ~early July 【Flowering place】Hiba no Sato, Hydrangea Garden, Japanese cedar trees Number of units: Approx. 10,000 shares 【Place】National Bihoku Hillside Park 【Address】4-10 Mikkaichi Town, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 【Contact】National Bihoku Hillside Park TEL 0824-72-7000 Click here for details▽ https://www.shobara-info.com/news/5133...

From June 1st, Miyoshi’s summer tradition begins🌿 The Miyoshi ukai (cormorant fishing), with a history of more than 450 years, has started✨ What is ukai? Ukai is a traditional Japanese fishing method that uses cormorants to catch sweetfish (ayu). Cormorants are exceptionally skilled hunters. They dive into the water and swallow the fish whole, holding them in their throats☝️ In ukai, handlers wrap a cord around the bird’s neck so it won’t completely swallow a large ayu. The cormorant handler, called an usho, makes the bird regurgitate the fish and collects the catch. This fishing method is called ukai. What makes Miyoshi’s ukai unique? Ukai was once practiced across Japan, but today it survives as a tourist attraction in only 11 locations nationwide. One of these precious sites is Miyoshi, notable above all for the exceptional skill of its cormorant handlers✨ The cord attached to each cormorant is called a tanawa. In Miyoshi, the tanawa stretches an astonishing seven meters— the longest in Japan❗ With that extra length, the cormorants range far and wide, moving freely in every direction❗ You can witness the powerful sight of the birds hunting up close. And watching the handlers skillfully control the long tanawa is a brave, captivating sight✨ The pleasure boats we ride run alongside the cormorant fishing boats carrying the usho. That lets you see this dramatic spectacle right up close😊 This is one of the great attractions of Miyoshi’s ukai! What is the relationship between the usho and the cormorants? Some people may feel sorry that the birds are made to regurgitate the fish. The usho and the cormorants are irreplaceable partners who live and work together. The birds are treated as members of the usho’s family and cared for with great affection🌿 Cormorants are said to bond closely with people. Handlers communicate with them every day, shower them with affection🥰, and train them carefully. It is said that ukai cannot be done without a trusting relationship between the bird and the usho, so their feelings must be mutually understood for the method to work. Because the cormorants and usho fish together as a family, a strong bond forms between them. The beautiful scenes they create together in ukai are truly a sight to behold. CHECK! For more details about Miyoshi’s ukai, follow the URL link on this account♪

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video — nice to meet you! We are the Miyoshi City Tourism Promotion Organization. Miyoshi City, located in northern Hiroshima Prefecture, sits at the meeting point of the San'in and Sanyo regions. This nature-rich, montane area is a town where history and culture thrive. Surrounded by the Chūgoku Mountains and blessed with abundant forests, clear streams, and the Gonokawa River, Miyoshi has long prospered as a hub of travel and exchange. As a tourist destination, it offers a variety of attractions: ancient myths and yokai folklore, traditional performing arts, local specialties such as wine and cheese, and spectacular scenic spots. In Miyoshi, where nature and history blend with contemporary art, local ingredients, and everyday life, you can enjoy a relaxed trip away from the bustle of the city. ◆Access to Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture Miyoshi City in Hiroshima Prefecture lies about 90 km north of Hiroshima city, roughly a 1 hour 30 minute drive, making it conveniently accessible. You can reach the area via the Chugoku Expressway at Miyoshi Interchange or Miyoshi-Higashi Interchange, and it is also about a one-hour drive from Hiroshima Airport. By train, JR Geibi Line’s Miyoshi Station serves as the gateway. Direct trains run from Hiroshima Station, and the scenic views from the window make the journey popular. Express buses also run frequently from Hiroshima Station and Hiroshima Bus Center, offering a convenient option. Within Miyoshi City, rental cars and local buses are well organized, making it easy to get around to tourist sites. ◆About Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture Miyoshi City lies in northern Hiroshima Prefecture, bordering Shimane Prefecture. The city occupies a basin surrounded by mountains, with the Gonokawa River, Basen River, and Saijo River flowing through it. As of April 2025, the population is about 47,000. The modern city was formed in 2004 through a merger of eight surrounding municipalities, and it ranks among the largest municipalities by area in Hiroshima Prefecture. Agriculture and forestry remain important industries, and in recent years the city has promoted tourism that leverages local resources, with wineries and direct-sales markets and other community-focused facilities flourishing. ◆History of Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture Miyoshi’s history is ancient, appearing in mythic eras. The area is associated with Izumo mythology and preserves many kagura performances and legends. During the Sengoku period, Hieioyama Castle, once the stronghold of the Miyoshi Clan (later moved to Bikuma Castle), was built and the town developed as a castle town. In the Edo period, Miyoshi prospered as a post town on the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine Road and became an important river-transport relay on the Gonokawa River, thriving as a center of commerce and transportation. ◆Popular sightseeing spots in Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture ・Miyoshi Mononoke Museum (Yumoto Koichi Memorial Japan Yokai Museum) This nationally renowned yokai museum in Miyoshi houses the collection of leading yokai scholar Yumoto Goichi. Exhibits cover yokai culture from the Edo period to the present, and AR and video displays make the museum enjoyable for both children and adults. Special exhibitions and workshops are held regularly. ・Hiroshima Miyoshi Winery This complex offers wine production, sales, and tastings using locally grown grapes. It features one of western Japan’s largest wine cellars and a wine bar counter. In addition to factory tours, the facility includes a restaurant, cafe, and a direct-sales shop selling local products, making it popular with families and couples. Each year during Golden Week the Miyoshi Wine Festival draws many visitors from inside and outside the prefecture. Hiroshima Miyoshi Winery’s wines earn awards at various international competitions each year. ・Okuda Genso Sayume Art Museum This museum exhibits works by Japanese painter Genso Okuda and doll artist Sayume Okuda, a married couple who were the first spouses to receive the Cultural Merit Award in Japan. The building itself is an artwork, making it a must-see for art lovers. ・Josei Falls Located in Sakugi-cho, Miyoshi City, Josei Falls is a beautiful three-tier waterfall with a drop of 126 meters. Surrounded by seasonal nature, you can enjoy fresh green in spring, cool relief in summer, autumn colors, and frozen cascades in winter—an all-season scenic spot. Selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, it offers a cleansing, restorative experience just by visiting. ・Mt. Takatani (Sea of Clouds Observatory) This 490-meter lookout offers a panoramic view of Miyoshi’s iconic “sea of clouds.” From October to December on clear early mornings with sharp temperature differences, a mystical sea of clouds appears, transporting you to another world. The sunrise and mist together create scenes beloved by photographers. ◆Roadside stations in Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture Miyoshi hosts the popular Roadside Station Yumeland Funo, a favorite rest spot for visitors. Yumeland Funo sells fresh local vegetables, fruits, and processed goods, and its dining facilities serve local dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients. ◆Hot springs in Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture Miyoshi is home to Kimita Onsen Mori no Izumi. This bicarb-onsen is famous as a “beauty bath” that leaves skin smooth. As a large facility offering lodging, dining, and shopping, it attracts many visitors. ◆Traditional culture and crafts of Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture ・Kagura Kagura represents a symbol of Miyoshi’s traditional culture. This performing art, passed down since ancient times, features different programs, costumes, and staging across communities and plays an indispensable role in local festivals and events. ・Cormorant Fishing in Miyoshi Cormorant fishing in Miyoshi has a history and tradition spanning more than 450 years and is a rare cultural practice available at only about 11 locations nationwide. Designated as a Hiroshima Prefecture Intangible Folk Cultural Property and honored with the Hiroshima Prefectural Education Encouragement Award, Miyoshi’s cormorant fishing is notable for its unique method in which cormorant boats and pleasure boats run side by side. On summer nights, boarding a pleasure boat to watch cormorant fishing up close creates an otherworldly experience as if traveling back in time. The torches flickering on the river at dusk add a magical atmosphere, leaving you with unforgettable memories. ◆Local specialties and gourmet foods of Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture Miyoshi’s food culture draws on the region’s abundant natural resources. A flagship product is Miyoshi wine. High-quality wines produced at local wineries come in red, white, and rosé varieties and have earned high praise at domestic and international competitions. Another specialty is ayu dishes made from the Gonokawa River’s sweetfish. You can enjoy freshly caught ayu grilled with salt, simmered in sweet soy, or as ayu-flavored soy sauce. Many processed products using local ingredients make excellent souvenirs. ◆Events and festivals in Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture Miyoshi hosts colorful local events and festivals throughout the year. ・Miyoshi Kinsai Festival This major summer event, organized by Miyoshi residents, fills the streets with parades, taiko drumming, food stalls, and bon-odori dancing. ・Miyoshi Wine Festival Held on the lawn area of Hiroshima Miyoshi Winery, the Wine Festival features tastings, live music, and local gourmet stalls, making it a must for wine lovers. ◆Tourist information for Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture With a unique museum dedicated to yokai culture, gourmet offerings born from nature’s bounty, seasonal scenic spots, and community-rooted traditional events, Miyoshi still holds many little-known gems where repeated visits reveal new discoveries. Cool Japan Video will share information ranging from these hidden spots to popular attractions so you can enjoy sightseeing in Miyoshi City. Please follow us.

June 22 (Sun) 9:30~15:00 "Green Markets" Held in! ✨ It will be held in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, National Bihoku Hillside Park, Satoyama Station Shobara Furari, Shobara Furari. Stalls and stage events will also be held. You can enjoy a cappella performance by "The CROWS" and performances by the Saijo Blues Harmony Brass Band and the Prefectural Hiroshima University Wind Orchestra. Let's enjoy the green markets surrounded by vast beautiful greenery! 【Place】National Bihoku Hillside Park Satoyama Station Shobara Furari Shobara Furari 【Address】4-10 Mikkaichi Town, Shobara City 【Inquiry】 Please contact us via DM on Instagram. 「@satoyama_furari」 Click here for Events Information▽ https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5116...

Summer Vacation is coming soon! 🌞 Enjoy Nature with your family! Squid about a special experience where you can enjoy interacting with cows and making cheese at "Fukufuku Ranch" in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture? ✨ Fukufuku Ranch is a small ranch located in the mountains of Kuchiwa Town, Shobara City. The difference from a typical ranch is that this is the mountain itself. You can enjoy a real ranch experience. Click here for details▽ https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5109...

Today, June 16th, is "Japanese Sweets Day"! Introducing Japanese sweets and famous confectionery originating in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture. (1) Milk Dango ・ Nostalgic taste that has not changed since the old days A Commitment Gastronomical delicacies made by mixing mochi powder, sugar, Water candy, honey, etc. on a milk base without using a single drop of Water. The nostalgic taste that has not changed since ancient times is popular. Milk Dango is manufactured and sold by Izumi Kowado, a long-established Japanese confectionery store located in Shobara City in northeastern Hiroshima Prefecture. It was released in Showa 9, and since winning a prize at the National Confectionery Grand Competition, it has won numerous honors in various places. It is no exaggeration to say that Shobara's Souvenirs are milk dango, and they have been loved for a long time as a front line. Please enjoy such milk dango as an accompaniment to Tea and danran. (2) Onbashi ・ Famous confectionery raised in Tojo Town that reminds me of Teishaku Gorge Enjodo's "Male Bridge" is derived from the natural bridge "Male Bridge of Teishaku Gorge" in Tojo Town, Shobara City. It is a two-layered confectionery reminiscent of a stone bridge. Underneath, moist cookie dough. On top is a sweet Famous Confectionery raised in Tojo Town with caramel and almond slices on top. At Enjodo, the best Ingredients are carefully selected and examined, and we try to bring out the original taste of confectionery by kneading techniques without using any [artificial synthetic coloring], [chemical synthetic preservatives], [additives such as bleach], etc. (3) Takeya Manju ・ Gentle taste that has continued since the Edo period Shobara City Tojo is proud of its Famous Confectionery of Takeya Manju. Takeya Manju Honpo started making buns in the Edo period. Since its founding, its signature products have been Sake Manju and Takeya Manju made with koji. Sake Manju is made from sake with clean water, and even if you take a bite, it has a gentle taste that you can't think of as a Sake Manju. Since it does not use additives, it can be safely eaten by children and the elderly. (4) Hibagon egg ・ A unique famous confectionery bearing the name "Hibagon" Famous confectionery "Hibagon no Tamago" created by love for the Township. In 1970, when Hibagon was spotted, the confectionery shop "Daikokudo" released "Hibagon Manju". Then, in 2003, I heard rumors of a merger Town/Village city due to the influence of the great merger of the Heisei era, and Squid I thought that "Hibagun" might disappear, so I developed and released "Hibagon no Tamago". It is a three-layered confectionery that imitates an egg consisting of "shell", "white meat", and "yolk". The "shell" consists of cocoa flavor, the "white meat" consists of white bean paste with condensed milk, and the "yolk" consists of yellow bean paste with sweet potato. Along with the appearance, the taste is also very popular. (5) Tabusa Yokan ・Yokan made in the town of Soryo with an elegant taste Carefully selected Hokkaido azuki beans are luxuriously used and carefully made over two days, and the original taste and aroma of azuki beans are brought out with delicious water unique to the countryside. "Taso" is the old place name of the current Soryo Town, and in the Showa era, it was merged with the neighboring Ryōkeson Village to become the Soryo Town, and the place name of Taso disappeared. Tagan Yokan is a confectionery that retains its ancient place name, and is a signature product with a history of more than 130 years, and is a traditional Famous Confectionery. Shobara Sightseeing Navi HP is here ▽ https://www.shobara-info.com/3708...

Choose from 1,724 Municipality nationwide! Ranked 😍 23rd in the TOP 100 of the "Summer Resort Ranking" Implementation by the travel app "NEWT", Shobara City and Jinsekikogen Town in Hiroshima Prefecture ranked 23rd out of 1,724 municipalities nationwide. 【Survey Summary】 Survey conducted by "NEWT" (https://newt.net/),... a tour and Hotel reservation app for overseas and domestic travel Article URL: https://newt.net/jpn/nagano/mag-608849428...

At the "National Bihoku Hillside Park" of Hiroshima Prefecture Shobara City, we will Held in "Making Ume Plum Mogi and Ume Plum Juice" from June 18 (Water) ~ June 20 (Fri), 2025. 【Contents】 This is a program where children learn about the food culture of rural woodlands through the experience of making Ume Plum Mogi and Ume Plum Juice. [Schedule] ◯ Ume plum mogi (in front of the assembly hall: about 20 minutes) ・ Let's all pluck the fruit (Ume plum fruit) that has become a Plum tree! ◯ Making Ume Plum Juice (Yakimono Workshop: about 40 minutes) ・ Let's get rid of the stem! ・Let's sterilize with hot water! ・ Let's cool down with a fan! ・Let's pickle it with sugar! * If you take the pickled "Ume Plum Juice" home, store it in a cool place, and pickle it, you will be able to drink it in about 1~2 months. ・ Tasting the finished Ume plum juice! * Since it takes a period of time from soaking to drinking, the Ume Plum juice to be Tasting this time is It was pickled last year. 【Place】National Bihoku Hillside Park Hiba-no-sato Sanshuden-mae and Satoyama-yashiki 【Address】4-10 Mikkaichi Town, Shobara City 【Contact】National Bihoku Hillside Park TEL 0824-72-7000 Click here for detailed Events Information ▽ https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5105...

Shobara City in Hiroshima Prefecture consists of seven towns. This time, following on from yesterday's posts, we will introduce 3 of the 7 towns! ✨ 【Tojo Town】 ・ Full of Specialties and Famous landmarks! A town with a retro appearance that moves your heart (Photos 1~4) Blessed with a retro townscape and nature that makes you feel nostalgic, Tojo Town. At Teishaku Gorge, you can enjoy the beauty of Nature created over a long period of time, such as the natural bridge Yubashi, Limestone caves, and clear streams. The center of Tojo Town has long been a thriving tatara iron making, brewing industry such as sake and vinegar, and the manufacture of limestone products, and there are Famous confectionery such as "Takeya Manju" and "Obashi"! It is a good old traditional town. 【Saijo Town】 ・Full of romance! A town with many anecdotes (Photos 5~8) Saijo Town spreads from Shobara City along the Geibi Line. Saijo Town is an area where there are many legends of Traditional Japanese straw raincoat described in the Kojiki, UMA hibagon, and power spots, and National Route 314 is called "Hiba Izanami Highway". On the other hand, you can enjoy the idyllic scenery of the Geibi Line Car with its cute single track, the rich countryside, and the Kumano Tunnel, which is known only to those in the know. 【Hiwa Town】 ・Terraced rice fields talk about the four seasons! A town blessed with crops (Photos 9~12) Hiwa Town is rich in delicious rice, natural ayu, Yamame, apples, Soba and other agricultural crops. In early summer, fireflies fly around, the starry sky is so starry that you can see the Milky Way, and you can feel the scenery of the Four Seasons from the rice terraces. Trekking on Mt. Azuma leading to the Mt. Hiba Imperial Mausoleum, the endangered species of Higotai is also observed, and you will be healed by the quaint townscape. Shobara City Tourist Information Site "Shobara Tourist Navi" is here ▽ https://www.shobara-info.com//

Shobara City in Hiroshima Prefecture consists of seven towns. This time, we will introduce 4 of the 7 towns! ✨ 【Shobara area】 ・ Full of smiles for family gatherings! Shobara City (Photos 1~4) It is a town bustling with Gourmet food, long-established stores, Direct sales, and Events. The only National Bihoku Hillside Park in the Chugoku region where you can enjoy colorful flowers throughout the four seasons, from tulips in Spring to winter blooming botan, is a park in the Shobara area that can be enjoyed by families of three generations under the theme of "hometown and play". In addition, the cherry blossoms in Ueno Park were selected as a "100 best cherry blossom viewing spots" by the Japan Sakura Association. Use the Geibi Line or highway transit bus to arrive at Bingo Shobara Station. The scenery of the Four Seasons fascinates the Visitors. 【Soryo Town】 ・ Konjac and yokan! A traditional town that conveys the charm of rural woodlands (Photos 5~8) The flower "Setsubun grass" that heralds the arrival of Spring. More than 40 natural habitats (more than 20 colonies) have been confirmed in Soryo Town, which is One of the best in Japan. In the area surrounded by Clear water and abundant nature, where snowmelt streams stream in spring, Gastronomical delicacies unique to this area are popular, such as the long-established taste "Taga Yokan" that has been around since the Meiji era, and the "Soryo Konjac" which is a hand-cooked konjac made with raw potatoes. There are many activities to refine the charm of rural woodlands and enliven the central Mountainous Area, such as associations that take advantage of depopulation and initiatives for rural woodlands capitalism. 【Kuchiwa Town】 ・ Speaking of mouth, Mo Mo! A town where Wagyu beef culture flourished (Photos 9~12) Kuchiwa Town is located in the northern part of Hiroshima Prefecture, almost in the middle of the Chugoku Mountains. There are many Spot where you can feel the history, such as the famous peak "Mt. Hakkokumi" with a beautiful rice ball-shaped shape, and the mountain of faith "Mt. Bumine" that enshrines tengu, as well as many Clear streams such as rare fireflies, and in the summer, you will be soothed by the murmur of the river and fireflies. Specialties and specialties such as cheese and ice cream made from Hiba beef and raw milk served at the G7 Hiroshima Summit are also manufactured here! Also, from April ~ October, you can enjoy "Shobara rural woodlands Rafting" at Sweetfish no Sato Park, and after playing many, relax in the hot spring of Sweetfish no Sato Park Takase. 【Koya Town】 ・A town on a Highlands where apples grow! Heavy snowfall area with a panoramic view of the snowy landscape (Photos 13~16) Koya Town is located in the northernmost part of Hiroshima Prefecture. It is an area with a high Elevation, clean Water and air, and a large temperature difference blessed with mountain Nature. Apples are a specialty, and you can see apple orchards all over the town. Use campsites that make use of abundant nature, Hiroshima Prefecture natural monuments such as cherry blossoms and giant ginkgo trees, and many scenic spots and historical sites. Shobara City Tourist Information Site "Shobara Tourism Navi" HP is here ▽ https://www.shobara-info.com//

Roadside Station Takano, a popular roadside station in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, will celebrate its 12th anniversary on April 12, 2025, and we have been able to enter our 13th year! ✨✨ To express our gratitude to everyone, we will Held in the "Roadside Station Takano 12th Anniversary Thanksgiving Festival". 【Events Name】Roadside Station Takano's 12th Anniversary Thanksgiving Festival Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025 and Sunday, June 8, 2025 9:00~17:00 【Place】Roadside Station Takano 【Address】〒727-0423 Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Koya-cho, Shimomonda 49 【Contents】 Hibagon and the others are also haunted! 🎪 Sales booth by shipper 🤝 "Roadside Station Collaboration" "Roadside Station Gourmet Booth" 🚔 "A large gathering of working cars!" Boarding experience & shooting! 🪪Let's make a JAF child safety license! 🍎 Unveiling of "2-day only" Sweets and new products! 🏕 Onidani Auto Camp "Wood chopping & bonfire experience" 🩸 Meiji Yasuda Life "Health Check Corner" (6/7 only) ⚠️ Cafe Restaurant Sorara "Eat-in Space" 【Vacation restaurant will be closed for 2 days】 And! With our daily gratitude to all of you... 🤖🤡🤹‍♀️ ◾️ For those who ◾️ purchase 2,500 yen or more at the Direct sales You will receive a "Garapon lottery ticket" to win a wonderful ○〇! * Distribution will end as soon as the Premiums are gone * Fun for more information as we keep you updated! Please come and visit us! Production and staff are looking forward to seeing you 💁 ♀️ 
* Depending on the weather and conditions, The contents are subject to change or cancellation. Thank you for your understanding. 
 Click here for Events Information▽ https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5062...

[Shobara Tourism Promotion Organization (Shobara DMO) Announcement] Good morning 🌞 Today, Cool Japan Video granted this account an official badge ✨✨✨ And thank you, as always, to everyone who watches. We will continue working hard to share the charms of Shobara, Hiroshima Prefecture in an easy-to-understand and enjoyable way so that more people will visit! If you’re curious about outing information for Shobara, Hiroshima Prefecture, please check the Shobara Tourism Information site "Shobara Tourism Navi"! Shobara Tourism Promotion Organization (Shobara DMO) is an organization that values contributing to the community and personal growth! ▷ Development and sales of tourism products and local specialties that leverage regional resources. ▷ Promotion, PR, and sales activities to attract tourists and tours. ▷ Information services for inquiries about tourist information. [Contact] Shobara Tourism Promotion Organization (General Incorporated Association) TEL 0824-75-0173 FAX 0824-75-0172 Shobara DMO official site ▽ https://shobara-dmo.jp// Shobara Tourism Navi information site ▽ https://www.shobara-info.com//

We present seven recommended ways to spend time in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Take time to face the mountain colors, the scent of the trees, the murmur of rivers, and the voice of the wind, and cherish moments to look inward as you enjoy how to spend your time in Shobara. 1 Satoyama (Rural Mountain Landscapes) Photo 1: Rice field scenery in Mikawachi Shobara still preserves pastoral landscapes where traditional ways of life persist and many kominka, or old private houses, that retain a nostalgic charm. Seeing how people live here, you feel a surprising sense of nostalgia despite it being your first visit. 2 Healing Photo 2: Kumano Shrine Step into a mysterious shrine precinct deep in the forest, surrounded by countless cedar trees, and ancient cedars older than a thousand years will greet you. As you move forward in awed silence, the fatigue of everyday life seems to wash away little by little. 3 Oishii (Delicious Food) Photo 3: Hiba Beef gourmet Eating fresh, locally sourced ingredients in the place they were harvested is one of this town’s great pleasures. The tender meat of Shobara’s branded Hiba beef, passed down from the oldest local cattle line, paired with crisp vegetables, brings a smile the moment you take a bite. 4 Botanical (Nature and Plants) Photo 4: National Bihoku Hillside Park A blue sky and a sea of flowers feel like stepping into a storybook. The blooms’ colors enchant you and make you eager for the next season. Surrounded by sweet fragrances, let easy conversation flow. 5 Activity Photo 5: Apple picking Pluck a cluster of glossy red apples and take a big bite! The juicy sweetness fills your mouth. Enjoy the different colors and shapes of each variety, and you’ll feel like a child again—so much so you might pick more than you need. 6 Relaxation Photo 6: Staying in a kominka Gentle mountains and clear air set the scene. Sunlight streaming into your lodging slows your sense of time, and the warmth of the wooden house soothes both body and mind. 7 Adventure Photo 7: Shobara Satoyama Rafting Surrounded by vast nature, move forward while feeling the fresh air and the river’s flow. Gripping your paddle, you’ll find yourself swept up in the action. The thrill of descending the river together with everyone is unforgettable.

On display in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture until Sunday, June 15, 2025! “Shobara Satoyama Open Garden 2025 Spring” The Shobara Satoyama Open Garden is a regular spring and autumn event held each year, where you can visit gardens ranging from wildly inventive small plots to authentic Japanese gardens, featuring seasonal flowers in bloom. 🌼🌹 For the latest updates, be sure to check the Shobara Satoyama Open Garden Instagram! ✅ Account here ▽ 🌼 @satoyamaopengarden 🌼 Event name: Shobara Satoyama Open Garden 2025 Spring Location: Various gardens around Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Inquiries: Shobara Flower Council Office General Incorporated Association Shobara Tourism Promotion Organization (Shobara DMO) TEL 0824-75-0173 FAX 0824-75-0172 Open garden notes: If a sign at a garden entrance reads “CLOSE,” please refrain from visiting. Do not enter private areas such as homes or restrooms. Please use the restrooms inside the open garden information centers or public restrooms. ※Gardens marked as having restrooms are available for use. If you come by car, please use the designated parking areas. Refrain from parking in ways that inconvenience nearby residents. Bringing pets is generally not allowed. ※Gardens marked with a pet-friendly symbol allow pets. Always keep pets on a leash and, when possible, keep the leash short. The open gardens are available to view thanks to the generosity of the gardeners. Please follow viewing etiquette and express your appreciation freely. ◎For the latest information, visit Instagram!

Today, May 30th, is "Kominka Day"!🏘 Shobara City in Hiroshima Prefecture is blessed with vast nature and retains many traditional wooden houses, ranking third in the nation for kominka preservation. To address vacant-house issues, several renovated inns that evoke the satoyama (rural mountain landscape) by showcasing the buildings' original materials have appeared. setouchi kominka stays hiroshima introduces three houses—chojaya, furousen, and kozako forest—and this time we present a newly renovated inn focused on the outdoors with maximum openness. Its name is kusamura. This is a private-rental tent sauna and an entire kominka available for exclusive use, boasting perhaps the most striking presence in Japan. Housed in a 150-year-old renovated kominka with plenty of outdoor features, one highlight is the BBQ. About a 15-minute drive away, shokusai-kan shobara yume sakura sells Hiba Beef and fresh vegetables, so you can buy ingredients there and bring them for a lively group meal. Second, enjoy a tent sauna that offers a strong sense of privacy for you and your friends. Cooling off outdoors on the engawa (veranda) feels great and provides a unique, deeply relaxing experience. Third, you can have a bonfire. Gather around the flames and enjoy conversation. The sleeping area includes four single beds, one air mattress, and one hammock. The place is equipped with essentials such as a refrigerator, stove, and towels. Happily, pets are allowed, so consider staying with your dog. Please note that guests under junior high school age cannot stay overnight, so be careful when booking. Address: 2765 Kawakitacho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Price: From JPY 16,200 per night Reservations: Book via Airbnb or Booking.com Hours: Check-in from 15:00 / Check-out by 11:00

June is almost here! In Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, blessed with great nature, you can see fireflies. At Hotaru-mi Park in Kuchiwa Town, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, many visitors gather every year. The fireflies fly from around 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with a peak 30-minute period from about 9:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. About 300 meters downstream from Hotaru-mi Park there is a spot where Genji fireflies appear. This year’s best viewing time is expected to be later than usual because cherry blossoms bloomed late. Hotaru-mi Park has a campsite, and around July you can see Hime fireflies. Hime fireflies glow more quietly than Genji fireflies, and people who have gone camping at Hotaru-mi Park report the rare experience of seeing many fireflies gather in front of their tents. Hotaru-mi Park has few lights, making it an excellent place for firefly watching. At the “Firefly Viewing Gathering” held on Saturday, June 21, all lights in the management building and campsite will be turned off for one minute starting at 9:00 p.m., so you can enjoy only the fireflies’ glow. You just have to go…! Food trucks and stalls are also planned for the day. Please come visit Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture—see you by car! ● Basic information for Hotaru-mi Park Address: 2-1 Otsuki, Kuchiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Phone: 0824-87-2513 *The manager is on duty from 8:00 to 17:00* *If no one answers, the manager will call you back* Parking: Available, about 30 spaces ● Event information for the Firefly Viewing Gathering Venue: Hotaru-mi Park, Moomoo Local Products Hall, Shingetsu Marche (former Mikami residence) Address: 2-1 Otsuki, Kuchiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Date and time: Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. (Firefly viewing hours: 6:00 p.m. onward) There are many other spots and events where you can see fireflies. For details, please see the Shobara tourist information site, Shobara Tourist Navi.

At the ‘‘Kokuei Bihoku Hillside Park’’ in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture—situated almost in the exact center of the Chugoku region—the rose garden has reached peak bloom starting Wednesday, May 21, 2025! Colorful roses are in full bloom, and each one is beautiful. This rose garden was newly established in 2020 on roughly 400 square meters and features 118 varieties and 206 repeat-blooming rose shrubs. To enliven the north area and enhance the garden’s appeal, we began collaborating with rose enthusiasts from Shobara City in July 2024 to improve fertilization, perform detailed pruning, and train plants on arches and fences as part of ongoing cultivation and maintenance. We have added varieties such as Michelangelo and Christian Dior to further enrich the rose garden. The garden is expected to be at its best from mid-May through late July and again from mid-October through late November. Blooming information (as of May 21) Name: Roses Varieties currently in bloom: Peace, Queen Elizabeth, and many others Bloom condition: Peak bloom Blooming period: Mid-May to late July; early October to late November Basic facility information Location: Inside Kokuei Bihoku Hillside Park, Satoyama Station Shobara Furari Address: 4-10 Mikkaichicho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 727-0021 Contact: Kokuei Bihoku Hillside Park TEL 0824-72-7000 Website: For details, check the official Kokuei Bihoku Hillside Park website!

NEW OPEN on May 23! A new general store is opening in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture☕🌳 Its name is bonheur poche (bonheur poche). In French it means "pocket of happiness." The owner, Mr. Motoyoshi, is from Osaka and has worked mainly as an interior coordinator, contributing to the creation of over 1,000 homes. Driven by a long-held wish to run a café, Mr. Motoyoshi opened Satoyama Cafe An in October 2024. Families, café lovers, and visitors from afar keep returning to Satoyama Cafe An. The café, renovated from a 100-year-old traditional house, feels stylish and refined while holding a hint of nostalgia. He places particular care on creating a comfortable atmosphere. He sources everyday goods that blend into daily life and add a little richness to living. Bonheur poche will also host workshops in the future. Both Satoyama Cafe An and bonheur poche will continue to develop as places that visitors can enjoy. For details, see the Editorial Report on the Shobara Tourist Navi site, Shobara Tourist Navi. Basic information for bonheur poche Opening date: Friday, May 23, 2025 Address: 89 Kamihara-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Hours: 11:00–17:00 Closed: Monday and Tuesday; Sundays irregularly closed Parking: Available (shared with Satoyama Cafe An) Contact: 0824-74-6994 (shared with Satoyama Cafe An)

May has finally reached the late part of the month! 🌳🍃 This time, we present eight fresh-green spots in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture—places blessed with vast nature and satoyama landscapes that you should stop by. Each spot includes two photos! For more details, see the spot information on Shobara Tourist Navi, Shobara City’s tourism information site! ✨ 1⃣ Nanatsukahara Plateau Poplar Avenue Address: Nanatsuka-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Highlights: Nanatsukahara Plateau was the site of Japan’s first national stud farm, established in 1900. Since then, it has built a history as a livestock research institution and now continues research as the Prefectural Livestock Technology Center. The poplar avenue was planted when the Nanatsukahara Ranch opened in the Meiji era and stands tall along both sides of a 200-meter ranch road within the pasture. 2⃣ Taishaku Gorge, a Quasi-National Park Address: Tojo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture – Jinseki Kogen Town, Jinseki District, Hiroshima Prefecture Highlights: Taishaku Gorge offers the limestone natural bridge Onbashi, the preserved Hakundo limestone cave with stalactites and stone formations, and many other dramatic rocks that convey a long history. Shinryuko, an artificial lake completed in the Taisho era, hosts activities such as kayaking and sightseeing boat rides. 3⃣ Biboku Hilltop Park Satoyama Station Shobara Furari (National Government Park) Address: 584 Nanatsuka-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Highlights: The National Biboku Hilltop Park sits at the heart of the Chugoku region with the theme “Hometown Play” and welcomes three-generation families. Satoyama Station Shobara Furari inside the park is a free area (note: some days may not be free), and in front lies Kunigane Pond, where visitors can sense the vastness of nature. The site also features a restaurant, dog run, and kids’ space, and a monthly market event is held. 4⃣ Mt. Hiba (Hibayama) Address: Mikawachi, Hiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Highlights: Mt. Hiba is associated with a theory that it is the burial place of the goddess Izanami no Mikoto from the Kojiki creation myth. At the center of a moss-covered megalith on the summit’s circular clearing—set within a beech forest—lies what is said to be her grave. The area is designated as the Hiba Mountain Legendary Site and listed as a Hiroshima Prefecture historic site. A stand of yew trees designated as a natural monument by Shobara City grows near the summit. Mt. Azuma, also in Shobara City, is another popular mountain for hikers. 5⃣ Mt. Azuma (Azumayama) Address: Moriwaki, Hiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture – Omaki, Okuizumo Town, Nita District, Shimane Prefecture Highlights: At 1,239 meters in the Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park, Mt. Azuma welcomes beginner hikers with beech forests and natural grassy meadows. You can enjoy vivid nature from spring’s fresh green through the first snows of late autumn. Legend says Izanagi no Mikoto called to Izanami no Mikoto on Mt. Hiba with the words “Ah, my wife.” Mt. Hiba, also in Shobara City, is another popular hiking spot. On Sunday, June 1, 2025, the Mt. Azuma summer opening ceremony praying for climbing safety will take place. 6⃣ Mt. Dogo (Dogoyama) Address: Saijo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture – Nichinan, Hino District, Tottori Prefecture Highlights: Forming part of the Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park and bordering Tottori Prefecture, Mt. Dogo is a treasure trove of alpine plants and rare species. A vast grassy plaza called Tsukimioka spreads at about 1,000 meters above sea level, and remnants of former grazing appear as long stone walls running from Iwatoyama to the Dogo summit like a Great Wall. These natural and human-shaped scenes are striking. The trails are relatively gentle, making the mountain suitable for families and beginners. Azaleas bloom beautifully in June, pampas grass in autumn, and the 360-degree views are wonderfully dreamy. Each year, the Dogo Highlands Opening is held. 7⃣ Mt. Ashitake (Ashitakeyama) Address: Homura-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Highlights: Nicknamed the “Japanese Pyramid,” Mt. Ashitake has long been linked by legend to the mausoleum of Emperor Jimmu. Its triangular silhouette—from any angle—and the clusters of large boulders gave it the aura of an ancient ruin. In 1934, pyramid researcher Katsugun Sakai visited and studied the boulder groups and mountain, proposing that Ashitake is the world’s oldest pyramid main hall and that nearby Kikyozan on the north side serves as the worship hall. Mt. Ashitake features huge rocks such as Taka-iwa, Tengu-iwa, and Toriboshi-iwa, while Kikyozan contains Mirror Rock, Orientation Stone, dolmens (offering tables), and Jinmu Rock among many monoliths. 8⃣ The Great Horse Chestnut of Kumano (Kumano Shrine) Address: 630 Kumano, Saijo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Highlights: Kumano Shrine venerates the Kojiki deity Izanami no Mikoto, the goddess of land creation. Over 100 giant cedars grow there, 11 of which are designated as Hiroshima Prefecture natural monuments. The shrine is a popular power spot where visitors can feel a mystical atmosphere. The Great Horse Chestnut of Kumano is one of Japan’s largest hollow-based ancient trees and is designated a national natural monument. This 30-meter horse chestnut is of a species similar to the chestnut-lined avenues in Paris and ranges in Japan from Hokkaido to Kyushu. For the sake of tree protection, please avoid entering the area around the tree’s base.

Taishaku Gorge, one of Japan’s leading gorges, spans Tojo Town in Shobara City and Jinseki Kogen Town in Jinseki District, Hiroshima Prefecture. Located in the heart of the Chugoku Mountains, it is a principal scenic spot of Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park and is designated a nationally recognized place of scenic beauty. Here are two highlights of the Taishaku Gorge area: Onbashi and Shinryu Lake. Onbashi is a colossal natural bridge representing Japan, measuring 90 meters long, 18 meters wide, and 40 meters high. It is a limestone bridge spanning the Taishaku Gorge valley and, because of its grandeur, is also known as Kono Bridge. Shinryu Lake is an artificial lake completed in the Taisho era within a limestone gorge, with a 24-kilometer shoreline and an 8-kilometer length. In the coming season the area will be lush with fresh green leaves, and in autumn you can admire fiery foliage from sightseeing boats on the lake. A karst plateau formed by deep erosion of limestone extends across the area, preserving a landscape that remains in harmony with nature. Within this quasi-national park’s expansive natural setting, you can rent bicycles and enjoy activities such as kayaking and open-boat rides. Aim to visit now while the fresh green season is at its most beautiful!