Open only two days a week!? 😍
Three hidden gem bakeries in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture you’ll want to go out of your way to visit 🥐💞

Read the article here 🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5461

As a foodie in my 30s who loves sweets, I adore hunting for places that aren’t “ordinary.” In Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, there are hidden bakeries that operate as mobile vendors or only open on limited days. I actually visited them and will introduce them here!

Be sure to check the Shobara Tourist Navi website’s “Editorial Report”!

Enveloped by the forest, a gentle hot spring
The end of a day touring Miyoshi
There is a place where you can soak in the onsen and stay the night afterwards.

The hot spring at Kumita Onsen Mori no Izumi
has long been loved as a “beauty spring.”
The water, rich in sodium bicarbonate (bicarbonate of soda), gently smooths the skin,
leaving it feeling soft after your bath.

This spring is said to work gently on neuralgia, chilliness, and poor circulation.

The second floor of the hot spring facility is reserved for overnight guests.
There are Japanese-style rooms, Western-style rooms, and Japanese-Western hybrid rooms,
so you can choose according to group size and how you’d like to spend your time.

There is also a self-catering plan without meals,
which is popular for family gatherings when people return home and for trips with flexible plans.

Reservations are available from Kumita Onsen’s official website.

Day-trip bathing is also available in addition to overnight stays.
Please spend time letting both body and mind be healed by Mori no Izumi.♨

Kumita Onsen Mori no Izumi @kimita_onsen
📍311-3 Izumi Yoshida, Kimita Town, Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Phone / 0824-53-7021
Day-trip bathing
(Fee) Adults 800 yen, ages 3 to elementary school 400 yen, infants free
(Hours) 10:00–20:30 (last admission 20:00)

https://kimitaonsen.com/

Get drunk on the delicious flavors of Shobara City in Hiroshima Prefecture! 😍 Savor smoked dishes and sake at Kaneki-ya in Hakushima-Kitamachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima City 🥩🍶

Kaneki-ya in Hakushima-Kitamachi, Naka Ward is a popular stop for many people with ties to Shobara. Here you can enjoy snacks made with Hiba Beef and a range of smoked items from Smoked Hakoda. Kaneki-ya also offers sake from breweries in Shobara City! This time, we explored what makes Kaneki-ya so appealing.

[Shobara Sightseeing Guide website "Editorial Report" has been updated!]
Read the article here 🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5454

Hello everyone♪
How did you spend the New Year holidays?

Miyoshi Tourist Information Center
reopened for 2026 on Sunday, January 4th.

The Miyoshi Tourist Information Center offers
city circulation maps and tourism brochures for Miyoshi City.
Maps, brochures, and apps make exploring attractions easier.

We also offer guidebooks in foreign languages (English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese)!

When you are near Miyoshi Station,
be sure to stop by the Miyoshi Tourist Information Center♪

Did you know that some areas in Hiroshima Prefecture get heavy snowfall? ⛄

Shobara City, located in the heart of the Chugoku region at the northernmost part of Hiroshima Prefecture, is known as one of the prefecture’s major heavy-snow zones. You can ski and snowboard at three ski areas in Shobara—Hiroshima Kenmin-no-Mori Ski Area, Dogoyama Kogen Ski Resort, and Ringo Kyowakoku Ski Area—and some campers enjoy winter camping at local campgrounds, so you can get active and enjoy various snow activities.

At the National Bihoku Hillside Park, the winter illumination event “Bihoku Illumi” is taking place.
The display runs through Monday, January 12, 2026 (a public holiday).
Enjoy a magical time with your loved ones as snow, light, and sound come together. ⛄

Also, on Sunday, February 1, a snowball fight tournament will be held. Spectators are welcome even if you don’t participate.

Winter is the time to visit Shobara! Please come and see us…! ✨

For winter event details, see below🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/133

Visit the “Shobara Tourism Navi” website🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/

Merry Christmas! 🎅✨
How are you spending this Christmas?

Hiroshima Prefecture’s largest illumination event, Bihoku Illumination, is now underway at National Bihoku Hillside Park 🎄💞

An installation art collective called Mirror Baller, known for creating spaces of light and reflection, presents artworks themed around “Dream,” filling the winter park with magical light and sound.
Enjoy a photogenic, moving experience.
Last year Mirror Baller occupied a paid special area; this year they are free to enter.

🌟Event details here🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5326

🌟Recommended articles🔽
[2025 Updated] Pair the National Bihoku Hillside Park illumination with delicious on-site gourmet treats!
https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5380

[Spectacular Views in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture — This Is the Place!]
Experience beautiful nature🍃 Top scenic spots in Shobara!

Located in the center of the Chugoku region, Shobara covers a territory where 80 percent of the area is forest. This town, where people and nature live together in satoyama-style communities, still preserves natural wonders you won’t find in the city. Here are breathtaking vistas that remind you of the everyday, long-forgotten but precious gifts of vast nature and the kindness of its people.

For more details, visit the Shobara Tourism Navi website🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/spot/4019

[Outdoor and Active Picks in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture]
Fun for everyone! 😍 Enjoy Shobara’s vast nature with these activities

Blessed with expansive wilderness, Shobara is a summer retreat and home to Ogidani Auto Campsite, one of Hiroshima Prefecture’s largest campgrounds where you can even try rare snow camping in Western Japan during winter. Beyond camping, thrill-seekers can enjoy rafting, canoe and kayak experiences, and river walking. In winter, you can fully enjoy outdoor sports like skiing.

For more details, visit the Shobara Tourist Navi website🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/spot/4018

Seven must-try ramen shops in Shobara City, at the northern tip of Hiroshima Prefecture 🍜✨

[Shobara Sightseeing Navi website: "Editorial Report" is up!]
Check the article here 🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5445

In Shobara City, you can enjoy a wide range of ramen, from classic light broths to more unusual bowls.

With so many attractive shops to choose from, a steaming bowl of ramen will be just what you want as the cold season sets in!!

This time, we introduce ramen you can eat around Shobara City.
We’ve summarized each shop’s appeal and characteristics.

Be sure to find your favorite bowl 🍜✨

[Hot Springs and Day-Use Baths in Shobara, Hiroshima Prefecture — Your Go-To Spots!]
Relax your body and mind 🍃 Hot springs in Shobara♨

These hot springs ease fatigue and offer soothing relief. With open-air baths framed by nature’s year-round scenery, both body and mind unwind. The freely flowing water from mineral-rich pools adds a touch of luxury. Whether on a trip or taking a daily break, be sure to enjoy Shobara’s hot springs.

For details, visit the Shobara Tourism Navi website 🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/spot/4017

【Top 8 Miyoshi Gourmet Delights You Can Order Online】
A must-see for anyone who wants to enjoy Miyoshi’s gourmet flavors at home! ✨

Here are Miyoshi gourmet items available for mail order — perfect for family gatherings over the New Year or get-togethers with friends.
Find your favorites and take your time
savoring the tastes of Miyoshi. 🍽️✨

If you have recommendations, please leave a comment!

※■Shops participating in the Furusato Nozei return‑gift program
are also listed on the furusato nozei (hometown tax) websites.
Be sure to search for them♪

************************************************
01 Mitonoba
■Address: 561-1 Higashisakaya-chō, Miyoshi-shi, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
■Instagram: @mitonoba7
■Online Shop:
Search for "Miyoshi Wine Beef"
https://meetnoba.base.shop/
■Participating vendor for Furusato Nozei return gifts

************************************************
02 Mirasaka Fromage
■Address: 1617-1 Mirasaka Nika, Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
■Online Shop:
Search for "Mirasaka Fromage"
https://mfromage.net/
■Participating vendor for Furusato Nozei return gifts

************************************************
03 Izumiya Confectionery (Japanese & Western Confections)
■Address: 5038-1 Mirasaka, Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
■Instagram: @izumiya_mirasaka
■Online Shop:
Search for "Izumiya Miyoshi"
https://www.kashiwa-mochi.com/
■Participating vendor for Furusato Nozei return gifts

************************************************
04 Hiroshima Okonomiyaki Ima-chan
■Address: 2130-7 Shiomachi, Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
■Online Shop:
Search for "Ima-chan Miyoshi"
https://oko-imachan.jp/
■Participating vendor for Furusato Nozei return gifts

************************************************
05 Kodama Soy Sauce
■Address: 230 Shimokawatate-chō, Miyoshi-shi, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
■Instagram: @marutamasoysause
■Online Shop:
Search for "Kodama Soy Sauce kirisoba"
https://marutama7.com/
■Participating vendor for Furusato Nozei return gifts

************************************************
06 Fujita Foods
■Address: 738 Megurigami-chō, Miyoshi-shi, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
■Online Shop:
Search for "Fujita Foods Miyoshi"
https://fujita-foods.xsrv.jp/
A product list is available on the "Wani no Heya" page
To order, please call or fax: 0824-66-1082 / 0824-66-1093

************************************************
07 Yamaoka Sake Brewery
■Address: 489-1 Nishino, Kōnu-chō, Miyoshi-shi, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
■Instagram: @yamaokasyuzou
■Online Shop:
Search for "Yamaoka Sake Brewery Miyoshi"
https://zuikan.jp/
■Participating vendor for Furusato Nozei return gifts

************************************************
08 HIROSHIMA NOH BREWERY
■Address: 917 Kaitabara, Kisa-chō, Miyoshi-shi, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
■Instagram: @hiroshimanohbrewery
■Online Shop:
Search for "Hiroshima Noh Beer"
https://hiroshima-noh-brewery.com/
■Participating vendor for Furusato Nozei return gifts

【Everybody is welcome!】
Right next to Kamikawatachi Station
is Cafe Mike and Shirley
—a shop marked by its name painted on a white wall,
housed in a renovated 70-year-old rice warehouse☕

Inside, you’ll find teapots, cups, and British teas sourced from the United Kingdom.

The tall ceilings and natural light create a relaxed space where you can enjoy tea or lunch at your leisure.

The lunch menu’s fish pie comes straight from the oven, served piping hot.

Wrapped in the toasty aroma of cheese, a spoon reveals a white sauce filled with salmon, shrimp, and scallops.
The seafood’s savory flavors gently unfold.

Served with salad and bread, the herb-scented notes drifting from the bread whet the appetite 😋

Owner Mr. Soneda honed his skills at Jamie Oliver’s restaurant.

Desserts are made by his British wife, Karina, and each one is authentically done.

They opened with the idea of creating a place where eating makes people happy, right here in Kamikawatachi.

If you’re lucky, you can spot a train through the window, giving you the feeling of a pleasant stop on your journey 🚃

This is the perfect spot not only for fans of British cuisine but also for anyone seeking a calm café experience.

【Café Mike and Shirley】
@cafemikeandshirley
■ Address: 2271-2 Kamikawatachi, Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
■ Hours: 11:30–17:00
■ Closed: Monday, Tuesday, and the 2nd and 4th Sundays
■ Tel: 070-1874-8939
■ Vegetarian options available
■ Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers
■ Diaper changing sheet available
※Menu items and prices are as of the time of posting.

Where to stay in Shobara, Hiroshima Prefecture: private rented traditional houses and more!
A retreat in Shobara to soothe body and mind with satoyama scenery💛

A quiet traditional house hotel nestled in the great outdoors, offering a chance to experience satoyama landscapes you rarely encounter. This special inn pampers you from the inside out with open-air baths, a sauna, gourmet cuisine, and attentive hospitality.

For details, visit the Shobara Tourism Navi website🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/spot/4016

[Roadside Stations and Shopping in Shobara, Hiroshima Prefecture — Your Go-To Spots!]
Take a spontaneous drive! 🚗 Enjoy local food and shopping at roadside stations

Roadside stations brim with local specialties. They gather regional produce and processed goods, and when you spot one during a drive or trip, it’s the kind of welcoming stop you’ll want to pop into—a pleasant place for everyone to relax. Come by and savor Shobara’s food and shopping offerings.

Not only roadside stations but also direct-sale markets and product halls
Why not drop by for some shopping on your drive ✨

For details, visit the Shobara Tourism Navi website 🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/spot/4015

[A special one just for you ✨]
It feels like gazing into a jeweler’s display case!
This rumoured patisserie makes everyone’s eyes light up.

Introducing Patisserie bianco nero (Patisserie Bianco Nero)
.

The shop name Bianco Nero (literally "white and black" in Japanese)
is also the nickname of the Italian football team Juventus.

True to its name, the chic interior is styled in black and white.
Beautifully shaped cakes line the display case.
They aren’t sliced cakes but individually crafted whole cakes.

"We want to deliver a single special cake just for you,"
and "We want people to enjoy an entire cake filled with our feelings," the pastry chef says.

The chef trained as a pastry chef under a French chef at a renowned Western confectionery shop in Shizuoka Prefecture.

Deciding to live in a place rich in nature, the chef relocated and opened this shop in Miyoshi in May 2018.

On this day, we spoke with a regular customer.
"They’re like works of art—when you open the box everyone goes ‘wow’. The sweetness is restrained and the flavours are delicate. There’s no other shop like this," they said.

The taste and beauty have built a reputation, attracting visitors who bring coolers from outside the prefecture and many customers from Hiroshima City.
Customer gender is about evenly split between men and women.

The cake selection changes frequently with the seasons and events.

Come by to find your own special cake 😊

*Products and prices are as of the time of publication.*

Patisserie bianco nero
@patisserie_bianco_nero
📍 2-15-14 Tokaichi South, Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
📞 0824-53-1315
Hours: 10:00–18:00
*Closed when sold out*
Closed: every Wednesday and the 1st and 3rd Thursdays
Access: about a 3-minute drive from Miyoshi Interchange (Miyoshi IC)
Parking: available
Other:
We recommend reserving the item you want.
Same-day holds are available if ordered that day 😊
Christmas limited cakes will arrive soon!
*Please make reservations and inquiries by phone.*

Hiroshima Prefecture Shobara City's top spots for food and shopping!
Blessed with vast land, Shobara offers farm-to-table gourmet delights.

Surrounded by rich nature and marked by big temperature swings, Shobara is a treasure trove of delicious ingredients.
As one of the prefecture's largest agricultural towns, it is home to the nationally acclaimed wagyu brand Hiba Beef 🥩, a specialty unique to Shobara.

From these local ingredients come indulgent and exceptionally tasty treats.
Be sure to try the exclusive specialties you can only taste in Shobara.

For more details, visit the Shobara Tourism Navigation website 🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/spot/4014

Today, December 8, is "Rice Day" 🍚✨
Satoyama no Yume, a branded rice from Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, won first place in the "Osaka Residents’ Most Delicious Rice Contest" and is a carefully selected rice with a taste score of 80 or higher.

By creating a branded rice, Satoyama no Yume aims to build an environment where young people can take up farming with hope, contribute to agriculture and regional development, and bring dreams and aspirations to the community. This rice packs the dreams of satoyama farmers. To promote circular agriculture by reusing bamboo that damages farmland, farmers spent years experimenting to achieve this proud flavor. They cut bamboo into powder, ferment it for use as fertilizer, and use oyster shells—Hiroshima Prefecture’s specialty—to replenish soil minerals. These practices contribute not only to great taste but also to building a sustainable society that cares for the environment.

(Rice Day falls on the 8th, 18th, and 28th of every month.)

1) [Shobara Satoyama no Yume Farm]
New crop: Shobara branded rice Satoyama no Yume
Set of 3 × 1 kg 6,800 yen (shipping and tax included)

Product here 🔽
https://ec.satoyamaselect.jp/view/item/000000000034?category_page_id=ct45

2) [Shobara Satoyama no Yume Farm]
New crop: Shobara branded rice Satoyama no Yume Premium
Set of 3 × 1 kg 7,500 yen (shipping and tax included)

Product here 🔽
https://ec.satoyamaselect.jp/view/item/000000000005?category_page_id=ct45

“Hiroshima Prefecture Shobara City’s Finest from Farming Town” Winter Gifts 2025 Start! ✨
Get extra savings by adding our official LINE account as a friend

Details here🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/special/5357

Shop directly from producers to enjoy the flavors of Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Winter Gifts 2025 are now open for orders at Satoyama Shobara SELECT SHOP, our producer-direct online store! ⛄🎁✨

[Order Period] Until Friday, December 26, 2025

This year’s lineup includes fan-favorite products such as the “Hiba Beef Soboro and Shigure-ni Set,” made with 100% Hiba Beef—the legendary branded wagyu of Shobara—easy-to-eat “Shobara Wild Boar Gyoza” with no strong gamey taste, a “Charcoal-Smoked Assortment” that brings out the best of Shobara’s premium ingredients, Aigamo (duck) raised alongside rice in Tojo Town, and Ichiki Town’s “Shikishin Natural Yam,” all perfect companions for the winter season.

Last year’s popular winter selection, the “Bihoku Mon Gift,” returns with a newly prepared New Rice Companion Set and a Sweets Set. We also offer the “Shobara City Branded Rice Set” and the “Shobara 20th Anniversary Commemorative Sake,” among other direct-from-producer gifts filled with producers’ dedication.

These seasonal tastes make wonderful gifts for loved ones and are also perfect as gourmet deliveries to enjoy at home—please try them during this season✨

Plus, everyone who newly adds the Satoyama Shobara SELECT SHOP official LINE account as a friend will receive an exclusive friend-only coupon.

See the link for more details!

Hiroshima Prefecture Shobara City | New Bakery News 🥖✨
Wakey Wakey Bakery, which just opened on Friday, October 17, 2025, is now featured on the Shobara Tourism Navi website!

See spot details here 🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/spot/5379

The shop name comes from the English word “Wakey,” meaning wake-up and used like a cheerful call to small children. It reflects the owner Rina Nagai’s personal touch—she studied abroad at a university in the State of California. Her wish is simple: to make bread that people want to eat as soon as they wake up, comforting and part of everyday life.
The breads on offer use Rina’s original recipes, refined with techniques she learned while working at a bakery in the United States to bring out each item’s flavor. The most popular items are two character breads inspired by a Shiba Inu: Shiba-san (custard) and Nikukyuu Punch (chocolate). Inspired by childhood visits to bakeries with her parents, where character breads captured her imagination, she wanted to create breads that excite children.

Basic Information
Phone TEL 080-6068-0187
Address 1-1294-8 Nakahommachi, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Parking Available 1 space near the shop (No.7)
Closed Monday; Wednesday to Thursday; Saturday to Sunday
Hours Tuesday and Friday 10:00 until sold out

Cheese from Shobara wins Super Gold at the World Cheese Awards! 🥇 The story of Cheese Studio Nyuizu’s popular product “Yukiko.” 🧀

At the World Cheese Awards 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious cheese contests held in Bern, Switzerland from Thursday, November 13 to Saturday, November 15, the NPO Cheese Professional Association awarded Super Gold to “Yukiko” by Cheese Studio Nyuizu. ✨

You can purchase sets including “Yukiko” from Satoyama Shobara SELECT SHOP, an online direct-from-producer shop that lets you enjoy the food of Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture. ⛄🧀

◎ Award-Winning Cheese Set ◎
https://ec.satoyamaselect.jp/view/item/000000000023?category...

◎ Miyoshi Wine and Cheese Set ◎
https://ec.satoyamaselect.jp/view/item/000000000227?category...

Details URL
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000024.000095826.html

Making soba in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture was fun to make and delicious to eat! We tried a soba-making experience at the National Bihoku Hillside Park 🥢🔥

When it comes to uniquely Japanese food, soba is a must. Served chilled on a bamboo tray in summer and in hot broth in winter, it’s enjoyed year-round. Did you know the National Bihoku Hillside Park in Shobara City offers soba-making workshops? This time, Momoka Matsumoto and Shogo Ikebuchi tried making soba for the first time! Here’s a report on the process and its highlights.

Read the article here 🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5352

In Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, there’s a bookstore that even sells local sake and souvenirs! 😍
A bookstore that hosts surprise events? Discover the many charms of We Higashijo Store 📚✨

Sosho Sato Main Store in Jinsekikogencho began in the Meiji era as a general shop stocking rubber boots, candles and daily necessities. The second branch, We Higashijo Store, opened in Tojo Town, Shobara City, offering books, CDs and stationery.

More than a bookstore, the store also houses a hair salon, a cosmetics section, an esthetic room and a coin laundry, making it indispensable to the local community. Recently, Tomonori Sato began carefully selecting and selling food items and local sake. The store also runs unique initiatives you won’t find elsewhere, from events to original book covers. ✨

We spoke with fourth-generation CEO Tomonori Sato about the visitor-friendly appeal of We Higashijo Store.

Read the article here🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5346

We Higashijo Store
Address: 1348-1 Kawahigashi, Tojo Town, Shobara City
Phone: 08477-2-1188
Hours: 10:00–19:00
Closed: Open year-round
Parking: Available (30 spaces)

Honabi
Address: 2-12-10 Nishihonmachi, Shobara City
Phone: 0824-73-9366
Hours: 9:30–19:00
Note: From Friday, November 21, 2025, hours will change to 10:00–18:30.
Closed: Tuesdays
Parking: Available (shared parking)

“Bus & Rail Both Ways Discount Ticket” has won the Good Design Award✨

Travel between Hiroshima and Miyoshi with the "Bus & Rail Both Ways Discount Ticket 2025"!
With one round‑trip ticket for 2,000 yen,
you can travel between Hiroshima and Miyoshi
for 1,060 yen less than usual♪

Use a highway bus one way and a JR Geibi Line train the other.
Enjoy the leisurely sway of the Geibi Line,
or take the highway bus to reach your destination quickly and efficiently—
this ticket gives you the best of both worlds. The offer debuted in 2021 and has been popular every year; this is the fifth year🚊

Price
One ticket (round trip) … 2,000 yen

Highlights📣
1. You can freely choose which leg to use for the outbound and return trips.
2. Special perks are included✨
(Please mention them at the counter when purchasing.)
3. You may use the outbound and return trips on different dates.

Purchase Benefits
(1) When buying in Hiroshima (traveling from Hiroshima to Miyoshi)
・400 yen taxi voucher valid for taxis in Miyoshi City
※ Asahi Taxi Miyoshi, Geibi Taxi, Shiwaji Taxi, Miyoshi Midori Taxi

(2) When buying in Miyoshi (traveling from Miyoshi to Hiroshima)
・400 yen discount voucher for Miyoshi Station West Parking Lot

Valid Period
April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026

Sales Locations
●Hiroshima●
・JR Hiroshima Station, Shinkansen Exit, 1st floor ticket office (Travel Information Center)

●Miyoshi●
・Miyoshi City Transportation and Tourism Center, travel information counter
(Mon–Sat 8:00–18:00 / Sun & holidays 8:00–17:00)

Please ask at the counters above for more details♪

The "Bus & Rail Both Ways Discount Ticket 2025" is valid through the end of March 2026!
Enjoy an affordable, fun trip♪

November is almost here 🍂✨
This time, we introduce six autumn foliage spots in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture! 🍁
Be sure to dress warmly and come to Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 💛🎶

🍁🍁🍁Here are the highlights of the six autumn leaves spots🔽🍁🍁🍁

1. The Nursing-Rooting Giant Ginkgo of Mt. Kamitakano 🍁
[Address] Takano-cho, Shinichi, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
[Highlights] This giant ginkgo stands in the precincts of Tenman Shrine, with a trunk circumference at chest height of 9.6 meters, ranking first in the prefecture. It is said to have been planted as a sacred tree when Takemikazuchi-no-kami was enshrined here in the first year of Tenpyo (729). Aerial roots called "breasts" hang down from the main trunk, and it is designated as a prefectural natural monument. ※Please note that conditions may vary depending on the weather.
[Access] About an 8-minute drive from Takano IC on the Onomichi–Matsue Expressway or from Roadside Station Takano
[Typical viewing period] Early to mid-November

2. Mt. Azuma 🍁
[Address] Moriwaki, Hiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
[Highlights] Mt. Azuma belongs to Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park and lies about 35 km north of Shobara City in northern Hiroshima Prefecture. The Azuma Lodge of Kyukamura closed in 2020. Restroom facilities are available at the former campsite public toilets. ※Please note that conditions may vary depending on the weather.
[Typical viewing period] Late October to early November

3. Hiba Mountain Range 🍁
[Address] Yuki, Saijo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture to Shimane Prefecture
[Highlights] A series of mountains around 1,200 meters high, with the area near Hiba-san Goryo covered by a nationally designated natural monument of pure beech forest. Please note that conditions may vary depending on the weather.
[Access] To Hiroshima Prefectural Citizens’ Forest Park Center
About 40 minutes from Shobara IC
About 40 minutes from Tojo IC
[Typical viewing period] Late October to early November

4. Dogo Mountain Range 🍁
[Address] Misaka, Saijo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture to Tottori Prefecture
[Highlights] One of Japan’s 300 Famous Mountains and featured in Sumie Tanaka’s New 100 Famous Flowers of the Mountains. Enjoy 360-degree views from the summit, stone embankments from former ranches, and the large pond built as a water source for tatara ironmaking. ※Please note that conditions may vary depending on the weather.
[Access] About a 45-minute drive from Shobara IC to Tsukimigaoka
About a 30-minute drive from Tojo IC to Tsukimigaoka
[Typical viewing period] From early November

5. Taishakyo Gorge 🍁
[Address] Tojo-cho, Shobara City to Jinseki Kogen Town, Jinseki District, Hiroshima Prefecture
[Highlights] A gorge spanning Tojo-cho in Shobara City and Jinseki Kogen Town. Designated a National Scenic Spot in 1923 and listed among Japan’s Top 100 Landscapes. ※Please note that conditions may vary depending on the weather.
[Access] About a 15-minute drive from Tojo IC on the Chugoku Expressway
[Typical viewing period] Late October to early November

6. The Iroha Maple Group of Kamichi 🍁
[Address] Inakusa, Soryo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
[Highlights] The Iroha maple group of Kamichi includes remarkably large trees, the largest having a trunk circumference at chest height of 3.25 m, and nine others exceeding 2 m in circumference—an unusually large cluster even on a national scale. ※Please note that conditions may vary depending on the weather.
[Access] About a 15-minute drive from Shobara IC on the Chugoku Expressway
[Typical viewing period] Early to mid-November

For autumn foliage information for 2025, see🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/special/4758

For an article summarizing the highlights, see🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5312

A long three-day weekend is coming soon✨
This time, we introduce autumn events and traditional festivals held in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture!✨

🔽🔽🔽We’ve picked five highlights to help you plan your three-day weekend outing!🔽🔽🔽

1⃣ The 32nd Bingi Tojo “Otoori” Parade
Date and Time: Until Sunday, November 2, 2025, starting at noon (12:00)
Location: Starting at Tojo Elementary School Ground
About: Known as the “Otoori,” this event has been organized by the Otoori Preservation and Promotion Association since 1993. The procession features a daimyo procession, warrior procession, and groups carrying horo and hanawarabe, presenting each year in early November a bold and splendid historical pageant.

Event details URL: https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5310
Highlights: https://www.shobara-info.com/report/4841

2⃣ The 18th Taishaku Autumn Leaves Festival
Date and Time: Sunday, November 2, 2025, 10:00–15:00
Location: Taishaku Community Promotion Center
About: A commemorative project for the 20th anniversary of Shobara City’s municipal merger!
Music Plaza
10:15 Niimi Wind Ensemble
11:15 Shobara City 20th Anniversary Stage Part 1 — Ryo Sasaki
12:15 Stage Part 2 — Issei Minami
13:30 Kendama performance
14:00 Singing contest
14:45 Lottery
*Performance times may vary slightly.

Food Plaza
Frankfurters, fried chicken, beef udon, sweet red-bean soup (zenzai), grilled chicken skewers, french fries, yakisoba, beef bowl, teppan-grilled game meat, vegetable tempura, deep-fried maple leaf-shaped cakes, croquettes, coffee, Yotsuba Kobo cookies, sale of locally fresh vegetables, local products, earthenware bells, and a shooting game stall.
Details URL: https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5322

3⃣ Autumn Beef Terrace | Taishakukyo Scola Plateau
Date and Time: Sunday, November 2, 2025, 10:00–15:00
Location: Spice Hall 2F Open Terrace
About: An event where you can enjoy the elusive Jinseki beef at reasonable prices.

Barbecue Set
Set Includes:
Jinseki beef, vegetables, and rice balls

Also happening:
Minna no Marche Hiroshima (market stalls)
Details URL: https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5317

4⃣ Tojo Whole-Town Festival
Date and Time: Monday, November 3, 2025 (National Holiday), 12:00–20:30
Location: Tojo Station and surrounding facilities and downtown areas
About: Besides a music event on the platform inside Tojo Station, the festival offers art and cultural programs that make use of the town’s historic streetscape, bringing together the charm of the Geibi Line and Tojo Town.

Details URL: https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5341

5⃣ The 22nd Children’s Festival
Date and Time: Monday, November 3, 2025 (National Holiday), 10:00–14:00
Location: National Bihoku Hillside Park North Entrance, Satoyama Station Shobara Furari
About: A children’s festival spreading smiles across the Bihoku Hills—everyone gather for the Children’s Festival!
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of Shobara City’s merger, the stage will feature a Remick🎶 concert!
Enjoy hands-on experiences, crafts, and a stamp rally!

Details URL: https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5338

✨🎪 Five Autumn Traditions and Events in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 🎪✨
Enjoy the full bounty of autumn at cheerful events held again this year!

From gourmet treats and hands-on experiences to stage shows and markets,
there are plenty of autumn rewards for the whole family to enjoy all day.

Please come visit Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture!

1⃣ Hiba Mountain Sky Peak Hunt in Hiroshima Prefectural Forest 2025
[Date] Until Monday, November 3, 2025
[Location] Hiroshima Prefectural Forest (registration, start, and finish locations)
[Details]
Same-day registration available! ✨
A mountain event that visits 10 summit points across the Hiba mountain range!
Participants will hunt points by checking summit checkpoints themselves.

[Details URL 🔽]
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5176

2⃣ Tojo Stroll and Townscape Gallery
[Date] Saturday, November 1, 2025 – Wednesday, November 5, 2025
[Location] Kaido Tojo Road, a certified Yumekaido Renaissance district
[Details]
・Opening ceremony and events
・Townscape gallery
・Townscape marche
・Town sake festival
・Special exhibition at the nationally registered tangible cultural property Sanrakuso (held at Sanrakuso)
・The 32nd Bingo Tojo “Otoori” procession

[Details URL 🔽]
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5320

3⃣ Autumn Lunch Buffet 2025 | Kyukamura Taishakukyo
[Date] Saturday, November 1, 2025 – Sunday, November 9, 2025
[Location] Kyukamura Taishakukyo
[Details] Following the popular Obon period service, we will hold an autumn lunch buffet!
This event again features the oven-baked pancake beloved at the breakfast buffet, rice accompaniments, handmade sandwiches, and original dishes for guests of all ages.

Enjoy Taishakukyo in autumn alongside the fall foliage.

[Details URL 🔽]
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5324

4⃣ Winter Illumination 2025–2026 Bihoku Illumi | National Bihoku Hills Park
[Date] Saturday, November 1, 2025 – Monday, January 12, 2026 (national holiday) ※closed certain days during the period
[Location] National Bihoku Hills Park ※parking and admission fees apply
[Details] Spend a special night in a shimmering world of light! Following last year’s success, the Flower Plaza (special area) returns with the “Mirror Bola” dreamlike new world.

[Details URL 🔽]
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5326

5⃣ Sanchaya Festival | National Bihoku Hills Park
[Date] Saturday, November 1, 2025
[Location] Shobara — Sangenchaya
[Details] A festival celebrating the second anniversary of the regional family learning space will be held!

[Details URL 🔽]
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5321

🍁Autumn foliage updates for Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture are being posted from October!🍁
There are six maple-viewing spots in Shobara City in total!✨

In autumn, Shobara City fills with colorful leaves. The foliage in Hiroshima Prefecture starts changing early here, so you can enjoy the colors for a long time. This time, we introduce six autumn-leaf viewing spots within Shobara City.

1. The Great Ginkgo of Chichisagari on Mt. Kamitakano
2. Mt. Azuma
3. The Hiba Mountain Range
4. The Dogo Mountain Range
5. Taishaku Gorge
6. The Iroha Maple Cluster in Kamichi

Find features and highlights here 👇
https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5312

This year’s autumn foliage information is here 🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/4758

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.” ☺️✨