Top 10 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kyonan Town! Discover Attractions Beyond Mount Nokogiri!

Kyonan Town, located in the southern part of Chiba Prefecture, is a small town with a population of about 8,000. However, it is packed with must-visit tourist spots! Known as the base for exploring Mount Nokogiri, Kyonan Town is also popular as a tourist destination where visitors can enjoy beautiful nature, the sea, as well as culture and art.

Here, we will introduce the many attractions of Kyonan Town! Be sure to use this as a reference when planning your visit.

1. Mount Nokogiri

Located on the border of Kyonan Town and Futtsu City, Mount Nokogiri is a mountain that serves as the grounds for Kenkonzan Nihonji Temple. The entire area is filled with sights worth visiting. It's a tourist destination that represents Kyonan Town, attracting a great number of visitors every year!

◆ Mount Nokogiri Ropeway Base Station

Walking south from JR Hamakanaya Station, you’ll find the entrance to Mount Nokogiri, the base station of the Mount Nokogiri Ropeway. The ropeway spans 680 meters and takes about 4 minutes to reach the summit station. As you ascend, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of the surrounding Kyonan Town area. On clear days, you can even see the Skytree and Tokyo Tower! It's sure to set your heart racing as you embark on your journey to explore Mount Nokogiri.

◆ Jusshu Ichirandai

A 15-minute walk from the summit station leads you to Jusshu Ichirandai, a spot that offers panoramic views of the entire Kyonan Town and the Kanto region, as its name suggests. The contrast between the lush nature surrounding Kyonan Town and the shimmering blue of Tokyo Bay is breathtaking, and you can even enjoy the distant views of bustling Tokyo and Yokohama.

Nearby, there’s the Asama Shrine. After soaking in the views, it might be a good idea to stop by for a visit.

◆ Hyakushaku Kannon

The Hyakushaku Kannon is a mystical statue carved into the rock wall. Standing 100 shaku tall (about 30.3 meters), it is truly awe-inspiring! When you stand directly below the statue, you can truly feel its massive size.

Originally created to console the souls of traffic accident victims and war casualties, it is now a popular power spot in Kyonan Town believed to grant protection for traffic safety. The statue, both imposing and gentle, is said to safeguard visitors from accidents.

◆ Ruriko Observatory

Continuing along the path from Hyakushaku Kannon, you’ll reach Ruriko Observatory, famous for its "Hell Lookout." This refers to a rock outcrop that juts out dramatically, resembling a peninsula. It's a favorite spot among tourists, offering a thrilling sensation as if you’re walking in mid-air. It provides a unique scenic view different from the ropeway or Jusshu Ichirandai.

◆ Tokai Sen Gohyaku Rakan Path

Descending further from Ruriko Observatory, you’ll come across the Tokai Sen Gohyaku Rakan Path, a pilgrimage trail lined with countless statues of rakan (Buddha’s disciples). These statues were carved over 20 years by the renowned Edo-period craftsman Jingo Oono. The total number of statues is an astonishing 1,553, and it is said that no two have the same expression. The trail offers a solemn and mystical atmosphere, allowing visitors to experience its unique charm.

◆ Great Buddha Plaza

Along with "Jigoku Nozoki" (Hell Peek), Great Buddha Plaza is a popular spot that represents Mount Nokogiri and Kyonan Town. The seated Buddha here is over twice the size of the Great Buddha of Kamakura and approximately 1.8 times the size of the Great Buddha of Todai-ji, making it the largest seated Buddha in Japan. It is also a power spot believed to grant wishes when you pray to the "Onegai Jizo" (Wish-granting Jizo) located in front of the Great Buddha.

The immense size is conveyed through photos, but seeing it in person is sure to leave you overwhelmed by its grandeur!

◆ Donkairo

Located slightly downhill from the Great Buddha Plaza in the midsection of Mount Nokogiri, Donkairo is a tea house bustling on holidays. It offers delicious tea and sweets, making it a delightful resting spot to soothe your tired body after walking. The surrounding gardens are beautifully maintained, and the view from there rivals the stunning scenery of "Jigoku Nozoki." However, please note that it is only open on holidays and remains closed on other days.

2. Hishikawa Moronobu Memorial Museum

Hishikawa Moronobu, a prominent ukiyo-e artist of the Edo period, was born in Kyonan Town. His famous work, "Beauty Looking Back," is something most people have seen in textbooks. The Hishikawa Moronobu Memorial Museum was established in Kyonan Town to honor his great contributions.

The museum exhibits not only Hishikawa Moronobu's works but also numerous pieces by ukiyo-e artists from later periods. It offers a deep dive into the everyday culture of the Edo period through ukiyo-e and features a video that depicts the life of Hishikawa Moronobu, a source of pride for Kyonan.

3. Roadside Station Hota Elementary School

A unique tourist spot in Kyonan Town that's currently attracting attention is the "Roadside Station Hota Elementary School." The unusual name might pique your interest—and for a good reason. This roadside station was created by repurposing the building of Kyonan Town's Hota Elementary School, which had a history spanning 126 years before it closed.

The former gymnasium has been transformed into the "Kyonan Rakuichi" market, where local specialties from the Kyonan area are sold, while the old classrooms, where lessons once took place, have been converted into accommodations for tourists. Why not experience the nostalgic yet fresh atmosphere at Kyonan’s "Roadside Station Hota Elementary School"?

4. Sakuma Dam Lake Waterside Park

When it comes to cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyonan Town, Sakuma Dam Lake Waterside Park is the place to go! Located in the eastern part of Kyonan Town, the park is surrounded by approximately 2,000 cherry trees that bloom magnificently around Sakuma Dam in spring, attracting numerous visitors. The cherry blossom varieties include Somei Yoshino, weeping cherry trees, and double-flowered cherry blossoms. Additionally, the park is home to plum trees and other spring flowers, making it a beautiful destination from late February to April.

5. Okuzure Narcissus Field

Did you know that Kyonan Town is highly regarded as one of Japan's three major narcissus-producing regions, along with Echizen and Awaji? The Okuzure Narcissus Field is a prominent spot representing Kyonan Town’s narcissus culture. From winter to early spring, approximately 60 million narcissus flowers bloom all at once. At night, the area is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.

Another highlight is the narcissus delivery service available during the blooming season. It’s perfect for those who can’t visit the Okuzure Narcissus Field or wish to enjoy the beautiful flowers of Kyonan Town from the comfort of their home.

6. Hota Beach

Hota Beach is the largest beach in Kyonan Town, stretching about 900 meters along the coastline. On weekends, it is bustling with families and tourists.

At first glance, it may seem like an ordinary beach in Kyonan, but it holds a fascinating secret. In 1889, the renowned writer Natsume Soseki enjoyed swimming here during the summer. This event is said to be the first recorded instance of sea bathing in Kyonan Town and the entire Boso region. Today, a monument engraved with “The Birthplace of Sea Bathing in the Boso Region” stands on the shore. This is a must-visit spot for fans of Natsume Soseki and a key attraction in Kyonan Town!

7. Daikokuyama Observatory

At the summit of Daikokuyama, which towers over the coastline of Kyonan Town, there is an observatory that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Thanks to its moderate elevation—not too high or too low—you can leisurely observe the ships traveling across the bay and the daily lives of the people in Kyonan Town.

Additionally, Daikokuyama has a beautiful bowl-like shape, making it worth admiring not only the view of Kyonan from the observatory but also the unique appearance of Daikokuyama itself from the surrounding areas. Its distinctive presence, paired with the contrast of the nearby sea of Kyonan, creates a picturesque scene that is full of charm.

8. The Fish

"The Fish" is a complex tourist facility in the Kyonan Town area, featuring both a restaurant and a souvenir shop. It is the perfect spot to savor the fresh seafood caught in the Minamiboso area! At the fish market, you can purchase fresh seafood and processed products, all at affordable prices. In the restaurant, you can enjoy various seafood dishes—both Japanese and Western—while taking in the ocean views.

In addition to the delicious seafood, don’t miss the handmade Baumkuchen from the facility’s “Mihamatei” bakery. With accolades such as two Grand Gold Awards from the Monde Selection, its quality is assured. The Baumkuchen comes in various flavors, including ones inspired by Mount Nokogiri and those made with peanuts, a specialty of Chiba Prefecture.

9. Nokogiri-yama Art Museum

Located just a short walk from The Fish, the Kanaya Art Museum features numerous works by artists associated with the local area, such as Kanaya and Kyonan. The museum hosts four to five special exhibitions annually. The exterior, made from Bōshū stone, a material primarily sourced from Nokogiri-yama, is also a must-see.
In addition, the museum shop sells crafts created by local artisans. Be sure to stop by when visiting the museum!

10. Natural Hot Spring Umibe no Yu

If you're looking to relax after sightseeing, extend your journey from Kyonan Town and visit Natural Hot Spring Umibe no Yu! The open-air bath with its glass walls is particularly famous, offering breathtaking views of Tokyo Bay right before your eyes, perfectly fitting its name "Umibe no Yu" (Hot Spring by the Sea). Enjoy the stunning scenery while warming your body to the core.

With options ranging from foot baths and day-use hot springs to overnight stays, there is something for everyone. A souvenir shop is also available, making it a great spot to visit towards the end of your Kyonan sightseeing trip.

◎Summary

Discover the top 10 highlights of Kyonan Town! From the spectacular views of Mount Nokogiri, renowned as one of Chiba Prefecture's most iconic landscapes, to historical landmarks and serene coastal spots, Kyonan offers an abundance of attractions for every traveler. The neighboring towns also boast plenty of charm, making it worthwhile to combine your visit to Kyonan with nearby destinations. Be sure to take a trip to fully enjoy Kyonan Town during a weekend or holiday!

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Top 10 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kyonan Town! Discover Attractions Beyond Mount Nokogiri!