11 Tourist Spots in Niimi City, Okayama Prefecture! Experience the Natural Beauty Sprawled Over a Karst Plateau

Located in the northwestern part of Okayama Prefecture, Niimi City is a town situated on the Kibi Plateau. The southern part of the city lies on a karst plateau, where spectacular natural artworks such as limestone caves can be experienced. Full of local delights unique to this area, here are 11 recommended spots in Niimi City. Be sure to pay a visit at least once!

1. Be Moved by the Delicate Natural Sculptures at “Manki Cave”

Niimi City is home to several limestone caves, which form the centerpiece of local tourism. Among them, a pioneering site developed early on is Manki Cave. The cave’s beautiful lighting creates a fantastic, otherworldly atmosphere.

Although its total length is only 450 meters, the labyrinth-like interior is adorned with icicle-like formations and cave coral among various types of stalactites and stalagmites. There is even a mysterious underground lake, making the cave full of natural beauty and points of interest. Please note that some areas have low ceilings, so exercise caution when moving about inside.

2. The Overwhelming Presence of “Ikurado Cave”

Located in the heart of the vast natural landscape of the Ikuragawa Valley, this limestone cave stretches 1,200 meters. You can fully appreciate the magnificent sculptural beauty of the cave. The entrance is set in a sheer cliff, and nearby, a waterfall cascades down the Takahashi River, creating a breathtaking setting. Even in summer, the cave remains cool at around 15–16°C.

Inside, you will see various beautiful stalactites and stalagmites—icicle-like formations and stone columns—in diverse shapes. These natural artworks, formed from ancient times until the present, are truly astonishing. A full circuit takes approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour, with a shortcut route also available.

3. Refresh Yourself with the Negative Ions from the Beautiful “Kinu-kake Waterfall”

One of the highlights of sightseeing in the Ikuragawa Valley area, this 50-meter waterfall lives up to its name “Kinu-kake” (meaning “silk hanging”), as the water cascading down looks like white silk threads. It is a waterfall that combines delicate beauty with a sense of scale.

Especially during the fresh green of spring or the autumn foliage season, you can enjoy an outstanding view where the waterfall and surrounding nature harmonize beautifully. A statue of Fudo Myo-o is enshrined at the bottom of the falls, earning it the nickname “Fudo’s Waterfall.” Located along a national highway, it makes a great stop during a drive.

4. Art Fans Take Note! Check Out the “Niimi Art Museum”

Located atop a small hill near Niimi Station, this art museum, though small, draws attention from art enthusiasts with its well-curated special exhibitions. Although it is close to the station, reaching it on foot involves a detour with many steps, which might be a bit challenging. For those arriving by car, there is convenient parking available nearby. Additionally, the view of Niimi City from the elevated position is a highlight.

5. Be Enchanted by the Beauty of Jomon Art at the “Ifuura Art Museum”

This museum exhibits works by Ifuura, one of Japan’s leading Jomon sculptors. Opened in 2005 by repurposing a closed-down elementary school building, the museum features over 200 permanent pieces of Ifuura’s distinctive Jomon spiral sculptures—creations that have been revived for the modern era after a period of 2000 years.

You will be amazed by the unique beauty of earthen figures and pots made using the rarely seen Jomon wild firing technique. Additionally, the “Jomon Wild Firing Festival” is held twice a year in spring and autumn, during which traditional wild firing is recreated. The dynamic flames rising during the festival are truly moving.

6. The Charming Wild Growth of Lily of the Valley at “Tetsuta Lily Garden”

This botanical garden features a variety of hygrophyte plants, including Lily of the Valley, arranged over approximately 2 hectares of wetland known as “Omotsubo Marsh.” As you stroll along the walking paths, you can encounter various wildflowers that bloom each season.

The prime attraction is the blooming of the Lily of the Valley around mid-May. Its modest, delicate beauty is sure to soothe your heart—a must-see spot for flower enthusiasts.

7. After Sightseeing, Enjoy a Day Trip to the Hot Springs at Niimi Chiya Onsen “Ibuki-no-Sato”

Located in the northernmost part of Niimi City, this hot spring facility is perfect for soothing your tired body after a day of sightseeing. Surrounded by lush mountains in a refreshing climate and blessed with abundant natural beauty, the onsen’s water is rich in bicarbonate ions and is renowned as “beauty water” for the skin.

The large communal bath features expansive windows that give an open impression. In addition to two types of baths with different temperatures, there are also outdoor baths, a jacuzzi, and a sauna. In 2023, a dome-shaped glamping facility opened on site! With an adjacent ski area, you can even enjoy winter sports during the cold season.

8. Nostalgic Scenery of Three Aligned Watermills at “Yumesuki Park”

This park features a display of watermills in three different sizes, known as the “parent-child-grandchild watermills.” You might be wondering what that means—but it simply refers to the three watermills arranged side by side in different sizes. Although the watermills have been reconstructed, their sheer size is very impressive. The largest watermill stands 13.6 meters tall, evoking the mid-Showa era when watermills were in actual use. It makes for a great backdrop for a commemorative photo.

In addition, the park houses a “Paper Museum,” where you can experience traditional papermaking. Try your hand at making an original paper fan or postcard using the age-old Japanese paper-making techniques. Note that the paper-making experience requires prior telephone reservation.

9. The Grand Arch Formed by Nature Itself: “Rashomon”

This giant arch, made of limestone, is designated as a national natural monument. It is a spot where you can feel the mysterious natural beauty and power unique to this region. Formed when an underground limestone cave collapsed and the remaining part emerged on the surface, the arch presents a dynamic natural spectacle. There are four “gates” (from the first to the fourth), and the upper section serves as a natural bridge that you can walk across.

Even in summer, the area remains cool with a high level of humidity, and you can see rare plants and mosses. Since the trail involves some ups and downs along the mountain path, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes like sneakers.

10. “Rice Flour Bread” is Extremely Popular! – Michi-no-Eki Koigakubo

Located along National Route 182 in Tetsusei-cho, Niimi City, “Michi-no-Eki Koigakubo” is famous for its rice flour products. As the name suggests, while it involves powdered rice, the roadside station also houses a rice flour mill.

The “rice flour bread” made from locally produced Niimi rice is very popular for its unique, chewy texture. At the “Kome Kobo” shop, you can purchase a variety of rice flour breads such as loaves, melon breads, and savory breads.

In addition, rice flour is used as an ingredient for pizza dough! They even offer a group “pizza-making experience workshop.” By the way, the stone oven used to bake their special pizzas is made of Bizen pottery fire-resistant bricks. Of course, you can also pick up fresh local vegetables and souvenirs!

11. High-Quality Wine Produced from Limestone Soil – “Domaine Tetta”

Opened in autumn 2016 in Niimi City, this winery is operated by “TETTA,” a company with a long history in grape cultivation and wine sales. They have established a system to produce and sell wine made from their own grapes. The local soil, rich in limestone, is considered ideal for vineyards and is said to be similar to the soil found in famous wine regions of France.

In the elegantly simple winery, you can observe the winemaking process, and from the terrace you can enjoy a beautiful view of the gently rolling vineyards on the nearby hills. With its stylish wine labels, this new spot in Niimi City is quickly becoming a must-visit.

◎ Summary of Tourist Spots in Niimi City, Okayama Prefecture

When you think of Niimi City, the first spot that comes to mind might be its famous limestone caves. However, there are many other attractive features as well. With its abundance of natural beauty, there are plenty of places that make full use of the local characteristics. Whether you want to feel like an explorer or simply enjoy a relaxed day appreciating stunning nature, Niimi City offers a wonderful getaway.

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