5 recommended sightseeing spots in Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture! A mountain town with charming nature and food

Nantan City is a mountainous town located in the heart of Kyoto Prefecture. Established in 2006 through the merger of Miyama Town, Sonobe Town, Hiyoshi Town, and Yagi Town, Nantan City is a place where the rich natural surroundings embrace a lifestyle that changes with the seasons.

With its stunning scenery, soothing landscapes, delicious cuisine, natural hot springs, and opportunities for sports and hands-on experiences, Nantan City offers the perfect setting for an enjoyable holiday. Let’s explore this treasure trove of nature and food.

1. When talking about Miyama Town, you can’t miss "Miyama Kayabuki no Sato"

Let’s start with the Miyama Town area. When it comes to Miyama Town, "Miyama Kayabuki no Sato" is the most well-known spot. Located in the Chii district of Miyama Town, this cluster of traditional thatched-roof houses is famous. Once commonly seen across Japan, thatched-roof buildings have now mostly disappeared. However, in Miyama Town, you can still experience these historic homes.

The image shows a disaster prevention drill that doubles as an inspection of water cannons. To protect the thatched-roof houses from fire, a large-scale water spraying event has been conducted twice a year, in spring and autumn, since 2000. "Miyama Kayabuki no Sato," where you can encounter the nostalgic landscapes of Japan, is a soothing place that attracts many visitors year-round.

2. "Rurikei" in Sonobe Town—boasting top-class beauty

Located in the southwestern part of Sonobe Town, "Rurikei" is a breathtaking gorge named after the deep blue-purple gemstone "ruri" (lapis lazuli). It is a designated national scenic spot and part of the Kyoto Prefectural Natural Park, surrounded by lush greenery.

Take a stroll along the streamside trail and explore "The Twelve Scenic Spots of Rurikei," which feature waterfalls, pools, and uniquely shaped rock formations. Each season brings its own stunning beauty—cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant azaleas in early May, fresh green foliage bursting to life, and fiery red autumn leaves transforming the valley. The area is also known for its population of giant salamanders, and in late June, you can witness a mesmerizing display of fireflies dancing in the night.

3. Experience the tradition of agriculture in Hiyoshi Town—"Savor the Farm"

Tradition is not only found in historic buildings but also in the delicious agricultural products nurtured by nature. After enjoying the relaxing scenery and sightseeing, savoring local cuisine is one of the best ways to enhance your travel experience. In Nantan City, agricultural traditions are deeply rooted. Enjoy meals made with locally sourced ingredients while soaking in the peaceful countryside—this is the true charm of a visit to Hiyoshi Town. Listen carefully, and you’ll hear the chirping of small birds and the gentle murmuring of streams.

Look up, and you’ll see a vast blue sky, green forests, and a refreshing breeze passing through. It’s a moment of bliss, tasting the agricultural products cultivated by this rich natural environment. In autumn, the prized matsutake mushrooms—considered the king of seasonal delicacies—are harvested here and can be enjoyed at local restaurants. Another must-try is the 100% buckwheat soba, made with locally produced soba flour. The souvenir shops are also packed with locally made goods.

A popular spot in the area is the old folk house dog café "Okagesande," where visitors can enjoy a unique dining experience.

4. From hot springs and pools to BBQs! A multi-purpose tourist facility—"Michi-no-Eki Spring Hiyoshi"

Located just below the Hiyoshi Dam in Hiyoshi Town, Nantan City—also known as "Amanowaka Lake"—this multi-purpose roadside station offers a vast space packed with attractions. Visitors can enjoy a hassle-free BBQ garden, natural hot springs, an indoor heated pool, a foot bath, a stone sauna, a ground golf course, a grassy plaza, and a nature observation garden, making it a destination full of activities.

The natural hot spring, known for its excellent water quality, is a sodium chloride spring. The facility includes an open-air rock bath, individual pot baths, and a sauna. Since the hot spring and heated pool are combined, a great way to relax is to take a dip in the hot spring after swimming. Swimsuits and goggles are available for rent at a fee, while swim caps can be borrowed for free. A free foot bath with a scenic view of nature is also available.

The "Chimjilban Kenbibo," a fusion of Japanese stone saunas and Korean-style steam rooms (chimjilbang), offers a new style of stone sauna. This healing space promotes detoxification and relaxation.

At Restaurant Katsuragawa, visitors can try the visually appealing "Hiyoshi Dam Curry," black soybean soy milk medicinal ramen, roast beef oil soba, black rice udon, Kyoto Tanba Highland black soybean pudding, and other unique dishes. The souvenir shop offers local specialties and handicrafts, while the "Saikasaien" section sells fresh vegetables and processed goods. Michi-no-Eki Spring Hiyoshi is a fun roadside station where you can easily spend an entire day.

5. Experience the great outdoors! "Himuro no Sato"

Located in Yagi Town, Nantan City, "Himuro no Sato" is an experience-based facility where visitors can fully enjoy the blessings of nature. At the "Noshokukan," guests can participate in bread-making and miso-making workshops, while the "Somokukobo" offers hands-on experiences in pottery, papermaking, glass fusing, and woodworking. You can also try feeding ostriches at the "Friendly Ostrich Farm" or participate in vegetable harvesting at the farm.

To take part in these experiences, reservations for groups of five or more must be made at least one week in advance. It’s a great opportunity to visit with family friends, relatives, or a group.

Before heading home, be sure to stop by the "Honobono Yagi-no-Yu" hot spring stand. For just about 20 yen per 20 liters, you can bring home natural hot spring water—perfect for a relaxing soak after your trip. Even when diluted several times, the water still retains its beneficial effects. Enjoy a full day of hands-on experiences at "Himuro no Sato" to the fullest!

◎ Summary of the attractions in Nantan City, Kyoto

Nantan City, located in central Kyoto Prefecture, was newly formed through the merger of four towns during the Heisei era. This guide introduced the highlights of each of these four former towns, focusing on their natural beauty and culinary delights. Belonging to the Tanba region, this area is known for its high-quality agricultural products, making it a must-visit for both sightseeing and gourmet experiences.

The nationally renowned "Miyama Kayabuki no Sato" preserves a village of thatched-roof houses, similar to Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture. What makes it special, unlike a theme park, is that people still live there today. The famous scenic spot "Rurikei" is another must-see. Additionally, Nantan City offers a variety of exciting destinations, including a vast roadside station with numerous attractions, relaxing cafés, and hands-on experience spots. Why not visit and explore all the wonders of Nantan City?