Enjoy both history and nature! 7 Recommended Tourist Spots in Yawata City, from Popular Destinations to Hidden Gems

Yawata City is located in the southwestern part of Kyoto Prefecture, with most of its borders adjoining Osaka Prefecture. Situated between the two major cities of Kyoto and Osaka, it enjoys excellent transportation access. With attractions like Mt. Otokoyama and the confluence of the Uji, Kizu, and Katsura rivers, Yawata City draws tourists from both Japan and abroad. Here are some recommended sightseeing spots in Yawata City!

1. Good Fortune and Protection from Evil! "Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine"

One of Japan's three great Hachimangu shrines, this historic shrine was founded in 859 (Jogan Era, Year 1). Because it was built on the summit of Mt. Otokoyama, it was once also known as "Otokoyama Hachimangu."

The vividly vermilion-colored main shrine building, designated as a National Treasure, creates an impressive and majestic atmosphere. The spacious grounds are refreshing to walk around, and from the nearby observation deck, you can enjoy views overlooking the city of Kyoto. Since it’s at the top of the mountain, taking the cable car from Yawata City Station is convenient, but if you prefer a more traditional pilgrimage experience, you can also walk up from the base through the torii gates. The sense of accomplishment from climbing on foot makes it all the more rewarding!

The shrine is famous for blessings of protection from evil and prayers for victory. It is said that historical warlords such as Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi once worshipped here. The annual "Great Festival for Protection from Evil" held every January attracts many visitors. If you come, be sure to pray for good fortune and protection!

2. Nature of the Mountain and Views of Kyoto: "Otokoyama Cable Car"

This cable car was built for visitors heading to Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine. In about 3 minutes one way, you'll arrive at the main shrine, but during the slow ascent through the mountain, you can enjoy beautiful seasonal scenery like cherry blossoms in spring and colorful autumn leaves. With its steep incline, there's even a bit of a thrill, making it fun for children as well. If you look back midway up the slope, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Kyoto city and Mt. Tennozan beyond.

The fare is 200 yen one way. Its cute design matches the Keihan Railway’s limited express trains, making it a hit with transportation enthusiasts. The cable car runs every 15 minutes, so it’s very convenient. Riding the cable car up and then walking down while enjoying the scenery of Mt. Otokoyama is also a recommended plan!

3. Fun for Architecture Fans and Period Drama Lovers! "Kozuya Bridge (Nagarebashi)"

This is a 356.5-meter-long wooden bridge connecting Yawata City and Kumiyama Town.
A "Nagarebashi" is a bridge designed so that its girders can be swept away when the river swells. After the water recedes, the ropes are reeled in to restore the bridge for use. "Kozuya Bridge" has undergone this cycle of destruction and restoration many times due to flooding of the Kizu River, making it an extremely rare type of bridge.

Only pedestrians and bicycles can cross, and there are no railings, giving it a distinctive look. Because of its traditional appearance, it has frequently been used as a filming location for historical dramas. There is also a stone monument engraved with "Nagarebashi" donated by the actor Makoto Fujita. Walking across this bridge feels like stepping into a period drama, so if you’re a fan, you’ll especially enjoy the experience! It’s well worth a visit to see this unique structure.

4. Japan’s One and Only Unique Shrine: Hikou Shrine

Hikou Shrine was established in 1915 (Taisho Era, Year 4) by Chuhachi Ninomiya, a pioneer of Japanese aircraft development, to pray for safety in aviation. Located in a residential area, it doesn't initially look like a shrine, and part of its main building features stained glass in a uniquely stylish design. In the back, there's a brick museum displaying various airplane models and aviation-related exhibits. It’s well-known in the aviation industry, and many people involved in aviation visit to pray for safe skies.

They also sell unique charms, stickers, and airplane-themed goods, so if you love airplanes and find yourself in Yawata City, this shrine is a must-see!

5. A Famous Cherry Blossom Spot to Visit in Spring: "Yodogawa Riverside Park - Sewaritei District"

The magnificent cherry blossom tunnel, formed by 250 cherry trees blooming all at once, is said to be one of the finest in the Kansai region. Every year, during the "Cherry Blossom Festival," crowds of tourists gather to admire this breathtaking sight, making the event lively and bustling.

On regular days, the park is filled with people enjoying barbecues, birdwatching, and amateur photographers capturing the beautiful natural scenery. It's a relaxing place for everyone—whether you're strolling leisurely along the embankment, resting on the wide-open lawns, or enjoying the view from the observation deck. In autumn, the tunnel of fall foliage is also a sight to behold, making it a recommended spot year-round.

6. A Refined Space That Soothes the Soul: Shokado Garden

This garden is named after Shokado Shojo, a prominent figure in calligraphy and tea ceremony during the Edo period. The beautifully maintained Japanese garden is perfect for a quiet, contemplative walk. The garden, enveloped in tranquility, features various types of bamboo and camellia trees, showing different expressions of beauty in each season.

Within the garden, you’ll find the tea house and study used by Shojo in his later years, quietly preserving an air of historical charm. Tea ceremonies are still held here regularly, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy traditional Japanese tea culture.

There’s also an upscale restaurant, "Kitcho," on-site, where you can enjoy the famous "Shokado Bento." This bento box was inspired by Shojo's beloved paint box. After being soothed by the garden’s beauty and greenery, savoring this luxurious meal will surely make you forget your everyday worries.

7. An Ancient Shrine Featured in Tsurezuregusa! "Koura Shrine"

Located at the foot of Otokoyama, this small shrine was built around the same time as Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine. Despite its long history, Koura Shrine is relatively unknown as it serves as a subordinate shrine of Iwashimizu Hachimangu. Even back in the day, most visitors passed by Koura Shrine on their way to Iwashimizu Hachimangu. This story is even mentioned in the famous essay collection Tsurezuregusa, where a priest mistakenly worships at Koura Shrine, thinking it was Iwashimizu Hachimangu, only to find out later and feel regret.

However, local people have long held Koura Shrine dear, affectionately calling it the "Ujigami-sama of Yawata" (the guardian deity of Yawata), as opposed to the more nationally significant Iwashimizu Hachimangu. The shrine is adjacent to the temporary sanctuary (Tonmiya) of Iwashimizu Hachimangu and is conveniently close to Yawata City Station. Even if many have mistaken it for something else, it remains a kind and watchful deity that has protected the locals for generations. It’s a charming stop to make during your sightseeing, offering a great story to share!

◎ Summary of Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Yawata City

We’ve introduced seven recommended sightseeing spots in Yawata City. Yawata offers not only Kyoto-like historical and natural attractions but also some unique, lesser-known gems. Don’t just stick to the famous places—find a spot that sparks your interest and enjoy exploring!

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Enjoy both history and nature! 7 Recommended Tourist Spots in Yawata City, from Popular Destinations to Hidden Gems