7 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Higashihiroshima City, Renowned for Its Sake Culture

Higashihiroshima City is located in the central part of Hiroshima Prefecture and is also known as an academic city. Its sake culture is famous throughout Japan, and an annual sake festival is held there. With institutions like Hiroshima University, Kinki University, and Hiroshima International University, the city draws many international students and is known as a place where people can enjoy communication across different cultures. It’s also rich in agriculture, with active rice production and very clean air.
The locals are warm and actively involved in promoting the charm of Higashihiroshima, introducing initiatives like the PR Supporter System through community cooperation. It's heartwarming to be welcomed with the city's slogan: "Where people gather, hearts come together, happiness spreads—Higashihiroshima full of circles." You might just become a fan of the city after one visit. Higashihiroshima is truly a wonderful city full of charm.

1. Saijo Sake Brewery Street

Just a 5-minute walk from JR Sanyo Main Line's Saijo Station brings you to a street lined with sake brewery features like white-walled and red-brick buildings. Every October, the area hosts a sake festival. It’s said that during the early Showa period, the haiku poet Hekigoto Kawahigashi visited and was so captivated by Saijo’s sake that he dubbed it the "New Capital of Sake."
At the festival, you can enjoy not only delicious sake but also exclusive and premium varieties available only on that day at the breweries. With over 1,000 sake breweries from across Japan represented, it's a rare opportunity to see so many in one place. The atmosphere of the breweries and the tasty snacks make it perfect for a leisurely stroll and sake tasting. It's a must-visit spot in Higashihiroshima.

2. Chikurinji Temple

Located near the summit of Mt. Takamure at an elevation of 535m, this temple features many historical structures such as the main hall, Gomado Hall, and Juodo Hall, which are recognized as important cultural properties. After passing through the temple gate and crossing the bridge over the pond, you’ll see the main hall.
There’s a three-storied pagoda believed to have been originally built by Ono no Takamura and later restored by Taira no Kiyomori. It was relocated to Chinzan-so in 1925. A newly enshrined statue of Sho Kannon Bodhisattva was added in 2010. It’s a healing and peaceful place, definitely worth a visit.

3. Uenohara Farm Cadoré

A stylish and well-equipped interactive farm, located near a roadside station in Higashihiroshima. It's a great idea to visit both. Visitors can try bottle-feeding calves, milking cows, making butter, ice cream, sausages, and pasta.
Cute animals like rabbits, goats, cows, and mini pigs roam nearby, making for delightful animal encounters. With clean air and plenty of space to play, it’s a fun place for all ages. Their cafeteria serves delicious pizza, perfect for lunch. With hands-on experiences, adorable animals, and tasty food, it's a fantastic tourist destination.

4. Kagamiyama Park

With about 700 cherry trees, Kagamiyama Park is one of the top cherry blossom spots in the area. Said to feature around 300 varieties, walking through the park offers a visual treat of different cherry blossoms. The colorful blossoms alone are enough to make anyone feel peaceful and announce the arrival of spring.
True to its name, the pond reflects like a mirror, offering a cleansing, calming view. During warmer months, it’s also a spot for hiking and barbecuing. With large playgrounds and picnic spots, it’s a great place to spend a relaxing day with family.

5. Fukunoji Temple

A 15-minute drive from Saijo Station takes you to this peaceful and relaxing temple. Located near the summit of a mountain about 500m above sea level, it offers great views over the Saijo Basin. The main hall has a commanding presence that alone is worth the visit. The grounds feature remnants of medieval towers and giant trees such as horse chestnuts and "married" cedar trees, which are designated natural monuments, though some have suffered lightning damage.
With diverse species like the horse chestnut and mokkoku, it’s enjoyable just walking around and observing. The temple also holds cultural assets like Buddhist altars, bronze bells, and ancient documents designated as national or prefectural treasures. It’s said to be where the Taira clan barricaded themselves during the Genpei War but were ultimately defeated and the temple burned.
Best visited from late April to mid-May when the rhododendrons are in full bloom—about 1,400 plants surround the main hall, including rare yellow varieties. While the season draws crowds, it’s truly a spectacular sight. Easily accessible from the Shinkansen station, it’s a spot you can visit conveniently.

6. Hakuryuko Waterside Park

This park is set around the dam lake of Lake Hakuryu, stretching across Kochi-cho and Daiwa-cho. Rich in nature and very inviting, it straddles the cities of Higashihiroshima and Mihara. Designed with safety in mind, it’s great for families. The expansive grounds mean kids won’t get bored even after an entire day.
Many families enjoy park golf here, and it’s also ideal for camping and other outdoor activities. You’ll often see people fishing while gazing over Lake Hakuryu. A great spot for those who enjoy active adventures.

7. Koishikawa Tourist Apple Orchard

Known for its 600 apple trees across 18 varieties, this orchard is a great spot for apple picking. With clean air and water, it's an ideal place to enjoy autumn flavors. Apple picking is available from early September to mid-November. BBQ is also available with a reservation at least three days in advance.
They sell apple-based products like jam and chips, making for great souvenirs you can’t get anywhere else. With parking for large buses, it's also perfect for group visits.

◎ Summary

How did you like this list of 7 tourist spots in Higashihiroshima? It’s a charming city where historical buildings and traditional sake culture still thrive. With many classic temples and opportunities for active adventures, there's a lot to enjoy. The abundance of nature and delicious seasonal apples in autumn are also a big draw. With its clean water, the local produce is fresh and flavorful, making Higashihiroshima not only a great place to visit but also a wonderful place to live. If you're coming for tourism, be sure to take it all in—you’ll easily understand why so many people fall in love with this city.

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