skyticket >
TRAVEL GUIDE TOP >
Genre >
Sightseeing >
A Treasure Trove of Nature! Introducing 4 Must-See Tourist Spots in Kihoku Town, Kitauwa District, Ehime Prefecture
A Treasure Trove of Nature! Introducing 4 Must-See Tourist Spots in Kihoku Town, Kitauwa District, Ehime Prefecture

A Treasure Trove of Nature! Introducing 4 Must-See Tourist Spots in Kihoku Town, Kitauwa District, Ehime Prefecture

Jul 30, 2025
10 views

Located in the southwest of Ehime Prefecture, Kihoku Town was formed in 2005 through the merger of one town and one village. Surrounded by majestic mountains, Kihoku is a haven of natural beauty. One of its proud features is the stunning flow of its rivers. The area boasts restaurants that serve seasonal dishes made from local natural ingredients, and many tourist attractions that make use of its vast land. Among these, we’ve selected four recommended spots you won’t want to miss.

table of contents

[x] close

A Treasure Trove of Nature! Introducing 4 Must-See Tourist Spots in Kihoku Town, Kitauwa District, Ehime Prefecture

1. Indulge in the Essence of Nature at “Takatsuki Onsen”

Takatsuki Onsen, located in Kihoku Town, Kitauwa District, Ehime Prefecture, is a well-known hot spring spot situated beside the Narukawa Valley. You can enjoy the beautiful view of the Narukawa Valley through the windows of the hot spring baths, warming both body and soul in an exquisite setting. During the snowy winter season, you might even catch a magical view of the snow-covered landscape. You may also spot deer and monkeys around the hot spring, adding to the excitement of witnessing something out of the ordinary.
Next to the hot spring is the Narukawa Valley Recreation Center, which has a relaxing lounge and a place where you can enjoy delicious dishes made with plenty of local ingredients. It's well worth visiting for a soothing escape.

Name: Takatsuki Onsen
Address: Nara, Kihoku Town, Kitauwa District, Ehime Prefecture
Official/Related Website URL: http://iyokannet.jp/front/spot/detail/place_id/716/

2. Refresh Body and Mind with Panoramic Mountain Views at “Narukawa Valley Recreation Center”

The Narukawa Valley Recreation Center is a lodging and recreation facility adjacent to the famous Takatsuki Onsen, located beside the Narukawa Valley. One of its special features is the stunning view of the valley that changes with the seasons, which you can enjoy from the building’s terrace. The facility also includes a restaurant offering dishes made with local ingredients and even a fully equipped campsite.
You can play in the river that flows nearby, making it a fun spot for families. The spacious and clean terrace-equipped rooms are perfect for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. Step out onto the terrace and take in the refreshing mountains surrounding you. Let the breeze blowing down from the mountains rejuvenate you inside and out.

Name: Narukawa Valley Recreation Center
Address: Nara, Kihoku Town, Kitauwa District, Ehime Prefecture
Official/Related Website URL: http://www.town.kihoku.ehime.jp/site/kanko-e/6972.html

3. A Place You Can Enjoy All Day Without Getting Bored: “Kihoku General Park”

Kihoku General Park is a large public park in Kihoku Town, Ehime Prefecture, featuring eye-catching playground equipment, a gymnasium, tennis courts, and a ground golf course.
The number one attraction that even adults enjoy like kids is the 198-meter-long roller slide, which you ride using a kickboard. There's also a lawn area near the complex play equipment that’s perfect for small children. A suspension bridge stretching from the park to Ichigoshi Pond adds even more excitement. The breathtaking view from the other side of the bridge further enhances the experience for all visitors.

Name: Kihoku General Park
Address: 1290-1 Naganoshi, Kihoku Town, Kitauwa District, Ehime Prefecture
Official/Related Website URL: http://www.town.kihoku.ehime.jp/site/kanko-e/811.html

4. Enjoy Majestic Views from Spring to Autumn at “Setsuyasu Valley”

Setsuyasu Valley is a scenic spot located along the Setsuyasu River in Kihoku Town, known as a beautiful place to visit especially during the autumn foliage season.
The water in the Setsuyasu River is crystal clear and full of river fish, making it a popular fishing spot. The wind blowing through the trees on the mountains surrounding the valley creates a refreshing atmosphere that feels like it cleanses the soul. In autumn, the vibrant red leaves of the maples harmonize with the valley to beautifully showcase the charm of Kihoku Town.
In the upper reaches of the Setsuyasu River, there's a place called “Fureai no Mori” (Forest of Encounters), where visitors can enjoy nagashi-somen (flowing somen noodles) in the summer. From spring through autumn, when outdoor activities are at their peak, both locals and tourists flock to the area. Nearby, there’s a rare watermill hut that adds a charming touch to the picturesque valley.

Name: Setsuyasu Valley
Address: Tōnogawaue, Kihoku Town, Kitauwa District, Ehime Prefecture
Official/Related Website URL: http://iyokannet.jp/front/spot/detail/place_id/4414/

◎ Summary

How did you like these four selected tourist spots in Kihoku Town, a treasure trove of nature?
Kihoku Town is also known for many specialties nurtured by nature. One famous product is yuzu (Japanese citrus). Cultivated using a method that takes advantage of Kihoku’s temperature fluctuations and without pesticides, the yuzu grown here is both eco-friendly and safe for consumption. Because of this, even the peel can be used in cooking. Yuzu is not just for eating—it’s also used in skincare products like lotion.

RELATED ARTICLES

REGIONS

CATEGORIES

FEATURED ON Ehime

MOST POPULAR ON Ehime