Overview
Anyone looking for an escape from the glam and glare of central Tokyo will find Hinohara Village a dream. With an ambience controlled by its stunning natural surroundings, the village's history and landmarks are headlined by nature as well as a few human constructs. Here is an intro some of these landmarks and how to reach them.
Former Kobayashi Residence
The Former Kobayashi Residence is a true gem hidden away in the mountains. Built in the mid-18th century, the home was nationally recognised in 1978, sits 750m above sea level and and features original designs, including a straw thatched roof and iori hearth. It's best reached via a dedicated monorail as the terrain is very steep and challenging.
A 35-minute ride to the monorail station from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.
Hinojaga-kun Post Box
The potato-headed town character Hinojaga-kun regularly pops up throughout the village. A simple thing, to be sure, but the village's post office features a rather popular post box based on his design. Hinojaga-kun Post Box also offers its admirers the chance to collect a seal stamp which many take up.
A 20-minute no.10 bus ride from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.
Kanoto Rock
Once believed to be the entrance to the world of the gods, Kanoto Rock is a gorge of some 60m in length with a 100m cliff face. Designated as a natural monument, numerous waterfalls decorate the gorge while hiking ladders and chains have been sent into making a hike through quite straightforward.
A 25-minute drive or a 30-minute no.18 bus ride & 30-minute walk from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.
Ryujin Falls
Falling from an impressive height of 18m, Ryujin Falls is sometimes known as the Badger Falls thanks to the number of badgers and other wild animals in the area. Close to the popular Kazuma-no-Yu day spa, the falls are easily reached thanks to the wooden trail leading directly to the base of the water for a natural close up view.
A 60-minute no.10 bus ride from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.
