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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Kumenan.
Discover the hidden gems of Kumenan, where ancient traditions and modern experiences collide in a colorful tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kumenan:
1. Kumenan Gourmet Road
A popular food trail in Kumenan, a town in Japan’s Okayama prefecture.
What to see or do: The Kumenan Gourmet Road is lined with restaurants, food stalls, and shops selling local produce including fruits, vegetables, and sake. Visitors can sample a wide range of Japanese delicacies such as soba noodles, tofu, pickles, and seafood.
Don’t miss: The Kumenan Tofu Factory, which offers a tofu-making workshop where visitors can learn how to make traditional Japanese tofu from scratch.
The factory also has a cafe where visitors can enjoy tofu dishes and desserts.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to try the local specialty dishes, including Kumenan’s famous udon noodles and sake. To avoid the crowds, visit on a weekday or early in the morning.
Bring cash as many of the food stalls do not accept credit cards.
2. Kumenan Kogen Ski Resort
Kumenan Kogen Ski Resort is a popular ski resort located in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Ski and snowboard enthusiasts can enjoy winter sports on the resort’s 10 ski slopes. There are several beginner slopes, including a snow park, and intermediate and advanced slopes for experienced riders.
Visitors can also take ski lessons, rent equipment, and enjoy the resort’s hot springs.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning panoramic view of the Kita Alps and the Sea of Japan from the slopes. The resort also offers a night skiing experience, which provides a unique perspective of the starry sky.
Insider travel tips: For a quieter experience, visit the resort on weekdays when the crowds are thinner. Be sure to dress warmly and bring sun protection on clear days, as the sun is strong at high altitudes.
If you’re planning to try night skiing, be sure to wear extra layers to stay warm in the evening chill.
3. Kumenan Earth Theater
Kumenan Earth Theater is an outdoor theater located in Kumenan, a town in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The theater offers stunning performances that explore the relationship between nature and human beings. The stage is set against the backdrop of the Chugoku Mountains, making it a breathtaking experience.
The performances incorporate traditional Japanese music and theater techniques, such as Noh and Kyogen.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the beautiful scenery and cultural performances. The theater hosts different performances throughout the year, so make sure to check the schedule before visiting.
Insider travel tips: If you want to fully immerse yourself in the experience, consider attending a workshop or seminar held at the theater to learn more about traditional Japanese music and theater.
Additionally, bring warm clothing and a blanket, as performances are held outdoors and can get chilly in the evening.
4. Kumenan Geopark
Kumenan Geopark is a stunning geologic park in the southern Hyogo Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy various activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the scenic spots of the park.
The park is famous for its geologic features, including the Kumanoshi Formation, a unique geological layer that dates back to the Cretaceous period.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on the Kumanoko Lakes, a beautiful crater lake formed by an eruption of Mt. Kuma.
The lake glitters like a gem with a vibrant emerald green color and is surrounded by lush green forests. Also, the “Rakuraku” hiking trail offers picturesque views of the park’s mountains and valleys.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to visit the “Kumeno-eki Kumanoshi,” a local market that offers various fresh fruits and vegetables that are grown in the park area.
Visitors can also enjoy traditional Japanese food such as soba noodles and seasonal wild game dishes.
Additionally, it’s recommended to bring comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for outdoor activities, especially if you plan to hike or cycle while exploring the park.
5. Kumenan Machinami Museum
The Kumenan Machinami Museum is a small museum located in Okayama Prefecture, Japan, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the unique architecture and culture of the Kumenan Machinami (traditional townhouses).
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the preserved Kumenan Machinami houses, stroll through the beautiful Japanese gardens, and learn about the traditional crafts and culture of the area through exhibitions and demonstrations.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to try your hand at creating traditional crafts such as weaving and paper-making, or to sample delicious local foods like Okayama’s famous white peaches.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the museum’s calendar for special events and festivals, which offer a unique insight into the local traditions and culture.
And don’t forget to bring your camera – the museum and its gardens offer plenty of picturesque photo opportunities.
6. Kumenan Kogen Botanical Garden
A beautiful hilltop botanical garden located in Kume, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the vast array of plant species from Japan and around the world, including stunning cherry blossom trees, wildflowers, and rare alpine plants.
Take a stroll through the garden’s various walking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: The garden’s famous rose garden, which boasts over 3,000 bushes of vibrant roses in bloom during the summer months.
Be sure to also check out the garden’s greenhouses, which are home to a variety of tropical plants, including orchids and bromeliads.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the spring for the best views of the cherry blossom trees in full bloom.
Plan to spend at least half a day exploring the garden and take advantage of the many picnic areas and rest spots for a break and some stunning views.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes and a camera to capture the garden’s beauty.
7. Okutsukan
A unique museum dedicated to showcasing preserved animal fetuses and embryos.
What to see or do: Visitors can view over 1,000 specimens of preserved animal fetuses and embryos, ranging from rare species such as a giant squid and an elephant to more common animals like dogs and cats.
The specimens are displayed in jars filled with preservatives and organized by classification.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the shark room, which contains over 50 shark fetuses in various stages of development. Visitors can even touch the jars and see the tiny developing teeth of the shark fetuses.
Insider travel tips: The museum is a bit off the beaten path and requires a car to get to, but it’s worth the visit for those interested in biology or the unusual.
Photography is not allowed inside the museum, but there is a small gift shop selling animal-themed souvenirs.
8. Tsuzumi Mansion
A traditional Japanese mansion located in Kumenan, Okayama Prefecture.
What to see or do: Explore the elegant mansion with its beautiful Japanese gardens, tatami rooms, and intricately designed fusuma (sliding doors). Visitors can also learn about traditional Japanese music and participate in tsuzumi drumming performances.
Don’t miss: A stroll through the tranquil gardens, designed to evoke the changing seasons of Japan. The mansion also hosts seasonal events such as cherry blossom viewings and summer lantern festivals.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to book your visit in advance, as the mansion has limited daily admission. For an immersive experience, consider staying overnight in one of the mansion’s guest rooms.
9. Kusube Village
Kusube Village is a traditional Japanese farming settlement located in the Kumenan region of Okayama Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can experience the authentic rural lifestyle of Japan by exploring the village’s agricultural landscape and meeting local farmers.
The village is also home to several historical buildings, including a shrine, a temple, and a soy sauce factory, that showcase traditional Japanese architecture and craftsmanship.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Kusube Village is its beautiful agriculture scenery. Take a stroll along the charming fields of rice, soybeans, and grapes, while surrounded by mountains.
Insider travel tips: Plan a visit during the harvest season in the fall when the village is bustling with activity.
10. Chofuku Temple
Chofuku Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in the town of Kumenan in the Okayama Prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple grounds and admire the beautiful architecture and intricate details of the various buildings.
The main hall, which dates back to the 1600s, is a National Treasure of Japan and features stunning artwork and carvings.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the temple grounds is the moss garden, which is considered one of the best in Japan.
The garden is home to over 70 different varieties of moss and creates a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is quite a bit of walking involved in exploring the temple grounds.
Visitors should also consider visiting during the fall season when the maple trees on the temple grounds are in full bloom and create a stunningly vibrant display of colors.
11. Godaisan Observatory
Godaisan Observatory is an incredible vantage point that offers stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape in the Kumenan region of Japan.
What to see or do: Located at a height of 354 meters, the observatory provides breathtaking views of the surrounding greenery and mountain ranges. Visitors can also see the Takahashi river snaking through the valley below.
The place is perfect for photography enthusiasts, as the panoramic view of the surrounding area offers stunning photo opportunities.
Don’t miss: The most notable thing to experience here is the beautiful observation deck, which is the highlight of the place. The platform offers visitors a 360-degree unobstructed view of the entire valley.
Be sure to spend some time soaking in the beautiful scenery.
Insider travel tips: Visiting the observatory during sunset hours is an ideal time as the orange-red sky sets against the backdrop of the mountains looks magnificent.
Those who visit the place on weekends can also enjoy a serene nature walk or a small picnic in the park nearby.
Additionally, it’s best to bring a jacket or light coat as it can get chilly in the evenings, even during summer.
12. Asahiyama Park
Asahiyama Park is a beautiful park located in Kumenan, Japan, well-known for its seasonal flowers and stunning scenery.
What to see or do: Stroll through the park’s various gardens, including a traditional Japanese garden, a rose garden, and an iris garden. Enjoy the park’s scenic walking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
Relax in the park’s open-air hot springs, which are powered by natural geothermal energy.
Don’t miss: Make sure to explore the park’s famous “Koisuru Ojiki,” a heart-shaped hedge labyrinth that is both playful and romantic. Be sure to also visit the park’s Farm Animal Village, where you can pet and feed various farm animals.
Insider travel tips: Asahiyama Park is particularly beautiful during the spring months when the cherry blossoms are in bloom. If you plan to visit during this time, be prepared for large crowds and long lines.
If possible, visit during the weekdays and arrive early in the morning to beat the rush. Additionally, the park is quite large, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
13. Nanatsuya
A traditional Japanese ryokan (inn) nestled in the scenic mountains of Kumenan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, relax in the hot springs, and savor the delicious meals made from fresh, local ingredients.
Don’t miss: Taking a stroll through the nearby countryside to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time, as Nanatsuya is quite popular among tourists and locals alike. Also, don’t forget to pack a comfortable pair of shoes for exploring the mountains and countryside.
14. Katsuren Shrine
Ancient Shinto shrine in Katsuren Castle ruins.
What to see or do: Explore narrow stone staircases and reach the main hall of the shrine, built in traditional irimoya-zukuri style. Admire beautiful views of East China Sea from the castle ruins and learn about the island’s history.
Don’t miss: The giant banyan tree, which is over 300 years old and considered sacred by locals.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable footwear as the terrain in the castle ruins can be rough. It’s also recommended to visit the shrine during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
15. Kumenan Okutsu Onsen
Kumenan Okutsu Onsen is a traditional hot spring town located in Kumenan, Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a relaxing dip in the many hot spring baths within the town, which is surrounded by scenic mountains and forests.
There are also outdoor footbaths and a traditional Japanese garden to explore.
Don’t miss: Make sure to try out the “Onsen Tamago,” eggs boiled in the natural hot spring water. They are deliciously creamy and soft, and said to have various health benefits.
Insider travel tips: To fully experience the charm of the town, stay overnight at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) and enjoy a kaiseki (traditional multi-course) meal.
For those who love hiking, a visit to nearby Mount Kumen is highly recommended for the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
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