Miyama in Kyoto, an ideal getaway destination for those who love nature and would love to experience Japan’s traditional way of life. This beautiful countryside is surrounded by mountains and is famous for its farmhouses with thatched roofs (kayabuki). In 2006, Miyama combined with 3 other villages to become Nantan-shi (南丹市).
Experience Japan’s Traditional Way of Life in Miyama, Kyoto
Surrounded by lush greens and magnificent mountains, Miyama is a rural area that’s about a 2-hour drive from central Kyoto. There are lots of great things to do and see here, from experiencing the authentically rustic Japan to doing outdoor stuff like hiking and fishing.
Consisting of multiple small villages, the main attraction of Miyama is Kayabuki no Sato. This village is made up of almost 40 farmhouses topped with thatched roofs. You can stroll around and get a real feel for the place.
Consider staying in one of the thatched houses so you will have an up close and personal experience with a traditional Japanese-style home, which not only has tatami floors and futons but also actual open hearths. Though old, the lodgings are furnished with modern and simple amenities, and are quite affordable.
If you would like to take a look at the locals’ way of life, then visit the Kayabuki no Sato Folk Museum. There are traditional tools and daily household items from over the years on display in this residence-turned-museum.
Miyama has a rather comprehensive bus network, so getting around the area is fairly easy. You can even explore via rental bicycle. So, make the most of your visit to this wonderful destination!
Spot information
- Spot name: Kayabuki no Sato, Miyama
- Street address: Miyamachokita, Nantan, Kyoto 601-0712
- Access: About 4 minutes’ walk from Kayabukinosato Bus Stop
Onsen in Miyama, Kyoto
Fancy soaking in an onsen after a long day of sightseeing in Miyama? Then look into the one at Kyoto Miyama Ryori Ryokan Chinsen-ro. Their onsen is an artificial radium mineral one, which contains natural water flowing from the valley.
It will be rejuvenating, relieving you of fatigue and more. There’s nothing more pleasant than relaxing in the hot spring while looking at the beautiful view of the surroundings through the wide open window.
Spot information
- Spot name: Kyoto Miyama Ryori Ryokan Chinsen-ro
- Street address: 26, Miyama-cho Nakauwamae, Nantan, Kyoto 601-0713
- Access: About 60 minutes via bus on JR San-In Line from Sonobe Station
How to Access Miyama, Kyoto
Miyama Tour from Kyoto
If you would like to travel around Miyama without worries, then consider hiring a private tour guide. There are several travel agencies that offer private tour services customised specifically for Miyama.
If you prefer taking public transport, then here are some options:
- From Kyoto Station, take the JR San-in Honsen Rapid to Sonobe Station, then take the JR San-in Main Line to Hiyoshi Station, and hop onto the Nantan Bus that stops at Kita in Miyama. Travel duration: about 115 minutes. Cost: ¥1,360.
- From Kyotoeki Bus Stop, hop onto the Kyoto-Miyama (京都～美山) bus that stops at Kayabukinosato Bus Stop, then it’s a 4-minute walk to the destination. Travel duration: 112 minutes. Cost: ¥1,600.
From Osaka to Miyama, Kyoto
Miyama is also accessible from Osaka. From Shin Osaka Station, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Line to Kyoto Station, then take the San-in Line to Sonobe Station, then at Sonobeekinishiguchi Bus Stop, get on the Sonobe-Miyama (園部～美山) bus that stops at Kayabukinosato Bus Stop, then it’s a 4-minute walk to the destination. Travel duration: 140 minutes. Cost: ¥2,320.
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