Nishiawakura: A Mountain Valley Between Forest and River

At the northeastern edge of Okayama Prefecture, on the southern slope of the Chūgoku Mountains, Nishiawakura is a mountain village nestled in a valley. The clear Yoshino River flows through the center of the bell-shaped landscape. Narrow plains with farmland and settlements stretch along its banks. The mountains, river, and valley floor together shape the character of the area.

Valley, River, and Forest Landscape

The Nishiawakura Hundred-Year Forest area is designated as a significant Satoyama landscape, encompasses the entire village of Nishiawakura, and preserves its forest resources. The name therefore refers to the village as a whole. The Wakasugi Natural Forest lies at the northernmost edge of Nishiawakura. Covering about 83 hectares, it is home to a total of 199 tree species, including old beeches, maples, and Mongolian oaks. It is also part of Hyonosen-Ushiroyama-Nagisan Quasi-National Park.

The village-wide Satoyama designation and the natural forest offer different perspectives on Nishiawakura’s forest landscape: one encompasses the entire village, while the other is described in terms of its own area and species diversity. Those who make nature and scenery the focus of their trip can therefore gain both a view of the place as a whole and a closer look at a specifically named forest.

House History and Archaeological Finds

Doyashiki is a traditional Edo-style house with its hearth and old well preserved. Trees that are 300 years old line its thatched roof, and historical documents are also exhibited there. The house, hearth, well, and documents offer different glimpses into the area’s history, distinct from Nishiawakura’s natural attractions.

Near Nishiawakura, the Stone Circle at Dargamine is a group of stone pillars in a mountain forest. It is thought to be human-made, but there is no solid evidence; its purpose is also unknown. Stone tools and Yayoi pottery have been found in the surrounding area. The site is described as a mysterious ancient relic.

Hot Springs and Nature Experiences

Awakura Onsen Motoyu is an onsen guesthouse in Nishiawakura where villagers and travelers come together. Its character also reflects the connection between people and nature. Offerings include fresh local game dishes and Hinoki beer, an egg sauna, and a natural hot spring bath. As guest and day-use options may change, check in advance which offerings are currently available for your intended use.

Surrounded by forest, 森喫 (Shinkitsu) in Nishiawakura offers river activities year-round as well as camping in the snow. As seasonal operations may change, check whether activities are currently running for your specific dates.

Outside the snow season, the Ogamoya ski area is used as a campground. Brook trout and char fishing, as well as walks in Wakasugi Natural Forest, are also nature experiences in the destination area.

Yutopia Ogonsen is a day-bathing facility featuring mildly radioactive cold mineral or radium hot spring water. It is about a 15-minute walk from Awakura-Onsen Station on the Chizu Express and about a three-minute drive from the Nishiawakura interchange on the Tottori Expressway. For your specific journey, it is advisable to check current local conditions.

Plan Your Stay Around Your Interests

When looking for a vacation rental in Nishiawakura, your preferred way to spend the day can be a useful first filter: nature and river experiences, cultural history, and bathing options offer different focuses for your stay. Consider which of these experiences you are most interested in, then compare specific accommodation options based on your own needs.

Discover more destinations: Hayashima, Kurashiki, Mimasaka, Setouchi, Asakuchi, Maniwa, Kagamino, Tsuyama.

Go to the main travel guide: Okayama Prefecture.