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Sonobe Area

A town where you can encounter the lingering charm of a castle town and the natural beauty of the four seasons.

About Sonobe

The Sonobe area unfolds with a quietly flowing castle town and expansive rural scenery.The name "Sonobe," evoking connections to the Yamato Imperial Court's "Enbu," signifies a fertile land with an ancient history.
Alongside cultural heritage sites like the Maki Shrine—said to have hosted an imperial visit by Emperor Shirakawa—Japan's oldest living Tenmangū shrine, and Sonobe Castle (Japan's last castle), the area boasts rich natural landscapes. These include the Ōi River and Sonobe River, which supported Heian-kyō through water transport, and the nationally designated scenic spot "Rurikei."

Features of Sonobe

FEATURE

History as a Castle Town

Its appeal lies in the fusion of its history as a castle town (Sonobe Castle Ruins, Ikimi Tenmangu Shrine), abundant nature (Ruri Valley, Oi River, seasonal landscapes), and access to Kyoto City (via the JR Sagano Line), combined with the charm of rural living (fresh produce, child-rearing environment, community interaction). Boasting historical structures, beautiful nature, and urban convenience, it is also popular among newcomers.

FEATURE

Abundant nature

Its appeal lies in the fusion of its history as a castle town (Sonobe Castle Ruins, Ikimi Tenmangu Shrine), abundant nature (Ruri Valley, Oi River, seasonal landscapes), and access to Kyoto City (via the JR Sagano Line), combined with the charm of rural living (fresh produce, child-rearing environment, community interaction). Boasting historical structures, beautiful nature, and urban convenience, it is also popular among newcomers.

Local Specialties and Famous Products

PRODUCT

Shinkoetsu Mochi

All Shinkoetsu mochi uses Kyoto Sonobe-produced Shin Habutae mochi rice!
[How to Enjoy]
We recommend serving with seaweed rolls, sugar soy sauce, kinako, black sugar syrup, grated daikon radish, natto, or even grilling with melted cheese inside the seaweed roll.
Other uses include zenzai (sweet red bean soup) or ozoni (New Year's soup)...

PRODUCT

Ruri Valley Hot Springs

A natural hot spring resort nestled in the lush nature of Rurikei Highlands. Enjoy diverse experiences ranging from day trips to overnight stays and glamping.

  • A hot spring nestled within the beautiful valleys of Kyoto Prefectural Natural Park
  • Accommodations, glamping, day-trip hot springs, and other diverse ways to enjoy
  • Stargazing under the star-filled night sky is also popular.

INFO Useful Information

Nursing Room

Fully equipped at the roadside station

Recommended Spots

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Learn More About the Sonobe Area

Access to the Sonobe Area

For those arriving by car

From within Kyoto City

From the Kyoto Jukan Expressway "Yagi-Nishi Interchange"

2 km

From Sonobe Interchange on the Kyoto Jukan Expressway

2.2 km

Gas Station Information

  • ENEOS New Sonobe Service Station (Iida Petroleum)

    Business Hours: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
    31 Nyudo, Kamikizaki-cho, Sonobe-cho, Nantan City

    TEL: 0771-62-0125

  • Apollo Station Sonobe SS (Kyoko Petroleum)

    Business Hours: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Sundays: 7:30 AM - 7:00 PM)
    4-29-1 Kawaramachi, Sonobe-cho, Nantan City

    TEL: 0771-62-0436

In case of emergency or if you need assistance

Nearest hospital

Sonobe Hospital

5-8-7 Misono-cho, Sonobe-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture

TEL:
0771-62-0515

Nearest Police Station

Nantan Police Station

2-5 Minami, Kamihonmachi, Sonobe-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture

TEL:
0771-62-0110

Tourist Information Center

Nantan City Tourism Association

6-21 Mizobe, Koyama Higashimachi, Sonobe-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture
(Business Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

TEL:
0771-62-0050

Taxi Arrangement

Kyoto Taxi

TEL:
0771-62-0015

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  • #Miyama Area
  • #Thatch-Roofed Village
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Town Development Association

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Hiyoshi Area

Hiyoshi Area

A tranquil resort where water and greenery harmonize. Enjoy nature and gourmet cuisine at Hiyoshi Dam and Roadside Station Springs.

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Yagi Area

Yagi Area

Nantan's Kitchen: A Town Where Deliciousness Gathers. A culinary hub where you can enjoy local gourmet fare and lively atmosphere.

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Miyama Area

Miyama Area

A village of thatched-roof houses designated as an Important Traditional Building Preservation District. This beautiful settlement preserves Japan's original landscape, offering encounters with traditional culture alongside scenery that changes with the seasons.

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