Experience the Bounty of the Kizugawa River in Kyoto! Family Activity Course

The Kizugawa River, once known as the Izumigawa River, has been celebrated in Japanese poetry. Its middle reaches, with gentle currents, are perfect for kayaking. The refreshing flow of the river offers a soothing experience. This half-day course is an enjoyable and accessible adventure for families.

At Kasagi Campground, enjoy a hassle-free outdoor experience. They provide tents, chairs, tables, cooler boxes, food, and everything you need to set up, start a fire, and clean up afterward—just bring your appetite for a great BBQ.

During the Nara period (710-794), the Emperor Tenmu was once hunting on Mt. Kasagi, and as he reached the dangerous climax of his chase after a deer, he prayed to the Buddha and escaped harm. The image of the bodhissatva Maitreya that he carved on the surface of a large stone there became the principle image of worship at what become Kasagi-dera Temple. The temple grew as a training ground for mountain ascetics (known as "shugensha") in the late Heian period (794-1185), but was burned down during the Genko War (1331-1333). The current main hall, the Shogatsu Hall, and Bishamondo Halls were built during the Muromachi period (1336-1573).

Mt. Kasagi in Kasagi rises 288 meters about the south bank of the Kizu River. It is home to many strange and mysterious rock formations giving it the nickname “Megalith Theme Park” and is designated as a historic scenic spot in Japan. Although it is not an easy hike, anyone with average ability can reach the top and enjoy the spectacular views. From the top of the mountain, it looks like you are on an island floating in a sea of clouds. The view from the top of the mountain was a popular place to moon gaze during the Edo Period. The view is particular spectacular during the autumn season when the entire 3,000 sq. meter river valley is covered in carpet of red maple leaves Mt. Kasagi is of great historical significance. It is home to a Shingon Buddhist temple of the Chisan School with historic connections to Todaiji on nearby Nara. Famous monks such as Jokei have lived at the temple and Yamabushi, or warrior hermits said to be imbued with supernatural powers, are said to have trained here; making it an important part of Japanese Buddhist history. What’s more, in the late Kamakura period (1185–1333), it was also the stage of foiled plot kill the shogun by the 96th Emperor Go-Daigo.

After working in Osaka, Mr. Morimoto returned to his hometown and opened Yoichi with the desire to create a place where people could gather and relax. The building we are in is about 70 years old and has been renovated to create a comfortable interior space. The second floor is used for accommodations. We make an effort to use local ingredients, such as the honey we put on our breakfast toast and the eggs we serve on our rice with raw egg. Some of the game meats we use in our Japanese dishes are deer, wild boar, duck, and pheasant, and we also use soft-shelled turtle, eel, carp, and sweetfish in our cooking. We catch the sweetfish ourselves in the river in front of the store. The area is a popular destination for visitors to Kasagi for seeing the cherry blossom season in spring, the autumn leaves, and the sea of clouds during the early mornings in autumn.

Explore the fascinating history of Wazuka Town and its tea industry on this one-and-a-half-hour guided walking tour. At the end of the tour, enjoy a cup of seasonal Wazuka tea. Reservations are required at least two days in advance.

※Services are only available in Japanese, so we recommend bringing an interpreter if needed.

"Sky Café at the Top of the Mountain"
This private café, built with Kyoto Prefecture's Hinoki and Cedar wood, is inspired by the tea room (Kasatei) at Kodaiji Temple in Kyoto. After climbing the stairs, you'll be treated to a stunning panoramic view of Wazuka Town.
(Reservations are required at the Wazuka Tea Café, and key pickup is necessary.)

Usage fee: 550 yen per person for 60 minutes (free for elementary school students and younger). First-come, first-served, with reservations available.
Takeout menu available (including sencha tea sets and drinks), and outside food is allowed.

This roadside station offers a variety of local products, including specialty teas and fresh vegetables at the Nomon Market. You can also enjoy delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients at the restaurant "Tsuchinobu." It's a perfect place to eat, shop, and leave fully satisfied!