With the Japanese yen continuing to stay low and summer flight deals in full swing, now is the perfect time to visit Japan! If you want to avoid the crowds of Kansai, head to the relaxing, nature-rich region of Hiroshima. Whether it’s hiking to waterfalls, trying river trekking, or cooling off at highland theme parks and farms, you can enjoy a refreshing and fun summer getaway. Here are six refreshing spots in Hiroshima to escape the heat and create unforgettable summer memories!
1. Bakusetsu Waterfall: Nature’s Air Conditioner
Photo Courtesy of Hiroshima Tourism Association
Located in the vast natural surroundings of Mihara City, Hiroshima, “Bakusetsu Waterfall” is one of the area’s most stunning spots. Water cascades from a 30-meter-high rock wall with incredible force, creating a fine mist that acts like nature’s air conditioner, instantly cooling the surrounding air. Simply watching the powerful flow of water calms the mind, while the abundant negative ions produced by the waterfall leave you feeling refreshed and recharged.
■ Address: Funaki, Hongo-cho, Mihara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
■ Access: About 11 minutes by car from the Hongo IC
■ OFFICIAL SITE
2. Mt. Noro: Panoramic Seto Inland Sea Views to Relax and Recharge
Photo Courtesy of Hiroshima Tourism Association
Besides waterfalls, mountains are perfect summer retreats. Located in Kure City, Mt. Noro is a sacred site where the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi once trained, and it is also home to historical sites like Kobo Temple. The 839-meter-high summit is a flat plateau, and the Kabuto Rock Observatory offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea, considered one of the most scenic spots in Setonaikai National Park. Hiking here in the summer allows you to enjoy fresh air, forest bathing, and ultimate relaxation.
■ Address: 5502-37 Itayasu, Kawajiri-cho, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture
■ Access: About 50 minutes by car from central Kure City
■ OFFICIAL SITE
3. Jinseki Kogen Tiergarten: A Hands-On Highland Theme Park
Photo Courtesy of Hiroshima Tourism Association
Located on the border of Hiroshima and Okayama, “Jinseki Kogen Tiergarten” is an experiential theme park at 700 meters above sea level, making it a perfect summer escape. The park features a 3.9 km maple tree walking trail, lush lawns, treehouses, and hammocks for relaxation—great for family strolls and picnics. Guests can also rent bicycles or try ground golf. For those who want a deeper nature experience, camping and cabin stays under the starry sky are available, creating unforgettable summer memories.
■ Address: 72-8 Kamitoyomatsu, Jinseki-Kogen-cho, Jinseki-gun, Hiroshima Prefecture
■ Access: About 30 minutes by car from Tojo IC
■ Hours: 9:00-17:00
■ Closed: Wednesdays (Open daily in July–September; closed in winter from late Dec to Feb)
■ Admission: 3-month pass ¥300 / Annual pass ¥1,000 (Additional fees for activities; see website)
■ OFFICIAL SITE
4. Hattendo Village: A Sweet Retreat Surrounded by Nature
Photo Courtesy of Hiroshima Tourism Association
Hattendo, famous for its creamy custard buns, also operates “Hattendo Village,” a nature-filled facility where visitors can stay overnight, explore, and enjoy various hands-on experiences. Activities include making bread and sweets, participating in workshops, and enjoying seasonal events. You can also taste freshly baked Hattendo breads and desserts on-site, making it an ideal summer spot for families and couples alike.
■ Address: 427-1 Minami, Mihara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
■ Access: About 3 minutes by car from Mihara-Kui IC
■ OFFICIAL SITE
5. River Trekking at Sandankyo Gorge
Photo Courtesy of Hiroshima Tourism Association
Sandankyo Gorge, located in Akiota Town, is one of Japan’s most scenic gorges and a designated Special Place of Scenic Beauty. In summer, it offers an exhilarating river trekking experience where participants can walk through clear streams, climb over rocks, and enjoy untouched natural beauty. The cool mountain water and shaded trails make it the perfect activity to beat the summer heat while fully immersing yourself in nature.
■ Address: Shiwachi, Akiota-cho, Yamagata-gun, Hiroshima Prefecture
■ Access: About 60 minutes by car from Hiroshima City
■ OFFICIAL SITE
6. Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park: Highlands and Starry Skies
Photo Courtesy of Hiroshima Tourism Association
Straddling Hiroshima and Shimane prefectures, Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park is a highland paradise that offers a refreshing escape during summer. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, lush plateaus, and breathtaking starry night skies. The park is also famous for its limestone caves and the stunning Taishaku Gorge. Whether you’re stargazing, trekking, or simply breathing in the crisp mountain air, this park is a perfect destination for a cool summer adventure.
■ Address: Tojo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
■ Access: About 40 minutes by car from Tojo IC
■ OFFICIAL SITE
Enjoy a Refreshing Summer in Hiroshima
From majestic waterfalls and panoramic mountains to interactive highland parks and river trekking, Hiroshima offers countless ways to escape the summer heat. These six recommended spots allow you to relax, explore, and fully experience the natural beauty of the region. On your next summer trip to Japan, be sure to add Hiroshima to your itinerary for an unforgettable and refreshing getaway.
