Hiji(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Hinode-machi, the best choice for sunrise views is Hinode-machi Onsen Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn nestled in the mountains of Ōita Prefecture. Its open-air baths face east toward the valley, offering unobstructed views of the first light breaking over the peaks. Guests can participate in morning rituals at the Hinode-machi Viewing Platform, where locals gather to welcome the dawn. The inn serves authentic kaiseki meals using local mountain vegetables and fresh seafood, enhancing the immersive cultural experience. For those seeking tranquility and natural beauty, this ryokan delivers an unforgettable stay rooted in Japan’s spiritual connection to nature.

The Onsen District surrounding Hinode-machi is ideal for peaceful, nature-centered accommodations. This secluded region features family-run ryokan and eco-friendly lodges tucked into lush forests, close to natural hot springs and hiking trails. The area remains largely untouched by tourism, making it perfect for travelers seeking solitude, stargazing under clear skies, and early-morning walks through mist-covered valleys. Many properties offer private onsen baths with panoramic mountain views, allowing guests to fully connect with the serene rhythm of rural Ōita Prefecture. It’s also near the sacred Hinode-machi Shrine, adding spiritual depth to your visit.

Guests in Hinode-machi can take part in the Morning Sunrise Ceremony at the Hinode-machi Viewing Platform, a centuries-old tradition symbolizing gratitude for new beginnings. Many ryokan provide hands-on workshops such as tea ceremony and kimono dressing, allowing visitors to engage deeply with local customs. At night, enjoy a starlight bath under the vast sky—ideal due to minimal light pollution. Some inns even host seasonal forest lantern festivals, where paper lanterns float along forest paths, creating a magical atmosphere that reflects the town’s name: ‘Place of the Rising Sun’. These experiences blend spirituality, artistry, and nature seamlessly.

The hot springs in Hinode-machi are rich in radon minerals and have a mild alkaline pH, known for their skin-rejuvenating properties and ability to relieve muscle tension. Sourced from volcanic geothermal activity beneath Ōita Prefecture, the waters remain consistently warm at around 40°C year-round. Several ryokan, like Hinode-machi Onsen Ryokan, feature open-air baths (rotenburo) with breathtaking views of the sunrise over the hills. Bathing here at dusk or dawn enhances the sense of stillness and renewal, making each soak not just therapeutic but deeply meditative—a true highlight of any stay in this mountain sanctuary.

Begin your day at the Hinode-machi Viewing Platform to witness the sunrise, then return to your ryokan for a kaiseki breakfast featuring seasonal ingredients. Spend the morning exploring the Hinode-machi Shrine and walking through the tranquil Bamboo Grove Trail. Afternoon relaxation includes soaking in a private onsen, followed by a tea ceremony workshop. In the evening, enjoy a starlit dinner under the open sky—perfect for observing constellations due to low light pollution. This balanced itinerary blends mindfulness, culture, and nature, capturing the essence of Hinode-machi as a place of peace and renewal.

Yes, Hinode-machi is highly suitable for families. Most ryokan offer family-friendly rooms and child-safe amenities like shallow onsen pools and interactive craft sessions. Nearby, the Hinode-machi Valley Trail provides gentle, scenic paths ideal for young explorers. Seasonal events like the Children’s Lantern Festival engage kids in storytelling and handmade lantern-making, fostering cultural appreciation. With clean air, safe surroundings, and abundant nature, it's a rare destination where children can learn about simplicity, respect for nature, and Japanese traditions—all while enjoying a stress-free vacation away from urban chaos.

Must-try foods in Hinode-machi include Ōita-style mountain vegetable cuisine, such as wild ferns, tuber stew (dōnko-nabe), and mushroom miso soup. While not originating here, Fukuoka-style ramen has been locally adapted with richer broth and soft noodles. Don’t miss Hinode-machi’s own plum wine, crafted from regional green plums—sweet, tart, and excellent with meals or as a souvenir. Many ryokan serve seasonal kaiseki dinners using ingredients foraged from nearby forests, offering a taste of the land’s bounty in every dish. These culinary experiences reflect the community’s deep bond with nature.

Accessing Hinode-machi requires some planning. The nearest airport is Oita Airport, and trains stop at Oita Station, from where you can take a local bus (approx. 1 hour) or arrange a private transfer. During winter, snow may affect road conditions, so driving is not recommended without proper tires. Many ryokan offer complimentary pickup services, especially for guests arriving via train. Although remote, the journey itself adds to the sense of discovery—making the effort worthwhile for those seeking authenticity and escape from modern life.

The best times to visit Hinode-machi are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms and vibrant greenery across the valleys, while autumn paints the hillsides in fiery reds and golds—perfect for photography. Weather is mild, ideal for hiking and outdoor bathing. Summer can be humid but offers cool mountain refuges, while winter brings snow, transforming the landscape into a serene white wonderland. For those seeking solitude and stunning seasonal beauty, these two periods deliver the most memorable experiences in this hidden gem of Ōita Prefecture.

Key natural attractions in Hinode-machi include the Hinode-machi Viewing Platform, renowned as one of Kyushu’s premier sunrise spots, offering sweeping vistas of mist-covered mountains. The Hinode-machi Valley Stream runs through ancient forests, ideal for peaceful walks and spotting native birds. Nearby, the Fog Forest (Kiri-no-Mori) shrouds the hills in ethereal mist each morning, evoking a dreamlike atmosphere. These landscapes aren’t just scenic—they embody the town’s spiritual reverence for nature. Visiting them at dawn or dusk enhances the sense of stillness and wonder, making them essential stops for any mindful traveler.