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

In Ehoya Town, the top boutique stay is Ehoya Town Tourism Inn, a beautifully restored traditional wooden inn that blends Tottori Prefecture's rural heritage with modern comfort. Each room features handcrafted timber interiors and views of Mount Daibosatsu, with morning mist rising over rice fields. The inn offers free bicycle rentals for exploring nearby Edo-era ruins and scenic trails along the Ehoya River. Guests also enjoy nightly "Local Cuisine Nights," where they savor dishes like rice dumplings and seafood hot pots made from regional produce, offering an authentic taste of Japanese countryside life.

The best area to stay is central Ehoya Town, near Ehoya Station and the Town Hall, offering easy access to public transport and local amenities. This district hosts several charming guesthouses and small inns, such as Oyama-soko Cottage, which provides panoramic views of Mount Daibosatsu and is just a 5-minute walk from the Ehoya River Promenade. It’s also close to the Ehoya Town Cultural Center, hosting regular workshops in pottery and tea ceremony—perfect for culture enthusiasts. The area remains peaceful at night, making it an ideal retreat from urban noise.

Visitors can take part in the annual Mount Daibosatsu Festival, held in autumn at the Daibosatsu Shrine, where guests learn traditional rituals and craft paper cranes for good fortune. The Ehoya Pottery Workshop offers a one-day course using local red clay to create unique ceramics. Another highlight is the "Farm Family Dining Program", where travelers visit local homes to help harvest vegetables and cook dinner together, gaining insight into genuine Japanese rural cuisine and receiving a personalized thank-you note and souvenir.

Absolutely! Ehoya Town is perfect for families, with its spacious natural surroundings and safe, welcoming community. Stay at Ehoya Town Family-Friendly Inn, which features children’s baths, game rooms, and a mini farm for kids to interact with goats and chickens. The town has a family-friendly nature trail with educational signs about local wildlife, ideal for young explorers. Every Saturday, there’s a "Little Farmer Day" event where children plant rice or feed animals. The clear Ehoya River is also great for family fishing and splashing, making it a rare outdoor learning destination.

The standout natural feature is the majestic Mount Daibosatsu range, standing at 1,700 meters and known as the "Sacred Mountain of the Chūgoku Region." In spring, the foothills bloom with cherry blossoms and azaleas; summer brings cool mountain air perfect for hiking and camping. The Ehoya River banks offer scenic viewpoints with sweeping views of flowing water and native forests—ideal for birdwatching. Nearby, the Sea of Clouds Valley often fills with mist at dawn, creating ethereal landscapes perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.

Yes! Hidden gems include the White Egret Bridge, a centuries-old stone arch bridge built during the Edo period, now preserved in pristine condition with serene streams beneath. Another secret is the Old Ehoya Agricultural School Site, transformed into an open-air museum showcasing historical farming tools and student life. Even more secluded is the Moonlight Pond, accessible via a 20-minute forest path. At night, lanterns reflect on the still water, creating a dreamlike scene—ideal for couples or poets seeking solitude.

Must-try dishes include Mount Daibosatsu Sea Bass Sushi, made with fresh fish caught daily and seasoned with locally brewed vinegar—deliciously sweet and tender. Another highlight is Red Clay Rice, cooked slowly in traditional clay pots, infusing the meal with earthy aroma. Don’t miss the Wild Fern Noodle Soup, a light broth made from mountain-grown ferns and spring water. All these dishes are served at Hata no Aji Restaurant, where the owner sources ingredients within 30 kilometers to ensure freshness and authenticity.

From Tottori City, take the Tottori Prefectural Bus Line 601, which runs directly to Ehoya Central Bus Stop every hour, taking about 45 minutes. For greater flexibility, rent an electric scooter at Tottori Station and drive along National Route 9, passing through the Daibosatsu Tunnel for scenic views of mountains and rice paddies. Reserve your vehicle in advance at the Tottori Prefecture Tourism Information Center, especially on weekends. Alternatively, book a private day-trip tour with transportation and guided visits included for a seamless experience.

Ehoya Town hosts vibrant seasonal events: in spring, the Mount Daibosatsu Cherry Blossom Festival lights up the park with illuminated cherry trees; summer features the Ehoya River Lantern Float Festival, including floating paper lanterns and traditional drum performances. The Red Clay Ceramics Exhibition draws artists nationwide in autumn, while winter brings the Snow Blessing Pilgrimage, combining shrine rituals with snow-covered scenery. All events are listed on the Ehoya Town Tourism Association website, with some offering English guides for international visitors.

Highly recommended! Ehoya Town has over 30 km of well-maintained bicycle paths connecting the Ehoya River, Mount Daibosatsu foothills, and rural villages. Rental stations are available throughout town, including Ehoya Bicycle Club, which offers electric-assist bikes and child seats for just ¥500 per day. Routes feature clear signage and rest stops, with the Daibosatsu Loop Trail (18 km) being a favorite—passing through forests and terraced fields. After riding, many inns provide free bike washing and maintenance services, ensuring a smooth journey.