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

In Mima City, the top choice for authentic Japanese charm is Sōshōkaku Ryokan, a century-old onsen inn nestled in the Kotoura Valley. This traditional guesthouse features tatami rooms, private outdoor baths overlooking the river, and seasonal kaiseki meals made from local ingredients. Guests can experience tea ceremonies, forest walks, and cultural performances. Its serene setting amid mountains and forests makes it ideal for those seeking peace and immersion in Shikoku's heritage.

The Kotoura Valley region offers the most breathtaking scenery and peaceful atmosphere in Mima City. Surrounded by lush forests and cascading streams, this area is home to Sōshōkaku Ryokan and several secluded cabins. Visitors enjoy panoramic views of the valley at sunrise, hiking trails through ancient woodlands, and quiet evenings under starlit skies. The low population density ensures minimal noise and maximum connection with nature—perfect for relaxation and reconnection with the outdoors.

Visitors to Mima City can participate in the annual Kotoura Festival, featuring traditional taiko drumming, lantern processions, and folk dances. Exploring the Kotoura Village reveals centuries-old wooden houses built using native timber techniques. Hands-on workshops include making Kotoura Washi Paper from mulberry bark and learning Shikoku-style bamboo weaving. These immersive activities provide deep insight into the region’s living traditions and sustainable craftsmanship.

Yes, Sōshōkaku Ryokan stands out as the premier luxury onsen resort in Mima City. With its elegant architecture, private open-air baths overlooking the valley, and personalized service, it delivers a refined Shikoku experience. Guests enjoy gourmet kaiseki dinners, access to natural hot springs, and wellness treatments using local herbs. The hotel also hosts exclusive cultural events like tea ceremonies and calligraphy lessons, offering a truly elevated retreat in a remote mountain setting.

Key attractions in Mima City include the Kotoura Gorge, a national natural monument famed for its dramatic cliffs and the historic Vine Bridge—a rope suspension bridge strung across the canyon. Nearby, the Furukawa Shrine showcases unique Shinto-Buddhist fusion architecture. The Mima City Museum displays artifacts from Jomon-era settlements, including pottery and tools, offering a window into ancient life in Shikoku. Each site reflects the region’s deep cultural and geological significance.

Tourists in Mima City must sample Kotoura Tofu, made from pure mountain spring water, known for its silky texture. Try Shikoku buckwheat noodles served with local soy-based broth. Don’t miss Tosa citrus sweets and fruit wines crafted from regional mandarins. Many ryokans offer "local ingredient banquets" featuring fresh fish from Tosa Bay and wild vegetables foraged from the hills—each dish tells a story of the land and its people.

Absolutely, Mima City is highly suitable for families. The Kotoura Valley Trail has child-friendly paths with safe viewpoints and interactive nature stations. Several ryokans provide family rooms, kids’ bath areas, and storytelling sessions. The Mima City Museum includes hands-on exhibits where children can handle replicas of ancient tools. With clean air, gentle terrain, and low tourist density, it’s an ideal destination for a peaceful, educational family getaway.

While Mima City is somewhat remote, it’s reachable via bus from Tokushima Station—about 1 hour away. From the Mima Station, community buses connect to major sites like Kotoura Valley. However, renting a car or HopeGoo a private transfer is recommended for flexibility and access to hidden trails and rural villages. The journey itself through green landscapes adds to the adventure, making it worth the extra effort for true explorers.

The best time to visit Mima City is October to November, when the Kotoura Gorge transforms into a vibrant tapestry of red and gold autumn foliage. The weather is mild, perfect for hiking and soaking in onsen baths. Spring (March–April) brings cherry blossoms and clear streams ideal for canoeing. Summer is humid and rainy; winter is cold but peaceful. For stunning visuals and comfortable travel, autumn remains the peak season.

Mima City is renowned for Kotoura Washi Paper, crafted from mulberry bark using traditional methods passed down for generations. Another highlight is Shikoku bamboo weaving, used to create functional art like baskets and lamps. Local artisans also carve intricate figures from aged forest wood, reflecting spiritual beliefs. These crafts are available at the Kotoura Craft Market and the Mima City Museum Shop, serving as meaningful souvenirs that support local heritage.