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

For authentic Japanese atmosphere, stay at Nantan Onsen Ryokan, a family-run ryokan nestled in the mountains near Tango Tsurugi. Enjoy kaiseki meals, private onsen baths, and tatami rooms with wooden beams and shoji screens. Another excellent choice is Oyama Town Stay, a rural guesthouse offering farm-to-table meals and hands-on workshops in paper umbrella making. Both locations emphasize tranquility and cultural immersion, perfect for travelers seeking serenity. The surrounding nature enhances the experience with seasonal beauty from cherry blossoms to autumn foliage.

The ideal time to visit Nantan City is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms along the Ena River, while autumn paints the hillsides in vibrant reds and golds, especially in Oyama District. Clear skies and mild temperatures make these seasons perfect for hiking the Bamboo Grove Trail or visiting Kinkaku-ji Temple’s nearby forest paths. Avoid summer heat and winter snowfall for more comfortable outdoor exploration and photography opportunities.

In Nantan City, visitors can participate in traditional washi paper umbrella making at Oyama Village’s craft workshop, where artisans guide you through each step of the process. You can also join a tea ceremony session at a local tea house in Oyama District, learning about matcha preparation and Zen philosophy. During festivals like Tango Tsurugi Festival, witness traditional dances, lantern parades, and taiko drum performances. These immersive activities offer deep insight into the region’s heritage and craftsmanship.

Yes, public transport in Nantan City is reliable for tourists. Take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to Ena Station, then transfer to a local bus heading to Oyama or Kita-Machi. Several sightseeing buses cover major sites like Tango Tsurugi and Kinkaku-ji Forest Trails. Consider purchasing a Kyoto Bus One-Day Pass for unlimited rides. For remote areas such as mountain villages, renting a car offers greater flexibility, but most key spots are accessible by train and bus with minimal transfers.

Absolutely. Nantan City offers many family-friendly options: explore the Forest School in Oyama District, where children learn about local ecology through interactive trails. Visit farm stays to pick strawberries or feed goats. Many ryokans provide child-sized yukata and free cribs. The Ena Children’s Museum combines science experiments with nature-themed play zones. With low tourist density and safe, clean environments, it's an ideal destination for parents seeking enriching, stress-free adventures with kids.

Must-try dishes include Oyama Beef, grass-fed mountain beef known for its tenderness—best enjoyed grilled at Ena Beef Specialty Restaurant. Try mountain vegetable cuisine, featuring wild ferns, yam, and mushrooms stewed in dashi broth. Don’t miss Nantan Rice Balls wrapped in seaweed, often served with pickled vegetables. Pair them with locally brewed Sake or Yuzu Tea. Seasonal sweets like mochi made with mountain yam are also delightful and reflect the region’s agricultural roots.

Top photo spots include Tango Tsurugi’s dramatic sea cliffs, especially at sunrise when mist rolls over the waves. The Bamboo Grove Trail in Oyama District offers ethereal light filtering through tall stalks—perfect for portraits and abstract shots. In autumn, capture the fiery colors of Kinkaku-ji Forest Pathways. For night photography, visit Ena Riverbanks lit by soft string lights. Use early morning or golden hour lighting to enhance depth and mood, and bring a wide-angle lens for expansive landscape compositions.

Nantan City boasts several natural hot spring resorts, including Ena Onsen and Oyama Onsen, both with mineral-rich waters ideal for skin health and muscle relaxation. Most ryokans feature private open-air baths overlooking forests or mountains. Some facilities include saunas and massage services. Look for signs indicating natural hot spring water (Shinryu) quality certification to ensure purity. Many spas also offer aromatherapy treatments using local herbs, enhancing the therapeutic experience.

Couples will love staying at Tenshukaku Villa, a secluded onsen villa overlooking Tango Tsurugi, complete with a private hot tub and candlelit dinner setups. Alternatively, choose Oyama Bamboo Garden Stay, a minimalist cottage surrounded by bamboo groves, with a shared tatami room and evening tea rituals. Both properties offer privacy, personalized service, and stunning natural backdrops. HopeGoo in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure a memorable, intimate retreat.

Nantan City has a peaceful, low-key nightlife centered around local eateries and ryokan inns. Enjoy cozy izakayas in Ena Town, serving fresh Oyama Beef and regional sake. Stroll along the Ena River at dusk, where soft lanterns reflect on the water. Some guesthouses host quiet nighttime stargazing sessions or small tea ceremonies. There are no clubs or late-night entertainment, which suits travelers seeking calm and connection with nature—ideal for recharging after a day of hiking or temple visits.