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

In Koyama City, the best hotel with cultural charm is Koyama Castle Hotel, housed in the former residence of the feudal domain's lord, featuring original Edo-period architecture and traditional Japanese gardens. Guests can enjoy tea ceremonies and explore samurai history through guided tours. Another standout is Nikko Koyama Onsen Ryokan, nestled near Nikko National Park, offering natural hot springs and kaiseki dining with local ingredients. Both properties blend heritage and comfort, perfect for travelers seeking authentic Tochigi Prefecture experiences.

The city center around Koyama Station is the optimal area for lodging, offering easy access to major attractions like Koyama City Museum and the historic Castle Town District. It’s also close to the Toshogu Shrine Approach, ideal for exploring local festivals and street food. The area features a mix of modern hotels and traditional ryokans, with excellent dining options. For convenience and immersion in daily life, staying here ensures seamless exploration of both culture and nature in Koyama City.

Visitors should not miss the Koyama Festival held annually in summer, featuring grand yatai floats and energetic taiko drum performances. Walk the castle town streets in yukata, taste persimmon leaf sushi—a regional specialty—and attend traditional craft workshops. Don’t miss the Koyama City Museum for insights into local art and samurai history. For spiritual insight, visit the Toshogu Shrine Approach, where ancient rituals and serene pathways offer deep cultural connection.

Yes, Nikko Koyama Onsen Ryokan is highly recommended, located at the edge of Nikko National Park, offering private outdoor baths with mineral-rich waters known for skin benefits. The hotel serves exquisite kaiseki dinners using locally sourced ingredients. Another great choice is Koyama Onsen Betsuin, a tranquil retreat with family-friendly rooms and a children’s bath. Both provide early-morning soak opportunities amidst forest mist, delivering a peaceful, rejuvenating experience.

Koyama Castle Hotel and Nikko Koyama Onsen Ryokan are perfect for families. The former offers kids’ activity zones and samurai costume experiences; the latter has family suites, child-safe baths, and game rooms. Both provide family packages including breakfast, local craft workshops, and children’s gift boxes. Nearby attractions like Koyama City Children’s Science Museum and forest trails ensure safe, engaging outings for all ages.

Koyama Castle Hotel stands out for its striking Edo-era architecture, red tile roofs, and stone walls, making it a favorite among photographers. Its dry landscape garden and lantern-lined corridors exude timeless elegance. Nikko Koyama Onsen Ryokan features bamboo groves and maple-filled courtyards, especially stunning during autumn foliage season. Visit early morning or dusk for soft lighting and fewer crowds—ideal for capturing dreamy, high-quality photos.

Must-try dishes include persimmon leaf sushi, wrapped in fermented persimmon leaves for a unique aroma and flavor, a Tochigi speciality. Try Koyama sake, a smooth local brew, paired with grilled yakitori. At Hachiman Yashiki Restaurant in the old town, savor handmade buckwheat noodles and local chicken stew. Weekly markets near the museum sell limited-edition gifts like sushi gift sets and hand-painted ceramics—perfect souvenirs.

Start at Koyama City Museum to learn about local art and history. Then stroll through the Castle Town District, sampling persimmon leaf sushi and browsing shops. In the afternoon, visit the Toshogu Shrine Approach, enjoying views of Nikko mountains. Return to Koyama Castle Hotel for a relaxing evening tea in the garden. If visiting in summer, stay for the Koyama Festival with parades and fireworks. All sites are walkable, making it an effortless yet immersive day.

Yes, Koyama Station is served by the Tobu Nikko Line, connecting directly from Tokyo in about 1 hour. Free shuttle buses link key attractions to the station. The city center has ample parking and rental car services for those driving. Most major sites—including the Castle Town District and Toshogu Shrine Approach—are within walking distance. Whether by train, bus, or car, getting around Koyama City is efficient and stress-free.

The highlight is the summer Koyama Festival, featuring large yatai floats and taiko drumming. Spring brings the Cherry Blossom Festival at Koyama Castle Ruins Park, with illuminated cherry trees at night. Autumn hosts the Red Leaf Festival, combining hiking tours and tea ceremonies amid vibrant foliage. Winter features the Koyama Light Festival, where thousands of lanterns line the shrine approach, creating a magical atmosphere. These events celebrate the city’s heritage and natural beauty.