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Food

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Tokuji Soba-Chaya Miyabi

A refined haven for lovers of authentic Japanese noodles. At Miyabi, the art of soba-making is celebrated using premium buckwheat flour grown right here in the fertile lands of Tokuji. Each batch is meticulously hand-kneaded and cut, ensuring a delicate texture and a rich, nutty aroma that defines true artisanal soba. Housed in a beautifully restored traditional building, the serene interior invites you to slow down and focus on the flavors of the countryside. From the snap of the chilled noodles to the warmth of the savory dipping sauce, Miyabi offers a taste of Tokuji’s agricultural heritage in every bite.

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Izumo

Hinatorin

Since its grand opening in 2024, Hinatorin has quickly become a sensation in Tokuji for its one-of-a-kind flavors. The star of the menu is the signature "Hina-Udon"—a masterpiece featuring a creamy, milky-white broth made by slow-simmering Yamaguchi-grown chicken wings and blending them with smooth soy milk. The experience is an interactive journey; you can customize the rich soup with Yuzu-kosho (citrus chili paste) or crunchy chili oil for a bold "flavor transformation." To finish, it is a local tradition to add rice to the remaining broth, turning it into a decadent, savory risotto. Don’t miss their "Rin-Don," a classic Oyakodon with fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth eggs and succulent chicken. With its warm, modern atmosphere, Hinatorin is the perfect stylish pitstop during your Tokuji adventure.

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Izumo

Jiyu-Sosaku Ito

Located along a peaceful road connecting Tokuji and Niho, Jiyu-Sosaku Ito is a creative sanctuary run by the talented Ito family. Here, the boundary between art and lifestyle dissolves, as each family member is a dedicated artisan specializing in woodworking, glassblowing, dyeing, weaving, fashion, and confectionery. The site features several charming mountain-cabin-style buildings, one of which serves as a Café & Gallery. In this space, you can browse and purchase unique pieces crafted amidst the lush greenery of the surrounding forest. Spend a moment here to hold these handmade treasures in your hands and feel the inspiration that only nature and dedicated craftsmanship can provide.

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Izumo

Tokuji Washi Works

Washi is a traditional Japanese craft made from the resilient fibers of indigenous plants like Kozo (mulberry), creating a paper that is remarkably durable and translucent. In Tokuji, this tradition has flourished for over 800 years, and its exceptional quality was historically recognized when it was chosen for the reconstruction of Nara’s iconic Todai-ji Temple. At Tokuji Washi Works, located in a charming thatched-roof workshop within Chogen-no-Sato park, you can experience this ancient art firsthand. Under the guidance of artisan Mr. Funase, guests can enjoy programs like Kami-suki (paper-making) and Ori-zome (fold-dyeing), learning how raw forest fibers transform into beautiful, functional art. The session typically takes 1 to 2 hours and can accommodate 1 to 15 guests, making it a perfect place to discover a one-of-a-kind souvenir rooted in Japanese wisdom.

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Kishimi Stone Bath

The Kishimi Stone Bath (a National Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property) is a traditional Japanese sauna said to have been built by the high priest Chogen, who arrived in Tokuji to direct the reconstruction of Nara’s Todai-ji Temple, as a place of healing for his workers. This ancient "heat bath" experience involves heating a kamakura-style stone chamber for hours before laying down on a fragrant bed of damp rice straw and medicinal herbs. While many such baths once lined the Saba River, Kishimi is the only one in the region where you can still experience this ritual today. Beside the bath, a traditional irori hearth—reusing the ashes from the stones—serves as a social hub where locals and visitors gather to enjoy roasted mochi and warm conversation. Viewing the site is always possible, but bathing is typically available on the second Sunday of the month (excluding July–September) for a fee of 300 yen. Please note that for 2026, schedule verification is required due to planned restoration work.

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Yuno

Notani Stone Bath

The Notani Stone Bath is a historic steam bath facility built around 1186 by the high priest Chogen. During his mission to source timber from the mountains of Tokuji for the reconstruction of Nara’s Todai-ji Temple, Chogen established this site as a place of healing and medical treatment for the workers engaged in the grueling labor. Utilizing a natural rock cave, the "Ishi-buro" (stone bath) functions as a steam sauna where heated stones are doused with water to create a soothing, therapeutic vapor. Today, it remains a significant cultural landmark representing the ancient wisdom of Japanese wellness.

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Food

Izumo

Kishimiya

Kishimiya offers a comforting bowl of udon featuring soft-textured noodles from Inomata Seimen, served in a gentle broth crafted from dried sardines (iriko), kelp, and bonito flakes. Guests can personalize their meal with seven different toppings, and as a special treat, the savory tsukudani (simmered side dishes) made from the leftover dashi ingredients are available for free at the counter. In addition to their signature udon, the menu includes soba and the popular "Kishimi Teishoku" set meal (limited quantities available daily).

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Izumo

Iitoko Tokuji

Iitoko Tokuji is a local market dedicated to preserving the natural blessings and rich soil of the countryside for the next generation. Driven by a parental desire to pass down both the harvest and the heartwarming spirit of the land, they offer fresh, locally grown vegetables nurtured with care. Experience the authentic taste of Tokuji’s earth, delivered straight from the farm to your table with love and sincerity.

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Izumo

Shintani Syuzo

Founded in 1927, Shintani Syuzo is a boutique sake brewery nestled in the heart of Yamaguchi City’s Tokuji region. Drawing from the exceptionally soft underflow water of the Saba River, the brewery has remained dedicated since its inception to crafting "Umaguchi" sake, characterized by its remarkably smooth and rich mouthfeel. Guided by the motto "Brewing Harmony and Seasons," they prioritize three forms of harmony—among the brewers, within the flavor, and in the hearts of those who drink it—to deliver a fresh, monthly press of their signature brand, "Wakamusume," straight from the cellar to your glass.

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Ilo flower

Nestled on a quiet street in the Hori district of Tokuji, ilo flower is the only florist in the region, bringing a touch of botanical joy to the community. Its name, "ilo," means "joy" in Finnish—reflecting the owner's heartfelt wish for happiness to blossom between the giver and the receiver of every bouquet. The charming shop features seasonal fresh blooms, long-lasting dried flowers, and lovely potted plants, all hand-selected from the market. Whether you are looking for a special arrangement or simply want to treat yourself to a single stem during your travels, this gentle space blends perfectly into the lush, natural landscape of Tokuji.

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Izumo

Roasted Wild Herb Tea Blending Experience

Discover the healing power of Japanese wilderness with a unique roasting and blending experience by the Tokuji Kenko-cha Cooperative. Centered around Kawara-ketsumei—a local wild herb traditionally prized for its medicinal properties—this program features a variety of fragrant roasted teas made from mugwort, persimmon leaves, and loquat leaves. These teas are beloved by locals for their deep aroma and health benefits. In this hands-on session, you will taste approximately 10 different varieties of locally produced roasted teas before crafting your very own original blend to take home. Depending on the season, additional options such as harvesting or factory tours may be available upon request. This enriching 90-minute to 2-hour program is available year-round for groups of 2 to 30 people, offering a true taste of Tokuji’s natural heritage.

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Kushi

Traditional Straw & Bamboo Craft Workshop

At Yume Kobo, local artisans breathe life into wood, bamboo, and straw to create beautiful daily goods, ornaments, and nostalgic toys like bamboo dragonflies. One of their most enchanting creations is the "Hotaru-kago" (Firefly Cage)—a spiraled vessel hand-woven from barley straw, traditionally used to catch fireflies and enjoy their soft, flickering light through the delicate gaps. In this hands-on program, you will learn directly from the skilled members of Yume Kobo to craft your own firefly cage or a "Shimenawa" (sacred straw rope). The experience is made even more memorable by the warm hospitality of the instructors, who are famously known for their encouraging and friendly nature. Whether weaving the seasonal firefly cages from late May to September or crafting Shimenawa year-round, you’ll enjoy a heartfelt cultural exchange rooted in the local traditions of Tokuji.

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