Hiruzen Plateau (Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

The Hiruzen Plateau is a highland region that stretches across Maniwa City in northern Okayama Prefecture, and is a tourist destination known for its abundant nature and idyllic scenery. Originally a land of livestock farming, dairy products made with Jersey cows (milk, yogurt, cheese, and soft serve ice cream) have become a local specialty. The area is known for its changing appearance with each season, with a summer resort, autumn views of the colorful grasslands and autumn foliage on the surrounding mountains, and winter skiing and snowy scenery.

Highlights

• The idyllic scenery of the Hiruzen Plateau: the panoramic view of the vast grasslands, grazing cows, and the mountain ranges (including Mt. Daisen) in the distance makes for a great photo.
• Hiruzen Jersey Land (ranch experience): Experience milking Jersey cows, making butter, and enjoying dairy products such as soft serve ice cream and gelato.
• Hiking & Cycling: There are walking paths and cycling trails around the plateau, including circular trails for beginners.
• Skiing and Winter Sports: In winter, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Hiruzen Kogen Ski Resort (open depending on snow conditions).
• Flower and herb gardens: There are spots where seasonal flowers and herbs are planted, and you can enjoy strolling around.
• Local cuisine: There are many restaurants and cafes that serve dairy products from the Hiruzen Plateau (cheese, yogurt, ice cream) and use locally produced ingredients.
• Camping/Glamping: There are campsites and accommodations for families, allowing you to stay in the middle of nature.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Car: This is the most convenient way to get there. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from Okayama City using local roads and expressways, and about 1 to 1.5 hours from Yonago or Tottori (depending on traffic conditions). The area is large, so having a car or rental car will help you get around more efficiently.
• Nearest train station: Neu Station on the JR Hakubi Line is relatively close, and it's about a 20-30 minute taxi ride from there (approximately). Many tourists also rent cars or use local buses from Tsuyama Station or Yonago Station.
• Bus: There may be seasonal tourist buses, as well as express and local buses that run to Okayama and Yonago (the number of services varies depending on the season, so it is recommended to check in advance).
• Please note: There are some sections where public transport services are limited, so we recommend checking the timetable in advance or renting or using your own car if possible.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short tour (half day): Stroll around the ranch and buy soft serve ice cream and souvenirs (2-3 hours).
• Enjoy a full day trip: Ranch experience, hiking, lunch, and visits to nearby tourist spots (6-8 hours).
• Relaxed stay: If you want to stay overnight and enjoy hot springs, stargazing at night, and activities the next day, we recommend a stay of one to two nights.

Nearby spots

• Mt. Daisen: A representative mountain of the Chugoku region that can be accessed by car from Hiruzen. Enjoy hiking and the views.
• Yubara Onsen: A hot spring resort in Maniwa City. You can soothe your travel fatigue in the open-air baths.
• Katsuyama Townscape Preservation District: A walking spot (Mimasaka region) that retains the atmosphere of a castle town from the Edo to Meiji periods.
• Hiruzen Highlands Center/Roadside Station Area: Souvenir shops, tourist information, and restaurants using local ingredients are all located here.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: During Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season, and winter ski season, the park can get crowded and full. During peak times, we recommend arriving early or planning your visit on a weekday.
• Manners: The farm is a tourist destination as well as a dairy farm. Please observe basic manners such as not crossing fences, not feeding the animals without permission, and being careful of any problems such as droppings.
• Seasonal clothing: Due to the high altitude of the plateau, it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, even in summer. In spring and autumn, bring at least one layer of warm clothing, and in winter, be sure to take measures to protect yourself from snow (such as studless tires or chains).
• Transportation: Public transportation is limited, so it's best to plan your trip based on the assumption that you'll be traveling by car. Be sure to check information about frozen roads and snow accumulation in winter in advance. There are places where walking distances can be longer than expected, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
• Check business hours: The opening hours and status of ranches, facilities, and events may change depending on the season and weather. Please check the official website or tourist information for the latest information before visiting.

The Hiruzen Plateau is a place where you can enjoy nature and food. You can enjoy it on a day trip, but if you visit with plenty of time, you can enjoy the highland air and local cuisine at a more leisurely pace.