Shobara Guide: 10 Best Things to Do in Shobara, Hiroshima

If you are looking for a truly authentic experience in Hiroshima, head over to Shobara.

In this guide, we highlighted the best things to do in Shobara to give you an idea of how to spend your time here.

Situated in the mountains of Hiroshima Prefecture, Shobara is home to stunning natural landscapes.

But beyond its beauty, you will get to experience the city in the rawest possible way, perfect for people who are looking for a truly local experience.

You get to visit traditional architecture that is still visible in the structures throughout the city.

Just a two-hour bus ride, it’s a perfect day trip from Hiroshima to get your toes in the “real Japan” experience.

Here are some of the best things to do in Shobara:

1. Hike Taishakukyo Gorge (Best in Spring/Fall)

First on our list is one of the most scenic things to do in Hiroshima.

Taishaku Valley has a gorgeous gorge that stretches for 18 kilometers.

One of its memorable views you will ever see when visiting Hiroshima is the 90-meter Onbashi Natural Bridge.

You may also go kayaking on Lake Shinryu to see the red bridges.

Along the way, there are also caves you can explore.

One that sticks out is the 200-meter-deep Hakuun Cave.

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2. Visit Bohoku Hillside Park (Best in Winter/Spring/Fall)

This expansive park is home to seasonal flowers, so spring and fall are the perfect time to visit.

If you visit in the winter, from December-January, be sure to witness winter illumination, which is what it’s popular for.

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3. Hike Mount Azuma (Best in Spring/Fall)

Having tons of trails, hiking is one of the main activities in Shobara.

One you should not miss is Mount Azuma.

This is a beginner-friendly hike, ideal for families with kids.

A round-trip hike only takes about an hour.

At the top, you will see a lake and a gorgeous landscape.

It’s also called kofuji because it resembles the perfect cone of Mount Fuji.

There are also a bunch of ski resorts, so if you are visiting in the winter, you should go skiing.

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4. Go apple picking (Best in Fall)

Shobara has a local tradition of apple picking.

At the apple orchards located around the towns of Tojo and Takano, you can enjoy a wide variety of apples. You

can even eat the apples you picked.

From September to November is the Apple season in Shobara.

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5. See Japanese Pyramid (Best in Summer)

At Mount Ashitake, you will find the local legend’s site for the mausoleum of Emperor Jinmu.

This mountain also features fantastic rock formations near the summit that seem like Egypt’s pyramids.

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6. Experience traditional Satoyama culture

Shobara is one of the best places in Japan to see traditional houses.

It is home to the second-highest percentage of remaining pre-modern architecture in the country.

You can even stay in a restored 100-year-old luxury farmhouse called Kozako-Mori (Setouchi Cominca Stays) and enjoy authentic Japanese rural life and activities like pottery and soba making.

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7. Buy fresh produce at Michi-no-Eki Takano

If you are staying longer in Shobara, you might need to buy some fresh fruits and veggies.

Michi-no-Eki Takano (Roadside Rest Area) is the perfect place to visit.

If you are looking for local recommendations, try the city’s specialty apple juice as well as Hiba beef.

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8. Visit Kumano Shrine

Located at the foot of Mount Hiba, Kumano Shrine houses more than 100 ancient cedars, some over 1,000 years old, creating a mystical atmosphere.

The location is also a perfect backdrop if you are looking to shoot some cinematic shots.

9. Learn at Hiwa Natural Science Museum

This specialized museum in Shobara is home to a varied collection of specimens and fossils, including unique whale fossils found in the mountains.

It’s an interesting place to visit if you are in Shobara.

10. Visit Hibayama Goryo

If you are hiking Mount Hiba, don’t skip the Hibayama Goryo.

This ancient burial mound is believed to be of the goddess Izanami-no-Mikoto, a site deeply tied to Japanese mythology.

That’s all for the best things to do in Shobara!

While accessible by bus or train from Hiroshima (about 2 hours), a rental car is highly recommended to reach many of the area's secluded natural attractions.

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