Torokawataira Plateau is a scenic highland located at an elevation of approximately 700 meters in Kami Town, Mikata District, Hyogo Prefecture. Spreading across the middle slopes of Mount Torokawa, this beautiful natural area is renowned for its expansive mountain scenery, rich forests, wetlands, and clear spring water. It has been ranked first in Hyogo Prefecture’s selection of the region’s 100 best tourist attractions and offers visitors an opportunity to appreciate the changing beauty of nature throughout the seasons.
One of the plateau’s most remarkable natural treasures is the Great Katsura Tree of Waike, a giant tree believed to be more than 1,000 years old. Standing approximately 38 meters tall, with a trunk circumference of around 16 meters, this magnificent tree conveys the extraordinary power and longevity of nature. Designated a Natural Monument by Hyogo Prefecture, it is a symbolic landmark of Torokawataira and a popular destination for visitors who want to see an ancient tree of impressive proportions.
Torokawataira is also known for Sen’nensui, a natural spring whose name means “Millennium Water.” The spring maintains a temperature of around 10°C throughout the year and produces approximately 5,000 tons of water per day. Its clear, cool water flows into small streams that nourish the surrounding forests and vegetation.
Known officially as Katsura no Sen’nensui, the spring was selected as one of Japan’s 100 Remarkable Waters in the Heisei period. It is a cherished natural resource and a refreshing place to appreciate the purity of the region’s water and the richness of its environment.
The wider plateau encompasses extensive forests and high-elevation wetlands collectively known as the Torokawataira Wetland. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, this natural habitat supports a remarkable diversity of plant life. Approximately 1,000 plant species are reported in the area, including water crowfoot, water hyacinth-like aquatic plants, ghost plants, bush beans, yellow-flowered mountain thistles, Japanese atractylodes, and Japanese woodland peonies.
The wetland changes with the seasons, offering a succession of colors and botanical discoveries throughout the year. Clusters of plants such as giant butterbur relatives and loosestrife are especially notable, and the flowering landscape from summer into autumn is particularly appealing to nature lovers.
Torokawataira lies within Hyonosen-Ushiroyama-Nagisan Quasi-National Park, an area protected for its outstanding natural scenery and ecological value. The park encompasses varied habitats that support diverse plants and wildlife, and conservation and research help protect these environments. Torokawataira is one of the area’s most attractive destinations for visitors interested in mountain landscapes, forests, and wetlands.
The 15-hectare Tajima Kogen Botanical Garden is one of the plateau’s major attractions. Designed to make the most of the existing landscape, it was developed as Japan’s first “overland garden,” with an emphasis on natural scenery rather than a formal, highly structured garden layout. Visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers, trees, and other vegetation while exploring the garden’s peaceful woodland setting.
The wetland is particularly beautiful when its seasonal plants are in bloom. Tall flowering plants and clusters of loosestrife create a colorful landscape, especially from summer through autumn. The combination of open wetland, surrounding forest, and mountain views makes this a rewarding area for appreciating the natural character of the plateau.
The ancient katsura tree remains one of the area’s most memorable sights. Its enormous trunk and spreading form reflect centuries of growth, making it a powerful symbol of the region’s natural heritage. As a prefecturally designated Natural Monument, it is protected as an important part of Hyogo’s environment.
Sen’nensui is another essential stop for visitors exploring Torokawataira. The spring’s clear, cold water and steady flow have long made it an important local resource. Its natural setting provides a chance to pause, enjoy the cool mountain air, and experience the close relationship between the plateau’s forests and water systems.
The Hyogo Prefectural Ki no Dendo Museum, whose name can be translated as the Hall of Trees, explores the relationship between trees, forests, and human culture. Established around the theme of “Forest, Sea, and Sun,” the museum features exhibits about wood and the natural environment, along with hands-on educational programs. It offers an informative complement to the outdoor attractions of Torokawataira.
By train and bus: From Yoka Station on the JR San’in Main Line, take a Zentan Bus to Fukuoka-Hachi Kita-guchi. The bus journey takes approximately 50 minutes, followed by a walk of around 50 minutes to the plateau.
By express bus: Express buses from Osaka and Kobe may provide an alternative way to reach the wider area. A taxi can also make the final journey more convenient, particularly for visitors traveling with limited time or equipment. Check current transport schedules and local access conditions before setting out.
Nearby Uwano Plateau is known for its beautiful highland scenery and has been selected among Japan’s scenic destinations. The area also has an outdoor education center and is well suited to nature walks and outdoor activities.
Mount Hachibuse and the surrounding Hachi Plateau and Hachi Kita Plateau offer outdoor recreation throughout the year. In winter, the area is especially popular for skiing and snowboarding, while the warmer seasons are ideal for enjoying mountain scenery and fresh air.
Saruo Falls, selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waterfalls, is another impressive natural attraction in the region. Its powerful cascade and scenic surroundings make it a worthwhile stop for visitors seeking the refreshing atmosphere of a mountain waterfall.
Mount Hyonosen, one of the mountains featured in Japan’s 200 Famous Mountains list, is a popular destination for hiking and trekking. It is also known for its remote, unspoiled landscapes. Visitors can enjoy expansive mountain views and experience another side of the natural environment that makes northern Hyogo so appealing.
Torokawataira Plateau is a rewarding destination for anyone wishing to discover the natural side of Hyogo Prefecture. Its ancient katsura tree, exceptionally clear spring water, diverse wetland vegetation, and sweeping highland scenery create a landscape that feels both peaceful and timeless. Whether exploring the botanical garden, learning about the local environment, or visiting the nearby mountains and waterfalls, travelers can enjoy a memorable encounter with the forests and highlands of the Tajima region.