Hiruzen Highlands
A cool alpine plateau at 600m with rolling meadows, Jersey dairy cows and views of the Daisen volcano. Famous for yakisoba and fresh milk soft-serve — genuinely the best in Okayama.
Half–full day
Free; gardens from ¥600
Always open; individual gardens and attractions: 9:00–17:00
May–October
Train from Niimi to Chugoku-Katsuyama, then community bus to Hiruzen Highlands (bus approx. 1.5 h); or use car. Check bus timetables in advance
Location
Why Visit
- 1
Hiruzen Herb Garden for a cycling base with mountain backdrop
- 2
Jersey soft-serve ice cream here is legitimately world-class
- 3
Gateway to Daisen hiking on the Tottori border
Local Tips
The highlands are famous for jersey dairy farming — the soft-serve ice cream here uses milk from local jersey cows and is exceptional. Hiruzen Jōkamachi is a compact village with craft shops and restaurants. Combine with Maniwa's Yubara Onsen (30 min by car) for a relaxing afternoon.
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