Soni Highland is a stunning meadow in the foothills of the Kuroso and Kameyama Mountains. The area has sweeping views, fields of silver pampas grass, and accessible hiking trails. Visitors can explore ancient temples, enjoy the warmth of local hospitality, and admire the Nara countryside on the way. In summer, the plateau is a vivid green, while autumn transforms it into a golden sea of pampas grass, especially breathtaking at sunset.
Day 1
Muroguchiono Station
BY BUS
Around 22 minutes by bus from Muroguchiono Station.
Murouji TempleA network of stone paths through a lush forest connect the buildings of Muroji Temple, leading to a beautiful five-story pagoda at the top of a flight of steps. The grounds are ablaze with colorful fall foliage in the autumn and dotted with vibrant pink rhododendron blooms in early summer. The street leading up to the temple has cafes, sweet shops and a few ryokan which open their doors to visitors for lunch. History & Culture Murouji Temple
BY FOOT
Around 20 minutes walk from Murouji Temple.
Murou Art ForestOn the way back to the station from Murouji Temple, enjoy an art-filled stroll through a vast sculpture park in the forest. Visitors are invited to interact with the giant art installations in the park, which were designed to harmonize with the landscape. History & Culture Murouji Temple
BY CAR
Around 35 minutes by car from Murou Art Forest. Alternatively, 10 minutes by express train from Muroguchiono Station to Nabari Station Station, then approximately 40 minutes by bus to Taroji, followed by a 30 minute walk.
Soni Kogen FarmTake a breather and stop for lunch at Soni Kogen Farm before carrying on with your adventures. This restaurant and farmstead at the entrance of Soni Highland offers European-style meals made with local produce. There is also an on-site bakery that sells bread and cakes made from rice-flour. Western Restaurants Soni HighlandBY FOOT
Around 10 minutes walk from Soni Kogen Farm.
Soni HighlandExplore the highlands on the well-maintained trails that offer easy and accessible hikes for all fitness levels. In the spring, the grassland is maintained with controlled burnings and the area becomes a lush green carpet. In the autumn, rolling fields of silver pampas grass sway in the wind and the trails are illuminated by lanterns in the evenings. Nature & The Outdoors Soni HighlandBY FOOT
Around 10 minutes walk from Soni Highland.
Soni Kogen Mugi-no-YakataAfter exploring the highlands, unwind with some refreshing Soni Kogen Beers, at this microbrewery, renowned for its authentic German-style ales. Soni Highland is known for the quality of its pure spring water, which is said to give the beer its delicious, fresh taste. Sake & Liquor Soni HighlandBY CAR
Around 10 minutes drive from Soni Kogen Farm or 15 minutes drive from Soni Kogen Mugi-no-Yakata. Alternatively, take a bus from Soni Kogen Farm to Konagaobashi, then walk for 20 minutes.
Auberge in the Forest Ki-ra-raTurn in for the evening at Auberge in the Forest Ki-ra-ra. This private wooden lodge offers stunning views of Soni Highland and the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a cozy, private accommodation, homemade meals, and a selection of fine wines at the stylish inn. Hotels End of Day 1
Day 2
Auberge in the Forest Ki-ra-raBY CAR
Around 37 minutes by car from Auberge in the Forest Ki-ra-ra. Alternatively, take a bus from Konagaobashi to Nabari Station (around 50 minutes), then 20 minutes by express train to Hase.
Hasedera TempleBefore heading back to Nara City, make time to visit the beautiful town of Hase and its famous temple. Perched on the side of a mountain, Hasedera is often called the temple of flowers. Climb the covered stairway to the main hall and be rewarded with stunning views of the temple buildings spread across the mountain, surrounded by cherry blossoms, peonies, hydrangeas, or autumn foliage depending on the season. History & Culture Hase End of Day 2
