Musashi Miyamoto Victory Monument
Musashi Miyamoto is said to be the greatest swordsman of the early Edo Period (1603-1867), who remained undefeated throughout his life. He confidently stated at only 13 years old, "I can defeat anyone, no matter the opponent." It is said that Musashi defeated famous samurai Kihei Arima here at Kanakura Bridge with just a single swing of his sword. This monument commemorates Musashi Miyamoto and is engraved with a passage of "Gorinsho Jobun" (The Book of Five Rings), an ancient text he wrote on Japanese kenjutsu and other martial arts.
DetailDetailed information
- Address
- Hirafuku,Sayo Town
MAPNeighborhood Information
RecommendRelated Recommended Spots
Japanese Dining Jidaiya
Enjoy local delicacies and creative cuisine at this Japanese pub located just a short walk from Sayo Station. The tatami room on the second floor also accommodates large groups.
Sayo-cho Insectarium
This small insect museum is tucked away near the entrance of Ruri Temple at the base of Mount Funakoshi. The museum exhibits specimens of aquatic organisms, introduces the flora and fauna of the scenic Chikusa River, and offers hands-on programs for children.
rural café “Kioku”
"This used to be a side headquarters in the inn town of Hirafuku. The café is an old private house that still retains its atmosphere."
Fukumori Meat Center
"A meat direct sales outlet that sells beef raised on Fukumori Farm in Sayo Town with full of nature's blessings at wholesale prices. The restaurant is directly managed by a ranch, so it is safe and secure, and offers fresh butcher's hormone (hormone udon set is also available) at reasonable prices. We have many repeat customers from far away on the days we are open only two days a week, so if you are interested, please come early."
Mikazuki Han-no-Inojinya Front Gate
During the Edo Period (1603-1867), this "Omote-mon" was the largest gate in the residential area of the Mikazuki Domain. It is said that 300 homes once stood here. Within the enclosure, which was divided by various gates, walls, and moats, the Omote-mon gate had an important role in dividing the central street. The gate was dismantled with the abolition of feudal domains in the Meiji Period (1868-1912) and used as the gate of a temple in Tatsuno City, before it was restored to its original location in 2017. It is a valuable architectural structure of the Mikazuki clan and is designated as a cultural asset by the town.
Guest House Asagiri
You can rent out a traditional Japanese private house in the mountains surrounded by nature. Please spend a relaxing time as if it's your "home away from home". We have amenities prepared so that you can come empty-handed. You can enjoy barbecues, playing in the river, a bonfire, etc. with your friends and family. It is also ideal for a training camp for a group of colleagues.
GourmetNearby Gourmet Spots
Le Proust
Located next to the city's famous 1,000-year-old ginkgo tree, this bakery offers an abundance of nearly 50 kinds of bread, including Danish bread made with seasonal fruits from Sayo, roasted soybean flour bread made with glutinous soybeans, and hard baguettes. The crispy, fluffy mini croissants (¥50 each) have also been highly popular with customers since the bakery's opening.
Fuji
Enjoy specialty offal yakiudon stir-fried noodles with soy or miso dipping sauces flavored to taste with yuzu citrus or garlic. The large menu at this popular restaurant also includes okonomiyaki, savory pancakes, and other side dishes. Calling ahead to secure a seat is recommended.
Horumon Yaki Udon Otafuku
"The basic style of Sayo Hormon Yaki Udon is to grill various meat, udon noodles and vegetables ina special sauce on a griddle all at once and eat them with soy sauce-based dipping sauces. The combination of the traditional sauce, which has been handed down for three generations, and the hormon is a taste that once you try it, you'll be addicted to it. The spacious restaurant has both table seating and tatami rooms."
Usagiya
Restaurant with a wide range of comfort foods.
O-Shokuji Dokoro Ippei
This long-established restaurant specializes in Japanese hot pot dishes, including duck and wild-boar hot pot (available year-round), Japanese set meals, rice bowls, and more. Among these, the "Deer Curry" (¥850) is a local favorite and a highly recommended item with its mix of various spices and tender meat. This original recipe was created by the restaurant owner Chiyako and the town's Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is a must-try if you're visiting the region!
Ikkyū
Enjoy hearty home cooking at this popular diner. The main attraction is the wild game cuisine featuring steaks, minced pork cutlets, and croquettes made with venison from the Sayo region. The deer burger pairs particularly well with the homemade sauce and verges on addictive.
HOTELNearby Accommodations
Cobaco Work&Camp
Located in front of Sayo Station, Cobaco is a coworking space open for anyone to use. The space offers an enriching lifestyle experience where people with various skills, backgrounds, and knowledge can collaborate.
G-style Country Club
This golf resort, surrounded by lush greenery, is the perfect getaway to relax your body and soul. The fairways are flat and wide, and the greens, covered with bentgrass, average 800m2 in size. With each of the 18 holes separate from one another, each hole brings you a new challenge, inspiring rich and strategic plays.
Minshuku Wakaayusou Inn
Located next to Tokuhisae Station along the JR Kishi-Line, this quaint and reasonable inn provides one night with two meals for as little as ¥6,000. The inn is known for its homemade cuisine, including dishes made with fresh sweetfish from the Chikusa River (June to September) and seasonal vegetables. Long-term stays are also available (upon request), making it the perfect place for an extended trip.
Outdoor vacation rental Ahirunomori
"The owner, who used to run an outdoor shop in Osaka, started this hands-on home-stay experience when he moved to the area. The appealing menu includes bushcraft workshops based on the experience of former Self-Defense Forces personnel, and cycling tours using electric cross bikes. Guests are also free to use the self-built huts on the premises, so they can use the Ahiro Forest for BBQ's, ent stays and other fun activities."
University of Hyogo Nishi-Harima Astronomical Observatory
Located at the summit of Mount Onade, the Nishi-Harima Observatory is equipped with a two-meter aperture Nayuta telescope, one of the world's largest available for public use. Centered around the observatory, there are nature trails, lodging facilities for groups and families, restaurants, and other facilities that allow visitors to stay overnight and enjoy stargazing to the fullest. Viewing parties are held every evening for overnight guests, while a general viewing party is held on Sundays for day-trippers. Please note that reservations are required on Saturdays and holidays. Many astronomical events are held throughout the year, allowing visitors to feel closer to the stars and the universe.
Business Ryokan Ichihonmatsu
Affordable accommodation for work or sightseeing, starting from ¥3,500 a night or ¥5,000 a night with two meals included. Rooms have an ensuite bath and toilet. Guests are welcome to bring drinks.