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Seasonal Delights of Tamba Sasayama

HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Seasonal Delights of Tamba Sasayama

An idyllic rural town offering unique attractions in every season

Tambasasayama City

Located in Hyogo Prefecture within short distance to Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, Tamba Sasayama is a hidden gem town brimming with history and rural charm. Surrounded by mountains as far as the eye can see, the area still retains its nostalgic landscape of rice paddies and fields, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more relaxed side of Japan, and has often been chosen as a filming location.

An important transportation hub during the Edo period (1603-1868), Tamba Sasayama is also called "Little Kyoto” for its historical and elegant townscape. There are many old buildings and houses throughout the town, including the Sasayama Castle ruins, where you can still feel the atmosphere of the past. The castle town was designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.

Tamba Sasayama fascinates visitors with a different look in each season. In spring, enjoy the cherry blossoms at Sasayama Castle and Noh performances under the dancing petals. In summer, join the Dekansho Festival, where tens of thousands of people dance to a traditional local folk song. In autumn, you can enjoy colorful leaves and autumn delights, such as black soybeans, Tamba chestnuts, matsutake mushrooms, and Japanese yam.

In winter, take in scenes of snowy landscapes and bask in the warmth of local hospitality. If visiting during the cold season, don’t miss the delicious Botan Nabe. This boar meat hot pot is Tamba Sasayama’s signature dish and each restaurant in town offers its own unique flavor. The hunting season for wild boar starts in mid-November and you can enjoy Botan Nabe until mid-March.

How to get there

From Osaka (approx. 50-80 min / 66 km)
-Take a local, rapid train or Konotori limited express train directly to JR Sasayamaguchi Sta. from JR Osaka Sta. (JR Fukuchiyama Line)

From Kansai International Airport (approx. 130-160 min / 123 km)
-Take a train (JR or Nankai) or limousine bus to JR Osaka Sta. (please refer above train service from Osaka).

Tambasasayama-shi, Hyogo-ken