Station Hikimi Gorge

Discover the Heart of Stone and Stream in Western Shimane

Nestled along the winding banks of the Koto River, Hikimi Gorge roadside station lies at the edge of the historic Iwami region, where ancient mountains meet pristine forest and flowing water. More than a mere rest stop, this scenic hub is a gateway to nature, culture, and local tradition. Surrounded by lush greenery and the echoes of centuries-old stories, it offers travelers a rare chance to pause and reconnect with the rhythm of rural Japan.

Here, visitors can savor regional delicacies like Iwami-style soba and fresh river fish, browse handcrafted souvenirs, and even catch live performances of the UNESCO-recognized Iwami Kagura. With panoramic views of the gorge and easy access to nearby attractions like the World Heritage-listed Iwami Silver Mine, Hikimi Gorge is a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic experiences in the serene landscape of western Shimane.

Hikimi Gorge roadside station stands out as the only spot in the region where visitors can experience live demonstrations of traditional stone masonry using techniques unchanged for centuries. Here, artisans craft intricate stone sculptures from local granite, offering hands-on workshops that showcase the skill passed down through generations. Adjacent to the workshop, a seasonal tasting of wild mountain vegetables—harvested from the surrounding slopes—is served with locally brewed barley tea, a rare combination found nowhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to experience the full range of seasonal food displays at the deli counter, including the limited-edition stone-oven baked bread from the local bakery that rotates weekly.

• Hidden Gems: At the east-facing corner of the main hall, look for the small display of handcrafted pottery from local artisans; these pieces are only available at Hikimi Gorge roadside station and are priced under 1,500 yen.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the live cooking station near the entrance features a rotating menu of traditional stone-oven dishes—arrive by 11:00 AM to secure a seat, as these sessions fill up quickly.

• Seasonal Product Alert: The "Iwami Silver Mountain Heritage" gift set—featuring hand-dyed silk scarves and a map of the old silver mining trails—is only available in the gift shop from mid-March to mid-October.

• Photography Tip: The best view of the surrounding valley from the roadside station’s observation deck is just after sunrise on weekdays; the mist clears by 8:30 AM, making it ideal for capturing the landscape in soft morning light.

• Local Event Reminder: The "Iwami Folklore Art Exhibition" is held in the west wing of the station every second Saturday of the month from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM; it showcases rare masks and costumes used in traditional Iwami Kagura performances.

• Food Pairing Tip: The locally produced plum wine, sold exclusively at Hikimi Gorge, pairs perfectly with the grilled mountain trout available at the deli counter—ask the staff for the recommended pairing pairing card.

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at roadside stations in early spring; peak season for canola flower viewing in late April.

Summer (June–August): Ideal for hiking Hikimi Gorge; cooler temperatures make it comfortable despite humid weather.

Autumn (September–November): Best time to enjoy fall foliage along the gorge trails; local festivals highlight seasonal harvests.

Winter (December–February): Quiet visits to Hikimi Gorge; rare snow-covered landscapes enhance the serene atmosphere.