Step Into a Living Chapter of Japanese History
Nestled at the foot of the historic Mount Yama, Hirose-Toyoda Castle roadside station stands as a vibrant gateway to the cultural heart of Yasugi City in Shimane Prefecture. Located just minutes from the iconic ruins of the ancient Toyoda Castle, this station blends heritage with modern charm, offering travelers a unique blend of history, local flavor, and natural beauty.
More than a pit stop, Hirose-Toyoda Castle is a cultural crossroads where visitors can explore traditional crafts like Hirose Kashi, sample regional specialties such as fresh dōjō fish dishes, and enjoy interactive experiences like the popular “shabering” vending machine that speaks in local dialect. With its proximity to scenic walking trails, seasonal festivals, and nearby historic sites like the Konomiya Shrine, it’s the perfect starting point for an immersive journey through the timeless landscapes and traditions of the San'in region.
Why Visit
Hirose-Toyoda Castle roadside station stands out as the only stop where visitors can experience authentic handwoven Hirose kimonos crafted using traditional tatara iron-making techniques, displayed alongside live demonstrations. It is also the sole location offering the region’s signature "Dojyo Tempura" — crispy fried sweetfish caught from nearby rivers — made with a secret family recipe passed down for generations.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and information desks at Hirose-Toyoda Castle roadside station.
Tourism Exchange Plaza Araessa
A tourism information center located at the Araessa roadside station, offering visitor information and support services.
Araessa roadside station
Yasugi Rental Bicycle
Bicycle rental service available for tourists to explore the area.
Yasugi
Parking
Parking facilities available at the roadside station.
Araessa roadside station
Restroom
Public restrooms available at the roadside station.
Araessa roadside station
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available at the roadside station.
Araessa roadside station
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available at the roadside station.
Araessa roadside station
ATM
Automated teller machine available at the roadside station.
Araessa roadside station
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on workshops and seasonal events that celebrate the culture and nature of Hirose-Toyoda Castle.
Guided Tour: Cloud Sea and Kanshiro-related Walking Tour
【ガイド付】雲海・寛次郎ゆかりの安来まちあるき
Walk through the historic streets of Yasugi with a guide, exploring sites related to Kanshiro and enjoying views of the cloud sea.
Duration
90 min
This tour is suspended during winter months.
Guided Tour: Mount Yama-Fuji Castle Hiking
【ガイド付】月山富田城登山コース
Hike Mount Yama-Fuji Castle with a guide, learning about its history and strategic significance as an impregnable fortress.
Duration
120 min
Check weather conditions before hiking; trails may be slippery in rain.
Guided Tour: Yasugi Port and Town Prosperity
【ガイド付】安来港と街の繁栄コース
Explore the history and development of Yasugi Port and the surrounding town with a local guide.
Duration
90 min
This tour is suspended during winter months.
Guided Tour: Temple and Shrine Walking Tour
【ガイド付】お寺や神社を巡るコース
Visit historic temples and shrines in Yasugi with a guide, learning about their cultural and spiritual significance.
Duration
90 min
This tour is suspended during winter months.
Guided Tour: Old House Walking Tour
【ガイド付】古民家を巡るコース
Walk through traditional old houses in Yasugi with a guide, learning about local architecture and history.
Duration
90 min
This tour is suspended during winter months.
Photogenic Experience
フォトジェニックコース
Explore scenic and picturesque spots in Yasugi perfect for photography.
Duration
120 min
Best during morning or late afternoon light.
Experience: Fruit Picking
フルーツ狩り
Pick fresh fruits directly from local orchards, enjoying the seasonal harvest.
Duration
60 min
Outdoor activity; check weather before visiting.
Experience: Zen Meditation at Shimizu Temple
清水寺 座禅体験
Participate in a traditional Zen meditation session at Shimizu Temple, guided by a monk.
Duration
60 min
Indoor session; unaffected by weather.
Experience: Yosu Performance
安来節演芸館
Learn and perform traditional Yosu music and dance, experiencing a unique cultural art form.
Duration
60 min
Indoor activity; no weather impact.
Experience: Indigo Dyeing
藍染体験
Create your own indigo-dyed fabric using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
Duration
90 min
Indoor activity; no weather impact.
Experience: Name Bowl Appreciation
名碗を愉しむ会
Handle and appreciate famous bowls collected at the Kano Art Museum, learning about their craftsmanship and history.
Duration
60 min
Indoor activity; no weather impact.
Seasonal Event: Autumn Leaves Sightseeing Bus
【紅葉シーズン限定】イエローバス 清水観光線
Enjoy a scenic bus ride through the autumn foliage in the Shimizu area, with stops at key viewpoints.
Duration
120 min
Weather-dependent; may be canceled in heavy rain or snow.
Seasonal Event: Autumn Festival at Yasugi Agricultural and Forestry Festival
第21回安来市農林業祭
Attend a seasonal festival featuring local produce sales, hands-on experiences, and free traditional soups like wild boar and loach soup.
Duration
300 min
Event proceeds rain or shine.
Seasonal Event: Castle Postcard Book Launch
御城印帳 新発売のお知らせ
Purchase a limited edition postcard book featuring Mount Yama-Fuji Castle, available for a short time only.
Duration
30 min
Available at indoor locations; unaffected by weather.
Seasonal Event: Loach Tempura Tasting
＼どじょうの唐揚げ販売／
Taste freshly fried loach, a local specialty, prepared with a unique regional recipe.
Duration
30 min
Available only on specified date; limited stock.
Seasonal Event: Red Maple Leaf Viewing
清水公園の紅葉情報
Visit Shimizu Park during peak maple leaf season to enjoy the vibrant autumn colors.
Duration
60 min
Best viewed during clear days; avoid heavy rain.
Seasonal Event: Japanese Heritage Shrine Autumn Festival
金屋子神社にて11/3(月)秋大祭が行われます✨
Participate in the autumn festival at Kinagashi Shrine, including prayers, rituals, and cultural performances.
Duration
180 min
Event proceeds rain or shine.
Seasonal Event: White Crane Photography Contest
フォトコンテスト ～私が好きなやすぎ～
View and enjoy photographs submitted by visitors capturing the beauty of Yasugi, especially white cranes in winter.
Duration
60 min
Best viewed during daylight hours.
Rental: Bicycle
安来レンタサイクル
Rent a bicycle to explore the scenic routes and local attractions of Yasugi at your own pace.
Duration
120 min
Avoid riding in heavy rain or snow.
Rental: Taxi with Discount Coupon
「得タク」クーポン
Use a discount coupon to enjoy affordable taxi rides around Yasugi, ideal for tourists.
Duration
60 min
Available regardless of weather.
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience and ask staff for hidden local gems near Hirose-Toyoda Castle.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to access the free "Yasugi City Multilingual Brochure" available at the information counter before it runs out during peak hours
- Hidden Gems: At the souvenir shop inside the information center, look for the limited-edition "Metal T-shirt" from Yada Soy Sauce Shop, available only during seasonal events and sold out quickly
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, stop by the "Yasugi City Tourism Exchange Plaza" to view the temporary exhibition of award-winning entries from the "My Favorite Yasugi" photo contest, displayed on the east wall near the exit
- Local Product Tip: Purchase the "Yasugi-style Doyou Tempura" at the Anjō Station Tourist Exchange Plaza during the 13:30–18:00 window on October 30 to get the limited-time recipe developed by the regional revitalization team member Tomo
- Photography Spot: Take photos of the "Yasugi City History Archives" building at the entrance to the Anjō Station Tourist Exchange Plaza, where the new "Castle Stamp Book" is sold—its design features the iconic Moon Mountain Fudai Castle silhouette
- Seasonal Experience: On November 1–30, ride the "Yellow Bus Shimizu Sightseeing Line" from Anjō Station to Shimizu Temple, which stops at the foot of the scenic Shimizu Park to showcase the autumn foliage
- Cultural Insight: Visit the "Kanokoro Shrine" on November 3 during its autumn festival to witness the "string removal" ritual at 11:30 AM and the main ceremony at 4:00 PM, with the shrine office open for prayer from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market; peak season for canola flower viewing in late March to April.
Summer (June-August): Summer guide tours suspended due to heat; no specific seasonal events mentioned.
Autumn (September-November): Red maple leaves at Shimizu Park peak in mid-November; special yellow bus runs for autumn foliage from November 1–30.
Winter (December-February): Guided walking tours suspended; limited access to seasonal activities.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area and stroller-friendly paths. Features interactive elements like the talking vending machine and seasonal events. Limited kid-specific food options but generally safe and accessible for families.
Food Lover Review
Provides diverse local cuisine including regional specialties like dojou stew and yamagata-style soy sauce. Offers fresh produce and artisanal food products. Features well-regarded restaurants and seasonal food events.
Car Camping Review
Has basic facilities including restrooms and vending machines. Offers a quiet, scenic location suitable for overnight stays. No explicit overnight parking policy mentioned, but the area is generally accommodating for car campers.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by natural landscapes with seasonal beauty, especially during autumn foliage. Offers excellent photo opportunities at viewpoints and cultural sites. Overall atmosphere is serene and aesthetically pleasing.