Kiyomasa Park (Hyogo Prefecture) Complete Guide | Famous Autumn Foliage Spot Overlooking Yumura Hot Spring and the Spectacular “Dream” Characters
Kiyomasa Park, located in the Yumura hot spring area of Shinonsen Town, Mikata District, Hyogo Prefecture, is a popular tourist attraction where an entire small hill overlooking the hot spring town has been developed as a park. Known not only as a famous autumn foliage spot, but also for its fantastical atmosphere created at night by the “Dream” characters illuminated in seven colors, it attracts many tourists as a landmark of Yumura Hot Spring.
This article provides a comprehensive introduction to the attractions of Kiyomasa Park and explains in detail information you should know before visiting.
What is Kiyomasa Park | A Symbolic Landmark of Yumura Hot Spring
Kiyomasa Park is a park spreading across a small hill in the center of the Yumura hot spring town, with the entire hill developed as a walking area. The name is said to be related to the warlord Kato Kiyomasa, and it is a place where you can feel the region’s history and culture.
The park’s greatest characteristic is the spectacular view of Yumura Hot Spring town from the observation plaza at the summit. You can see the entire panorama of the hot spring resort spreading across the mountain valley, and enjoy beautiful scenery where the natural beauty of each season harmonizes with the ambiance of the hot spring town.
Basic Information
- Location: Yumura, Shinonsen Town, Mikata District, Hyogo Prefecture
- Management: Shinonsen Town Regional Promotion Division (Hot Spring Comprehensive Support Office)
- Admission: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24 hours (Night lighting available)
- Parking: Use public parking lots in Yumura Hot Spring
How to Get to Kiyomasa Park | 219 Steps and Time Required
To access Kiyomasa Park, use the “Arayuyu” (raw hot spring), a symbol of Yumura hot spring town, as your starting point and climb the stone-paved stairs that lead to the observation plaza at the summit.
Stair Details
- Number of steps: 219
- Elevation gain: Approximately 96 meters
- Time required: Approximately 10-15 minutes on foot (varies by individual)
- Road conditions: Well-maintained stone-paved stairs
The stairs have some steep sections, but there are rest areas along the way where you can take breaks and climb at your own pace. For those who are out of shape or elderly, it is recommended to climb slowly without overexertion.
Climbing Tips
Please pay attention to the following points when climbing the stairs:
- Footwear: Sneakers or athletic shoes recommended
- Hydration: Especially in summer, carry water with you
- Breaks: Take regular breaks without pushing yourself
- Rainy weather: Exercise caution as stone steps become slippery
The Spectacular View from the Observation Plaza | Overlooking Yumura Hot Spring Town
After climbing all 219 steps, you arrive at the observation plaza at the summit. From here, the entire Yumura hot spring town spreads out, and you can enjoy the beautiful landscape of the hot spring resort nestled in the mountain valley in a 360-degree panorama.
Highlights of the Observation Plaza
The observation plaza features a “Dream” character monument, a landmark of Yumura Hot Spring. During the day, this “Dream” character serves as a symbol of the hot spring town, and at night it is lit up in seven colors, creating a fantastical atmosphere.
Highlights of the View:
- Scenery of Yumura Hot Spring town
- Natural landscape of surrounding mountains
- Flow of the Haruki River (Harukigawa)
- Steam rising from the hot spring town
- Distant mountain ridges and gorge scenery
On clear days, you can see the mountains of northern Hyogo Prefecture, and the scenery is especially spectacular during early morning and dusk.
Kiyomasa Park as a Famous Autumn Foliage Spot | Peak Season and Viewing Methods
Kiyomasa Park is known as one of the best autumn foliage spots in Hyogo Prefecture. The entire small hill turns red and yellow in autumn, creating a beautiful landscape through contrast with the hot spring town.
Peak Autumn Foliage Season
- Color begins to change: Late October
- Peak season: Late October to early November
- Main tree species: Maple and Japanese maple
During the autumn foliage season, you can observe colored trees up close while climbing the stairs, and from the summit you can enjoy the contrast between the mountain covered in autumn colors and the hot spring town.
Best Times for Foliage Viewing
Daytime Foliage Viewing:
From morning through early afternoon, sunlight beautifully illuminates the autumn foliage, allowing you to enjoy vibrant colors. Especially on clear days, the contrast between blue sky and foliage is remarkable.
Foliage at Dusk:
Foliage illuminated by the sunset glows in orange, enveloped in a fantastical atmosphere. This time period is also ideal for photography.
Illumination Period:
During the autumn foliage season, in addition to the lighting of the “Dream” characters, the surrounding foliage may also be illuminated (implementation varies by year, so it is recommended to confirm with the Yumura Hot Spring Tourism Association in advance).
Spring Cherry Blossoms and Natural Beauty Through the Seasons
Kiyomasa Park is not only beautiful for autumn foliage but also for spring cherry blossoms. It is a nature-rich park that shows different faces throughout the seasons and is worth visiting year-round.
Spring (March – May)
Cherry Blossom Peak Season: Early to mid-April
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in splendor, and you can enjoy a collaboration of cherry blossoms and the hot spring town. Yumura Hot Spring sometimes holds cherry blossom viewing events timed with the blooming, attracting locals and tourists.
Summer (June – August)
Summer features beautiful fresh greenery, and you can enjoy a walk while feeling the cool mountain breeze. It is a season where you can escape the heat of the hot spring town and refresh yourself in nature.
Autumn (September – November)
As previously mentioned, autumn foliage is the main attraction of this season.
Winter (December – February)
Winter offers beautiful snow-covered scenery, with a fantastical landscape of the hot spring town and snow-capped mountains. However, the stairs may freeze, so great caution is necessary when visiting.
Kiyomasa Park at Night | The Fantastic World of “Dream” Characters Glowing in Seven Colors
One of the major attractions of Kiyomasa Park is the “Dream” character monument illuminated at night. This large character monument lights up while changing through seven colors, creating a fantastical sight when viewed from Yumura Hot Spring town.
Lighting Details
- Lighting hours: After sunset until around 10:00 PM (varies by season)
- Lighting pattern: Automatic lighting changing through seven colors
- Viewing spots: Visible from various locations in the hot spring town
The “Dream” characters are installed at the summit, so they can be seen from anywhere in the hot spring town. Particularly when viewed from around Arayuyu or along the Haruki River, the “Dream” characters create a fantastical atmosphere combined with hot spring steam.
Precautions for Nighttime Visits
While it is possible to climb to the summit of Kiyomasa Park at night, please pay attention to the following:
- While stairs have some lighting, pay careful attention to your footing
- Avoid solo nighttime mountain climbing; visits with multiple people are recommended
- Carry a flashlight or smartphone light
- Exercise extra caution in winter as surfaces are especially slippery
Tourist Spots Around Kiyomasa Park | Attractions of Yumura Hot Spring
When you visit Kiyomasa Park, also enjoy the Yumura Hot Spring area. Yumura Hot Spring is an ancient hot spring with a history of approximately 1,150 years and has many attractions.
Arayuyu (Raw Hot Spring)
Arayuyu, which is also the starting point for climbing Kiyomasa Park, is a symbol of Yumura Hot Spring where 98-degree high-temperature spring water flows. You can see locals cooking vegetables and eggs, and tourists can also experience making hot spring eggs.
Haruki River Walking Path
A walking path is maintained along the Haruki River that flows through the hot spring town, where you can enjoy walks while listening to the babbling of the creek. There are also foot bath spots where you can soothe tired feet.
Hot Spring Facilities in Yumura Hot Spring
After exploring Kiyomasa Park, it is recommended to relax at the various inns or public hot spring facilities in Yumura Hot Spring. The spring water, known for its beauty benefits, will refresh both body and mind.
Yakushi Hall
The Yakushi Hall, related to the legend of Yumura Hot Spring’s discovery, is also a notable site. It is cherished by locals as the guardian deity of the hot spring.
Access Information | How to Get to Kiyomasa Park
Access to Kiyomasa Park involves first reaching Yumura Hot Spring, then accessing it on foot from there.
Access by Public Transportation
By JR:
- Get off at “Hamasaka Station” on the JR Sanin Main Line
- Board the Zentan Bus heading to “Yumura Hot Spring” (approximately 25 minutes)
- Get off at “Yumura Hot Spring” bus stop, walk approximately 5 minutes to reach Arayuyu (trailhead)
Limited Express Train:
The JR Limited Express “Hamakaze” operates from the Osaka/Kobe area to Hamasaka Station.
Access by Car
From the Osaka/Kobe Area:
- Chugoku Expressway “Yoshikawa JCT” → Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway “Kasuga IC” → Kita-Kinki Toyooka Expressway “Yachiro-Hioyama IC” → via National Route 9, approximately 60 minutes
- Travel time: Approximately 3.5 hours from Osaka
From the Tottori Area:
- Via National Route 9, approximately 1 hour
Parking Information:
Yumura Hot Spring has multiple public parking lots. There is no dedicated parking for Kiyomasa Park, so use the hot spring town parking.
- Yumura Hot Spring Public Parking (Free)
- Capacity: Approximately 100 spaces
- Approximately 5-minute walk to the Kiyomasa Park trailhead (Arayuyu)
Precautions When Visiting and Recommended Clothing
To comfortably enjoy Kiyomasa Park, please pay attention to the following:
Clothing and Belongings
Basic Clothing:
- Sneakers or athletic shoes that are easy to walk in (avoid heels and sandals)
- Clothes that allow easy movement
- Outerwear appropriate to the season (the summit is cooler than the hot spring town)
Belongings:
- Drinking water (especially in summer)
- Towel (for wiping sweat)
- Camera (for photographing scenery)
- Flashlight (if visiting at night)
Seasonal Precautions
Spring and Autumn:
Mornings and evenings are chilly, so bring something to layer.
Summer:
Sunlight is strong, so prepare a hat and sunscreen. Do not forget to hydrate.
Winter:
Stairs may become icy, so wear non-slip shoes and exercise great caution. If there is heavy snow, it is recommended to avoid visiting or check conditions in advance.
For Those Without Much Stamina
The 219 stairs may be challenging for those who do not regularly exercise. Keep the following in mind:
- Climb at your own pace without overexertion
- Take breaks during the climb
- Hydrate frequently
- Do not push yourself if you are not feeling well
Photo Spots and Best Shots
Kiyomasa Park is an excellent photography spot. It is popular on social media such as Instagram, with many people posting beautiful photographs.
Recommended Photography Points
Hot Spring Town from the Observation Plaza:
The panoramic view of Yumura Hot Spring town from the observation plaza at the summit is a signature photo spot of Kiyomasa Park. During autumn foliage season or cherry blossom time, you can capture vibrant color photographs.
“Dream” Character and Hot Spring Town:
A composition with the “Dream” character in the foreground and the hot spring town in the background is popular. Night photography of the illuminated character is also recommended.
Views from the Middle of the Stairs:
Even partway up the stairs, the hot spring town can be seen through the trees, allowing photography with framing effects.
Close-ups of Autumn Foliage:
In autumn, close-up photographs of colored maple and Japanese maple trees also photograph beautifully.
Best Times for Photography
- Morning: Fantastical hot spring town shrouded in morning mist
- Daytime: Vivid scenery in clear weather
- Dusk: Hot spring town and mountains tinted orange
- Night: “Dream” characters glowing in seven colors and lights of the hot spring town
History of Kiyomasa Park and the Origin of Its Name
The name Kiyomasa Park is said to derive from the warlord Kato Kiyomasa. There are various theories about the relationship between Kato Kiyomasa and Yumura Hot Spring, but the name is cherished as one that connects to the region’s history and culture.
Yumura Hot Spring itself is said to have been discovered in 848 (Kasho 1) by the monk Jikaku, an ancient and historic hot spring. Throughout its long history, many literary figures have visited, and along with the development of the hot spring town, Kiyomasa Park has been developed as a regional symbol.
Lodging Plans in Yumura Hot Spring | Recommended Sightseeing Courses Including Kiyomasa Park
We present recommended sightseeing courses for Yumura Hot Spring centered on Kiyomasa Park.
Day Trip Plan (Approximately 4–5 hours)
10:00 Arrive at Yumura Hot Spring, experience making hot spring eggs at Arayuyu
10:30 Begin climbing Kiyomasa Park
11:00 Enjoy spectacular views at the observation plaza and take photographs
11:30 Descend and walk along the Haruki River
12:00 Lunch in the hot spring town
13:30 Take a bath at a public hot spring facility
15:00 Browse souvenir shops in the hot spring town
15:30 Depart
1-Night, 2-Day Plan
Day 1
15:00 Check in
16:00 Explore Kiyomasa Park
17:30 Dinner at the inn
19:30 Walk through the hot spring town at night, admire the illuminated “Dream” characters
21:00 Relax in the hot spring
Day 2
8:00 Breakfast
9:00 Visit nearby attractions (Tajima Cattle Ranch, coastline, etc.)
12:00 Check out and have lunch
13:00 Depart
Experience Programs and Events in Surrounding Areas
In the Yumura Hot Spring area, in addition to exploring Kiyomasa Park, you can enjoy various experience programs and events.
Hot Spring Egg Making Experience
Purchasing fresh eggs at Arayuyu and making hot spring eggs in 98-degree source water is a classic activity at Yumura Hot Spring. Delicious hot spring eggs are ready in approximately 12-15 minutes.
Foot Bath Exploration
There are multiple free foot bath spots throughout the hot spring town where you can casually enjoy hot spring bathing during walks.
Annual Events
- Yumura Hot Spring Festival (Summer): Town-wide festival
- Autumn Foliage Illumination (Autumn): Foliage around Kiyomasa Park may be illuminated
- Snow Festival (Winter): Events in snowy landscapes
※Event schedules vary by year. Please check the official Yumura Hot Spring Tourism Association website for the latest information.
Local Specialties and Dining Information
When you visit Yumura Hot Spring, also enjoy local specialties and cuisine.
Tajima Beef
Tajima region in northern Hyogo Prefecture is the production area for “Tajima Beef,” a representative Japanese beef. At Yumura Hot Spring inns and restaurants, you can enjoy high-quality Tajima beef dishes.
Snow Crab
From November to March, you can enjoy fresh snow crab harvested in the Sea of Japan. Many Yumura Hot Spring inns offer full-course crab dishes.
Local Sake
Hyogo Prefecture is also famous for sake production, and you can enjoy sake produced by local breweries.
Hot Spring Steamed Buns
Hot spring steamed buns, a classic souvenir of Yumura Hot Spring, are handmade at various shops, and you can enjoy freshly made warm buns.
Reviews and Reputation of Kiyomasa Park Visitors
The following impressions have been shared by those who have visited Kiyomasa Park:
Points of High Praise:
- The view from the observation plaza is wonderful
- Especially beautiful during autumn foliage season
- The nighttime illuminated “Dream” characters are fantastical
- Easy natural walk accessible from the hot spring town
- Free to enjoy
Points of Caution Mentioned:
- Many stairs requiring physical stamina
- Slippery in rainy weather
- Icy conditions in winter require careful attention
Many visitors have rated their experience highly when visiting together with Yumura Hot Spring, creating a more fulfilling tourism experience.
Conclusion | Fully Experience the Charm of Yumura Hot Spring at Kiyomasa Park
Kiyomasa Park is a spectacular spot that should not be missed when visiting Yumura Hot Spring in Shinonsen Town, Hyogo Prefecture. The panoramic view of the hot spring town that spreads out beyond the 219 stairs, the natural beauty of each season, and the “Dream” characters that glow in seven colors at night provide visitors with moving experiences.
Especially during the autumn foliage season (late October to early November), the entire mountain turns red and yellow, creating beautiful contrast with the hot spring town. Spring cherry blossoms are also magnificent, and you can discover different charms throughout the year.
Combined with hot spring bathing, local cuisine, and hot spring town exploration, enjoying natural walks at Kiyomasa Park will make for a fulfilling trip that refreshes both body and mind.
A hidden gem in northern Hyogo Prefecture, Kiyomasa Park. Please visit at least once and experience its charm firsthand. The spectacular scenery woven together by Yumura Hot Spring’s history and nature will surely become a memorable experience in your heart.
