5 Scenic Destinations West to Okuhida by E-bike

The area west to Hirayu Bus Terminal is scattered with picturesque artwork, beautiful rivers, tranquil traditional Japanese houses lined amongst the mountains, and lots of areas to rest/eat. Each onsen district provides a distinct feel which differs greatly from the other. Going by e-bike allows you to feel the real countryside up close in a way that you’ll miss if you’re driving a car.  Here are 5 locations you can get to in less than a half day trip even when taking your time!

1. Fukuji Onsen

Fukuji Onsen Morning Market (Open until 11AM)

This little onsen town is quiet and peaceful with a bit of a retro vibe. This can be seen at the Morning Market (open until 11AM) which is covered in Japanese 70s-80s memorabilia. The morning market sells rare vegetables (I found jalapenos!) as well as retro themed goods. Next to the morning market, there is also a workspace, Banbakan which has a free drink bar, library, and bathroom. Here you can rest your legs and charge your devices. Located next to Banbakan is also local museum.

Distance from Okuhida Base by e-bike: ~15 minutes

2. Tochio Onsen

Tochio Onsen Tiered Waterfall

A little bit further down from Fukuji Onsen is Tochio Onsen. There’s a campsite and an outdoor foot bath which is great for refreshing your feet after a long ride. Next to the tiered waterfall is a small supermarket which sells vegetables and drinks.

Distance from Fukuji Onsen by e-bike: ~17 minutes

3. Roadside Station Okuhida

Okuhida Farmer’s Market

This cute little rest stop has everything you need from local vegetables, hot ramen, ice cream, drinks, and (most importantly!) a bathroom. There is also a very cute weasel motif/mascot scattered around this rest stop here to welcome you. The many colorful flags hanging across the parking lot make it a really cute photo spot. In the summer they sell a pack of 8 tomatoes for only 130yen!

Distance from Tochio Onsen by e-bike: ~7 minutes

4. Tsueishi Farmer’s Market

Rice fields across the farmer’s market

This farmers market is occasionally closed, however across the street is a gorgeous view of rice fields and old Japanese houses lined against the mountains. In the summer, the rice fields create an old town feeling unique to the Japanese countryside. 

Distance from Roadside Station Okuhida by e-bike:  ~30 minutes

5. Meotoiwa Shrine

Two statues at the entrance of Meotoiwa Shrine

In Japan, there’s a belief that each encounter you have (especially between lovers) is connected by a red string of fate. “Meoto Iwa” are rocks resembling a married couple as they are connected by this string! A more famous shrine similar to this is in Wakayama Prefecture near Ise Jingu. While much smaller, you can get up close to the mountains and river at this stop. 

Distance from Tsueishi Farmer’s Market by e-bike:  ~15 minutes