Hiruzen Plateau Bicycle Path, Maniwa

The Hiruzen Plateau Bicycle Path stretches through one of the leading highland resort areas in western Japan, located on the border between Okayama and Tottori Prefectures. The plateau sits at an elevation between 500 to 600 meters and forms part of the Daisen-Oki National Park. Hiruzen was one of the first places in Japan to build extensive bicycle paths, establishing itself as a pioneer in environmentally conscious tourism infrastructure.

The cycling path forms a well-maintained loop of approximately 29 to 30 kilometers around the plateau, offering idyllic scenery while overlooking Hiruzen Sanza and Mt. Daisen. The route passes through diverse landscapes including hills, pastures, fields and river areas, with seasonal flowers along the way. The path features well-maintained asphalt suitable for comfortable cycling, though riders should note there are some hilly sections in the northern portions of the trail.

Cyclists can explore numerous attractions along the route, including Hiruzen Jersey Land, where Jersey cows graze on the flanks of Mt. Kami-Hiruzen, and the Shiogama cold mineral spring, recognized as one of Japan's 100 famous springs with a constant water temperature of 10 degrees Celsius year-round. The Hiruzen Herb Garden showcases around 200 varieties of herbs and around 10,000 plants. Visitors can also enjoy local specialties such as Hiruzen Yakisoba (noodles stir-fried in miso-based sauce) and Jingisukan (grilled lamb), while Jersey milk ice cream remains popular throughout the year.

The climate unique to the highlands, especially from spring to early summer, is ideal for cycling. Bicycle rental services are available at multiple locations around the plateau, with various options including standard bikes, mountain bikes, and electric-assist bicycles to handle the hillier terrain. The GREENable HIRUZEN facility, designed by architect Kengo Kuma, serves as a modern cycling center where visitors can rent bicycles and learn about sustainability initiatives.

To reach the area by public transportation, take the JR Tsuyama Line from Okayama Station to Chugoku-Katsuyama Station (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes). From there, board the Maniwa City Community bus ("Maniwa-kun") to Hiruzen Kogen (approximately 75 to 80 minutes). The bicycle path itself is free to use, with rental fees varying by location and bicycle type.