Chikugo Yoshii White-Walled Townscape
A post town where time stands still. Stroll through the timeless elegance of Chikugo.
Nearby Ryokans
Located in the southeastern part of Fukuoka Prefecture, Ukiha City is blessed with rich natural surroundings. To the south stretches the Mino Mountain Range, a chain of mountains extending about 30 kilometers, while the mighty Chikugo River flows along the northern side. The plains are covered with rice paddies, fruit orchards spread across the foothills, and terraced rice fields and forests fill the mountain areas. These treasured landscapes—water-source forests, pristine springs, and terraced paddies—have each been selected among Japan’s “Top 100 Water-Source Forests,” “Top 100 Famous Waters,” and “Top 100 Terraced Rice Fields.”
Making use of this abundant natural capital, Forest Therapy is an initiative designed to promote physical and mental well-being and reduce stress based on scientific evidence. While the term shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) has long been familiar in Japan, recent studies have clarified the physiological benefits of spending time in forest environments, such as relaxation effects and improved immune function. As a result, these practices have evolved into what is now known as forest therapy.
Recognized for its effectiveness, Ukiha City became the first municipality in northern Kyushu to be officially certified as a “Forest Therapy Base” in 2008. The city’s forests are rich in coniferous trees such as cedar and cypress, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshing natural aromas and phytoncides—fragrant compounds released by plants. In these scientifically proven healing forests, visitors can restore balance to both mind and body. This unique wellness-focused travel experience is what defines Ukiha City Forest Therapy.
About: Ukiha City Forest Therapy
Ukiha City’s forest therapy offers two walking courses, known as therapy roads, each with its own distinct atmosphere.
The first is the Tsuzura Terraced Rice Fields Walk. Spreading across about 7 hectares with roughly 300 rice paddies, these terraces are divided by stone walls built some 400 years ago. Their beautiful rural scenery has earned them a place among Japan’s Top 100 Terraced Rice Fields. The landscape changes with the seasons: in spring, before planting, the water-filled paddies shimmer like mirrors; in early autumn, golden rice ears sway in the breeze; around the autumn equinox, vivid red cluster amaryllis bloom in full glory; and in winter, the fields are transformed by a quiet blanket of snow. Throughout the year, visitors encounter photogenic views in every season. Walking the paths through the terraces with a guide allows you to feel the power of the stone walls up close and experience the stillness of the satoyama countryside—an experience of healing found only here.
The second course is the Kose Headwaters Walk. This route begins at Chōon-no-Taki Park, a site renowned for its pristine watershed forests, and as its name suggests, it lets you fully enjoy the sound of waterfalls and the atmosphere of clear streams. A crystal-clear brook flows right beside the trail, and the waterfall basin is said to be rich in negative ions, enhancing the freshness of the forest air. The sound of running water has a strong calming effect, and simply listening helps you forget the noise of everyday life and relax. In summer, the surrounding air feels noticeably cooler, making this an ideal course for forest walks during the hot season. The combination of cedar groves and murmuring streams creates a natural healing space, with changing scenery such as fresh greenery and autumn leaves throughout the year. Each therapy road has its own unique charm, so walking both is highly recommended.
Highlights
To fully enjoy forest therapy, joining a guided walk with a local guide is highly recommended. In Ukiha City, friendly and knowledgeable guides from the Iyashi no Tabisaki Annainin Association lead these tours. As you stroll through the forest at a relaxed pace, they share insights about trees and wild plants, as well as the history and culture of the satoyama landscape. A forest walk of about two hours—listening to birdsong, feeling dappled sunlight, and breathing in the scent of soil and leaves—allows you to sharpen all five senses and enjoy the experience with confidence, even if it’s your first time.
One especially popular option is the plan that includes a “Forest Tea Time” after the walk. Following the stroll, guests enjoy herbal tea along with locally made sweets from Ukiha. Simple yet full of the region’s natural flavors, these treats are well loved for letting visitors savor local tastes alongside the forest’s healing atmosphere. Laying out a tea set in the woods and decorating the table with freshly picked wildflowers for photos instantly creates a special, memorable moment.
Another option includes an aroma spray–making experience, where you can create your own spray using natural essential oils extracted from forest plants. This forest-scented spray can be taken home, perfect for refreshing yourself after the trip and making a thoughtful souvenir.
Joining one of the seasonal events held regularly throughout the year is also a great idea. About ten events are organized annually, mainly in spring and autumn, ranging from half-day programs that involve walking roughly 2 km through the forest with a guide, to full-day programs that include boxed lunches made with local ingredients. With participation fees around ¥2,000–3,000, these events are easy to join and popular with repeat visitors thanks to their changing seasonal themes. Examples include forest yoga amid fresh early-summer greenery or photo walks through autumn foliage.
Unique experiences available only through these special events!
After enjoying forest therapy, be sure to relax at nearby spots as well. After a long walk in the mountains, soaking in local hot springs—such as those around the Chikugo River area—is a wonderful way to ease tired muscles. There are many facilities offering day-use bathing, making it easy to unwind at your own pace.
If you have extra time, consider strolling through Yoshii Town’s white-walled historic district, located near the forest therapy meeting points. This area, designated as a Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, features rows of white plaster storehouses and a nostalgic townscape that blends beautifully with the surrounding countryside. The combination of forest walking, hot springs, and town exploration is sure to refresh both body and mind.
When you start to feel, “I’m a little tired…,” why not visit the forests of Ukiha City? Its rich woodlands and the warmth of the local people will gently invite you on a healing journey that soothes all five senses. For a serene and culturally rich experience, spending time at Wagashi Budoya is an excellent choice.
OsakiYohei
Kawasemi Danish
Location and Official Website
Name: Ukiha City Forest Therapy
Address: 582-1 Asada, Ukiha-machi, Ukiha City, Fukuoka Prefecture
(Brand Promotion Division, Regional Development Section, Ukiha City Office)
Hours / Closed Days: Reservation: 9:00–17:00 (closed during the New Year holidays).
※ Reservations are required at least 7 days in advance of the desired date.
Phone number:Via the official website or +81-80-2714-6065
(Ukiha City Iyashi no Tabisaki Annainin Association)
Official Website: https://ukihalove.jp/forest_therapy/
Note: Guided programs are available year-round (may be canceled in severe weather).
Multilingual pamphlets are available in English, Chinese, and other languages (international visitors welcome).
Access
By Train:
About 70 minutes from JR Hakata Station on the JR Kyūdai Main Line. Get off at JR Ukiha Station, then about 20 minutes by taxi.
By Car:
About 10 minutes from the Oita Expressway Haki IC to central Ukiha City.
About 30 minutes to the Tsuzura Terraced Rice Fields course meeting point (parking area), and about 25 minutes to Chōon-no-Taki Park.
Approximately 1 hour from central Fukuoka City using the expressway.
By Highway Bus:
About 70 minutes from Fukuoka (Hakata Bus Terminal) to the Haki bus stop.
※ From Haki, please use a taxi or other transportation to reach the site.
Nearby Accommodations
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