Golden carpet dyed by the setting sun. 2 fantastic days staying at Soni Plateau.
Soni Highlands is a popular spot known for its vast fields of pampas grass. In autumn, you can enjoy a breathtaking hike through golden pampas grass. In this event, we will stay at the “National Soni Youth Outdoor Learning Center,” the closest lodging to Soni Highlands. You can experience magical sunsets and star-filled skies unique to this remote area—something you can’t see on a day trip. The plan also includes the option to watch the sunrise. The hike is rated level 2 and will be a slow-paced walk of about 3 hours including lunch. After the hike, we will try “Mölkky,” a trending sport from Finland that is simple and enjoyable for all ages. (https://youtu.be/iOHCltkEgbk?si=WHIQfH6JS_ZeuxQ5) As the sun begins to set, we will head out to watch the sunset. Enjoy the magical hour as the pampas grass glows in the evening light. At night, we will gather in the lounge for conversation, and if the weather is good, stargazing. Those interested can also join a guided early morning hike to see the sunrise. After breakfast, we will stop by a souvenir shop before heading back to Nabari Station by bus. Those who wish can enjoy a bath at the famous "Okame-no-Yu," known for its beautiful skin benefits. Why not spend two fulfilling days with Kansai Hikers? ☆Soni Highlands Pampas Grass Walk Ticket☆ This special ticket, sold every year, includes round-trip Kintetsu train and bus fares, and a discount coupon for the hot spring. Available for purchase at major Kintetsu stations from one month before departure up to the day of departure. Date: Saturday, October 18 – Sunday, October 19, 2025 Participation Fee: Adults ¥10,000 / Elementary School & Under ¥5,000 / Preschool & Under ¥3,000 Included: Accommodation (2 meals), guide fee, insurance Not Included: Public bus fare, lunch, hot spring fee
- Date
- 2025/10/18(Sat)
- Meeting place
- Kintetsu Nabari Station Ticket Gate (about 1 hour 15 minutes from Namba Station)
- Meeting time
- AM 9:30
- Schedule
-
Day 1
9:35 Nabari Station
↓ Bus
10:22 Soni Highlands
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Check in luggage at Youth Center, then start hiking
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Kameyama Pass
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11:30 Kameyama – Lunch time with sweeping views of pampas grass below
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13:30 Youth Center – Room assignment
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Mölkky Tournament (with prizes for the winner)
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17:30 Sunset viewing (around Kameike Pond)
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Dinner at the dining hall
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Bath time (large public bath)
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Chatting in the lounge, stargazing
Day 2
Optional sunrise hike (Kameyama Pass)
Breakfast in the dining hall
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9:15 Leave Youth Center
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10:00 Farm Garden – Souvenir shopping, etc.
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11:41 Tarōji Bus Stop
↓ Bus
12:18 Nabari Station – End of tour
For those entering the hot spring
Okame-no-Yu Bath & Lunch (very close to Farm Garden)
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14:30 Soni Highlands Farm Bus Stop
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15:14 Nabari Station – End of tour - Entry fee
- 10000yen
- Capacity
- 26 people
- What to bring / clothes
- Hiking clothes and shoes, drinks, lunch for Day 1, change of clothes, hot spring set, toiletries (toothbrush, towel, etc.), headlamp (for those joining night viewing)
- Guide
- Akito
- Reference
- https://www.kintetsu.co.jp/senden/Railway/Ticket/soni/
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