A Japanese barbeque in the great outdoors
One place where a primitive flame has a role in our modern daily lives is the barbeque. Barbeques in Japan are “Korean style” where you grill thinly sliced foods at high temperature on a charcoal fire. This type of barbeque is easy even for first timers and fun for kids. It’s also a great way to try some unique Japanese foods and condiments, and experience a food culture that’s a little different from your home country’s.
Japan is presently in the grips of an unprecedented camping boom, and with its rich natural environment, Woodland Kyoto is no exception. Why not spend a night at one of the new-style camping spots that are popping up, or enjoy a BBQ, glamping, or a tent sauna at the increasing number of facilities in the area?
For a barbeque without the fussy preparation, we recommend heading to Springs Hiyoshi in Nantan City. Situated directly below the Hiyoshi Dam, this roadside station-cum-leisure facility has a sprawling grass area with spectacular riverside and mountain views, natural hot springs, and two campsites. One of the campsites is for traditional “do-it-yourself”-style camping with your own gear, and the other, called DOD Camp Park Kyoto, is a collaboration with Osaka-based outdoor brand DOD with equipment provided. It’s a fun way to spend a night camping and experience popular Japanese camp gear.
The BBQ area can be used whether you’re camping at Springs Hiyoshi or just there for the day. Options include food and use of a barbeque grill, an awning, and chairs for 3,300 yen per adult and 1,650 yen per child (elementary school age and younger) with a minimum of two participants. There’s also a premium course that includes dessert and delicacies such as Japanese beef, juicy locally raised Hiyoshi pork and Tamba black chicken. This one costs 4,800 for adults and 2,400 for children. Most of the vegetables and mushrooms provided are freshly picked locally. For something a bit different, try dipping the onigiri rice balls in the BBQ sauce and grilling them—your tastebuds will thank you! If you don’t have any experience starting a charcoal fire, don’t worry, the staff will guide you through the process.
Springs Hiyoshi
Address: 8 Naka-miyanomukai, Hiyoshi-cho, Nantan City
Closed on Wednesday (or the following day if Wednesday is a national holiday)
BBQ area open from 11 am to 3 pm, with an additional evening session from 4 pm to 8 pm on Saturday, Sunday and national holidays. Reservations are required.
https://www.springs-hiyoshi.co.jp/bbq.html（Japanese language only）
