The Hiroshima City Yuki Exchange Experience Center serves as the primary tourism hub for Yuki Town, a mountain community located approximately one hour's drive from central Hiroshima City at the source of the Ota River. The facility opened on November 1, 2009 with the mission of promoting interactive tourism and connecting visitors with the region's natural environment and cultural traditions.
Yuki Town is characterized by its exceptionally clear river waters that flow through Hiroshima City before joining the Seto Inland Sea. The area's sweetfish has achieved national recognition, winning second place in a national competition on four occasions. The town is also known for its hot springs and maintains three Kagura folk performance groups that stage traditional dance performances.
The center offers diverse hands-on experiences throughout the year. Activities include konnyaku (konjac jelly) making, buckwheat noodle preparation, and various handicraft workshops. Outdoor adventures are central to the experience, with guided waterfall climbing expeditions, Mount Omine trekking, and e-bike cycle tours departing from the facility. The grounds feature camping facilities, BBQ areas, and tent sauna rentals, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the mountain environment.
Admission costs vary by activity. Konnyaku making costs ¥1,000, while the specialized salamander-shaped konnyaku workshop is ¥1,500. River sauna experiences are priced at ¥3,000, and camping fees start from ¥1,500 for day use and ¥5,000 for overnight stays. BBQ garden access begins at ¥3,000, and tent sauna rentals for four people cost ¥10,000.
The center is closed on Mondays (or the following weekday if Monday is a holiday), as well as August 6 and December 29 through January 3. To reach Yuki from Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Main Line to Itsukaichi Station, then board a bus from the south exit for a 70-minute journey, disembarking at "Yuki Lodge Mae" stop.
