The pampas grass fields are traditionally managed through controlled annual burning, known as 'yamayaki', to maintain the open grassland ecosystem.
The plateau is part of the Setonaikai National Park ecosystem range.
During the autumn peak season, the grass reaches heights that often exceed human head level, creating an immersive corridor effect.
The local municipality employs a parking fee system during the peak autumn leaf-viewing season to manage high visitor density.
Tonomine Kogen is a 90-hectare highland plateau in the Hyogo Prefecture, famous for its expansive field of susuki (Japanese pampas grass). The landscape is characterized by rolling, treeless hills that transition from verdant green in summer to a golden-tan color during autumn. The area is located at an elevation of approximately 800 to 900 meters above sea level. It served as a primary filming location for the 2010 film 'Norwegian Wood' and the 2014 NHK Taiga drama 'Gunshi Kanbei'. A wooden walking path traverses the grassland, providing non-intrusive access to the interior of the plateau. Visitors typically explore the site via a circuitous loop trail that winds through the grass fields.
The elevated wooden viewing platform at the edge of the central plateau, which provides a panoramic perspective over the entire valley.
Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip, as the terrain consists of unpaved, uneven dirt paths and wooden boardwalks.
Bring a windbreaker, as the open elevation makes the plateau significantly colder and windier than the surrounding valley floor.
Avoid mid-day on weekends during October, as narrow mountain access roads experience severe congestion.
Do not attempt to visit in the middle of winter, as the roads are subject to heavy snow accumulation and closures.
Access to the plateau is restricted or extremely difficult during winter months due to snowfall; the main tourist facilities operate seasonally.
Stay strictly on designated boardwalks and paths to protect the delicate root systems of the pampas grass; do not harvest or trample the grass.
