Where to Go Horseback Riding in Kansai

Jul 29, 2024

Where to Go Horseback Riding in Kansai

There are few better ways to enjoy some fresh air in Kansai than on a horse. Various clubs and riding centers offer trekking opportunities and classes to riders of all abilities, including complete beginners.

Miki Horseland Park

One of the most popular places to ride horses in Kansai is Miki Horseland Park. In addition to trekking in the forest, there are horse-drawn carriage rides available at the weekends. It’s worth visiting at different times of year to experience how the scenery changes. Visitors are also welcome to walk around the grounds to see the horses in the fields and to watch competitions — check in advance to find out when competitions are taking place. Admission to the riding center and parking is always free.

Where: Besshocho Takagi, Miki (map)

Mullin’s Stable

At Mullin’s Stable, you can practice forest bathing on a horse — this is the only place in Kansai where you can ride up a mountain. You’ll receive a 15-minute explanation followed by a 15-minute lesson to teach you the basics before you head into the forest for a 45-minute ride. Riders must be aged 10 to 80 and not exceed the weight limit of 78 kilos.

Where: 427 Sanakaya, Sasayama City (map)

Tanimoto Horse Ranch

See Kyoto from a different perspective by going for a trek at Tanimoto Horse Ranch. Before you head out, you’ll receive an assessment, making this ideal for all abilities. Rides last one hour and teach beginners how to ride correctly, including proper posture and how to control the horse, whereas experienced riders will have the chance to canter along the trail.

Where: 19-2 Ijiri Matsugahana, Kyotanba-cho, Funai-gun (map)

Akashi Horse Riding Association

If you want to ride on a regular basis, consider Akashi Horse Riding Association. You’ll start with a 30 or 40-minute private riding session (or with a friend), after which the instructor will design a riding plan for you. Riders must weigh less than 90 kilos and be aged between 9 and 70. There are special programs for kids aged 9 to 15 and adults in their 50s and 60s.

Where: Shoin 1126-47, Okubo-cho, Akashi City (map)

Crane Riding Center

An option for children as young as 3 years is Crane Riding Center. It is conveniently located just 10 minutes from Ryokuchi Koen Station, next to the botanical garden at Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park. The center often offers free trial rides for beginners, after which you’ll have the option to become a member to take classes on a regular basis.

Where: 1-5 Hattoriryokuchi, Toyonaka (map)

Tamba Riding Club

Within Ayabe Fureai Bokujo Ranch is Tamba Riding Club. Admission to the park is free — and there’s much more to do than just ride horses. The farm has many other animals (including rabbits, goats, and cats that you can interact with), a cafeteria, and a flower garden. If you want to ride regularly, consider joining the club (you’ll become a full member in your third year). The club is always looking for experienced riders to join, but beginners are also welcome.

Where: 81 Idencho Ayabe Fureai Farm, Ayabe (map)

Whether you want to go trekking just occasionally or practice horseback riding regularly, there are some great options to choose from all over Kansai.

MIKI Yoshihito from Sapporo City,Hokkaido., JAPAN, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons