Nantan City was established on January 1, 2006, from the merger of the towns of Hiyoshi, Sonobe, Yagi, and Miyama, centrally located in Kyoto Prefecture and characterized by its mountainous terrain and rich natural environment.

Sonobe Castle, an important historical landmark within Nantan, holds the unique distinction of being the last Japanese castle built during the Edo period and the only one constructed by a feudal lord in Kyoto Prefecture after the "Ikkoku Ichijō Rei" (one castle per province rule).

The Miyama district of Nantan is famously home to Kayabuki no Sato, a preserved village featuring over 50 traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, many of which are still inhabited and represent a living cultural heritage.

Like many rural regions in Japan, Nantan City faces a declining and aging population, with ongoing efforts to revitalize local communities and attract new residents through regional development initiatives.

Agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, tea production, and various specialty vegetables, alongside sustainable forestry, forms the backbone of Nantan City's local economy, utilizing its fertile land and abundant natural resources.

Tourism is a growing industry, drawing visitors to its scenic hot springs like Rurikei Onsen, the traditional beauty of Miyama's thatched village, and outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

The Miyama Kayabuki Festival (Miyama Thatched Roof Festival), held annually, celebrates the unique architectural heritage and local culture, featuring traditional performances, craft demonstrations, and regional delicacies.

The Katsura River, also known as the Hozugawa upstream, flows through Nantan, offering breathtaking natural beauty and famous for its scenic boat tours that descend to Arashiyama in Kyoto City.

During the Edo period, areas within present-day Nantan, especially Sonobe, served as vital post towns along the Sanin Kaido, an important ancient road connecting Kyoto with western Japan.

Rurikei Onsen is a renowned hot spring resort nestled in a beautiful gorge, providing therapeutic baths and recreational facilities amidst stunning natural landscapes, particularly vibrant in autumn.

Kyoto University's Ashu Forest Research Station, located in the Miyama area, plays a significant role in forest ecology research, biodiversity conservation, and environmental education, attracting scholars and students globally.

While Nantan City itself does not host UNESCO World Heritage Sites, its traditional rural landscapes and proximity to Kyoto contribute to the region's overall cultural significance and appeal to international visitors.

Nantan City is committed to environmental preservation, implementing sustainable practices in its forestry and tourism sectors to protect its pristine forests, clear rivers, and unique biodiversity.

Local traditions in Nantan include the preservation of traditional crafts related to timber and bamboo, reflecting the area's deep connection to its natural environment.

The clear waters and rich soil of Nantan contribute to excellent local produce, including specialty "Miyama-gyu" (Miyama beef), a local brand of wagyu, and various seasonal wild edibles, central to its distinctive local cuisine.