Hyogo Prefecture: A Diverse Tourist Destination Where History and Nature Intertwine

Hyogo Prefecture is located in the western part of Japan, with Kobe City as its prefectural capital. It boasts incredible diversity, featuring a unique geographical characteristic that extends from the Seto Inland Sea in the south to the Sea of Japan in the north. Visitors can enjoy everything from the sophisticated atmosphere of urban areas to the rustic scenery of rural regions, from historical buildings to cutting-edge facilities, offering a variety of experiences.

With a rich history of prosperity as a gateway for exchange with the continent, flourishing as a castle town during the Edo period, and developing as an international port city since the Meiji era, Hyogo Prefecture has accumulated layers of cultural heritage. The natural environment is also abundant, with mountains, seas, rivers, and hot springs concentrated in this diverse region.

This article introduces attractive tourist destinations in Hyogo Prefecture that will provide fresh and exciting experiences, especially for international visitors. From historical heritage sites and natural scenic spots to traditional culture and modern urban attractions, we’ll introduce the diverse appeal of Hyogo Prefecture.

1. Himeji Castle – A World Cultural Heritage Site Known as the White Heron Castle

When it comes to representative tourist spots in Hyogo Prefecture, Himeji Castle, registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, stands out. Affectionately known as “Shirasagi-jo” (White Heron Castle), its beautiful, majestic white walls and elegant appearance attract many tourists from Japan and abroad as one of Japan’s most representative castles.

With over 400 years of history, Himeji Castle was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1993, together with Horyuji Temple. Eight structures including the main tower, small towers, and connecting corridors are designated as National Treasures, while 74 buildings are registered as Important Cultural Properties. The exterior of the castle is constructed using a technique called “shiro-shikkui-so-nurigome” (complete white plaster coating), and its beautiful white appearance is said to resemble a white heron, which is the origin of its nickname.

Inside the castle, you can see features like complex maze-like passages designed to prevent enemy infiltration and “sama” (narrow windows for shooting arrows), showcasing the defensive system of the time. The castle features a distinctive connected tower structure with a five-story, six-level main tower with a basement, linked to three small towers by corridors. The view from the main tower is spectacular, offering a panoramic vista of Himeji City.

During cherry blossom season, approximately 1,000 cherry trees bloom around the castle, creating a breathtaking contrast between the white castle walls and pink cherry blossoms. The castle is also illuminated at night, presenting a different, fantastical appearance from its daytime view.

Visiting Tips:

• There are many stairs inside the castle, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• To avoid crowds, it’s ideal to visit right after opening or on weekdays
• Spring (cherry blossom season) and autumn (fall foliage season) are particularly beautiful times to visit
• Audio guides are available in English, Chinese, Korean, and other languages

Around Himeji Castle, there are related facilities such as Shiromidai Park and Kokoen Garden, which is built on the former site of the western residence of Himeji Castle. Kokoen Garden is a place to enjoy the beauty of Japanese gardens with seasonal scenery throughout the year.

2. Kobe – The Charm of an International Port City

Kobe City, the prefectural capital of Hyogo Prefecture, is known as a leading international port city in Japan. Since its opening as a port in 1868, it has flourished as a gateway for foreign exchange, featuring sophisticated urban landscapes and streets with exotic atmospheres.

Kobe Port and Meriken Park

Kobe Port and the surrounding waterfront area, which can be considered a symbol of Kobe, are popular tourist spots. In particular, Meriken Park is a harbor park with impressive landmarks like the red Kobe Port Tower and the giant “Mosaic Ferris Wheel” at Kobe Harborland.

From the Port Tower, you can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of downtown Kobe and the harbor. The “Kobe Port Earthquake Memorial Park,” which conveys the memory of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake to future generations, is also located nearby.

At night, the “10 Million Dollar Night View” of the port is a must-see. The illuminated harbor and city lights create a romantic atmosphere.

Kitano Ijinkan (Foreign Residences)

Kitano Ijinkan Street, which developed as a foreign settlement after the port opened, features Western-style residences built during the Meiji and Taisho eras. Preserved buildings like Weathercock House (former Thomas Residence) and Uroko House (former Gwatt Residence) convey the exotic atmosphere of that time, giving visitors the feeling of walking through a European street corner.

The area has many slopes, but in return, visitors can enjoy a commanding view of the Kobe cityscape and port. There are also many cafes and restaurants where you can relax in an exotic atmosphere.

Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown)

Nankinmachi, one of Japan’s three major Chinatowns, is a vibrant area characterized by a colorful Chinese gate and red lanterns. About 100 Chinese restaurants and shops line the streets, offering authentic Chinese cuisine, dim sum, and Chinese tea.

During traditional Chinese events such as the Chinese New Year, festivals featuring traditional performing arts like lion and dragon dances are held, adding to the excitement. Enjoying street food while experiencing the foreign atmosphere is another recommended way to enjoy this area.

Arima Onsen

Arima Onsen, located about 30 minutes by car or train from central Kobe City, is a historic hot spring resort known as one of Japan’s three oldest hot springs. It features two types of spring sources, “Kinsen” (gold spring) and “Ginsen” (silver spring), each said to have different health benefits.

Kinsen is rich in iron and radon, characterized by its reddish-brown color. On the other hand, Ginsen is colorless and transparent, classified as a bicarbonate spring. Day-trip bathing facilities are also available, allowing visitors to enjoy hot spring hopping while experiencing the atmosphere of the hot spring town.

The hot spring area includes traditional Japanese inns and hotels, souvenir shops, and restaurants, creating a quaint townscape that is enjoyable just to stroll through. There are also tourist spots such as the Arima Toy Museum and Onsen Temple.

It’s an ideal place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a relaxing time. This offers a valuable opportunity to experience Japanese hot spring culture.

3. Kinosaki Onsen – A Hot Spring Town with Willow Trees and Stone-Paved Paths

Kinosaki Onsen, located in the northern Tajima region of Hyogo Prefecture, is a historic hot spring resort with over 1,300 years of history. Traditional inns line both banks of the Otani River, creating a beautiful landscape with weeping willows along the river and stone-paved paths.

The main attraction of Kinosaki Onsen is hot spring hopping. There are seven public bathhouses (soto-yu) scattered throughout the hot spring town, and the culture of walking around the town in yukata (light cotton kimono) and geta (wooden sandals) to visit each distinctive hot spring is the essence of the Japanese hot spring experience.

The seven hot springs – “Ichi-no-Yu,” “Gosho-no-Yu,” “Mandara-Yu,” “Kouno-Yu,” “Jizo-Yu,” “Yanagi-Yu,” and “Satono-Yu” – each have their own unique characteristics. They all share the same hot spring water quality, sodium-calcium chloride spring, which warms you up quickly and retains heat well, a distinctive feature of this hot spring. Each bath is also said to have different benefits. In Kinosaki Onsen, there is a concept that “the whole town is a single ryokan (Japanese inn),” and overnight guests receive special bathing tickets that allow unlimited bathing.

The origin story of Kinosaki Onsen tells that in 717, a Buddhist monk named Dochi chanted the Mandala sutra for a thousand days, and when his prayers were fulfilled, a miraculous hot spring gushed forth. This is the origin of the name “Mandara-Yu.” Another legend associated with “Kouno-Yu” tells of an injured stork that was healing its wound there.

The snowy winter landscape and summer evening cooling are especially magnificent, allowing visitors to enjoy the atmosphere of the hot spring town even more. The spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage seasons also offer beautiful scenery.

Kinosaki Onsen is also rich in culinary delights. In winter, visitors can enjoy the seafood from the Sea of Japan, including Matsuba crab (snow crab), and local specialties such as Tajima beef.

Near the hot spring town, there are tourist facilities such as “Kinosaki Marine World” and “Kinosaki Literary Museum.” The Literary Museum is dedicated to the novelist Naoya Shiga, who wrote “At Kinosaki,” and is highly recommended for those interested in Japanese literature.

4. Takeda Castle Ruins – A Castle in the Sky Floating on a Sea of Clouds

Takeda Castle Ruins, located in Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture, is a mountain castle situated at the top of Mt. Kojosan at an altitude of 353.7 meters. Especially in the early morning from autumn to winter, when the castle ruins appear to float above the sea of clouds covering the mountains, it is popularly known as the “Castle in the Sky” or “Japan’s Machu Picchu.”

Takeda Castle was built in 1443 during the Muromachi period, with impressive stone wall techniques and well-preserved original layout. From the castle ruins, you can overlook the mountains and city of Tajima, creating a spectacular view, especially during the autumn foliage season when the surrounding mountains turn colorful.

The sea of clouds mainly occurs from late September to early December, with October and November being the most likely times. Weather forecasts and meteorological conditions are important factors; the ideal conditions include a warm day before, cooling down from evening to early morning with a temperature difference of more than 10°C, clear weather in the morning, and light winds. The sea of clouds is actually river fog that develops from the Maruyama River flowing through Asago City.

The sea of clouds is most beautiful from sunrise until about 8 a.m. Therefore, during the sea of clouds season, Takeda Castle Ruins opens for viewing from early in the morning. There are two ways to view the sea of clouds and Takeda Castle Ruins: from within the castle ruins and from Ritsuunkyo, an observation spot on the opposite shore. From Ritsuunkyo, you can view the entire castle ruins and the sea of clouds, allowing you to see the “Castle in the Sky” in its entirety.

Access to Takeda Castle Ruins requires climbing a mountain path for about 40 minutes from JR Takeda Station. Those who are not confident in their physical strength should consider using a taxi or shuttle bus (available during limited periods). If you are visiting early in the morning to see the sea of clouds, it’s advisable to check transportation options in advance or stay at a nearby accommodation the night before.

Visiting Tips:

• The sea of clouds can mainly be seen in the early morning from late September to early December and is affected by weather conditions
• Since you’ll be climbing a mountain path, comfortable shoes and clothing are essential
• Early morning temperatures are often low, so make sure to dress warmly
• A flashlight is also an essential item
• Sea of clouds forecasts may be available from local tourism associations

5. Awaji Island – The Mythical Island’s Natural Beauty and Culinary Delights

Awaji Island, located in the southern part of Hyogo Prefecture, is the largest island in the Seto Inland Sea and is known as the birthplace island in Japanese mythology. Connected to Honshu and Shikoku by the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and the Onaruto Bridge, the island offers natural beauty, fresh seafood, and historical sites related to mythology, providing diverse attractions.

Awaji Island Koen Park and Awaji Yumebutai

Awaji Island National Government Park and Awaji Yumebutai are large-scale resort facilities spread at the foot of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The “Hyakudanen” (hundred-step garden) in the park is particularly notable, where visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers like rapeseed blossoms in spring, sunflowers in summer, and cosmos in autumn.

Also, “Miracle Planet Botanical Museum,” a large greenhouse designed by architect Tadao Ando at Awaji Yumebutai, showcases tropical and subtropical plants year-round.

The Great Naruto Bridge and Naruto Whirlpools

The Great Naruto Bridge, connecting Awaji Island and Tokushima Prefecture, is a 1,629-meter-long suspension bridge. The “Naruto Whirlpools” that occur beneath the bridge are a must-see natural phenomenon. These whirlpools, caused by tidal movements, can reach up to 20 meters in diameter, presenting an impressive spectacle.

Sightseeing boats operate to view the whirlpools up close, allowing visitors to observe the dynamic nature of the whirlpools from the boat. The whirlpools are particularly large on days with spring tides, offering an even more powerful view.

Awaji Island’s Food Culture

Awaji Island is known as “Miketsukuni” (food province for the Imperial Court), with a history of offering food to the Imperial family since ancient times. Especially Awaji beef, Awaji Island onions, and Awaji Island 3-year tiger pufferfish are known as the “Three Great Delicacies of Awaji Island.”

Awaji beef is high-quality Japanese wagyu beef, tender and flavorful, while Awaji Island onions are known for their sweetness, edible even raw. Awaji Island’s 3-year tiger pufferfish is a high-grade pufferfish that has been farmed longer than usual to increase its flavor.

The island has many restaurants offering fresh seafood dishes and local ingredients, making it enjoyable as a gourmet trip as well.

Izanagi Shrine

Izanagi Shrine, located in the northern part of Awaji Island, is a shrine dedicated to Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, the deities who appear in Japan’s creation myth. Its origin is recorded in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, Japan’s oldest historical records, and it is revered as one of Japan’s oldest shrines.

According to the creation myth, Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto stirred the great ocean with the Heavenly Jeweled Spear, and the drops that fell from the spear became “Onogoro Island.” The two deities descended to this island, became husband and wife, and created the land. The first island born was Awaji Island (Awaji-no-Ho-no-Sa-Wake Island), followed by the other islands of Japan, including Shikoku, Oki, Kyushu, and so on.

The shrine grounds include a 900-year-old “Husband and Wife Camphor Trees,” believed to grant benefits for matchmaking, marital harmony, and safe childbirth. There is also a monument called “Michi-shirube of the Sun,” showing the relationship between the movement of the sun centered on Izanagi Shrine and the locations of major shrines across Japan.

Awaji Island has been designated as a Japan Heritage site as the “Island of Kuniumi (country creation),” making it a historically significant place as the stage of mythology.

6. The Natural Beauty of Tajima Region – Mountain and Sea Scenery

The Tajima region in northern Hyogo Prefecture retains magnificent nature, offering beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons.

Genbudo Park

Genbudo Park features a group of basalt caves formed by volcanic activity about 1.6 million years ago. The beauty of its columnar joints, which are rare worldwide, led to its designation as a National Natural Monument in 1931.

There are four caves of various sizes, and the pentagonal and hexagonal columnar joints create a mystical scene that is breathtaking. Especially, the basalt columns in the “First Cave” are arranged so orderly that they resemble a work of art.

The name Genbudo comes from its resemblance to the shell of a legendary Chinese divine beast, “Genbu.” There is also a museum in the park where visitors can learn about the geological significance of Genbudo.

Takeno Beach and Kibi Beach

Takeno Beach and Kibi Beach on the Tajima coast are popular swimming beaches known for their beautiful sandy shores and clear waters. Both beaches have been selected among “Japan’s 100 Best Beaches,” attracting many beachgoers during summer.

Particularly, Takeno Beach is known as “Takeno Blue” due to its high transparency, and has been certified with the highest rank AA in the Ministry of Environment’s water quality survey. It stretches about one kilometer with white sand beaches contrasting beautifully with the pine forest. It has also been selected as one of “Japan’s 88 Best Swimming Areas.” Besides sea bathing, there are also hot spring facilities nearby, allowing visitors to enjoy both the sea and hot springs.

Takeno Town also has a history as a port for Kitamaebune (northern-bound ships) from the Edo to Meiji periods, and its unique townscape features houses with exterior walls covered with burnt cedar boards made using traditional techniques to protect against the strong, salty sea winds and snow. Walking through the maze-like narrow alleys gives a nostalgic feeling, even for first-time visitors.

Located near Japan’s northernmost point in Hyogo Prefecture, the area around Nekozaki Peninsula is also part of the San’in Kaigan Geopark, recognized for its high geological value.

Kannabe Highlands

Kannabe Highlands, formed by volcanic activity, is a resort area where various activities can be enjoyed throughout the seasons. In winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding; in summer, camping and hiking; and in autumn, viewing the colorful foliage.

The autumn foliage is particularly spectacular, with beech and maple trees creating a scenic landscape. There is also a “Kannabe Volcano Memorial Park” in the highlands, where visitors can learn about volcanic activity and geology.

Furthermore, there are several hot springs scattered around the area, allowing visitors to soak in hot springs and relieve fatigue after outdoor activities.

7. Mt. Rokko – An Urban Resort Near the City

Mt. Rokko, located on the north side of Kobe City, is a 931-meter-high mountain that serves as a popular summer retreat, offering rich nature despite its proximity to the urban area. From the summit, there is a panoramic view extending from Kobe City to Osaka Bay, and on clear days, you can even see as far as Shikoku.

Rokko Mountain Top and Rokko Garden Terrace

At the top of Mt. Rokko, there is the “Rokko Garden Terrace,” a complex facility with restaurants, cafes, and shops. It is especially popular as a night view spot, offering a panoramic view of Kobe’s “10 Million Dollar Night View.”

Also, the “Rokko Shidare,” a natural experience observation deck designed by architect Hiroshi Naito, allows visitors to enjoy the scenery while feeling as if they are floating in the air.

Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden

Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, established in 1933, is Japan’s oldest alpine botanical garden. It cultivates about 1,500 species of mountain plants and alpine flora, with the mountain hydrangea blooming from early June to July being particularly impressive.

Unusually for a botanical garden in an urban suburb, it recreates the natural environment of high mountains, allowing close observation of alpine plants that are typically difficult to see. The well-maintained walking paths make it easy to enjoy nature walks casually.

Rokko Farm

Rokko Farm, located at an altitude of about 850 meters, is one of Japan’s oldest farms, where visitors can interact with livestock such as cows, sheep, and goats on its vast premises. Dairy products and gelato made at the farm are also popular, especially the fresh “Rokko Farm Milk,” which is exquisite.

The farm shows different faces with each season: fresh greenery in spring, a summer retreat, autumn leaves, and snowy landscapes in winter, making it a popular spot for families.

Mt. Maya and Kikuseidai Observatory

Mt. Maya, one of the peaks in the Rokko mountain range, features the observation deck “Kikuseidai” at its summit, known as one of “Japan’s Three Great Night Views.” It offers a panoramic view of Kobe city, and its night view is said to be worth “10 Million Dollars.”

Mt. Maya can be accessed from downtown Kobe using the “Maya Cable” and “Maya Ropeway.” Near the summit, there is the historic “Maya-san Tenjoji Temple,” allowing visitors to enjoy both history and nature simultaneously.

8. Tanba-Sasayama – The Hometown of Black Soybeans, Representing Old Japan

Tanba-Sasayama City, located in the east-central part of Hyogo Prefecture, is known as a castle town with preserved old townscapes. It is particularly famous as a production area for black soybeans, with “Tanba-Sasayama Black Soybeans” representing a special product of Japan from autumn to winter.

Sasayama Castle Ruins and Samurai Residences

Sasayama Castle was built in the early Edo period in 1609 under the orders of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Fujitodo Takahori was in charge of the layout, and it was completed through the Tenka-bushin system (castle construction by various feudal lords ordered by the shogun) with Ikeda Terumasa serving as the general supervisor of construction. Currently preserved as castle ruins, the stone walls, moats, and the Great Hall convey the appearance of that time.

The castle town includes a cluster of samurai residences, with the “Kawaramachi Tsunami-iri Merchant Houses” being designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. Walking through the old town gives the feeling of time travel.

The “Sasayama Castle Great Hall” was used as the official hall of the feudal lord, and it now showcases the formal style of the time with luxurious transoms and painted sliding doors.

Tanba-Sasayama’s Food Culture and Attractions

Tanba-Sasayama is known for its “Three Treasures of Tanba”: Tanba-Sasayama Black Soybeans, Tanba Chestnuts, and Tanba Matsutake Mushrooms. Especially, Tanba-Sasayama Black Soybeans are known for their large size and sweetness, being an indispensable ingredient in New Year’s Osechi cuisine throughout Japan.

The area also offers a rich variety of local cuisine using locally grown vegetables and mountain delicacies. “Botan-nabe” (wild boar hot pot) is popular as a winter specialty dish. Enjoying this dish around an irori (traditional sunken hearth) is rare and particularly appreciated by international tourists.

There are many cafes and restaurants renovated from old houses in the city, where visitors can enjoy dishes using local ingredients in a traditional atmosphere. The “Great Roman Hall” is a building from the Taisho era (former Sasayama Town Hall), now serving as a facility where visitors can enjoy specialties from Tanba-Sasayama.

The “Tanba Pottery Village Tachikui Suyonosato” is also a place where visitors can learn about and experience Tanba pottery, one of Japan’s six ancient kilns with a history of 800 years. The village offers pottery classes where visitors can create their own works using a potter’s wheel.

In 2015, the city was recognized as a UNESCO Creative City, the seventh in Japan (following Kobe, Nagoya, Kanazawa, Sapporo, Hamamatsu, and Tsuruoka) and the second in the Craft & Folk Art category after Kanazawa.

Dekansho Festival

The Dekansho Festival, held annually on August 15-16, is a representative summer festival in Sasayama. The “Dekansho Dance,” performed to the folk song “Dekansho-bushi,” is famous, with people of all ages participating.

Especially during the “Sodomei” (group dance), tourists can also join the locals in dancing, experiencing the excitement and unity of Japanese festivals firsthand.

The Kasuga Shrine Autumn Festival (held in mid-October) is also worth seeing, featuring a procession of four portable shrines, nine festival floats, and eight taiko drum portable shrines, with the energetic scene of men carrying portable shrines in the shrine grounds at night being a highlight.

9. Amagasaki Castle and Industrial Heritage – Urban Historical Exploration

Amagasaki City, located in the southeastern urban area of Hyogo Prefecture, has developed as a castle town and, since the modern era, as an industrial city. Amagasaki Castle, reconstructed in 2019, follows the layout of the Edo period, with a history museum also located inside the castle.

From the castle tower, visitors can view not only Amagasaki City but also as far as Osaka. Around the castle, some parts of the moats and stone walls remain from that time, offering glimpses of history.

Amagasaki City also has aspects of an industrial city, with factory night view tours being conducted. Especially, the factory complex along the “Amagasaki Canal” is being reevaluated as modern industrial heritage.

Additionally, Amagasaki City is home to the unusual “World Piggy Bank Museum,” which displays about 15,000 piggy banks from around the world, attracting attention as a unique tourist spot.

10. Conclusion – The Appeal of Hyogo Prefecture Tourism

Hyogo Prefecture offers an incredibly diverse range of tourist resources, from the World Heritage Site Himeji Castle to the exotic atmosphere of Kobe, the charming hot spring towns, magnificent natural landscapes, and the nostalgic scenery of old Japan. Its geographical characteristics allow visitors to enjoy various natural environments and food cultures, from the Seto Inland Sea to the Sea of Japan.

Especially for international tourists, it offers a different Japanese charm from Tokyo or Kyoto. Hyogo Prefecture, which preserves Japan’s good old traditions while having an internationally diverse aspect, is an attractive tourist destination that reveals new discoveries with each visit.

When planning a trip to Hyogo Prefecture, it’s beneficial to consider the different attractions each season offers. You can enjoy completely different faces of Hyogo Prefecture depending on when you visit: cherry blossoms in spring, sea bathing and festivals in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscapes and crab cuisine in winter.

Additionally, Hyogo Prefecture has excellent transportation access and is close to Osaka and Kyoto, making it a region well worth visiting during a trip to the Kansai area. Various transportation methods such as Shinkansen, airplanes, and express buses are well-developed, providing a convenient environment for travelers.

Hyogo Prefecture has many more attractive tourist spots beyond those introduced in this article. Small trips from Awaji Island across the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge to Honshu, or from the Tajima region to Tottori Prefecture or northern Kyoto Prefecture, are also possible. The hot springs scattered throughout the prefecture are ideal for relieving travel fatigue.

We hope you create wonderful travel memories in Hyogo Prefecture, where history and tradition coexist with nature and modern cities. This prefecture, with its various faces, surely holds special discoveries just for you.

References

1. Hyogo Prefecture Official Tourism Site “HYOGO! Navi”, https://www.hyogo-tourism.jp/
2. Toyooka City Official Tourism Website, https://toyooka-tourism.com/
3. Tanba-Sasayama City Official Tourism Website “Gururi! Tanba-Sasayama”, https://tourism.sasayama.jp
4. Jalan.net “Ranking of Tourist Spots in Takeno, Takeno-cho”, https://www.jalan.net/kankou/tow_282090188/
5. Jalan.net “Ranking of Tourist Spots in Tanba-Sasayama”, https://www.jalan.net/kankou/ckg_070003/
6. Kyukamura Takeno Kaigan Official Website, https://www.qkamura.or.jp/takeno/