Hyogo Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, offers a diverse range of experiences and attractions for locals and travellers alike.
From historic sites and picturesque landscapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, Hyogo Prefecture is an ideal destination for exploring a unique side of Japan.
In addition to its breathtaking landscapes and centuries-old traditions, Hyogo Prefecture is also home to some of the country’s most iconic sites, such as Himeji Castle and the large Buddha statue at Nofukuji Temple.
Key Takeaways
- Hyogo Prefecture boasts diverse attractions, including historical sites, natural beauty, and urban experiences.
- Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Himeji Castle and Nofukuji Temple’s large Buddha statue.
- Activities, culture, and cuisine make up the unique and memorable experiences you can enjoy in Hyogo Prefecture.
- Kobe city has one of Japan’s best Chinese towns, the Kobe Port Tower and is the home of Mt Rokko.
Historic Sites and Castles
Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle, also known as White Heron Castle, is a must-visit site in Hyogo Prefecture.
This castle boasts a stunning white exterior and is considered one of the finest examples of Japanese castle architecture.
The Himeji castle grounds are extensive, with numerous turrets, gates, and stone walls, all originating from the Edo period.
As you explore the castle, you will appreciate the impressive defensive features, which serve to protect it from potential invaders.
To me, this is the most stunning castle in the country, although there is not much more in Himeji.
Takeda Castle Ruins
Another captivating destination in Hyogo Prefecture is the Takeda Castle Ruins.
Often referred to as the “Castle in the Sky,” Takeda Castle was built by Otagaki Mitsukage.
The ruins, situated on a mountaintop, can be best appreciated during early mornings when the mist creates an illusion of the castle floating in the sky.
While exploring the Takeda Castle Ruins, you will witness breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Beautiful Gardens and Nature
Hyogo Prefecture offers numerous options for exploring nature and relaxing in beautiful gardens.
In this section, we will introduce you to a few must-visit spots.
Koko-en Garden
At Koko-en Garden, you can immerse yourself in traditional Japanese landscapes.
This beautifully maintained garden features nine distinct sections, each offering a unique atmosphere.
Stroll through the carefully designed spaces, admire the seasonal flora, and enjoy the tranquil beauty.
Mount Rokko
If you’re a fan of hiking and breathtaking views, head to Mount Rokko.
This popular mountain offers various hiking trails suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.
While ascending the mountain, enjoy picturesque landscapes, wildlife sightings, and stunning panoramas of the surrounding area.
Don’t miss a visit to Rokko Garden Terrace for a relaxing break and additional scenic views.
At the top, they have some fun activities for kids.
You can play putter golf and ride a mini ropeway if the weather is good.
Mount Maya
Another great hiking destination is Mount Maya, which offers a well-maintained network of trails for all levels of experience.
The summit provides impressive views of Kobe and the Seto Inland Sea.
After a good hike, take advantage of the Mount Maya Ropeway to enjoy the scenery and rest your legs.
Seto Inland Sea
The Seto Inland Sea is a unique natural feature of Hyogo Prefecture.
Whether you want to take a leisurely boat tour, fish, or engage in water sports, the sea offers countless possibilities.
The region is also famous for its fresh seafood and picturesque islands, so don’t hesitate to explore local cuisine and admire the area’s natural beauty.
Onsens and Relaxation
Kinosaki Onsen
Kinosaki Onsen, located in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, is a well-known destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
As you explore this charming hot spring town, you will discover numerous public baths, ryokans, and picturesque streets lined with willow trees.
When visiting Kinosaki Onsen, make sure to indulge yourself in the therapeutic properties of the mineral-rich waters.
These hot springs are a perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing in Hyogo Prefecture.
Arima Onsen
Arima Onsen, situated on the north side of Mount Rokko, is another popular onsen destination in Hyogo, Japan.
Renowned for its historical significance, Arima Onsen has been a favourite among the nobility and the Imperial Family since ancient times.
As you immerse yourself in the healing waters, take a moment to appreciate the Momiji Valley’s surrounding natural beauty.
Both Kinosaki Onsen and Arima Onsen offer a unique and authentic Japanese onsen experience.
During your visit to Hyogo Prefecture, take the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate at these renowned hot springs.
Food and Cuisine
In Hyogo Prefecture, you can enjoy some amazing food.
Among the culinary delights, the two main attractions that deserve your attention are Kobe beef and the local regional cuisine.
Kobe Beef
While exploring Hyogo Prefecture, you must try the renowned Kobe beef.
It is internationally famous for its exquisite marbled texture, rich flavour, and incredible tenderness.
Kobe beef comes from the Tajima strain of Japanese black cattle, raised under strict standards in Hyogo.
To fully enjoy your Kobe beef experience, visit one of the local restaurants specializing in this delicacy.
They will provide you with various cuts and preparation methods, such as teppanyaki, in which the meat is cooked on an iron griddle right in front of you, as in the video above.
Another popular method is shabu-shabu style, where you gently cook the thinly sliced beef in a hot broth.
Whichever way you enjoy it, Kobe beef will surely be a culinary highlight of your trip to Hyogo Prefecture.
Urban Attractions and Shopping
One of the highlights of visiting Hyogo Prefecture is exploring the urban attractions and shopping areas.
In this section, we will focus on two popular destinations: Kobe Chinatown and Sannomiya Station.
Kobe Chinatown
Kobe Chinatown, also known as Nankinmachi, is a vibrant and bustling area in the heart of Kobe.
Known for its rich cultural atmosphere and delicious Chinese cuisine, it offers a unique experience for tourists and locals alike.
As you stroll through the colourful streets, you will find a wide variety of shops and restaurants to explore.
Discover traditional Chinese crafts, clothing, and souvenirs that you can take home as a memento of your trip.
And, of course, don’t forget to try some of the mouthwatering food at the various street vendors and eateries.
Sannomiya Station
Sannomiya Station is another key area in Hyogo Prefecture that is home to shopping and urban attractions.
As a major transportation hub, it’s the perfect starting point for exploring Kobe and its surroundings.
The area around the station boasts numerous shopping centres, department stores, and boutiques, making it an ideal destination for those looking to indulge in some retail therapy.
A few notable shopping spots include:
- Kobe Marui: This popular department store offers various fashion, beauty products, and lifestyle goods.
- Mint Kobe: Located next to Sannomiya Station, this shopping centre offers a mix of local and international brands and dining options.
- Ijinkan Street: A short walk from Sannomiya Station, this charming street has Western-style buildings, fashionable shops, and cosy cafes.
As you explore the area near Sannomiya Station, you’ll also come across various cultural attractions, such as the Ikuta Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine with a peaceful atmosphere amidst the bustling city.
Temples and Spirituality
One of the top attractions in this area is the beautiful temples.
Shoshazan Engyohji
When visiting Hyogo, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Shoshazan Engyoji Temple.
This temple complex, located in Himeji, is a peaceful and spiritual destination for travellers.
As you step into the temple grounds, take note of the intricate architecture and breathtaking views of nature.
Apart from its sacred atmosphere, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple is also famous for being the filming location of The Last Samurai.
During your visit, you’ll have the chance to soak in the peacefulness and spirituality of the temple.
Engyoji Temple boasts a long history that can be seen in its well-preserved buildings.
Remember to respect the sacred atmosphere and be mindful of your surroundings.
Kids
KidZania
In Hyogo Prefecture, you can find a great family-friendly attraction called KidZania.
This interactive theme park is designed especially for kids aged 3 to 15. It offers a unique experience where they can explore various professions in a fun and educational way.
At KidZania, your children can engage in several hands-on activities, such as working as doctors, firefighters, chefs, or pilots.
Each activity is designed to resemble real-life occupations, allowing kids to learn about different careers while having fun.
The facility is safe and well-organized, ensuring your peace of mind while your children take part in the activities.
They also have many activities in English with help from bilinguals.
Festivals and Cultural Events
During your visit to Hyogo Prefecture, experience the captivating festivals and cultural events showcasing the region’s rich traditions.
An enchanting sight awaits you during the cherry blossom season, where you’ll find the beautiful Sakura trees blooming all over the prefecture.
In addition to the Sakura, Hyogo also hosts various events throughout the year.
One of the highlights is the Nanko Sunflower Festival, held from mid-July to mid-August.
During this season, cheerful sunflowers grow abundantly across Japan, with Hyogo having one of the best places to witness them in all their glory.
Entrance to the sunflower field can cost about ¥200, so it’s an affordable activity for everyone to enjoy.
Regional Destinations and Travel
Hyogo Prefecture, located in the Kansai region, offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences for you to enjoy.
It is a key part of the Keihanshin Metropolitan Area, which also includes Osaka and Kyoto.
With its stunning natural parks, historic sites, and vibrant cities, Hyogo is an ideal destination for any traveller.
Awaji island
Awaji Island is in the Seto Inland Sea, which is also called Setonaikai.
It is between the islands of Honshu and Shikoku. Awaji Island has always been an important link between them.
There is a lot of history here, such as the longest suspension bridge in the world and several beautiful beaches.
We enjoyed a few hours at Uzu Hill Onion the last time we went.
Uzu Hill Onion
This is a quirky place where everything is onion-themed.
From the food to the tables and chairs through to a souvenir shop, this is a fun place to spend a few hours.
The only way to get here is by car, but they have a decent-sized car park.
Thankfully, it was a sunny day during our visit.
Awaji Hanasajiki
At the northern end of Awaji Island, near the Akashikaikyo Bridge, is the Awaji Hanasajiki Flower Park.
Again, only really accessible by car, this was a pleasant hour spent admiring the views.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions in Hyogo?
Some of Hyogo’s top attractions include the stunning Himeji Castle, the beautiful Kinosaki Onsen, and the historical Takeda Castle.
Don’t miss out on the Great Buddha at Nofukuji Temple and a visit to Kobe’s iconic Chinatown, known as Nankinmachi.
Where can I find the best food in Hyogo?
Hyogo is famous for its delicious cuisine, so be sure to try Kobe beef at one of the many local teppanyaki restaurants.
A personal favourite is Mouriya.
Additionally, explore the lively Kobe Chinatown (Nankinmachi) for amazing Chinese dishes.
What onsens can I visit in Hyogo?
Hyogo Prefecture is home to several famous onsens (hot springs).
Some popular ones include Kinosaki Onsen and Arima Onsen.
You can also find plenty of ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) with private onsen facilities for a more secluded experience.
How can I travel from Osaka to Hyogo?
Travelling from Osaka to Hyogo is relatively easy, as both prefectures are part of the Kansai region.
You can take a train, such as the JR Shinkansen (bullet train), to major destinations like Himeji and Kobe.
Express buses and local trains are also available as a more budget-friendly option.
What outdoor activities are available in Hyogo?
There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from hiking up Mount Rokko to birdwatching at Hyogo Park of the Oriental White Stork.
Other options include visiting parks, taking leisurely canoeing tours, or strolling around the beautiful natural landscapes of Hyogo.
Are there any cultural experiences to enjoy in Hyogo Prefecture?
Yes, Hyogo Prefecture offers several cultural experiences to immerse yourself in.
For example, you can visit the Osamu Tezuka Manga Museum and explore Western-style houses built in the early 1900s.
You can also participate in traditional cooking classes and cultural tours to learn more about the region’s rich history and heritage.
