Hyogo
Hyogo Prefecture is known for Akashiyaki (a regional variation of Osaka's takoyaki) and world-famous wagyu beef. Situated in the Kansai area, and with sea to both its north and south, Hyogo offers a wide variety of scenery to visitors. The largest city in Hyogo is Kobe, and its most famous sightseeing spot is Himeji Castle. Hyogo is also known for hot spring areas such as Arima Onsen and Kinosaki Onsen.
Destination Highlights
Himeji Castle
Arts & Culture
Known as the “White Heron Castle” for its beautiful white exterior, Himeji Castle is a national treasure and World Heritage site. It is extremely well preserved, and its complex structure makes Himeji Castle a magnificent sight to behold.
Kinosaki Onsen
Leisure & Attractions
Kinosaki Onsen is located in the northern area of Hyogo Prefecture and has been cherished as a historical hot spring town since hot springs were discovered there in the eighth century. Wear a yukata and geta to explore the area's seven bathhouses while strolling through town.
Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway
Leisure & Attractions
Kobe’s beautiful Nunobiki Herb Garden is the perfect spot to enjoy flowers and fragrant herbs regardless of season. During the ropeway ride to the mountain peak where the garden is located, you can also enjoy some spectacular views of the sea and the Kobe cityscape.
The four seasons of Hyogo
Spring
Enjoy spring in Hyogo with hot springs and cherry blossom viewing spots by visiting locations such as Himeji Castle, Arima Onsen, and the streets of Kobe.
Summer
For summer, we recommend swimming at Kobe’s beaches or on Awaji island, hiking Mt. Rokko, or relaxing in a cool cafe. Hyogo also has many summer festivals and firework displays to make your summer lively and fun.
Fall
Fall in Hyogo means colorful leaves on Mt. Rokko and in the Tajima region, and wonderful walks through nature in the mountains. There are also many gourmet spots offering a taste of autumn, with plenty of food to enjoy.
Winter
Winter in Hyogo is the season for hot springs and snowy landscapes. Take a trip to the hot springs of Kinosaki Onsen or Arima Onsen, or enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Hino. Many locations also hold winter festivals and night-time illumination.
Trip highlights
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Himeji Castle
Arts & Culture
Closest station
Himeji Station -
Kinosaki Onsen
Leisure & Attractions
Closest station
Kinosakionsen Station -
Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway
Leisure & Attractions
Closest station
Shin-Kōbe Station -
Shoshazan Engyoji Temple
Arts & Culture
Closest station
Himeji Station -
Takeda Castle Ruins
Arts & Culture
Closest station
Takeda Station -
![Kitano Foreigners' Mansion District [Kitano Ijinkan-Gai]](/travel-information/assets/img/explore-west-japan/img_hyogo_spots_06.webp)
Kitano Foreigners' Mansion District [Kitano Ijinkan-Gai]
Arts & Culture
Closest station
Sannomiya StationShin-Kōbe Station -
Arima Onsen
Leisure & Attractions
Closest station
Sannomiya Station -
Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum
Arts & Culture
Closest station
Sannomiya StationShin-Kōbe Station -
Akashi Uonotana Shopping Street
Food & Drink
Closest station
Akashi Station -
Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge
Nature & Outdoors
Closest station
Maiko Station -
Nankinmachi
Food & Drink
Closest station
Motomachi StationSannomiya Station -
Kobe beef
Food & Drink
Hyogo route map
Use the route map to find your route and make your trip easier! Use the interactive map to determine the best route for your trip and learn more about your destination and the spots along the route to get there.
Passes valid in this area
Make the most of your trip to West Japan
Useful information about this area
Useful information for sightseeing in this area that you can use to plan your journey and enjoy your trip.
Access from Kansai Airport
Map of train routes (PDF)
