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Japan is home to many fascinating tourist destinations, but Hyogo Prefecture, in particular, is a place that can be described as a “microcosm of Japan,” with its exquisite blend of diverse culture, history, nature, and modern urban landscapes. Recently, Hyogo Prefecture has become increasingly popular among international tourists, offering a wealth of hidden gems and cultural experiences that we highly recommend for international travelers. This article provides a comprehensive guide for domestic travelers, covering Hyogo Prefecture’s recommended sightseeing spots, gourmet food, transportation access, and etiquette.

Basic Information about Hyogo Prefecture and Why It’s Popular with Foreign Tourists

Hyogo Prefecture is located in the Kansai region, bordering Osaka to the east, Okayama to the west, the Seto Inland Sea to the south, and the Sea of Japan to the north. Hyogo Prefecture boasts a diverse range of tourist attractions, including the urban area of Kobe, the historic Himeji Castle, the famous Arima Onsen hot spring resort, and the naturally rich Awaji Island. Its diversity is precisely what makes it so popular with international tourists.

Hyogo Prefecture: A Microcosm of Japan

Hyogo Prefecture is unique in that it offers a unique experience of all Japan’s attractions, from cities and history to the countryside, hot springs, mountains, and the sea. Kobe is the place to go for urban sightseeing; Himeji and Ako are for those seeking a historical experience; and Awaji Island and Mount Rokko are for those seeking natural beauty. The prefecture’s well-developed transportation network makes travel easy.

Abundant Facilities for Foreign Visitors

With signs and pamphlets available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean, you can enjoy sightseeing without having to worry about language barriers. There are also plenty of Wi-Fi hotspots, and public transportation runs on time, providing peace of mind.

Kobe City: A Treasure House of International Cuisine

Kobe City is one of Japan’s leading port cities, home to fashion, gourmet food, and cultural facilities. It’s packed with must-visit spots for foreign tourists.

Kobe Harborland and Port Tower

Port Tower, a Kobe landmark, and Harborland, with its Ferris wheel and shopping mall, are spots you can enjoy both day and night. Its night view is particularly famous, captivating visitors with its beauty, earning it the nickname “one of Japan’s Three Great Night Views.”

Exploring the Western-style Buildings of Kitano Ijinkan District

The Kitano district, which flourished as a foreign settlement from the Meiji period to the early Showa period, is dotted with Western-style buildings. Touring these historic buildings and experiencing the culture of the port’s opening era is sure to be a moving experience for foreign tourists.

Don’t Miss the Kobe Beef Steak

World-famous Kobe beef is characterized by its moist texture and melt-in-your-mouth fat. Available at a wide variety of establishments, from high-end restaurants to relatively casual teppanyaki restaurants, it caters to all types of travelers.

Himeji City: A World Heritage Site and a City of Ninja Experiences

Himeji City has the most historic presence in Hyogo Prefecture. Affectionately known as “White Heron Castle,” Himeji Castle is a highly sought-after tourist spot, attracting attention both from within Japan and overseas.

Walking Around Himeji Castle, a World Heritage Site

Himeji Castle, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, stands out with its striking, all-white exterior. Guided tours are available in English and Chinese, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the castle’s internal structure and history. Also known as the “Unconquerable Castle,” this strategically placed castle is a popular tourist attraction for international visitors.

Ninja and Samurai Experience Tours

Himeji City offers hands-on activities, including photo opportunities in armor and a ninja-style walking rally, making it a fun experience for children and adults alike. This is a recommended experience for international visitors wanting to experience Japanese culture.

Arima Onsen: Experience Japan’s Oldest Hot Spring

“Arima Onsen,” located in Hyogo Prefecture, is one of Japan’s three oldest hot springs and a leading luxury hot spring resort. It’s quietly booming, especially among travelers from Europe and the United States, where you can experience traditional Japanese hospitality.

The Benefits of the Gold and Silver Springs

Arima Onsen’s distinctive “golden” and “silver” springs are classified as iron carbonate springs and radium springs, respectively, and are said to be effective for treating skin ailments, relieving fatigue, and improving skin condition. These hot springs are not only culturally significant, but also highly valuable from a health perspective.

The Food at Hot Spring Ryokan Inns is Also Attractive

Ryokan inns offer Japanese cuisine made with seasonal local ingredients, providing a rare opportunity to experience the Japanese spirit of “omotenashi” (hospitality). Some inns offer English menus and vegetarian options for international visitors.

Awaji Island: A Paradise of Nature and Food

Awaji Island, located just across the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge from Kobe, has been highly praised in recent years by foreign visitors as a spot where you can enjoy seasonal nature and fresh seafood.

Awaji Yumebutai and Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park

At Awaji Yumebutai, a complex that blends nature and architecture, you can experience the magnificent design by architect Tadao Ando. At the neighboring Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park, seasonal flowers bloom year-round.

Exquisite Gourmet: Onion and Whitebait Rice Bowl

Awaji Island onions boast the highest quality in the country, with an exquisite sweetness and flavor. The onion tempura, which makes the most of the onions, and the whitebait rice bowl, topped with plenty of fresh whitebait, are must-try dishes. Another great way to connect with the local area is through food.

Ako City: Tracing the History of Chushingura

Ako City, the setting for the famous Japanese historical tale “Chushingura,” is a spot where you can enjoy history and charm. It is especially popular among history-loving foreign tourists.

Ako Castle Ruins and Oishi Shrine

At Oishi Shrine, where the Ako Gishi rest, you can experience Japanese spiritual culture, symbolizing loyalty and sincerity. English guide pamphlets are available, making it a valuable place to learn about history in a reverent atmosphere.

Ako’s Salt Culture

Ako has long been a thriving salt-producing region, and its high-quality “Ako Salt” is highly regarded both domestically and internationally. The many gourmet foods and souvenirs made with salt offer a unique experience for tourists.

Tamba Sasayama: Experience Japan’s Satoyama Culture

Tamba Sasayama, home to Japan’s traditional rural landscape, is an area offering rural experiences and nature walks. It is perfect for foreigners looking to experience the “real Japan” beyond its urban areas.

Staying in an Old-Style House and Farming Experience

Experience farming and staying in an old-style house to experience Japan’s regional culture and lifestyle firsthand. A wide variety of English-guided tours are also available for inbound tourists.

Enjoy Local Cuisine, Including Black Beans and Wild Boar Dishes

Tamba Sasayama is famous for its black beans and boar hotpot, and experiencing the rich regional culinary culture will deepen your understanding of Japanese culture. This is a valuable region where you can experience the connection between food and agriculture.

Convenient Transportation Access for Tourism in Hyogo Prefecture

Hyogo Prefecture has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including the Shinkansen, airports, and expressways, making it highly rated for its ease of travel for foreign visitors.

Access from Kansai International Airport and Kobe Airport

Direct limousine buses run from Kansai International Airport to Kobe, and from Kobe Airport, you can easily travel to the city center on the Port Liner. Many transportation signs are available in English, making sightseeing stress-free.

Manners and Precautions for Foreign Tourists

Knowing Japan’s unique etiquette and rules in advance can help you avoid trouble while sightseeing.

Manners on Public Transportation

It’s important to observe basic etiquette, such as not talking loudly on the train, turning your cell phone on silent mode, and offering priority seats to those who need them.

Notes on Hot Springs

Tattoos may be restricted from entering hot springs, but recently, there has been an increase in tattoo-friendly facilities, so it’s a good idea to research before visiting.

Summary

Hyogo Prefecture exquisitely blends urban sophistication with rural simplicity, concentrating on the diversity of Japan. From the seaside night views of Kobe, the relaxation of Arima Onsen, the history of Himeji Castle, the nature and cuisine of Awaji Island, and the cultural experiences of Ako and Tamba Sasayama, there’s something for every type of traveler. With improved transportation access and foreign language support, Hyogo Prefecture has become an attractive destination for foreign tourists. Foreign tourists visiting Hyogo Prefecture can now confidently add it to their travel options. Hyogo Prefecture will open new doors for visitors to discover the true Japan found in regional culture, and to journeys filled with pride and excitement.

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