Hyogo: Features, Popular Tourist Attractions, Gourmet

Hyogo Prefecture is a nature-rich tourist destination stretching from the Sea of Japan to the Seto Inland Sea. The region is dotted with historical and cultural attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Himeji Castle and Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s three oldest hot springs.

The prefecture’s major attractions include its nationally renowned delicacies such as Kobe beef, Akashi sea bream, and Kinosaki crab. Particularly, Kobe beef is celebrated worldwide by food connoisseurs for its fine marbling and rich umami flavor.

Kobe City, the main tourist hub, is packed with romantic spots including the exotic Kitano Ijinkan district featuring Western-style houses and the panoramic view from Mount Maya, famous for its “10 million dollar night view.” In Nankinmachi (Kobe’s Chinatown), visitors can savor authentic Chinese cuisine while experiencing the international atmosphere unique to this port city.

For nature enthusiasts, the Tajima region’s mountains, Kinosaki Onsen, and Takeno Beach are highly recommended. Visitors can enjoy various activities including hiking in the mountains that show different faces each season, hot spring hopping in the atmospheric onsen town, and marine activities along the beautiful coastline.

Furthermore, Awaji Island offers unique island charm with the majestic views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, fresh seafood, and seasonal flowers blooming across its gentle rolling hills.