Hyogo Hidden Gems
A prefecture that reaches from the Seto Inland Sea to the Sea of Japan — a cosmopolitan port, Japan's finest castle, and mountain hot springs.
5 spots
Climate & Best Season
Mild on the southern coast, snowy in the north around Kinosaki. Spring and autumn are best; crab season peaks in winter.
Famous For (Food)
- Kobe beef
- Akashi-yaki
- Sake (Nada district)
- Izushi soba
Signature Sights
- Himeji Castle (UNESCO)
- Kinosaki Onsen
- Kobe harbour & Kitano
- Takeda Castle ruins
Naruto Whirlpools — World's Largest Tidal Vortices
The Naruto Strait between Awaji Island and Shikoku creates the world's largest tidal whirlpools (鳴門の渦潮, Naruto no Uzushi…
Awaji Onion Cuisine — Island's Sweet Specialty
Awaji Island (淡路島) is Japan's largest onion producer, famous for its exceptionally sweet onions (淡路島玉ねぎ) — low sulfur co…
Awaji Yumebutai — Tadao Ando's Terraced Gardens
Awaji Yumebutai (淡路夢舞台) is an architectural complex designed by Tadao Ando, featuring terraced gardens, conference cente…
Awaji Farm Park England Hill — Flower Fields & Koala
England Hill (イングランドの丘) is a family-friendly farm park themed after English countryside, featuring flower fields, pettin…
Awaji Puppet Theater (Ningyoza) — 500-Year Tradition
Awaji Ningyoza (淡路人形座) is a traditional puppet theater performing Awaji Ningyojoruri — a 500-year-old art form that pred…