Hyogo Prefecture combines cosmopolitan port-city glamour with feudal grandeur. Kobe is one of Japan’s most sophisticated cities — shaped by centuries of international trade. And Himeji Castle is simply the most beautiful castle in Japan.
Top Attractions
1. Himeji Castle
UNESCO World Heritage and Japan’s finest castle, Himeji-jo’s gleaming white towers — nicknamed the “White Heron Castle” — rise above the city in a vision of feudal perfection. It survived WWII bombing intact and retains its full original structure.
2. Kobe
Japan’s most cosmopolitan city — opened to trade in 1868 — has an international character reflected in its Kitano district of historic Western mansions, its legendary Chinatown (Nankinmachi), and the stylish harbor Meriken Park.
3. Arima Onsen
One of Japan’s oldest hot springs, tucked in the mountains behind Kobe. Arima is famous for its two types of water — Kinsen (gold spring, iron-rich and orange-brown) and Ginsen (silver spring, clear and radioactive) — each with different health benefits.
Food & Drink
Kobe Beef — the most famous wagyu brand in the world — is a life-changing culinary experience. Kobe is also renowned for its bread (Japan’s bread culture originated here) and the freshest seafood from Akashi Strait.
Getting There
From Osaka, Kobe is 20 minutes by Shinkansen. Himeji is about 30 minutes from Osaka on the Sanyo Shinkansen.
