The castle consists of more than 80 interconnected buildings, protected by complex moats and gates. Its origins date back to a 15th-century fortress, and it was completed in its current grand form in 1609.

Unlike many other castles in Japan, Himeji Castle survived wars, earthquakes, and fires, and today it remains both a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In recent years, exclusive experiences such as private night tours and traditional Japanese boat cruises around the inner moat have emerged, offering unique perspectives beyond regular daytime visits.

In this article, we explore the history of Himeji Castle, the reasons behind its global popularity, and the highlights of these special tours and surrounding attractions.

What Is Himeji Castle? And Why Is It So Popular?

Himeji Castle, often called the “White Heron Castle,” is famous for its brilliant white plaster walls and graceful main keep complex.

Its high stone walls and maze-like pathways were strategically designed to prevent enemy invasion. Visitors walking toward the main keep must pass through multiple gates and winding routes.

Inside, steep staircases and narrow interiors reflect defensive architecture intended to slow attackers.

From the top floor, you can enjoy panoramic views of Himeji City and observe details such as the fish-shaped roof ornaments (shachigawara), believed to protect the structure from fire.

Reasons for its popularity include:

• UNESCO World Heritage & National Treasure status, preserving early Edo-period castle architecture in its original form.
• A famous cherry blossom viewing spot in spring, especially around Sannomaru Square.
• Seasonal illuminations (2025–2026), where the castle glows white at night, offering a completely different atmosphere from daytime.
• Increasing experiential programs such as English guided tours, private night tours, and traditional boat cruises.

Highlights of the Special Night Tour

The private night tour offers a rare opportunity to explore Himeji Castle after closing hours.

Certain sections of the castle are opened exclusively, including areas normally off-limits, guided by historians or curators.

You’ll learn about feudal lords, samurai life, and the structure of stone walls and turrets.

Participants may also experience wearing samurai armor and take commemorative photos with replica swords and spears.

The highlight is viewing the illuminated castle from the top of the main keep at night — a breathtaking sight in a quiet, exclusive atmosphere.

Limited to one group per day, the tour can be customized based on participants’ interests, making it ideal for history enthusiasts or special occasions.

Inner Moat Japanese Boat Cruise

The traditional Japanese wooden boat cruise circles the inner moat surrounding Himeji Castle.

Two boats, “Harima” and “Shirasagi,” are operated by a boatman using a single oar in classic Edo-period style.

From the water, the castle appears even more majestic, and you can closely observe stone wall markings and drainage structures often overlooked from land.

There are three excellent photo spots: beneath the Hyakken Corridor (associated with Princess Sen), near Sakuramon Bridge, and by the red bridge in front of the zoo.

Koko-en Garden & Surrounding Attractions

Adjacent to the west of Himeji Castle is Koko-en Garden, opened in 1992.

It consists of nine distinct Edo-style gardens built on the former residence of the feudal lord.

Visitors can enjoy matcha and traditional sweets while viewing the castle from the garden.

The West Bailey (Nishi-no-Maru), said to be Princess Sen’s residence, is another highlight with close views of the keep complex.

Each season offers unique beauty — cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and winter scenery.

Access

From JR Himeji Station, it is about a 15–20 minute walk north along Otemae Street.

You may also use the city loop bus or take a taxi (about 800 JPY one way).

Parking is available but can be crowded during peak seasons, so public transport is recommended.

Koko-en Garden is located immediately west of the castle’s main gate.

Conclusion

Himeji Castle continues to captivate travelers worldwide with its brilliant white appearance and exceptional preservation.

The night tour offers exclusive access and deep historical insight, while the boat cruise provides a rare water-level perspective.

Exploring surrounding areas such as Koko-en and Nishi-no-Maru enhances the experience even further.

Easily accessible from Kyoto or Osaka, Himeji Castle makes a perfect day trip.

Immerse yourself in magnificent history and breathtaking scenery at one of Japan’s most treasured World Heritage Sites.

With over 70 Akashiyaki restaurants scattered throughout Akashi City, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here are 6 exceptional restaurants that showcase the best of this beloved local cuisine, each offering their own special touch to this traditional dish.

1. Funamachi (ふなまち) – The Local Legend

Funamachi is arguably the most famous Akashiyaki restaurant among locals and visitors alike. This beloved establishment sees daily queues regardless of the season, and for good reason. Their Akashiyaki features an incredibly fluffy texture with a high egg ratio, creating that signature melt-in-your-mouth experience.

What to Order:

• Akashiyaki (20 pieces) – ¥700
• The perfect balance of fluffy egg batter and tender octopus

2. Tako-Iso (たこ磯) – The Fish Market Favorite

Located in the heart of the famous Uonotana Shopping Street, Tako-Iso offers an authentic market dining experience. This restaurant is perfectly positioned for tourists exploring the bustling fish market, making it an ideal stop during your sightseeing adventure.

What to Order:

• Akashiyaki Set – Fresh from the market location
• Try pairing with local market snacks

3. Yoshikawa (よし川) – The 40-Year Veteran

As one of the oldest establishments in the Fish Market Street, Yoshikawa has perfected their craft over four decades. Their Akashiyaki is served with a carefully prepared dashi made from premium Hokkaido kelp and aromatic bonito flakes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Signature Dishes:

• Akashiyaki & Tako-meshi (Octopus Rice) Set
• The octopus rice features a delightful crispy bottom layer
• Option to enjoy with sauce for flavor variation

4. Honke Kimuraya (本家きむらや) – The Authentic Experience

Step back in time at Honke Kimuraya, where the Showa-era atmosphere perfectly complements their traditional cooking methods. This restaurant maintains the authentic preparation style that has made Akashiyaki famous throughout Japan.

Specialties:

• Traditional Tamagoyaki (20 pieces per serving)
• High egg ratio for that distinctive aroma and texture
• Kanto-style Oden (Japanese hot pot) – particularly famous for their tender octopus

5. Tenshin (てんしん) – The Hidden Gem

Located slightly outside the main tourist area, Tenshin offers a more relaxed dining experience with creative touches. Their Akashiyaki comes with unique accompaniments like tea salt, allowing diners to experiment with different flavor combinations.

What Makes Akashiyaki Special?

Akashiyaki differs from takoyaki in several important ways:

• Ingredients: Uses both wheat flour and jin-ko (refined wheat starch) for a uniquely soft texture
• Serving Style: Traditionally served with light dashi broth instead of sauce
• Texture: Much softer and more delicate than takoyaki
• Local Name: Known simply as “Tamagoyaki” (egg balls) to Akashi locals

Dining Tips for Visitors

• How to Eat: Gently dip each piece in the provided dashi broth. Be careful – they’re served very hot!
• Best Times to Visit: Weekday afternoons tend to be less crowded, while weekends often feature longer queues at popular spots.
• Typical Serving Size: Most restaurants serve 15-20 pieces per order, perfect for sharing between 2 people.
• Average Cost: Expect to pay ¥600-800 for a standard serving.

Getting to Akashi

Akashi City is easily accessible from major Kansai cities:

• From Osaka: 40 minutes via JR Kobe Line
• From Kyoto: 1 hour via JR lines
• From Kobe: 15 minutes via JR Kobe Line

Most restaurants are within walking distance of Akashi Station or along the famous Uonotana Shopping Street.

Have you decided where to try Akashiyaki?

Each of these six restaurants offers a unique perspective on Akashi’s beloved local dish. Whether you choose the legendary queues at Funamachi, the market atmosphere at Tako-Iso, or the historical significance of the recipe-preserving establishments, you’re guaranteed an authentic taste of this regional specialty.

We hope you enjoy exploring Akashi City and discovering the comforting, delicious world of Akashiyaki. Each bite tells the story of this coastal city’s culinary heritage, making your visit to Hyogo Prefecture truly memorable!

This place, where shops of all genres — vintage clothing stores, antique shops, niche record stores, suspicious junk shops, and retro cafes and eateries — chaotically coexist, is sometimes described as “a chaotic place like Akihabara and Shimokitazawa in Tokyo combined and divided by two.” For inquisitive international visitors, this article thoroughly explains the charm of Motoko that can be enjoyed like a treasure hunt, how to explore it, and surprising encounters awaiting you. Let’s go find your own “treasure” that isn’t listed in guidebooks!

What is Kobe’s “Motoko”? A One-of-a-Kind Deep Space Adorning the JR Viaduct

Motoko is a shopping arcade that developed from post-war black markets, utilizing the space beneath the JR Kobe Line viaduct. It stretches thinly for about 2 km with shops from Motomachi Station side to Kobe Station side, commonly known as “Motoko 1-bangai” to “Motoko 13-bangai.” The disunified yet unique signboards, dimly lit passages, and haphazardly arranged goods all create a peculiar atmosphere, as if you’ve time-slipped. It’s truly a place perfectly described by the words “retro,” “chaos,” and “deep.”

Motoko Exploration Guide: Where to Walk From? What Will You Find?

Motoko is about 2 km long, so deciding where to start and what to focus on will help you enjoy it more efficiently. As a starting point for your exploration, we recommend beginning from the Motomachi Station side, which is more accessible.

Starting Point for Exploration: From Motomachi Station Side

Upon exiting the JR Motomachi Station改札 (ticket gate) and walking towards Kobe Station, you will see the entrance to the viaduct shopping arcade. The “entrance” to Motoko is usually near “Motoko 1-bangai.” You might find it a little intimidating at first, but once you step inside, you’ll be drawn into its unique charm.

Genres of Shops You Can Encounter in Motoko

• Vintage Clothing Stores & Vintage Shops: You might find unique rare vintage clothing or items. A must-visit spot for fashion enthusiasts.
• Antique Shops & Retro General Stores: Showa retro tableware, old toys, antique furniture, and other hidden gems await. It will spark your collector’s spirit.
• Record Shops: Specialty analog record stores are scattered throughout. You might lose track of time browsing their niche selections of jazz, rock, enka, and more.
• Junk Shops & Secondhand Stores: Sometimes, unexpected treasures are hidden among what might seem like junk. You’ll enjoy the thrill of the hunt.
• Restaurants & Cafes: You can take a break at an old-fashioned cafe or enjoy local gourmet at a deep izakaya.

Tips for Enjoying Motoko

Is This Really Japan? Motoko’s Unique Charm [For International Visitors]

Motoko 3nd Avenue

Motoko is a truly unique place that sets itself apart from shopping streets in other major Japanese cities. Its chaotic atmosphere might even make some international visitors wonder, “Is this really Japan?”

• Fusion of “Akiba” and “Shimokitazawa”: It blends the junk aesthetic of Akihabara, Tokyo’s electric town and mecca of otaku culture, with the subculture vibe of Shimokitazawa, a hub for youth culture and vintage clothing.
• Nostalgic Otherworld: The unique dim space created by its post-war history, stemming from black markets, gives you a feeling of having time-slipped into another world or the Showa era.
• Real Daily Life of Local Kobe: It’s not a place created for tourists; it’s a shopping street used daily by locals, allowing you to feel the living pulse of Japan.

Access to Motoko (From Major Kobe/Osaka Cities)

Motoko stretches between JR Motomachi Station and JR Kobe Station, making it extremely convenient to access from major stations.

• From JR Motomachi Station: Immediately outside the ticket gate. The entrance to the east end of Motoko is right in front of the east ticket gate.
• From JR Kobe Station: Immediately outside the ticket gate. Near the entrance to the west end of Motoko.
• From JR Osaka Station: Approx. 25 minutes by JR Kobe Line Special Rapid to “Motomachi Station.”
• From Shinkansen “Shin-Kobe Station”: Approx. 2 minutes by Kobe Municipal Subway Seishin-Yamate Line to “Sannomiya Station,” then transfer to JR Kobe Line and ride for approx. 2 minutes to “Motomachi Station.”

MAP: Kobe’s Hidden Gem “Motoko”

*The map indicates the approximate range of Motomachi Koka-shita Shotengai (Motoko). For precise locations and details of each shop, please enjoy exploring on site.

Experience Your Own “Other World of Kobe” at Motoko!

Motoko, the shopping arcade sprawling beneath the JR viaduct, exudes a deep and chaotic charm that differs from Kobe’s refined image. Stepping inside, you’ll feel as if you’ve time-slipped into the Showa era, or stumbled into another world. The journey of searching for “treasures” found only here, such as vintage clothing, antiques, and records, will surely stimulate your adventurous spirit and become an unforgettable memory.

Come and experience the real local energy of Kobe and the unique “chaos” not found in guidebooks. Be sure to visit Motoko!

I’ll introduce you to a hidden gem beloved by locals for strolling and snacking!

After walking through the shopping street, you can also enjoy a leisurely walk along the nearby coast, making it a recommended spot in the area.

Enjoy the Akashi Uo no Tana Shopping Street

A must-visit in Akashi is the “Fish Market Street,” locally known as “Uo no Tana.” It is one of Akashi’s iconic spots.

This vibrant shopping street, loved by both locals and tourists, was created around 400 years ago during the construction of Akashi Castle and the town planning by Miyamoto Musashi.

A 5-minute slow walk south from Akashi Station leads you to an arcade that stretches for 350 meters, housing 110 shops, primarily fishmongers and seafood vendors.

From sushi shops using fresh Akashi fish to snack bars and daytime drinking spots, we introduce the attractions and delights of the Fish Market from a local’s perspective.

Soft-simmered Akashi octopus and squid with roe are also delicious. Many shops offer tastings, so be sure to try them.

The highlight is definitely the daytime netting

When you think of Fish Market Street, the first thing that comes to mind is “fish.” The main attraction is the daytime netting (hiruami).

Generally, fish landed one day are sold in shops the next day, but at Fish Market’s daytime netting, fish caught in Akashi are auctioned right near the port at the daytime market and delivered directly to the shops. This means lively fish, like octopus and sea bream, that were swimming just before in the Akashi Strait are tightly lined up at the shops.

Speaking of octopus, Akashi is famous for its octopus, which, unlike the foreign ones we usually see at supermarkets, is quite differently priced. The octopus grown in the fast currents of the Akashi Strait is tight and plump, offering superb flavor. There are also shops that offer tastings, so consider trying them before buying.

Fish are generally lined up for sale from around 12:30 to 13:00 depending on the shop.

Shops selling slices and sashimi of sea bream often also sell sea bream collars, allowing you to get large, fresh Akashi sea bream collars at a good price.

Seasonal delicacies

At Fish Market Street, spring is heralded by the kohada shinko

Right in front of the Akashi Strait, the Fish Market is a treasure trove of fish. In addition to the famous “Akashi sea bream” and “Akashi octopus,” about 100 types of fish are landed seasonally, and the seafood eaten in its peak season is exceptional.

[Spring (March to May)] Spring icons such as “Kohada,” “Sea Bream,” “Spanish Mackerel,” “Rockfish,” “Horse Mackerel,” etc.
[Summer (June to August)] Akashi specialties such as “Octopus,” “Pike Conger,” “Conger Eel,” “Mackerel,” “Kawaebi,” etc.
[Autumn (September to November)] “Sea Bream,” “Cutlassfish,” “Flounder,” “Japanese Jack Mackerel,” “Swimming Crab,” etc.
[Winter (December to February)] “Pufferfish,” “Webfoot Octopus,” “Japanese Spanish Mackerel,” “Chub Mackerel,” “Sea Cucumber,” etc.

Gourmet Akashi-yaki (Egg Cake)

When you come to Akashi, you absolutely must try the local gourmet dish, Akashi-yaki (egg cake).

It is said that there are about 70 Akashi-yaki shops within the city.

In local Akashi, Akashi-yaki, also known as tamagoyaki (egg cake), is a traditional local dish where plenty of eggs are used along with a mixture of wheat flour and jinko powder, cooked on a copper plate specially for Akashi-yaki.

You might think, “Isn’t Akashi-yaki the same wherever you eat it?” Wait just a minute!

The ingredients for the batter, such as konbu and katsuobushi for the dashi, condiments, etc., vary by shop, so even though Akashi-yaki is a simple dish made with simple ingredients, the texture and flavor can vary significantly from shop to shop.

Trying different shops to find your favorite can be a fun experience.

All the shops at Fish Market Street are delicious, but if you’re unsure, here are some recommended can’t-miss shops.

Tako Iso

A popular shop in the Fish Market Street with an old-fashioned appearance that always has a long line.

There are two Tako Iso shops, with the second one located on a street just south, but this one has the atmosphere.

You can watch the skilled hands of the artisans cooking Akashi-yaki while you wait in line, making the wait enjoyable.

The menu includes classic Akashi-yaki with octopus (15 pieces for 700 yen), Akashi-yaki with conger eel (900 yen), and a mixed Akashi-yaki with octopus and conger eel (1,100 yen).

The fluffy and slightly sweet Akashi-yaki is popular.

Akashi Tamagoyaki Imanaka

The current shopfront of Imanaka, which has been in business for a long time but recently relocated to a new, clean shop.

Although not in the shopping street itself, it is located just a short walk from the shopping street.

The firm konbu-based dashi with trefoil blends perfectly with the fluffy and soft Akashi-yaki.

The menu is limited to Akashi-yaki and beverages, with 15 pieces for 700 yen. One plate per person is required.

The slightly salty, robust-flavored Akashi-yaki. Here, in addition to the standard sauce, you can also enjoy a change in flavor with rock salt, yuzu pepper, and seven-spice chili pepper.

The shop is small with few seats, so it’s recommended to go just before opening.

Enjoy Snacking at Fish Market Street

While it’s certainly recommended to sit down and enjoy a meal at a restaurant, it’s also fun to casually nibble on favorites while viewing the fresh seafood brought up in the daytime netting and walking through the lively Fish Market Street.

The long east-west arcade not only has fishmongers but also storefronts where oysters are grilled, large conger eel tempura, octopus rice, and croquettes from Kobe Motomachi, which always have long lines. When you come to Akashi, be sure to come hungry or you might regret it.

Eirakudo Fish Market Store ‘Pettan Yaki’

Eirakudo, a well-known tako senbei shop with 8 stores just in Akashi city.

At the Fish Market store, you can enjoy freshly baked Pettan Yaki.

Pettan Yaki is a popular senbei made by placing an entire spicy soy sauce-marinated webfoot octopus on the batter and sprinkling rich Parmesan cheese on top, then pressing it with a thick dedicated iron plate.

The giant senbei might be three times the size of your face, surprising you!

Since it contains an entire octopus, you can fully taste the deliciousness of the octopus.

They make it for you as soon as you order, so you can enjoy a hot, crispy, luxurious senbei.

The ‘Akashi Tako Senbei’ sold in the shop is also popular as a souvenir from Akashi.

Hase Kamaboko ‘Tempura’

An old-fashioned handmade kamaboko shop.

The freshly fried tempura made in the back of the shop is fluffy and so delicious you’ll want to eat several pieces.

While called tempura, it’s not the battered and fried tempura, but rather what’s known as ‘neri-ten’ (fried fish paste).

There are various types such as octopus, ginger, and squid tempura, but my personal recommendation is the classic ‘top tempura’. Simple yet full of deliciousness, you can keep eating piece after piece.

Hase Kamaboko’s tempura is also perfect as a souvenir from Fish Market Street. It pairs wonderfully with beer and sake!

Takahashiya ‘Quail Egg-Stuffed Skewered Octopus’

A truly Akashi-style gourmet, ‘Quail Egg-Stuffed Skewered Octopus’

About 5 cm sweet and spicy simmered Akashi webfoot octopus is skewered, and inside the head is surprisingly a quail egg.

Often seen on social media platforms like Instagram, this is a popular snack for walking and eating!

If you’re going to eat sushi in Fish Market Street

If you’re visiting Akashi, many people would want to eat the local fresh sushi.

In Fish Market Street, not only are there fishmongers, but there are also sushi shops using fresh Akashi ingredients.

Sushi Kirin

A stylish sushi shop that catches your eye.

If you want delicious sushi focusing on local ingredients from Akashi, where attention to detail shines in the chef’s skills in neta, shari, and balance, this is the place to go.

It might seem a bit upscale, but lunch is relatively affordable.

Sushi Shops within Fish Market Street

Soju (Sōju)・・・1-3-21-2-2F Honmachi, Akashi City
Sushi Enishi (Enishi)・・・1-5-1 2F Honmachi, Akashi City
Shinwa・・・1-1-20 Honmachi, Akashi City
Shaku Hachi Sushi (Shakuhachi Sushi)・・・1-4-23 Honmachi, Akashi City

Standing Bars at Fish Market

With so many shops you want to try at Fish Market, casually enjoying a quick drink at a standing bar is also recommended.

From deep, locals-only spots that might seem intimidating to chic Italian-style standing bars, there’s a wide variety.

Here are some standing bars where even first-timers can comfortably enjoy themselves.

Standing Bar Tanaka

A standing bar attached to the Tanaka liquor store.

Managed by the liquor store, you can enjoy reasonably priced sake selected from breweries all over Japan.

On weekends, people eagerly wait for the 12:00 opening, forming a line due to its immense popularity.

The secret to its popularity lies not only in the sake but also in the deliciousness of the dishes, which are unimaginable for a standing bar.

Even those who don’t drink alcohol can be satisfied with the fresh local fish and carefully made side dishes.

Standing Bar Donbei (Donbē)

Not in the shopping street itself, but just a little west after exiting the west exit of Fish Market (Uo no Tana), I introduce the super famous local spot “Standing Bar Donbei.”

The name “Donbei” and its somewhat old appearance might surprise you, but muster up some courage and give it a try.

Being a gathering place for discerning local fishermen, you can enjoy cheap and fresh fish dishes at a great value. Surprisingly, there are many female customers, so women can feel comfortable entering alone.

It’s the perfect spot for a quick, cost-effective drink.

It’s not just seafood and Akashi-yaki

Fish Market isn’t just about seafood and Akashi-yaki.

There’s a variety of other delicious foods as well.

Hatake Shop (Pickles)

From classic pickles like thousand-layer pickles to original and unusual pickles, you can buy seasonal pickles made with locally grown vegetables from Akashi’s four seasons.

The most popular is Hatake Shop’s original “Fusuma Nuka,” with each leaf of seasonal cabbage carefully spread with “Cabbage Fusuma Pickle,” perfect as a side dish for rice.

Kanebiki Produce (Vegetables & Fruit)

At the reasonably priced Kanebiki Produce, you’ll find over 100 types of fresh seasonal vegetables and fruits.

They also have a variety of old-fashioned handmade tofu.

Access to Fish Market Street

[By Train] Get off at JR/Sanyo Main Line Akashi Station, 3 minutes on foot

[By Car] From the Osaka direction, take the Hanshin Expressway → Exit at the Second Shinmei Daitokura IC, head towards “JR Akashi Station” “Sanyo Akashi Station”
From the Himeji direction, take the Second Shinmei Ikawadani IC, head towards “JR Akashi Station” “Sanyo Akashi Station”

Pedestrian deck
If you’re walking from Akashi Station, exit the south exit, go up to the second floor of the commercial building “Papios Akashi” in front of you using the escalator, and proceed via the pedestrian deck.

Even on rainy days, you can reach Fish Market Street without using an umbrella.

Akashi Luminous Hotel

MAP

The flowers hanging from the wisteria trellises are beautiful, right? Depending on the location, they may be lit up at night, making them popular tourist attractions.

We’ve compiled a list of recommended spots that are worth visiting.

The best time to see wisteria flowers is from late April to early May!

Hakuhouji Temple (Tamba City, Hyogo Prefecture)

Hakuhouji Temple (Tamba City, Hyogo Prefecture) is renowned for its wisteria, which features long branches known as “Kujaku Fuji.”

Places famous for their wisteria, like Hakuhouji Temple, offer nighttime illuminations.

It’s great to take pictures of the wisteria illuminated in the darkness of the night.

The location is generally accessible only by car.

It gets incredibly crowded during Golden Week.

It’s recommended to go early in the day.

I went in the morning, but on my way back, there was a tremendous traffic jam of cars.

Shirai Omachi Fuji Park (Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture)

Shirai Omachi Fuji Park, as the name “Fuji Park” suggests, offers the enjoyment of many wisteria flowers.

Shirai Omachi Fuji Park (Shirai Omachi Fuji Koen) is the leading wisteria park in the San’in region with a park area of 7,000 square meters, a total wisteria trellis length of 500 meters, and a width of 4 meters.

Surrounded by clear air and green mountains, the purple and white wisteria flowers are vibrant and beautiful, captivating people.

In addition to the central pond and the wisteria trellises surrounding the park, there are also waterwheels and waterwheel huts, allowing the enjoyment of traditional landscapes.

The park opens in conjunction with the wisteria blooming season, and a Wisteria Festival is held with sales of local products and sweets.

Note that in 2022, after measures against the coronavirus, Shirai Omachi Fuji Park reopened, but the Wisteria Festival with merchandise sales did not take place.

In 2023, snack stalls, such as La Ilac’s ice gelato, have returned.

It seems that the festival can be enjoyed from 2024 onwards.

Sumiyoshi Shrine (Akashi City, Hyogo Prefecture)

Sumiyoshi Shrine was founded in the 8th year of Emperor Yuryaku (464 AD).

The wisteria planted in the mid-Meiji era has now become a large wisteria trellis, swaying in the sea breeze, entertaining visitors.

In the shrine precincts, various historical buildings can also be seen. The Noh stage on the south side of the main hall is a designated cultural property of Akashi City and was selected as one of the “Top 100 Historical Cultural Properties of Fisheries and Fishing Villages to be Preserved for the Future” (selected by the Fisheries Agency in 2006).

In 1627, under the orders of the first lord of Akashi Domain, Ogasawara Tadazane, it was created and will reach its 400th anniversary in 2027.

It is also a famous spot for hydrangeas blooming in early summer.

The view of the Harima Sea from the torii gate fascinates many people.

Nakayama Kannon Park (Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture)

Adjacent to Nakayama Temple, Nakayama Kannon Park features a large wisteria trellis where you can enjoy white and purple wisteria flowers.

In the plaza of Nakayama Kannon Park, a wisteria trellis extends for about 100 meters, becoming a highlight from mid-April after the cherry blossoms have finished.

There are two types of wisteria: purple and white.

As there are fewer people, you can slowly enjoy the wisteria flowers and their fragrance.

Benten Pond (Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture)

It’s not particularly large, but it’s personally one of my favorite places.

A promenade is maintained around Benten Pond, and many people use it as a walking path.

Having a wisteria trellis and a bench right in front of the pond is very pleasant.

It’s located just a short walk from Hankyu Ninomiya Station.

When is the best time to see wisteria flowers? 7 selected "Fuji-dana" (wisteria trellis) spots in TokyoDuring this season when the warm weather continues and outdoor dates...

MAP

There are two types of hot springs in this area: a dark, muddy spring called Kin no yu(Gold hot spring) and a clear, colorless spring called Gin no yu(Silver Hot Spring).

We would like to introduce you to two public baths, Kin no Yu and Gin no Yu, where you can enjoy both the Kin no Yu and Gin no Yu springs easily.

You can also stop by the silver spring where you can drink a cup of natural cider.

Gold Hot Spring and Silver Hot Spring

Arima Onsen, which appears in the Chronicles of Japan, has long been known as Japan’s oldest hot spring.

Its close to the center of Kobe, about 30 minutes away by train, makes it a popular destination for many visitors.

The number of tourists visiting Kobe is increasing, and the plan to stretch out from Kobe and stay one night is common.

The narrow alleyways of the onsen town, where yukata suits you, are also full of atmosphere.

Anyaways, there are two types of hot water in Arima Onsen, a gold spring and a silver spring.

As a side note, the words “kinsen(gold)” and “ginsen(silver)” are officially registered as trademarks by the Arima Onsen Ryokan Cooperative Association.

The reason why the hot water of Arima Onsen is called Kinsen and Ginsen is because Arima Onsen has several different spring sources, and the water is divided into two main types: one that becomes muddy with a gold (brown) color when exposed to the air, and another that is colorless and transparent.

If you visit Arima Onsen, try to compare the two types of hot water.

If you want to get into the Gold Spring, Arima Hon Onsen Kin no Yu!

Now, if you want to enjoy the gold and silver springs, you must visit the gold and silver baths in the public baths.

Let’s start with the Kin no Yu(gold hot spring).

It’s located at a three-way intersection near a busy street with souvenir shops and the Arima Toy Museum across the street.

The men’s bath is called Ichino-yu and the women’s bath is called Ni-no-yu, and there are two types of bathrooms: a 44-degree hot water bath tub with plenty of golden spring water and a 42-degree warm water bath tub.

The color of the hot water of the high-sodium chloride containing iron sodium chloride high-salt hot spring is dark orange, and it is cloudy as if it had melted chocolate

And, when you go in, you can’t see the arms and legs you sank into at all.

This public bath is a great public bath, and the locals have been known to say that if you’re in Arima Onsen, you should definitely take a bath in this golden hot spring.

However, be careful not to overdo it bucause the water is very thick.

Arima Onsen’s Gourd is the Symbol of Toyotomi Hideyoshi

The public bathhouse, Kin no Yu, also has a selection of Hideyoshi’s drinking fountains and footbaths.

You can use these two baths without paying fee, so feel free to drop by.

Since the gold spring is not suitable for drinking, the hot water in the drinking fountain is not gold, but silver sodium chloride spring.

What’s interesting is the gourds placed at the entrance of the spring.

In addition to the Kinno-yu Spa, if you walk around the Arima Onsen, you may notice gourds here and there in the bathhouse.

In fact, these gourds are the seals of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who loved Arima Onsen and assisted in its recovery.

If you want to get into a Silver Onsen, Arima Onsen Gin no Yu!

Let’s also take a look at another public bathhouse in Arima Onsen, Gin no Yu.

This one is located halfway up the hill, just outside the hot spring town.

You’ll find it when you are going up the hill from Arima Onsenji Temple, Gokurakuji Temple and Nenbutsuji Temple.

The hot water in Gin no Yu(silver hot spring) is a mixture of carbonate and radium springs.

The water is clear and colorless and warms you up well, but you will feel refreshed afterwards.

This bathhouse is also equipped with a mist sauna and a Jacuzzi.

Not only the color of the water you see, but also the feeling you get from the bathing experience is different from that of the Kin no yu, so if you come to Arima Onsen, be sure to compare the two types of baths.

Try to drink natural cider and silver hot water carbonated spring

Arima Onsen’s popular souvenirs are carbonated rice crackers and Arima Cider Water.

So, the last place we would like to introduce to you is a place where you can drink either the carbonated spring or the radium spring in Gin no Yu.

This place is located in a Tansan sengen park(carbonated spring park) about a 5 minute walk up the hill from Gin no Yu.

The natural carbonated spring water of Arima Onsen used to be drunk as cider with sugar added to it.

Before the Meiji era, it was called poisonous water and people didn’t even go near it.

The bubbling carbon dioxide spring gushes out of the roofed spring.

Next to it is a tap for drinking water!

The crisp, refreshing taste of this drink may make you smile.

The taste of this drink will surely soak into your body after a hot spring bath.

Enjoy Both the Gold and Silver baths!

We’ve introduced you to the public bathhouse Kin no Yu, the public bathhouse Gin no Yu, and the carbonated spring source where you can drink a carbonated spring.

The Kin no Yu and the Gin no Yu public baths are closed so that you can take a bath at either of them whenever you visit Arima Onsen.

There are also special tickets available for both Kin no yu and Gin no yu, or for the Taiko no Yudenkan (museum) and all three museums, so please check them out.

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It is a popular tourist destination for both overnight stays and day trips.

What you should enjoy along with hot springs is a delicious gourmet meal!

Check out Must-try Gourmet in Arima Onsen!

Arima Onsen, a popular hot spring resort in Hyogo Prefecture, is a great place to relax and unwind after a long day.

Easy to access from Osaka, it attracts many tourists regardless of the season.

Arima Onsen has more to offer than just hot springs.

There are also many excellent gourmet restaurants that can be enjoyed along with the onsen.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the recommended gourmet restaurants in Arima Onsen, in three parts:

“Lunch,” “Eating Around,” and “Drinking and Wandering,” which you should definitely try when you visit the Arima Onsen.

Arima Onsen Gourmet : Lunch

tick tac(Chikkutaku)

A nostalgic coffee shop in a nostalgic back alley in the atmosphere of Taisho era.

This is an old house café that is perfect for Arima Onsen, an area that is lined with old shops.

Inside the restaurant is a nostalgic pinball set up, remainds the good old days.

A standard jazz number is played in the cafe, and you can spend your lunch time relaxing in a modern atmosphere and forgetting about time.

A popular menu item is the Natural Egg Omelet.

It’s an omelet filled with a fluffy egg and a sweetened onions in a homemade demi-glace sauce.

Inside, you’ll find chicken rice with ketchup flavor.

The sauce and the egg are well mixed with the chicken rice, and you can’t help but feel the deep, rich flavor of this omelet.

The specialty of this restaurant is the Arima Yakzen Curry!

The curry  soaks into the hungry stomach after a bath.

This is a popular menu item among women.

Tsuki no kura

A popular restaurant with a macrobiotic buffet

For those who want to work up a good sweat in the hot springs and eat lots of good food!

If you’re looking for a place where you can eat a buffet-style meal that incorporates macrobiotics, then we recommend Tsuki no kura, where you can enjoy both the hot spring and the buffet.

The restaurant is located in the atmospheric Gekkouen Yougetsuzanso, so we recommend that you enjoy both the hot spring and the buffet at the same time.

There are about 60 different types of food.

For lunch, there is a gorgeous course that includes a teppanyaki of Kobe beef, which is a great way to celebrate anniversaries and other festive occasions.

Of course, the basic course is more than enough to satisfy even the most discerning diners.

Eat a lot of your favorite food and relax after a long day.

For dessert, try the pastry chef’s homemade chiffon cake.

The fluffy texture of the cake will soothe you.

Soba Dosanjin

This is a Kansai-style soba restaurant where “Sudachi Soba” is popular

It is so popular that it has been covered by the media in Japan.

The atmosphere of the restaurant raises your expectations.

The most popular menu item is “Sudachi Soba”.

It is cold in summer and warm in winter, so you can enjoy it all year round.

You can’t see the noodles because of the huge amount of sudachi!

It is a very luxurious dish.

The light broth with the flavor of Rishiri kelp is a perfect match for soba noodles.

It looks and tastes very refreshing.

Not only are the soba noodles delicious, but the tempura is also a specialty.

The crunchy tempura is a must try along with the smooth and delicious soba noodles.

The “Arima Gozen”, which comes with soba noodles, sushi rolls, and shrimp kakiage, has a great reputation.

Kutsurogiya

A kamameshi restaurant with an at-home atmosphere

This restaurant is famous for its kamameshi in a renovated quaint house.

It’s a very warm and welcoming shop that makes you feel like you’re visiting a relative’s house.

They have a reputation for serving kamameshi with plenty of wild vegetables in a relaxed atmosphere.

The gentle taste of the broth is very appetizing and delicious.

The steamed dish called “Yukemuri-mushi”, in which you can eat plenty of Kobe beef, is healthy and hearty!

Recommended for a luxurious lunch.

Arima Onsen Gourmet :Eating and Wandering

Mitsumori

The birthplace of the carbonated rice cracker

Arima’s most popular snack is the carbonated rice cracker.

Mitsumori is a shop that produces carbonated rice crackers, a popular souvenir of Arima Onsen.

It was first manufactured and sold at the end of the Meiji era, and is the birthplace of the carbonated rice cracker.

The store is filled with the fragrant aroma of the carbonated rice crackers that are carefully baked by hand one by one.

The carbonated rice crackers are very healthy and do not contain butter, eggs or any additives.

You won’t be able to stop eating them because they are slightly sweet and crispy!

Don’t overeat!

In addition to the crackers, there is also a freshly steamed, hot, “Yoi yu manju”.

The steamer is filled with manju (steamed buns).

How about strolling around the onsen town with a freshly baked crispy rice cracker in one hand and a hot and hot bun in the other?

Pandobo

A bakery where you can buy bread made with local ingredients

Speaking of gourmet food that you can eat in one hand, don’t forget bread.

Pandobo is a bakery on the first floor of Cafe de Bou, located near the landmark Kin no Yu public bathhouse in Arima Onsen.

You can buy bread made with local ingredients.

I recommend the “Sansho bread”.

It’s a French bread with sansho (Japanese pepper) kneaded into it.

Bread with sansho kneaded into it is rare!

Let’s parade around Arima Onsen town with a piece of Sansho bread in hand.

The smell of sansho bread is an irresistible one, as is the original sansho bread at Pandobo.

You’ll also find a variety of breads made with black beans, a specialty of Tanba.

You’ll never get bored of the sweet and spicy breads if you take a stroll with both!

There is a wide variety of black bean filled breads to choose from.

Takenaka Nikuten(meat store)

A butcher specializing in Kobe beef

In Arima Onsen, you can also enjoy “croquettes”, a typical example of eating out.

You should definitely try the taste of the venerable “Takenaka Nikuten“, which has been in business for more than 80 years, and the store sells beef bowls, beef skewers, and homemade beef croquettes that make the most of the high-grade beef ingredients at the storefront.

The restaurant has a reputation with a casual fast food restaurant.

The most popular menu item is the “Onikuyasan no(Butcher’s) Croquettes”.

It is a croquette in which the fat of the high quality meat soaks into the chewy potatoes.

Of course, the meat used is “Kobe beef”.

There’s no way it can’t be delicious.

What also popular is the Menchikatsu, a cutlet that is just as popular as the croquettes.

At first glance, it looks thin and lacks volume, but when you bite into it, you’ll feel a lot of meat juice!

You’ll be knocked out by the outrageously juicy flavor.

Be careful not to get burned by the juices of the meat when it’s freshly fried.

Ho-kyu-an

The restaurant where you can eat freshly fried “Tempura”.

In the Kansai region, “satsuma-age” in the Kanto region is called “tempura.

It’s not just a side dish, but a popular snack as well.

Ho-kyu-an is a shop that sells freshly fried tempura.

The main store is in Kyoto, but you can also find it on Taiko Street, the main street in Arima Onsen.

They sell freshly fried tempura on a skewer, which is perfect for strolling around.

The tempura, made mainly from fresh itoyori fish, is chunky and smooth and has a plump texture.

Our recommendation is the ginger tempura.

The spicy accent of ginger in the refined flavor of the surimi (minced fish) is surprisingly delicious.

As you walk past the shop, you can smell the delicious smell of tempura.

There are about 10 different kinds of tempura lined up in front of the restaurant.

You won’t be able to resist this temptation!

Arima Onsen Gourmet : Heavy Drinker

Saka ichiba

A liquor store with a standing bar

How about a drink after a hot bath?

Sakaichiba is a standing bar where you can enjoy local beer and sake from Arima.

It is full of customers every day after a hot bath.

The beer has a pleasant aroma with a sour taste that will refreshingly run through your body after a hot bath.

Snack that goes with the alcohol is also very appealing.

The simple Sujikkon (lotus root) and Arima stewed soybeans are all things that go well with drinks.

Enjoy a blissful time of drinking in the afternoon after taking a bath.

The delicious snacks invite you to have your next drink.

The bar counter is large enough to fill up to about 10 people.

You’ll be able to chat with your neighbors and the staff.

It’s a great place to meet people and have a great conversation with the bar staff.

Arimaya

Casual Izakaya

Aramiya is marked by the embroidered myoga leaf pattern.

It is the closest izakaya to “Kin no Yu”, and is a place where drinkers gather every day.

You’ll be able to enjoy your drinks and food without getting cold.

Cool off your body’s heat with a cold one!

What you need to eat here is fresh fish!

The fresh sashimi shines through.

The sashimi, and even the tempura, does a great job as an accompaniment to the sake.

Being able to eat fresh sea food in the mountains is a very luxurious.

You can order onigiri (rice balls), tai-cha-zuke (rice porridge), udon or soba noodles, and it can also serve as a dinner place.

Kobushi

A small restaurant popular with the locals

This is an orthodox izakaya (Japanese style pub) where the skills of the chef, who used to work at an inn, are on display.

Various a la carte dishes are lined up at the counter.

There are about 20 dishes lined up, and they all look delicious.

There is such a wide variety of dishes that you may end up chopstering your way through them.

The restaurant is so popular with the locals that it is often visited by employees of inns and hotels in the Arima Onsen area.

The food is obanzai-like and very homely in taste.

There is also a menu that uses seasonal ingredients, so you can enjoy the flavors of the season.

There are a wide variety of snacks to go with the beer and sake, making it a great place to drink.

On weekends, the restaurant can be full with reservations, but if you want to drink in style at an izakaya in the hot spring resort area, you’ll love it! It wouldn’t hurt to visit if you’re the kind of person who wants to know more about this place.

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Let’s eat all the gourmet food in Arima!

We hope you have enjoyed your visit to the hot spring town.

Whether you want to dine in and relax, stroll around and eat, or drink to replenish your sweat from the hot springs, there’s something for everyone.

The various gourmet spots in the Arima Onsen town are definitely worth a visit!

Kansai, Japan｜Osaka Kobe Arima Hot Spring Family Charter 2-Day Tour

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It is easy to get to from Kobe, and has been popular as a hot spring resort in the Kansai region for centuries.

Arima Onsen is known for its hot spring baths and hot spring town strolls.

Here are some must-visit places to visit in Arima Onsen.

Kin no yu(Gold hot spring)

In Arima Onsen, there are two types of onsen water: a deep, muddy gold spring and a clear, colorless silver spring.

The Kin no Yu public bathhouse is the easiest way to enjoy the gold spring.

Submerge yourself in the dark orange, sodium chloride-containing, high-salt hot spring water and you won’t even be able to see your arms and legs.

The locals have been very impressed with the quality of the spring water, but be careful not to overdo it, as it is a very thick hot spring.

Gin no yu(Silver Hot Spring)

In contrast to the Kin no Yu, the Gin no Yu is a clear, colorless hot spring made of a mixture of carbon dioxide and radium springs.

It is a hot spring that warms you up well but gives you a refreshing feeling afterwards.

Gin no Yu public bath is located in the middle of a slope away from the hot spring resort, so it is recommended to visit the temples in the area.

Comparing Gold and Silver Hot Spring in the Arima Onsen!The oldest hot spring in Japan, Arima Onsen, is close to Kobe City. ...

Yukemuri Plaza (Arima Onsen Station)

As soon as you exit Arima Onsen Station, you will see the Yukemuri Hiroba on your right.

A waterfall made to look like a hot spring is in the center, and a statue of Toyotomi Hideyoshi is on the right side.

Arima Onsen was a favorite hot spring for Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and there are many things and places associated with him.

Hideyoshi is looking towards the statue of Nene, his wife, who stands across the river, and they are looking at each other.

The kappa statue at the center of the waterfall is a gift from Sapporo Jozankei Hot Springs.

Nene bridge

The bridge with a conspicuous red railing in the center of the town is Nene Bridge.

The statue of Nene, the official chamber of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, stands at the foot of the bridge.

The red color of the bridge is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.

It is said that Hideyoshi and Nene, who built a villa in Arima, often visited Arima Onsen to enjoy a brief rest.

Taiko(Toyotomi) no Yu

Taiko no yu is the only hot spring theme park in the Arima Onsen town, where visitors can enjoy a gold, silver and carbonated spring in hot springs and rock baths.”

It is called a “historical exploration-type qua-themed park,” and inside the building are baths with historical motifs such as the “Taiko’s Rock Bath” and “Nene’s Play Bath” and other baths.

This is a valuable spot where visitors can not only enjoy the hot spring but also learn about history.

Taiko no Yudenkan

In 1995, the ruins of the Gokurakuji Temple, which was damaged by the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake that struck the city of Kobe, were discovered during reconstruction work.

The Taiko-no-Yudonkan was built there to introduce visitors to the deep history of Hideyoshi and the culture of Arima Onsen.

Inside, the remains of a rock bath in which Hideyoshi is said to have taken a bath are on display, as well as other valuable items.

Gosho Hot Spring Source

Arima Onsen has many different types of spring water, but you can easily visit their water sources in the town.

All of them can be visited on foot, but the Gosho Hot Spring is a must-see, with its round, well-kept garden, and the water boiling at 83 degrees Celsius is a testament to the mystery of nature.

Zuihoji Temple Park

When Hideyoshi visited Zuihoji Temple, he praised the temple’s garden saying he never got tired of looking at it.

Zuihoji Park was built on the site of the temple, which has now been abandoned.

Inside the park, a stone “Go” board where Hideyoshi is said to have enjoyed playing “Go” is said to have been placed.

The park is located at the highest point of the Arima Onsen town, and during the autumn season, the park is beautifully colored with autumn leaves.

Tosen Shrine

Arima Onsen has a history of 1,400 years.

It is said that the hot spring was discovered by two gods, O-Namuchi-no-Mikoto (Daikoku-sama) and Sukuna-Hikonomikoto (god of medicine), and they are enshrined in Tosen Shrine.

This shrine is famous as a god of childbirth, and many people from all over Japan come to visit.

Tsutsumi ga taki Waterfall Park

Tsutsumi ga taki waterfall was named after the sound of water falling in two stages, making a thumping sound as it falls.

The topography was changed due to a natural disaster and the sound of the drum cannot be heard at this time, but the area around the falls has been developed as Tsuzumigataki Park, a perfect spot for forest bathing.

Arima Onsen’s Recommended Spots are Now Done!

You can enjoy a day trip to Arima Onsen, which is easily accessible from Kobe, or you can stay one night and enjoy the various types of hot springs.

Not only can you enjoy the hot springs and relax, but you can learn about the history and culture of the time as Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the leader of the unification of the country, often visited the area.

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Mount Maya(Maya-San) is one of Kobe’s most popular nighttime viewing spots, and is one of the three most spectacular night views in Japan.

The ropeway is a convenient way to get to the observation deck.

A night view photographer explains how to make the most of your night in Kobe, from dinner at a restaurant, night view photography to sunrise.

I’ll be introducing some of Kobe’s best nightscape spots.

In this article, I’ll be introducing the night view of Kobe.

Kobe’s night view includes Kobe Harborland in the Bay Area, the illuminated Kobe Luminarie, and the vibrant and lively Nankin Chinatown.

One of the most popular night views in Kobe is “Mount Maya Kikusoeidai“, where you can look down on the mountain for a panoramic view of the city.

Here, I’ll explain the features of the nightscape seen from Mount Maya and how to access it.

Mount Maya and Japan’s 3 Night Nightscapes

Now let’s get to Maya Mountain…!

Before that, I would like to show you how Mount Maya is ranked among the many night view spots in Japan.

Suddenly, have you ever heard of the “Japan’s 3 Night Nightscapes“?

Even if you’re not familiar with night views, many of you have heard of them at least once.

But where are the three spots pointed by Japan’s three greatest night views?

There are only a few people who understand everything correctly.

Mount Hakodate

Mount Maya

Inasa Mountains

The three greatest night views in Japan are, from the north, Mount Hakodate in Hokkaido, Mount Maya in Kobe, and Mount Inasa in Nagasaki.

To put it simply, they are Japan’s top three night views.

Some people sometimes misunderstand Kobe’s top three nightscapes in Japan as Mount Rokko, but technically it is actually Mount Maya.

In fact, there are no clear records of who was selected as one of Japan’s three most famous night views, and when and by what criteria.

They are all located on a mountain in a port city, and they are certainly of perfect beauty.

In terms of city size, Hakodate, Nagasaki and Kobe have the largest populations of 260,000, 420,000 and 1.53 million.

Based on the ideas of “large population” ⇒ “economic scale” ⇒ “plenty of light at night,”

So, it can be said that the nightscape seen from Mount Maya has the most amount of light among the three major nightscapes in Japan.

Of course, the beauty of the night view also depends on geographical conditions, so a city with a larger population does not necessarily have a more beautiful night view.

However, there is no doubt that the night view from Mt. Maya is more powerful with more light than Other mountains.

How to Get to Mount Maya

Now, let me introduce the access to Mount Maya.

There are two main ways to get to Mount Maya observation deck.

One way is to use public transportation.

The other way is by car.

If you drive, you’ll have to drive on a mountain road from the foot of the mountain, but the roads are clean and well maintained, and if you use a car navigation system, you’ll have no problem accessing the site for the first time.

There is a large coin-operated parking lot, so you won’t have any trouble finding a place to park.

The only thing that can complicate things is access by public transportation.

You’ll need to take a bus, cable car, and ropeway, which may be a bit confusing for first-time visitors.

The advantages and disadvantages of each are summarized below.

Public Transportation

Advantages
You can enjoy a different night view from the observation deck.

The cable car has a guide to Mount

Disadvantage
Transfer is complicated.

You have to keep an eye on the last flight

The cable car and ropeway are only open at night on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, except in the summer.

Car

Advantages
You can see the night view without worrying about the time.

The more people accessing the site, the more you save money.

Disadvantage
It’s a 10-minute walk from the parking lot to the observation deck.

In this article, I will explain in detail how to get there by public transportation, which is easy for tourists to use.

How to get to Mount Maya from Sannomiya Station

The rout is Sannnomiya Station ⇒ Bus(18)  ⇒ Maya Cablecar ⇒ Maya Ropeway 

Start From Sannnomiya Station

The starting point is Sannomiya Station, the main station in Kobe.

The first place you go is the east exit of JR Sannomiya Station.

You will see a red signboard at the Kobe City General Information Center near the taxi stand, where you can purchase a ticket to the observation deck.

Tell the receptionist that you wish to purchase a one-day ticket for Rokko-Maya.

The advantage of this ticket is that you get a little bit of a discount, and since the tickets are bundled together, you don’t have to buy a ticket for each stop.

Take Bus

The bus stop is located at platform 3, just outside the tourist information center.

From here, take bus 18.

Ask about the bus stop and bus boarding times when you buy your ticket, as they will politely tell you where to go and when to board the bus.

Especially on weekends, many tourists come to see the night view of the observation deck, so if you want to sit in the bus, it’s a good idea to get in line early.

It takes about 25 minutes from Sannomiya Station to downtown Kobe and then gradually into the residential area.

Take Maya Cablecar

Maya Cable Station, at the foot of Mount.

Although this is a quiet residential area, the station has an outstanding presence.

Normally, you buy a ticket for the cable car here, but this time I bought a ticket set in advance, so I got on the cable car as it is.

This is also the privilege of the ticket set.

There are two types of cable car cars: the green car and the red car.

You can enjoy which one you get to ride.

The cable car started moving a short time after I got on the train.

Most of the seats in the car are facing the opposite direction of going, but the only one facing the direction of going is next to the driver’s seat.

On the cable car line, you can almost only see the trees around you if you look at the foot side, so I highly recommend sitting on the direction of travel for the outward journey!

It takes about 5 minutes to get to the Niji(rainbow) station.

When you get off the cable car, you can see a little bit of the night view from the station, but the observation deck is not on this level.

You will change to the Maya Ropeway from here.

Take Maya Ropeway

It takes about two minutes walk to transfer to get ropeway station.

Please be careful not to spend too much time at the ropeway station, because you may miss the ropeway if you spend too long.

In such a case, I missed the ropeway because I spent too much time watching the photo gallery at the Niji station.

This time, the extra flight arrived at just the right time and I was able to board.

The view of Mount Maya started after you got on the ropeway.

When I went up to the observation deck gradually…

The field of vision opened up, the night view of Kobe, and then Osaka, and the range of vision got wider and wider, and the further I went, the more excited.

Inside the car, the lights are dimmed so there is no reflection in the glass, making it easy to see the night view.

NightView From Mount

As soon as you get off the gondola, you will see the observation deck.

And if you go to the observation deck…

This is the night view from the Mount Maya Observation Deck, one of the three greatest nightscapes in Japan!

The panoramic view extends to the city of Kobe in the west and Osaka in the east, and it would be impossible to capture it in one picture.

You can even see as far as Wakayama in the back.

The energetic lights of the two major cities, Kobe and Osaka, give off a scale of light that is hard to see in other nightscape spots, and the moment you see the night view you would say “Oh my God!”

A night view on such a large scale cannot be seen in Tokyo or any other large city.

I still remember the excitement I felt when I first saw the night view from the Observation Deck.

Let’s take a closer look at each area.

Kobe Airport is the one floating on the port of Kobe.

It’s quite far away, but you can see Kansai Airport.

There aren’t many spots where you can see both airports floating on the sea.

This is the area where the airports are densely populated, and when you look at the night view, you can see planes constantly flying over Osaka Bay.

Let’s take a look at the Osaka area.

Kobe is in the foreground and Osaka is in the background.

The thickness of the city and the shimmering skyscrapers in the background are overwhelming!

Atmosphere of the Observation Deck

There are two viewpoints at the observation deck, one of which is the observation deck near the ropeway station.

There is plenty of room to sit down, but it’s crowded on weekends as people exiting the station are the first to head there.

The other observation deck is located a little further up the road.

It’s a common occurrence at nighttime viewing spots that too the observation deck in front of station get crowded, so don’t hesitate to go to the back.

The beautiful night view is not the only point of interest.

On the ground of the observation deck, there is a Milky Way-like structure called the “Kira kira shokei(Twinkle Twinkle Path),” which is a fantastic sight that will enchant you.

The glittering path leads to the observatory at the back of the station, so you and your partner can walk on the Milky Way after getting off the station.

You’ll be even more impressed when you see one of Japan’s three greatest night views stretching out beyond!

Dinner with a Night View

After admiring the night view and taking pictures, you are now hungry.

In that case, I recommend Maya View Terrace 702, a restaurant on the second floor of the ropeway station.

They serve curry and hamburger steak as well as alcohol.

I recommend seating at the window side counter!

It’s a luxurious experience to dine with a view of one of Japan’s three greatest nightscapes.

Enjoy the Night View on the Way Home

You’ll want to gaze at the night view forever, but you’ll also have to pay attention to your return time.

Before the last flight departs, an announcement will be made, so be sure not to miss it.

You can see the night view from inside the gondola on the way back.

You can’t see the night view from the gondola on the way back, and it’s a bit like finishing a book you’ve been enjoying reading.

It’s a little lonely, but you’ll never forget the excitement of that night view.

When you get down to the bottom of the mountain, take the bus to Sannomiya station to get back to the station.

Also Recommend Sunrise

I’ve given this explanation based on the premise that it is accessible by public transportation.

But what you can’t see in time by public transportation is the morning sunrise.

In fact, observation deck is not only good for the night view, but it’s also a famous place for sunrise.

You can see the sky toward Osaka beautifully before the sunrises because the view faces east, so you can see the sunrise.

The balance between the brightness of the city and the degree of burning of the sky is well-balanced and the scene 50 minutes to 40 minutes before sunrise is recommended.

The sunrises and dyes the whole Osaka Plain red.

The sunrise from here is always beautiful

At the beginning of the year, many people come here just to see the sunrise.

If you have access to the park by car, try to see the sunrise from here!

Finally

I have introduced the night view of the Mount Maya.

It’s fun to ride, impressive to see, and the atmosphere is enchanting.

This article and photos alone won’t convey the true emotions, so I urge you to visit the site and experience one of Japan’s three great night views!

Though there are numbers of ryokans in Kinosaki, the ryokans that will be introduced this time are high-class ryokans that will make your stay like a lifetime memory.

There are wonderful spaces expand in the high-class ryokans.

Besides, you will get heart-warming hospitality, will have delicious dishes, and will see superb views, so you will get satisfied more than the values of price.

If you stay at such a place, you will surely have a lifetime memory.

When you have anniversaries and celebrations, and when you propose for marriage, why don’t you for sure use those ryokans and make wonderful memories?

Kinosaki Onsen, One Of The Best Hot Springs In Kansai, With History Of 1400 Years

Speaking of Kinosaki Onsen, you will see that it is the hot spring resort located in Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture.

The good quality of hot spring has been known since the Heian Period, and it is the famous hot spring proud of some 1,400 year-history.

It is known today as a hot spring resort representing Hyogo Prefecture, together with Arima Onsen and Yumura Onsen.

What famous in Kinosaki Onsen is strolling around the seven hot springs.

You will enjoy various seven public baths each with different elegance, located as if along a river that flows in the hot spring town.

There also is a famous public bath as an energy vortex, so there also are many visitors wishing for better luck.

There are many people strolling around wearing in Yukata, and you may forget the flowing time unconsciously with such scene of the hot spring town of elegance.

Kinosaki Onsen in Hyogo:Best Hot Spring in JapanWhich onsen do you think of when you are asked "Which hot spring do ...

High-class Ryokan That Releases You From Daily Life

Kinosaki is the hot spring resort where many tourists visit from all over the Japan.

As a result, many ryokans are lining up.

Kinds of such ryokans are various, and it is the high-class ryokans that will be introduced this time, and such ryokans will make your stay a lifetime memory.

Not to mention that the atmosphere of interiors and guest rooms is quite comfortable, but also you can enjoy happiness more than the values of price, such as detailed delicate services, delicious dishes, and superb views from the  ryokans.

If you spend a day of your lifetime memory, such as celebrations and anniversaries with your important partner, and your marriage proposal, why don’t you upgrade your selection of ryokans?

Please try selecting the ryokan where you will feel the prime moment, while feeling liveliness of Kinosaki Onsen town.

Yuyado Yamayoshi, Small Ryokan Stands Quietly in Kinosaki

Yuyado Yamayoshi is a ryokan where only 5 groups in a day can stay, which is a small ryokan stands quietly in the center of Kinosaki.

Located in ten minute walk from JR Kinosaki Onsen station (free shuttle service is available), “Yuyado Yamayoshi” is an ryokan of concept of “Japanese modern hidden place”.

Lattice patterns, illuminated by lighting of an entrance, produce atmosphere of full of stylish.

Actually, there are only five guest rooms in this ryokan!

You can stay here relaxed and slowly with having detailed and delicate services that you can have only where the less numbers of rooms in a ryokan.

It tends to become fully booked, but it is the ryokan where you can feel premium only in an ryokan of less guest rooms, and you can enjoy excitement as a hidden place.

Every guest room of only five rooms is a space where is of Japanese room with modern and stylish elements scattered.

While a pure Japanese room, where you will feel old history, created according to tradition, is excellent, such refined atmosphere can be created just with mixing a bit of different combination.

Bright and clear landscape outside of a window and gentle lights will for sure ease your feeling.

Speaking of Kinosaki, you will think of crab dishes as classic, but the specialty of this ryokan is rosy sea-bass!

The salt grilled rosy sea-bass is so juicy that when you even lightly push with chopsticks, fish fat with full of taste will come out so tastefully.

As this one also manages a seafood processing company and a restaurant, seafoods freshly caught at the sea port will be delivered by its special delivery system with priority of freshness.

Especially, the ryokan uses “Shibayama crab”, the brand which will be awarded only to the supreme quality even among snow crabs, which are famous as Kinosaki specialty!

Please try tasting the higher grade among the specialty.

Nishimuraya Shogetsutei, Ryokan Embraced By Forest Garden

Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei is embraced by forest garden of 50 thousand tsubo (approx. 165 thousand square meters), and is a ryokan where you can enjoy fully the rich nature.

Located in 25 minute walk from JR Kinosaki Onsen station (free shuttle service is available), “Nishimuraya Hotel Syogetsutei” is a long standing Onsen ryokan, which is proud of more than 150 years since establishment.

The specialty of this ryokan is anyway the forest garden of some about 50 thousand tsubo!

You can slowly spend your relaxed time while feeling quietness of vast nature in the huge ground.

“Like to feel the great nature eliminating all the hustle of daily life and your idle thoughts”,  “Like to sharpen your spirit while embraced by negative ions”… For those who have such thoughts, and whose body and mind are a bit tired, Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei is recommended to visit.

This is the forest garden of some about 50 thousand tsubo that is pride of Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei.

You can feel experiencing seasonal beauties in vast scales, such as flowers profusely blooming in spring, fresh greens that make you feel powerfulness in summer, vivid colored autumn leaves in autumn, and snowy landscape expanding all around in winter.

When you are especially so tired in daily life, you like to go back to sleep in the morning unintentionally, don’t you?

But, the early bird gets the worm even during a trip.

Let’s get up a bit early and try strolling around slowly as if you absorb energy of the great nature.

It is a rare ryokan where you can charge your energy not only by taking an onsen bath but also by Shinrin Yoku (strolling in the forest).

This is Rinsen, the one of the private open air onsen baths “Private Onsen Spa in the forest”.

It is with a theme of Shanghai retro, and is using bricks of surprisingly 100 years ago as construction materials.

Making a good use of such atmosphere, the spa creates a space with somehow full of fascinating atmosphere.

When you look outside, the landscape of forest garden expands in vast scale.

There, only the sounds of nature created with wind and murmuring woods are resonating, and you will enjoy the openness as if eliminating all the daily idle thoughts.

Besides, you can also enjoy various themes of private open air baths, such as Japanese modern style and Bali-like resort style.

Nishimuraya Honkan, Pure Japanese Ryokan With History

Nishimuraya Honkan is pure Japanese ryokan, and the best in San-in region, that conveys history and tradition to today.

Located in 15 minute walk from JR Kinosaki Onsen station (free shuttle service is available), Nishimuraya Honkan is a long standing ryokan of 150 years since establishment.

The dignified gates make you feel the history, and you may stand straight unconsciously by tense as you walk through the gates.

When you enter to the ground even a step, the relaxed space welcomes you warmly.

This is the space where you will think back to the past that the ancestors relaxed here and healed the daily fatigue.

This is “Kangetsu Suite Room”, a guest room with an open air bath.

Decorating items, such as a Japanese screen and a Japanese painting, and elaborated lightings make you think of high elegance.

While viewing Japanese garden attached to next, you can enjoy taking a bath at anytime you like.

Here is such a luxury space.

The Japanese garden is beautiful in any season, and it has reputation that you can feel elegance even when raining.

You can of course relax and enjoy the scene from the room, but also you can stroll around outside the room.

This is “steamed crab with herbs”.

Good taste of fresh snow crabs combined with fresh scent of some spring onions, and you can distinctively taste each ingredient.

You can enjoy such crab dishes during the best season from November to March every year.

If you come to Kinosaki in winter when crab dishes become specialty, you cannot definitely miss the crab dishes.

But, of course, there are also many delicious dishes during other seasons.

You can enjoy fully delicious gourmets only in the place surrounded and got caught between mountains and seas, such as Tajima beef and “Kounotori rice”, a branded rice of Tajima.

Tokiwa Bekkan, Ryokan With Only 23 Rooms

Tokiwa Bekkan is a ryokan of only “Bekkan (annex)”, with only 23 rooms, standing quietly at the far end of Kinosaki.

Tokiwa Bekkan was originally located in the prime place of Kinosaki Onsen town.

But, thinking that “we like to make visitors to stay relaxed in wider quiet location”, the ryokan relocated to the current place (20 minute walk from JR Kinosaki Onsen station) in Showa the 40th (1965).

Also, from the thought that “we like visitors to stay totally relaxed as in the villa, afar from the hot spring town”, the name of the ryokan has intentionally with “Bekkan (annex)”.

It is the perfect ryokan for a trip wishing quiet and “hidden place” atmosphere at the ryokan, while enjoying the liveliness of the hot spring town.

Wide garden is a pride of “Tokiwa Bekkan”.

As four buildings are built as if surrounding the garden, you can view the garden from the lobby and the guest rooms just like the photo.

All the buildings are two-stories in order to keep the landscape, and the numbers of guest rooms are limited only 23 rooms.

It is the luxury landscape that can be realized only in the place where a bit far from the center of hot spring town.

This is the open air bath of large baths.

Making a good use of texture of woods, it make more relaxed mood.

As it is popular hot spring resort, you may experience that you cannot spend so much your time in going around the public baths…

When you have such experience, it may also be good going out for the public baths after you healed completely in spacious private baths.

Mikiya, Ryokan With History In Kinosaki As A Town Of Literature

Mikiya One of the persons that you cannot miss when talking about history of Kinosaki Onsen is Naoya Shiga, a writer, who was active from Meiji through Showa.

And the  ryokan “Mikiya”, located in 15 minute walk from JR kinosaki Onsen station (free shuttle service is available) is deeply related with him.

Starting with Naoya Shiga at the head of list, there are many cultural people visited here.

The ryokan has been more than 300 years since establishment, and the building of wooden construction itself has been built in Showa the 2nd (1927), and is registered as the national tangible cultural treasure.

Naoya Shiga had a minor collision with Yamanote line trains in Tokyo in Taisho the 2nd (1913), and seriously injured.

It was this “Mikiya” where he visited for recuperation by hot spring cure.

From his experience of about three weeks, stayed in “Mikiya”, he wrote the one of his works “Kinosaki nite (at Kinosaki)”.

And, the room of his choice for staying was “Room the 26th” of the photo.

It is open for observation only for the in-house guests (but, closed when there are staying guests), so it is a bit known sightseeing spot among those who like modern literature.

You can think back to the thought of Naoya Shiga at that time, who was inspired for creating works while healing the wounds of body.

This is the “library lounge” attached to a lounge space located the far end of lobby.

The books are selected with concept of “the bookshelf that makes you feel like reading a book”, such as books of, to start with, Naoya Shiga, and books of writers and painters related to Kinosaki Onsen, and also books related to the “book” itself.

Ryokan Tajimaya, Japanese Modern Atmosphere Produced In Old Folk House

Ryokan Tajimaya is located in 12 minute walk from JR Kinosaki Onsen station (free shuttle service is available), “Tajimaya” is an onsen ryokan renovated the old folk house that was built in Taisho the 15th (1926).

The outer appearance with walls of black based is chic impression, but once you enter inside, there expand bright space with atmosphere of Taisho roman.

While remaining Japanese modern as the base, stylish structure combined with playful minded modern elements will make your fun of trip more excited.

Guest rooms are with modern accents combined, while used construction materials and styles used from past for Japanese houses, and these are somewhere pop and spaces of being excited.

These are stylish designs of playful heart, such as patterns of cushions and lattice of shoji (paper sliding doors), aren’t these?

It is the relaxing space mixed warmth of nature materials and fashionable elements refined in the city.

All the baths of this ryokan are private with free of charge.

This is “Chikuyo no yu”, one of the private baths.

Walls woven bamboo in lattice pattern and indirect lightings produce somehow fantastic atmosphere.

Different from the standard stone-made or tiled floor, the floor of washing place here is distinctively of tatami-matted.

It is also gentle to skin with familiar texture, and you can relax more.

As it uses the special tatami mat that is good for breathability, the sanitation is also perfect.

The good point of tatami-matted floor is that you can spend your time relaxed as if you were in a room.

Private open air baths of three kinds in total are elaborated with different elegance, and you can fully enjoy time of full of mood.

Shinzan Rakutei, Ryokan Full Of Antique Feels

Shinzan Rakutei is located in 20 minute walk from JR Kinosaki Onsen station, “Shinzan Rakutei” is an onsen ryokan that brings to the extraordinary feel with interiors of antique style of Taisho roman.

Rare in even among ryokans of Kinosaki Onsen, you can enjoy surprisingly four kinds of large baths.

If you place yourself in a space where as if time has stopped, you can enjoy feelings of great wrters who once visited to Kinosaki.

This is one example of a guest room with open air bath.

The Japanese room that makes you feel warmth of wood has an easy feeling as if you came home, while having a full of elegance.

From the open air bath, you can slowly enjoy landscape that changes expression by seasons without caring for time.

When you are nearly exhausted with many thoughts of daily problems, it will be valuable times even just seeing the landscape.

This is “the Autumn dinner set menu with local fish sashimi arranged original fish shape”.

You can enjoy fruits of sea and mountain at the same time, including, of course a crab dish when in the best seasons, diced steak of Tajima beef, small dishes of abundant mountain vegetables.

It is fun points of Kinosaki gourmets.

There are not less visitors returning in different seasons for enjoying tastes of different seasons.

Yutouya Ryokan, Good Landscape Of Natural Forest

Yutouya Ryokan is located in 10 minute walk from JR Kinosaki Onsen station, “Yutouya Ryokan” is an ryokan situated just in front of “Ichi no yu”, which is a popular public bath in Kinosaki Onsen.

As it was established in Edo Period, Genroku the 1st (1688), it is one of the longest standing ryokans even among Kinosaki Onsen.

After going through gates, before reaching a front, your eyes will be fascinated with the garden unified with buildings.

And you will be overwhelmed with beautiful borrowed landscape of natural forest on a mountain behind the ryokan, which is designated as “the forest reserve”.

“Yutouya Ryokan” is actually an ryokan that relates deeply with great writers, such as Toson Shimazaki and Katai Tayama, also with the imperial family.

The massive appearance that is registered as the national tangible cultural treasure by the Agency for Cultural Affairs directs time to the higher class, even after you enjoyed casually going around the public baths.

A guest room of the photo is of the new building “Keiun Kan (Kaede)”, with bright impression of Japanese modern.

Besides, there is the main building “Unzeitei”, where rooms are of elegance as it was past and a garden with beautiful moss expanding in your front.

And also there are the main building “Tekisuiro”, where expanding nature rich mountains in your front when opening a window, and more.  Every place is where once great writers had rested and refreshed body and mind, and had gotten energy for creation activity.

When you spend your time in a room, it is also fun to have normal conversation, but why don’t you spend your quiet moment thinking back to those great writers?

This is “Kousetsu”, a bathroom for women.

Lights beaming from the round window, rich green that can be seen from the window, and a bath tub of round shaped will naturally make your feeling calm.

You will for sure actually feel effects in and outside of your body, such as effects on beauty skin, neuralgia, sore muscle, and poor circulation.

You may take a bath longer than you thought with somehow mystic scenery, which you cannot enjoy by going around the public baths.

Sennen no Yu Koman, The Second Oldest Ryokan In Japan

Koman is located in 15 minute walk from JR Kinosaki Onsen station (free shuttle is available), situated next to “Mandara Yu”, one of the seven public baths in Kinosaki Onsen, “Sennen no Yu Koman” is this.

The outer appearance of Sukiya Zukuri building (built in the style of a tea-ceremony house) makes you feel history and elegance.

The root goes back to surprisingly Yoro the 1st (717), and it is the second oldest ryokan nationwide of Japan as Onsen ryokan.

It is not an overstatement to say that it is the history of Kinosaki Onsen.

You would love to remember for sure the famous ryokan that continues healing visitors with hospitality for more than 1,300 years as the place of spirit of Kinosaki Onsen.

This is an open air bath of the room 15 “Reiga no ma”.

During the moment when taking a bath while viewing trees and the golden carp in a pond, it will eliminate all the daily hustle, and so let’s embrace such moment as a special time.

The room is constructed by Zangetsu Yuka – a construction style of Japanese tradition, and you can relax in a space of modest but attractive.

From November through March, if you like to enjoy fully Kinosaki in winter, you do not like to miss for sure eating snow crabs.

This set menu “Kani Emaki” includes snow crab dishes of various cooking methods, so you can taste completely the deliciousness of the crab.

Also, there are many more specialties of Kinosaki, such as Japanese Black beef, soba (buckwheat) noodles, and mountain vegetables.

Whichever the season you visit, you can enjoy the best foodstuff of each season.

Kagaribi no Yado Onishiya Suishoen With Fantastic Bonfires in Sunset

Onishiya Suishoen is located in 15 minute walk from JR Kinosaki Onsen station (free shuttle is available), “Kagaribi no Yado Onishiya Suishoen” is an ryokan of the pure Japanese appearance with full of cleanness.

As the name tells, bonfires light up in the ground when in sunset hours, and all around the place changes to fantastic world.

As the inside of building is tatami-matted floors, you do not need to wear slippers, so you can enjoy comfortability as if you were relaxing at Japanse home.

You can release your daily fatigue with fulfilling equipment and openness.

This is a guest room of 12.5 tatami-mat wide (about 22.8 square meter) Japanese room in a separate building on the ground floor.

You can view a garden from the spacious Japanese room as well as from a narrow wooden deck connected to the room.

The time when you spend doing without any particular thing in a soft lighting is also luxury moment.

When you come to Kinosaki, why don’t you try strolling in the hot spring town, wearing a yukata?

In the building, there are rental services of colored yukata and hair ornaments, and also you can have yukata dressing service as well.

With more feeling of not-a-daily-life, you will be more excited also even for strolling.

When you slowly stroll in the hot spring town, wearing colored yukata, you may find different charms from usual.

Spend Your Special DayS At High-class Ryokan In Kinosaki Onsen

How did you like it?

The famous hot spring Kinosaki Onsen of a pride of some 1,400 year history.

Not only the specialty of going around famous public baths, but also the high-class ryokan that makes you feel the elaborated detailed services and the presence are charm.

Please enjoy Kinosaki Onsen of higher class, by selecting ryokan that suits to you.

Kinosaki Onsen in Hyogo:Best Hot Spring in JapanWhich onsen do you think of when you are asked "Which hot spring do ...