Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, located in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, is the head shrine of some 30,000 inari shrines across the country. Built in the year 711, it is widely revered for bringing about prosperity in business and a bountiful harvest. Its most remarkable feature is the nearly 10,000 vermillion torii gates known as Senbon Torii, which line the approximately 4-kilometer approach from the foothills of Mt. Inari to the rear shrine deep in the mountains. This amazing scenery is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Kyoto, enchanting all visitors. Situated amongst mountains and surrounded by bounteous nature, the approach to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is dotted with small shrines and stone monuments, making it a wonderful way to tour shrines while out for a stroll. The area has become popular amongst tourists from overseas in recent years, drawing nearly 10 million sightseers annually. When visiting, make sure to not only check out the Senbon Torii, but also enjoy the path to the rear shrine, taking your time on a leisurely walk through the lush natural grounds.

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchi-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto
https://inari.jp/

Amanohashidate

Amanohashidate

Amanohashidate, located in Miyazu, Kyoto, is known as one of the three most famous scenic spots in Japan. The sight of the white sand and green pines is quite enchanting. Amanohashidate is a sandbar formed by the Tsushima Current in the Sea of Japan and the Noda River running through the Aso Inland Sea. Ranging from nearly 20 to 170 meters wide and measuring approximately 3.6 kilometers long, it is covered in about 8,000 pine trees, making it truly look like a bridge into the heavens. The beauty of Amanohashidate appears different depending on the viewing spot. You can view it in its entirety from Kasamatsu Park, whereas Amanohashidate View Land offers panoramic views of Amanohashidate and Miyazu Bay. Hop on a cruise and you can see Amanohashidate from the ocean for a different perspective. There are plenty of sightseeing spots in the area such as Amanohashidate Onsen and Amanohashidate Shrine, as well as places to enjoy some fresh local seafood.

Monju, Miyazu, Kyoto (Amanohashidate Park)
https://www.amanohashidate.jp/spot/amanohashidate/

Kiyomizudera Temple (Kyoto)

Kiyomizudera Temple (Kyoto)

One of the most famous sightseeing spots in Kyoto, Kiyomizudera Temple is the main temple of the Kita Hosso Sect of Buddhism located in the middle of Mt. Otowa. The main building, which stands on a sheer cliff, is known as the "Stage of Kiyomizu," and offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The grounds of Kiyomizudera Temple are home to many historic buildings including those designated as national treasures and important cultural assets. The temple is also famous for its power spots such as the Otowa Waterfall and Zuigudo Hall. The lively nearby area is packed with souvenir shops and restaurants, attracting many tourists.

1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
https://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/

Former Imperial Villa Nijo-jo Castle

Former Imperial Villa Nijo-jo Castle

The Former Imperial Villa Nijo-jo Castle is a historic spot in the center of Kyoto built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1603. This castle is unique for its contrasts; the roofing tiles that shine a golden color in the sunlight, and the beautiful white of its walls. The castle attracts visitors in all seasons, from the cherry blossoms in spring to the colorful foliage in autumn. Ninomaru Palace, which is a national treasure, is particularly beautiful for its luxurious sliding panel paintings and intricate sculptures. A visit to Nijo-jo Castle, where history lives and breathes, is a must for any sightseeing trip to Kyoto.

541 Nijojo-cho, Nijo-dori Horikawa Nishi-iru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/

Toji Temple

Toji Temple

Located in Minami-ku, Kyoto, Toji Temple is the head temple for the Toji School of the Shingon Sect of Buddhism, and its official name is Kyoo Gokokuji. It is the only existing state-established temple that was built when the capital was moved to Kyoto, where it serves a vital role in training Shingon Buddhist priests. Its wooden five-storied pagoda is nearly 55 meters high, and is known as the oldest such structure in Japan. It is designated as a national treasure by the Japanese government, and is familiar to all as the symbol of Toji Temple. Buildings such as the Kondo (Main Hall), Kodo (Lecture Hall), and Daishido are all designated as important cultural assets, and are famous for their gorgeous decorative elements and carvings. The Kondo in particular is home to a number of Buddhist images, including the principal deity of Yakushi Nyorai. The grounds of the temple are home to Mieido Hall, where Kobo Daishi is enshrined, and a beautiful garden, both of which attract many visitors. Toji Temple is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in springtime, drawing throngs of visitors every year. The temple is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is an important place that embodies the history and culture of Japan.

1 Kujo-cho, Minami-ku, Kyoto
https://toji.or.jp/

Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower is a 131-meter-tall radio tower located in Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto. Opened in 1964, it is commonly viewed as the symbol of Kyoto. The observation deck at 100 meters offers 360-degree views of downtown Kyoto including the 36 mountains of Higashiyama, Kiyomizudera Temple, and Kinkakuji Temple. The two restaurants on the observation deck floor offer gorgeous views of the city while enjoying a meal. The market on the first floor sells Kyoto souvenirs, unique Kyoto vegetables, and sundries. A hotel directly connected to Kyoto Tower opened in 2020. There are also event spaces and a wedding venue which can be used for various purposes. Kyoto Tower is an essential part of sightseeing in Kyoto!

721-1 Higashi Shiokoji-cho, Karasuma-dori Shichijo-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
https://www.kyoto-tower.jp/

Kinkakuji Temple

Kinkakuji Temple

Kinkakuji Temple is the reliquary hall for the Shokokuji School of the Rinzai Sect of Buddhism, and is located in Kita-ku, Kyoto. Its official name is Rokuonji Temple, but because of its gold leaf covered reliquary hall, it is more commonly known as Kinkakuji Temple, or the Golden Pavilion. The temple was built in 1397 by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Muromachi shogunate. It was constructed on the image of the Buddhist paradise, and the gold leaf covered reliquary hall represents the pure land of Amida Nyorai. The garden on the temple grounds is a Chisen Kaiyu-style garden known as Kyoko-chi, or a mirror pond, which offers gorgeous seasonal scenery year-round. It is particularly beautiful in springtime when the cherry blossoms flourish and in autumn when the leaves change colors, drawing many visitors. The nearby area is dotted with historic temples such as Ryoanji and Ninnaji, making it a great place to learn about the history and culture of Japan. Kinkakuji Temple is a precious spot that embodies the aesthetics and culture of Japan.

1 Kinkakuji-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
https://www.shokoku-ji.jp/kinkakuji/

Shimogamo Shrine (Kamomioya Shrine)

Shimogamo Shrine (Kamomioya Shrine)

Shimogamo Shrine, formally known as Kamomioya Shrine, is located in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto and has been venerated as the family shrine of the Kamo clan since ancient times. The grounds are home to many historic structures such as the main building, the hall of offerings, the hall of worship, and the two-storied gate. The main building is designated as an important cultural asset by the Japanese government, and the cypress bark shingles and vermillion-painted pillars showcase its wonderful beauty. The vast forest, known as the Tadasu no Mori, is part of the shrine grounds. The lush natural surroundings make for amazing seasonal beauty year-round, with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Shimogamo Shrine is a place that fuses culture and nature, and attracts many visitors who come to appreciate its beauty and historical value.

59 Shimogamo Izumigawa-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
https://www.shimogamo-jinja.or.jp/

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Located in Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, which enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, is the head shrine of nearly 12,000 Tenmangu shrines nationwide. Venerated as a shrine of learning, it is a popular destination for many students during the entrance exam season. The grounds are home to many historic buildings such as the main building, which is an important cultural asset, the two-storied gate, and the worship hall. From late February to early March, nearly 500 plum trees are in full bloom, coloring the plum orchard. The approach to Kitano Tenmangu is lined with various souvenir shops that offer the area's famous pickled plums, amulets, and more. This is the perfect place to experience the culture of Kyoto while you take in its history and nature.

Kitano Tenmangu, Bakuro-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto
https://kitanotenmangu.or.jp/

Heian Jingu Shrine

Heian Jingu Shrine

Found in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Heian Jingu Shrine was built in 1895 to celebrate the 1,100th anniversary of the capital being transferred to Kyoto. The deities enshrined here are Kanmu, the 50th emperor of Japan who moved the capital to Kyoto, and Emperor Komei. The vast grounds of the shrine are home to the large vermillion-painted Daigokuden council hall, the Otenmon Gate, and other historic buildings that offer the chance to experience the atmosphere of the Heian period. The vast Shin-en Garden, which measures 33,000 ㎡, is known for its beautiful seasonal scenery. A festival is held annually on May 15, which includes a performance of Japanese court music and a dance. There are also various other services and events that attract many visitors to the shrine. Heian Jingu Shrine is an essential Kyoto sightseeing spot where you can witness the harmony of history and beauty.

97 Okazaki Nishitenno-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
https://www.heianjingu.or.jp/

Sanjusangendo Temple

Sanjusangendo Temple

Sanjusangendo Temple, located in Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, is also known by its formal name Rengeoin Hondo. This unique temple stands out thanks to its magnificent main hall, which is designated as a national treasure. As its name in Japanese implies, the hall is supported by 33 pillars, and is home to 1,001 Thousand-Armed Kannon images which lend a solemn atmosphere to the space. Visitors flock here to view the beautiful garden and historic Buddha images as well as the cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Visitors can enjoy Buddhist art in the paintings on the sliding paper doors and folding screens as well as a special annual service. Sanjusangendo Temple is a truly enchanting spot where visitors can experience unique Japanese religion and culture.

657 Sanjusangendo Mawari-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
https://www.sanjusangendo.jp/

Kifune Shrine

Kifune Shrine

Kifune Shrine is located in Kurama Kibune-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto. Surrounded by a beautiful natural environment, it faces the Kibune River and has long been venerated as a shrine of water. The characteristic stone steps and bridges on the grounds create a solemn atmosphere that envelops the entire shrine. Visitors can enjoy fun seasonal events such as sliding somen noodles in summer and a fire festival in winter. The Love Fortune is also popular here as it is said to help visitors find true love and the perfect match. Kifune Shrine continues to attract visitors thanks to its unique Kyoto charm, and mysterious air of ancient history.

180 Kurama Kibune-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
https://kifunejinja.jp/

Ryoanji Garden

Ryoanji Garden

Ryoanji Temple is part of the Myoshinji School of the Rinzai Sect of Buddhism. Built in the Muromachi period as a minor temple of Nanzenji Temple, it is located in Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, and is famous across the world for its Ishiniwa dry rock garden. Ishiniwa consists of white sand and 15 rocks, and represents the tranquil spirit of Zen. Depending on the angle, it can appear to only have 14 stones, and the various interpretations this invites is one of its charms. The temple also houses buildings such as the abbot's quarters, priest's kitchen and living quarters, as well as cultural artifacts and art such as images of the Buddha and paintings. This famous Kyoto temple is a favorite spot for those who seek tranquility, relaxation, and beauty amongst its history and art.

13 Ryoanji Goryonoshita-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
http://www.ryoanji.jp/top.html

Nanzenji Temple

Nanzenji Temple

Located in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Nanzenji Temple is the headquarters of the Nanzenji School of the Rinzai Sect of Buddhism. With historic buildings that exist in perfect harmony with nature, Nanzenji stands above even the highest of the five Zen Buddhist temples of Kyoto. The vast grounds are home to many historic buildings designated as important cultural properties such as the lecture hall, abbot's quarters, Buddha hall, and main gate, which is known for the incredible presence it exudes as one of the largest such wooden structures in Japan. Nanzenji Temple is practically synonymous with the gorgeous foliage that set the temple ablaze in autumn colors. Although it is a famous sightseeing spot that draws many visitors, it also has a truly solemn atmosphere appropriate of a Zen temple. It is the perfect place to calm one's mind away from the noise of the city.

Nanzenji Fukuchi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
https://www.nanzenji.or.jp/

Kenninji Temple

Kenninji Temple

Kenninji Temple, located in Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, is the headquarters of the Kenninji School of the Rinzai Sect of Buddhism, and was built by Zen master Yosai during the early Kamakura period. Cho-ontei, the beautiful dry rock garden, is known as a famous scenic spot that embodies Japanese aesthetics, and is said to bring stillness and peace to those who visit. The temple is home to various historic artifacts and buildings such as a folding screen depicting the wind and thunder gods, which is a national treasure, the abbot's quarters, and the five-storied pagoda, both of which are important cultural assets, making it a great place to truly experience Japanese history and culture in person. There is also a tearoom and Zen seated meditation hall where visitors can experience Zen culture through the tea ceremony and meditation. Kenninji Temple is also known for its beautiful seasonal scenery such as cherry blossoms in the spring and colorful foliage in autumn. The solemn temple grounds are a special place where history and nature come together to bring deep comfort to all visitors.

Komatsu-cho, Yamato Oji-dori Shijo-sagaru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
https://www.kenninji.jp/

Kuramadera Temple

Kuramadera Temple

Kuramadera Temple, located in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, is an ancient temple known in the mountain faith. Standing on nearly 420-meter-high Mt. Kurama, the grounds are surrounded by nature and are dotted with historic buildings such as the main hall and study, which are both important cultural assets. The gorgeous natural surroundings are just one of the highlights here that include seasonal sights such as cherry blossoms in the spring and colorful foliage in autumn. The later season is particularly impressive for its leaves, which draw many visitors. It has long been an important spot in the mountain faith of Japan, and is home to a Buddhist dojo at the summit where monks train to this day. Kuramadera, with its harmonious blend of nature and history, is the perfect spot for someone who wishes to calm their mind. It is about 30 minutes from the Eizan Railway Kurama Station on foot or about 10 minutes by Kuramadera Cable Car.

1074 Kurama Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
https://www.kuramadera.or.jp/

Tenryuji Temple

Tenryuji Temple

Located in Saga Tenryuji Susukinobaba-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, Tenryuji Temple is the headquarters of the Tenryuji School of the Rinzai Sect of Buddhism. Built in 1339 by Ashikaga Takauji, it was founded by monk Muso Soseki. The beautiful Sogenchi Garden is known for its scenic beauty which embodies the spirit of Zen using a dry rock garden, moss, and stately buildings. It is particularly magnificent during autumn when the colorful foliage draws many sightseers. The historic buildings such as the abbot's quarters, priest's kitchen and living quarters, and five-storied pagoda are designated as important cultural properties, and are accompanied by a tearoom and study. Tenryuji is a familiar site to many for its harmonious blend of culture and faith. Visit this famous Kyoto temple that offers all a relaxing time.

68 Saga Tenryuji Susukinobaba-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
https://www.tenryuji.com/

Kodaiji Temple

Kodaiji Temple

Kodaiji Temple, located in Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, is part of the Kenninji School of the Rinzai Sect of Buddhism. It was built in 1606 by Kitano Mandokoro as a resting place for her husband Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The temple features a balanced mix of seasonal flowers and trees, attracting many visitors when the cherry blossoms are in bloom in spring and during autumn when the leaves change color. The temple grounds are home to historic buildings such as the front gate and main hall, as well as works of art and Buddhist images designated as important cultural assets, making for the perfect blend of history and art. Kodaiji is a famous temple that melds the charm of old Kyoto with the peacefulness of Zen, offering visitors peace of mind and solace.

526 Shimokawara-cho, Kodaij, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
https://www.kodaiji.com/

Nara

Nara National Museum

Nara National Museum

The Nara National Museum boasts a collection of nearly 9,000 pieces focused on Buddhist art, and includes national treasures and important cultural assets. The new East and West wings are currently closed, however, famous items are still on display in the Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall and Bronze Hall. Rare items on special exhibit include the Embroidery Illustrating Shakyamuni Preaching and the Image of the 11-Faced Kannon. Don't miss the special, limited time displays of the Principal Icon of Fumon’in Temple: Fudo Myoo and the Kinpusenji Niomon Kongo Rikishi Statues. Make sure to check the exhibit information on the official site and purchase tickets in advance to avoid the crowds.

50 Noborioji-cho, Nara
https://www.narahaku.go.jp/

Nara Park

Nara Park

Nara Park, located in downtown Nara, is a massive spot dotted with historic buildings such as Todaiji Temple, Kohfukuji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. The nearly 1,000 deer that live here are designated by the Japanese government as a natural monument. The park is colored in beautiful cherry blossoms in spring when many people come to visit. You can also purchase special crackers to feed the deer. Nara Park has been protected as a sacred spot since ancient times thanks to Kasuga Taisha Shrine. The park was developed in the Meiji era and welcomes nearly 13 million visitors each year.

543 Shibatsuji-cho, Nara
https://www3.pref.nara.jp/park/

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha Shrine, located in Kasugano-cho, Nara, boasts a high standing and a history that stretches back to the Nara period. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the awe-inspiring grounds are home to the National Treasure Hall, the Manyo Botanical Garden, and Meoto Daikokusha Shrine. The shrine is known for luck in matchmaking, drawing many visitors who wish to find a mate. One of the charms of the shrine is purchasing deer crackers and interacting with the deer who walk around the shrine. Kasuga Taisha Shrine is truly a tranquil, sacred place where history and nature are in harmony.

160 Kasugano-cho, Nara, Nara
https://www.kasugataisha.or.jp/

Kohfukuji Temple

Kohfukuji Temple

Kohfukuji Temple in Nara symbolizes Nara period Buddhist culture along with Todaiji Temple. Kohfukuji has a large collection of national treasures and important cultural assets which offer visitors the chance to experience its profound history and culture. The grounds are home to buildings that truly evoke the period, such as the East Pagoda, Western Pagoda, Five-storied Pagoda, Southern Round Hall, Northern Round Hall, and the Three-storied Pagoda. The Five-storied Pagoda is a particularly good example of well-preserved Nara period architecture. Other must-see highlights are the national treasures and important cultural assets such as the images of Ashura and the Ten Great Disciples of Buddha. These pieces are quintessential pieces of Nara period Buddhist art that enchant visitors. Kohfukuji Temple is also known for its stone Buddha's, stone towers, and stone lanterns. These stone structures have been weathered over many long years to reach their current, unique forms. The tranquil spaces woven together from stone, buildings, history, and culture offer respite to all visitors. This temple is the perfect stop on a tour of Nara's history and culture.

48 Noborioji-cho, Nara
https://www.kohfukuji.com/

Nara Palace Site

Nara Palace Site

Nara Palace Site Historical Park is a spot that preserves and recreates Nara Palace, the prosperous centerpiece of Heijo during the Nara period. It is a national park and also registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside you'll find recreations of the Palace's main facilities such as the Daiichiji Daigokuden Hall, Suzakumon Gate, and the Toin Teien Garden. At the Nara Palace Site Museum and Information Center for Reconstruction Project you can learn about the history of the Palace and see the results of archaeological surveys. Nara Palace Site Historical Park is a great place to visit year round, with cherry blossoms in spring, roosting swallows in summer, silvergrass in autumn, and beautiful star-filled skies in winter. If you want to get the most out of your visit, make sure to stop by the Heijokyu Izanai-kan and take a manga-style booklet that tells the story of the palace 1,300 years ago. The Nara Palace Site is a great place to experience Nara period culture and the beauty of nature.

3-5-1 Nijo Oji Minami, Nara
https://www.heijo-park.jp/

Gangoji Temple

Gangoji Temple

Gangoji Temple: A harmony of history and nature surrounded by UNESCO World Heritage sites Gangoji Temple, located in Nara City, is a UNESCO World Heritage site taking after the likes of Japan's oldest authentic temple, Hokoji. There is plenty to see here including the Gokurakubo Hondo Hall, the Zen Room, and small five-storied pagoda, all of which are national treasures, the Frog Rock, the old tiles, the East Gate, and more. In the Main Hall, which boasts over 1,200 years of history, you'll find the Pure Land mandala which awakened Chiko Hoshi to adopt Buddhism, and continues to be an object of deep faith today. The grounds are beautiful year-round, where you can see cherry blossoms, swallows, silvergrass, and star-filled skies. Gangoji Temple is a special place that blends history and nature to bring peace to all visitors.

11 Chuin-cho, Nara
https://gangoji-tera.or.jp/

Naramachi

Naramachi

Naramachi, located in central Nara, is an area where the townscape has been preserved since the Edo period. With its white-walled warehouse style houses, lattice doors, and stone-paved roads, a visit here is like traveling back in time. It's a great place for a stroll, where you can stop by unique cafes, shops, and handcraft studios located in renovated traditional Japanese homes. It is also within walking distance of tourist spots such as Nara Park, Kohfukuji Temple, and Todaiji Temple, making it a great base for sightseeing in Nara. The Naramachi Hina Doll Festival in spring and the Nara Tokae Lantern Festival in autumn are just a few of the seasonal events you'll find here. Participating in the festivals is a great way to learn more about the traditional culture of Nara. Pick up a Naramachi Walking Map published by the Nara City Tourism Association and head to Naramachi. Stroll around this incredibly charming town and take in its history, culture, traditional festivals and events, and visit its unique shops for an unforgettable trip.

1082 Sanjo Honmachi, Nara (Nara City Tourism Association)
https://narashikanko.or.jp/feature/naramachi/

Mt. Yoshino

Mt. Yoshino

Located in Yoshino-cho, Nara, Mt. Yoshino is a sacred mountain site registered as a UNESCO World Heritage. It is home to historic temples such as Kinpusenji Temple and beautiful natural scenery year-round. This charming spot boasts 30,000 cherry blossom trees which color the entire mountain in pink during the springtime. Each season offers something different, with hydrangeas in early summer and colorful foliage in autumn. Saigyo-an Hermitage and the Hanayagura Observatory look out over the grand scenery of Mt. Yoshino. Visitors can easily reach the summit via the Mt. Yoshino Ropeway. The Sozoro Walking Map published by the Mt. Yoshino Tourist Association is a great way to get the most out of a visit to the mountain. Don't miss the chance to visit this World Heritage site where history and nature coexist.

2430 Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho, Yoshino, Nara (Mt. Yoshino Tourist Association)
https://yoshinoyama-kankou.com/

Horyuji Temple

Horyuji Temple

Horyuji Temple, located in Ikaruga-cho, Nara, is the headquarters of the Shotoku Sect of Buddhism, and is said to have been built by Prince Shotoku. The grounds of the temple are home to a group of the world's oldest wooden structures, such as the Main Hall, the Five-storied Pagoda, and Great Lecture Hall, making it a rare example of what ancient Japan looked like. Horyuji Temple's charms aren't limited to the historic buildings, however. The Great Treasure Gallery features a large collection of items including national treasures and important cultural assets such as Buddhist images and paintings. Grab a map at Horyuji i Center and enjoy a leisurely stroll while you take in history and culture here. When visiting, make sure to tour the Main Hall, the Five-storied Pagoda, the Great Lecture Hall, and the Great Treasure Gallery. There is also a beautiful garden at the temple which is perfect for a walk. Enjoy a rare experience here that blends Japanese history and culture.

1-1 Horyuji Sannai, Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma, Nara
http://www.horyuji.or.jp/

Hyogo

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle

Located in Himeji, Hyogo, Himeji Castle is designated as a national treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Also known as the White Heron Castle, its white stucco-covered walls give the keep its unique, elegant appearance. Construction began in the 14th century, but the castle was later modified by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu, leading to its current appearance. The walls were designed to offer superior defense, and include complex moats, stone walls, and turrets. The beautiful Nishi-Oyashiki-ato Garden is one of the highlights of this spot. Himeji Castle is lauded as the pinnacle of Japanese castle construction, and the interior features displays of historical artifacts. Tourists flock to the castle every year to experience Japanese history and culture firsthand.

68 Honmachi, Himeji
https://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/castle/

Mt. Rokko

Mt. Rokko

The highest peak of Mt. Rokko, a range which straddles the city of Kobe in Hyogo and other cities, is Mt. Maya, which stands 931 meters high. Thanks to easy access from downtown Kobe and the Hanshin area by train or bus, this popular spot draws many mountain climbers and hikers. The summit offers gorgeous panoramic views of downtown Kobe and Osaka Bay. The nighttime view is particularly beautiful, making it one of the three major night views of Japan. The lush natural environment and beautiful seasonal scenery make the area a popular hiking, camping, and outdoor sports destination. Hot springs and restaurants on the mountain make it a popular resort. Mt. Rokko also appears in historic legends, making it an important cultural and sightseeing asset.

1-32 Ichigatani, Rokkosan-cho, Nada-ku, Kobe (Mt. Rokko Cable Car & Tourism Company)
https://www.rokkosan.com/top/

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

Connecting Kobe and Awajishima in Hyogo prefecture, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is the world's longest suspension bridge. Opening in 1998 (completed in 1995), it measures 3,911 meters in length. This important road that connects Honshu and Shikoku features a highly earthquake- and wind-resistant design. When illuminated at night, it looks like something out of a dream.

2051 Higashimaiko-cho, Tarumi-ku, Kobe
https://hyogo-maikopark.jp/

Takeda Castle Ruins

Takeda Castle Ruins

Located in Asago, Hyogo, the Takeda Castle Ruins can be found at the 353.7-meter-summit of a mountain. Also known as Torafusu Castle and the Machu Picchu of Japan, this enchanting site draws many visitors who come to see it floating among a sea of clouds. Built during the Muromachi period, it served as the base for lords Otagaki, Akamatsu, and Ikeda. Although the turrets are gone, the stone walls and earthworks are still in good condition. Historic sites and displays can be found nearby, making it an excellent place to learn about the history and culture of this castle. The Takeda Castle Ruins are also popular for the gorgeous views of the downtown area and nearby mountains. This spot is about a 40 minute walk from Takeda Station on the JR Bantan Line. Although there is a trail to the summit, appropriate footwear is recommended. The area is often covered in clouds in spring and autumn, making these seasons your best chance to see fantastic scenery. The Takeda Castle Ruins are designated as a historic site by the Japanese government and have been selected as one of the best 100 Japanese castles. Don't miss the chance to come visit this mysterious spot floating amongst the clouds.

169 Kojozan, Takeda, Wadayama-cho, Asago
https://www.city.asago.hyogo.jp/site/takeda/

Kitano Ijinkan

Kitano Ijinkan

Kitano Ijinkan Gai is a group of Western-style buildings built in Chuo-ku, Kobe from the Meiji to Taisho eras. Once a foreign settlement, this area features preserved and reconstructed former homes and facilities of the foreigners who lived here during those times. Various architectural styles can be found in the Weathercock House, Fish Scale House, and English House, making it look like you've wandered into a European town. The beautiful garden and rose garden are just some of the highlights of the area. Many of the buildings are currently used as museums, restaurants, and cafes, making a visit here a great way to experience history and culture while enjoying the atmosphere of an exotic foreign country. This is a popular spot amongst tourists from Japan and abroad.

3-10-20 Kitano-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe (Kitano Tourist Information Center)
https://www.kobeijinkan.com/