VARIETY OF DESTINATIONS
VARIETY OF DESTINATIONS
HIMEJI CASTLE
Himeji Castle is the first Japanese World Cultural Heritage Site registered by UNESCO recognized worldwide, It’s one of the most beautiful castles in Japan, and often called as “Shirasagi-jo” (White Heron Castle) because of its white plastered walls. After the 5-years restoration work, the castle was fully reopened in March 2015. The scenery from Tenshukaku (castle tower) is magnificent. A guided tour for foreign tourists is available for free of charge.
TAKEDA CASTLE
Himeji Castle is the first Japanese World Cultural Heritage Takeda Castle Ruins in Asago City is one of the most famous Yamashiro (mountain castle), built on top of the mountain of an elevation of 353 meters. Depending on the season, it looks like the castle is floating on the clouds, and often called “Castle in the Sky”. Especially on sunny early mornings in autumn to winter, morning fog tends to occur and Takeda Castle Ruins is wrapped in a sea of clouds. It’s a breathtaking view and worth of the name of “Castle in the Sky”.
AKASHIURA FISH MARKET
Live fish auctions are a unique kind of experience. Some 100 different fish auctions are a unique kind of experience. Some 100 different varieties of marine life called “Akashi no Maemon” from the rich fishing area of the Akashi Strait find their way from this market to other markets, stores and shops all around the country. “Hiru ami” which literally translates to “midday net” is a fish auction that takes place in the middle of the day. Visitors can “catch” this auction as well as observe some of the surrounding fishing facilities.
AWAJI ISLAND
Awaji Island is located where crossed world’s longest suspension bridge, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge from Kobe. Awaji Island is believed to be the birthplace of Japan, according to some Japanese mythology, and is dotted with famous places such as Izanagi-jingu Shrine and Onokorojima Shrine. Surrounded by the ocean 360 degrees and blessed with warm climate from Seto Inland, Awaji Island is famous as “flower island” where seasonal flowers such as narcissus, rape blossoms and tulip welcome you all year round. In Awaji Puppet Theater, you can experience Ningyo Joruri (Japanese puppet show), traditional arts of Japan with the history of 500 years.
KINOSAKI ONSEN
“Kounotori”, Oriental stork around 1400 years ago. It is a beautiful place with the willow trees planted on the banks of Otanigawa River. The traditional Japanese hot spring town is remained here, such as Japanese Ryokan made of wood. There are renowend 7 public baths in Kinosaki Onsen, that are more popular than baths in Ryokans. Enjoy visiting 7 baths wearing a Yukata (light cotton summer kimono).
MIKI CITY
As Hanayashiki Golf ClubMiki City, where a total of 25 golf clubs are gathered and the No1 golf club Hirono GC is in this city. One of the largest integrated resort facilities in Japan “Nesta Resort Kobe” is in Miki City too. From this resort you can access more than 20 courses within 30 minutes by car. It has been famous for producing hardware since early times, and has a high reputation throughout Japan. The Miki Hardware Festival is held every November. Saws, knives and other hardware items produced in Miki City are sold at the venue for this event.
