Wazzup Pilipinas!?
When travelers think of Japan, iconic images of cherry blossoms, sushi, and ancient temples often come to mind. However, nestled between the Seto Inland Sea and the Sea of Japan lies Hyogo Prefecture, a destination brimming with authentic cultural experiences, legendary history, and world-renowned cuisine. Known primarily for Kobe beef, Hyogo offers far more than just its culinary crown jewel—it’s a gateway to exploring Japan’s storied past and vibrant present.
Easy Access to a World of Wonders
Despite offering off-the-beaten-path experiences, Hyogo is incredibly accessible. Visitors can reach Kobe, the prefecture's bustling capital, via direct buses from Kansai International Airport and Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport). Kobe also boasts its own domestic airport, which is set to accommodate international flights soon. Moreover, the Shinkansen (bullet train) makes a convenient stop at Shin-Kobe Station, just minutes from Osaka.
Once in Kobe, exploring the rest of Hyogo is seamless, thanks to efficient public transportation and rental car options. From bustling cityscapes to serene rural retreats, every corner of the prefecture is within reach.
Culinary Heritage: Beyond Kobe Beef
The Legacy of Tajima Cattle
Hyogo’s Kobe beef is more than just a luxury dish—it’s a symbol of dedication and precision. Almost every Japanese Black cattle, including the famed Kobe beef, traces its roots back to Tajiri-go, a cow born in 1939 in Hyogo’s Ojiro region.
At Sannomiya Kobe Plaisir, guests can indulge in an authentic teppanyaki experience, where Kobe beef is expertly prepared alongside seasonal produce. For a street-food twist, Ganso Gyozaen serves Manchurian-style dumplings infused with Kobe beef flavors. And for an affordable yet authentic taste, Teppanyaki Kobe Fuji offers budget-friendly Kobe beef meals without compromising on quality.
Sake and Seasonal Kaiseki Dining
Beyond beef, Hyogo is also celebrated for its exceptional sake. Miyake Sake Brewery, established in 1819, produces sake exclusively from Yamadanishiki rice, a Hyogo specialty. Guests can take a guided tour of the brewery and taste sake paired with pure local water.
For an unforgettable dining experience, Izumi Kaiseki Restaurant in Kasai City offers seasonal kaiseki meals prepared with a deep respect for tradition. The chef, trained in Kyoto, returned to Hyogo to share his culinary artistry with his hometown, creating an experience both authentic and innovative.
The Samurai Spirit: Swords, Castles, and Hot Springs
The Art of Swordsmithing
Step back into the world of the samurai at the Kikyo Hayamitsu Japanese Sword Smithy in Aioi City. Visitors can witness master swordsmith Kikyo Hayamitsu craft traditional katana swords using age-old techniques. The forge workshop even allows participants to experience making a small knife themselves—a hands-on connection to Japan's martial history.
Castle in the Sky: Takeda Castle Ruins
Perched atop a mountain, the Takeda Castle Ruins offer a breathtaking view of mist-covered valleys, earning them the title "Castle in the Sky." Built in the 15th century, this fortress was once a strategic military outpost. Today, it’s a serene escape, particularly magical during the early mornings of autumn.
Relax in Shiota Onsen
After exploring ancient battlegrounds, unwind in the mineral-rich waters of Shiota Onsen, a historic hot spring that dates back to Japan's Nara period (710–794). The therapeutic waters have been a haven for weary travelers and samurai alike.
Sacred Origins: Mythology and Spirituality
Izanagi Shrine on Awaji Island
Awaji Island, considered the birthplace of Japan according to Shinto mythology, is home to Izanagi Shrine. Dedicated to the divine couple Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, this sacred site is said to be the oldest shrine in Japan. Visitors can marvel at the 900-year-old camphor tree, believed to house the spirits of the gods.
Nushima Island and the Creation Myth
A short boat ride from Awaji takes visitors to Nushima Island, where legend says the gods stirred the ocean with a celestial spear to create Japan. The Nushima Onokoro Cruise offers guided tours highlighting the island’s mystical rock formations and their cultural significance.
Natural Marvels: Genbudo Park
For those drawn to geology and natural beauty, Genbudo Park in northern Hyogo showcases hexagonal rock formations formed by volcanic activity over 1.6 million years ago. Walking trails wind through caves and lush greenery, with the largest cave, Genbu, named after a mythical tortoise-serpent deity.
A Timeless Destination
Hyogo Prefecture masterfully weaves together history, culture, and modern convenience. Whether you’re savoring the world’s finest beef, crafting a samurai blade, soaking in ancient hot springs, or tracing Japan’s creation myths, Hyogo promises an experience unlike any other.
As Japan welcomes more visitors, Hyogo stands out as a destination that balances authentic experiences with accessibility—a perfect blend for those seeking to delve deeper into the heart of Japan.
Discover Hyogo, where every moment tells a story, and every journey becomes a memory.
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Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
