Upon arriving in this captivating prefecture, you'll quickly realize that time is a precious commodity when it comes to exploring the wealth of offerings in Hyogo. Renowned for its historical charm, the Himeji Castle stands as a testament to Japan's elegance. Just a 15-minute walk from Himeji Station, this castle is a must-visit. Wander through the Kokoen Garden, Suma Park, and Engyoji Temple, all of which have earned global acclaim for their beauty. While Hyogo boasts a rich tapestry of parks, temples, and castles, outdoor enthusiasts can also relish the mountainous terrain, perfect for trekking adventures.

As night falls, the cityscape of Kobe, in particular, takes on a mesmerizing allure. The iconic skyline, illuminated by the lights of Kobe Port Tower and Meriken Park against a dark backdrop, offers a truly magical panorama. Hyogo, not to be outdone in versatility, is also a haven for beach lovers. The Akashikaki Bridge, Kobe Suma Marine Aquarium, and Kobe's Oji Zoo stand out as fantastic and family-friendly must-see attractions.

For those with a penchant for shopping, Kobe boasts several sprawling malls and stores, ensuring an indulgent and limitless shopping experience.

Indulging in the culinary delights of Hyogo is an essential part of your visit. At the forefront of the region's gastronomic treasures is Kobe beef, reigning as the undisputed king of cuisine not only in Hyogo Prefecture but throughout Japan. Renowned for its marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor, Kobe beef promises a dining experience unlike any other.

For those seeking unique local flavors, the mouthwatering Akashiyaki is a must-try. Originating from the city of Akashi in Hyogo, these small round dumplings are a local delicacy, featuring a delightful combination of savory goodness and a satisfying texture.

Seafood enthusiasts will revel in the abundance of Snow Crabs, a seasonal delicacy that graces the dining tables of Hyogo. Pair it with the locally cherished Izushi Soba Noodles or savor the succulent Steamed Pork Buns, known as Butaman, for a taste of traditional comfort.

If you're keen on exploring more local specialties, don't miss out on the Octopus Rice, known as Takomeshi, or the distinctive Kobe Sobameshi. For a hearty and authentic experience, the Himeji Stew is a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of the region's culinary heritage.

Complementing these delectable dishes, Hyogo also offers a variety of locally produced beverages, including sake and regional wines, providing the perfect accompaniment to your culinary journey through this diverse and flavorful prefecture.

Hyogo boasts a rich tapestry of social and cultural activities, offering a vibrant calendar of events throughout the year. Kicking off the calendar in January is the renowned Shunsetsusai festival, which marks the Chinese New Year and sets the tone for a year filled with festivities. The Aiyoi Oyster Festival and the Doll's Festival of Kanaya add intrigue to the early months of the year, providing unique cultural experiences.

As April ushers in the much-anticipated spring, the entire region comes alive with cherry blossoms. Notable events during this season include the enchanting cherry blossom viewing at Himeji Castle and the Tamba Sasayaam Cherry Blossom Festival. These events offer a visually stunning celebration of nature's beauty.

Throughout the year, there are other noteworthy events to look forward to, such as the famous Kobe Festival and the Himeji Castle Festival. These celebrations showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region and provide a glimpse into traditional Japanese festivities. A highlight that is sure to leave you in awe is the spectacular fireworks display over Kobe Port, an unmissable experience that adds a touch of magic to the region's festivities.

1. Bell Green Country Club

This golf course's popularity is attributed to its convenient one-hour proximity from Osaka city and an attractive clubhouse, particularly favored by female patrons. Nestled in Sasayama City, Hyogo Prefecture, it offers 27 holes divided into West, Middle, and East courses. The strategically designed hilly terrain ensures an inclusive and enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels, eliminating unnecessary challenges. Notably, the Middle Course's 17th hole, with its precise play over a lake and scenic mountain views, stands out as a famous challenge. The location's proximity to Osaka and Kyoto makes it a conveniently accessible destination for golf enthusiasts from across the region.

2. Houmei Country Club

Conveniently accessible from Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto, this golf course boasts a magnificent and lush 27-hole layout. The expansive greens feature subtle undulations, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience. The East Course offers flat fairways with a blend of exciting and technical holes. The Middle Course, with its spectacular mountain views, shares a flat layout with unique challenges. The West Course, though short in distance, tests shot direction and accuracy with its varied layout. Situated in Sasayama City, Hyogo Prefecture, the course's proximity to Osaka and Kyoto enhances its accessibility for golf enthusiasts across the region.
 

3. Taiheiyo Takarazuka  Course

Taiheiyo Takarazuka, a distinguished highland golf course, was meticulously designed in 2001 by Tomikatsu Kato and recently enhanced by Norio Honma. This Par 72 course spans just under 7,000 yards with varied tee boxes for all handicaps. Despite the mountainous backdrop, the course offers a balanced topography, making it an enjoyable walk. Korai fairways and rolling greens provide a beautiful and challenging playing experience. Notably, each hole is distinct, offering an intimate atmosphere. With picturesque par 3s, mid-length par 4s, and strategically designed Par 5s, Taiheiyo Takarazuka presents birdie opportunities for skilled players.

By train

Major cities like Osaka and Kyoto are seamlessly connected to Hyogo through well-established rail networks that connect seamlessly with the Shinkansen.

By Air
Kobe Airport provides easy access from Tokyo and  Kansai International Airport is an International Hub from which Hyogo can easily be reached by rail or car.