Hyogo Prefecture offers awe-inspiring sights: a towering wooden castle with a pristine white facade, the dazzling “million-dollar” night view, and one of the world’s largest whirlpools. These extraordinary vistas showcase the harmonious interplay of nature’s artistry, the ingenuity of past generations, and the dedication of those who preserve them today.

Visit the “Castle in the Sky,” Blanketed in a Sea of Clouds on Autumn Mornings

 Takeda Castle Ruins.(Photo courtesy of Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture)

Perched atop Mount Kojo in Asago City, the Takeda Castle Ruins are nicknamed Torafusujo or Kogajo (literally “lying tiger castle”) because of their resemblance to a reclining tiger. Built around 1443, the stone walls were reinforced in 1585. Their exceptional preservation has earned the site the moniker Japan’s Machu Picchu.

 Sea of clouds at Ninomaru (Photo courtesy of Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture)

On clear late-autumn mornings, mist rising from the Maruyama River envelops the Takeda Castle Ruins, creating a mystical “castle in the sky” effect. The best chance to witness this phenomenon is at dawn, until around 8 a.m., on calm, sunny days. Popular viewpoints include the castle’s main keep and Ritsuunkyo, a natural park on the slopes of Mount Asago opposite the ruins. When visiting, don’t forget to bring a flashlight, raincoat, and warm clothing for the adventure!

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A World Heritage Castle that Balances Grace and Functionality

Himeji Castle

If Takeda Castle resembles a tiger, Himeji Castle is a white egret. Located just a 30-minute Shinkansen ride from Shin-Osaka, the iconic Shirasagijo (“Egret Castle”) stands a short walk from the Himeji Castle exit of JR Himeji Station. The six-story, one-basement central keep, with its white plaster walls, is said to resemble a bird spreading its wings

Himeji Castle began as a fortress built in 1333 and underwent numerous expansions under successive lords, achieving its current form in 1618. Its architectural excellence, well-preserved structures, and unique defensive mechanisms typical of Japanese castles earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993—the first in Japan.

Now over 400 years old, the castle’s enduring beauty is thanks to conservation efforts by local citizens and master artisans who have restored it using traditional techniques. Himeji Castle remains a proud symbol of Hyogo Prefecture.

At night, the castle is illuminated in a display designed and supervised by renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii. From sunset until midnight, a soft glow bathes the castle, with special seasonal effects showcased at 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. Pair your visit with a rejuvenating soak in the nearby Shiota Onsen for the perfect end to the evening.

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Japan’s Top Night View Overlooking Kobe’s Cityscape and Harbor

Kobe’s “million-dollar” night view is one of Japan’s most famous. From Mount Maya, visitors can admire the twinkling city lights of Kobe and Osaka, as if a vast array of jewels were scattered across the landscape.

Mount Maya’s Kikuseidai Observation Platform

The most popular vantage point is Kikuseidai, accessible by a combination of cable car, ropeway, or by car, as there is a nearby parking lot. The fresh mountain air enhances the experience, and this stunning view attracts couples and tourists year-round. A similar night view can be enjoyed from the summit of Mount Rokko, accessible by bus and cable car. A ropeway connecting Mount Rokko to Arima Onsen allows visitors to combine scenic beauty with a relaxing hot spring experience.

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Spectacular Views from One of the World’s Largest Suspension Bridges

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

Connecting Kobe City with Awaji Island, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge boasts a total length of 3,911 meters and towers 298 meters high, making it one of the world’s largest suspension bridges. With its grand and graceful design, the bridge has become an iconic symbol of Hyogo Prefecture.

As part of a highway linking Honshu and Shikoku, the bridge is a popular spot for both scenic drives and sightseeing. The Maiko area, where the bridge begins on the Kobe side, is also famous for its picturesque coastline. Step out for a stroll and take in the refreshing sea breezes while enjoying the stunning ocean views.

Maiko Marine Promenade

At the Kobe side’s bridge pier is the Maiko Marine Promenade, a circular walkway built into the bridge structure. Located just a 5-minute walk from Maiko Station, this easily accessible facility includes exhibits explaining the bridge’s construction and Tom’s Cafe, a panoramic café-restaurant. The 317-meter-long walkway offers a thrilling “skywalk” experience over the ocean, making it a popular destination for visitors.

From a height of approximately 47 meters, you can enjoy breathtaking and exhilarating views of the Akashi Strait—an experience only possible from atop the bridge itself!

Nature’s Most Dynamic Whirlpool Phenomenon

Naruto Strait Whirlpool

Crossing to the other side of Awaji Island, opposite the Akashi Strait, you’ll find the Naruto Strait between Minami-Awaji City in Hyogo Prefecture and Naruto City in Tokushima Prefecture. During the spring and autumn tidal periods (around the full moon and new moon), this area produces some of the world’s largest whirlpools, with diameters reaching up to 20 meters.

Whirlpools occur when fast-moving and slow-moving tides collide. The Naruto Strait is an ideal location for this phenomenon, where powerful currents flow into a calm sea between both shores. The speed and size of the whirlpools vary daily, making each visit a unique experience.

The Uzushio Cruise departs from Fukura Port on Awaji Island, offering a 60-minute tour that brings you close to the whirlpools. With large, stable boats, it’s safe for children and seniors alike. Set sail for an adventure to witness this natural wonder, then unwind afterward in Awaji Island’s Sumoto Onsen or Minami-Awaji Onsen, which look out onto the ocean. The journey is a true experience of the many moods of the sea.

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One of Western Japan’s Largest Pampas Grass Fields at Tonomine Kogen

Tonomine Kogen in summer

Located in Kamikawa Town, Hyogo Prefecture, the Tonomine Kogen (Tonomine Highlands) are part of a prefectural natural park situated at an elevation of 800–900 meters. This area has served as the backdrop for numerous films and dramas, including the 2010 romantic drama Norwegian Wood . The highlands feature well-maintained walking trails, with a popular 3-kilometer round-trip course leading to an observation deck.

Tonomine Kogen in autumn

Tonomine Kogen is renowned as one of Kansai’s premier pampas grass habitats. The best time to visit is from late September to early November. By late October, approximately 90 hectares of grasslands turn a rich golden hue, creating a picture-perfect landscape. The view from the terrace at the Tonomine Nature Exchange Center near the highlands’ entrance is particularly stunning.

From mid-October to early November, direct buses operate from JR Teramae Station. From December to late March, the area is closed due to snow.

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