Hyogo » Himeji, Ako

Himeji, Ako Travel Guides

In addition to the national treasure Himeji Castle, nicknamed Shirasagi-jo (White Egret Castle), Himeji offers local delicacies such as Himeji oden (oden). In Ako, famous for the Chushingura story, visitors can see the ruins of the residence of Oishi Kuranosuke.

The Himeji and Ako areas offer sightseeing spots such as Himeji Castle, Himeji Central Park, and Taiyo Park; sightseeing events such as Tenjin Festival, Nada no Kenka Festival, and Gobashira Festival; and local gourmet foods such as okonomiyaki, gofuru, and Himeji oden.

Himeji is the center of the Harima region and is most famous for Himeji Castle, a national treasure and a World Heritage Site. In autumn, this Banshu area hosts the "Banshu Autumn Festival" and many other seasonal events.

In the Edo period (1603-1867), Terumasa Ikeda became the feudal lord of the Himeji domain, and a castle town was formed. This castle town prospered very well until the abolition of the domain. Tatsuno is called the "Little Kyoto of Harima," and is a popular tourist attraction.

Himeji was founded by Emperor Shomu, and it is well known that Kokubunji Temple was built there. The Prefectural Museum of History, which introduces the history of ethnic groups, is located near Himeji Castle. There is also "Senhime Tenmangu Shrine," a shrine associated with Senhime of Himeji Castle, and many other tourist attractions can be considered when strolling in this area.

Tatsuno Castle was built in two phases, first by Akamatsu Murasuhide and then again by Wakisaka Yasumasa. The white walls of the castle are very beautiful, and the castle keep stands out even more, making it very surprising to see.

For families, Himeji is famous for its "Himeji Central Park. It is difficult to put into words the power of the animals on the loose.

The most popular Japanese garden is "Kokoen," which is registered as a World Heritage site. The name Tatsuno comes from the fact that Nomi-no-Sukune, the founder of sumo wrestling, died of illness in Tatsuno, unable to return to his hometown in Izumo, which is where he was born.

In Himeji, there is a custom of eating oden with ginger soy sauce. This is largely due to the fact that soy sauce is a specialty of this area. Tatsuno is famous for its soy sauce, and the soy sauce buns are worth a try. It is also famous for Ibo no hito, the famous somen noodles.

Also, Kanbei Kuroda, made famous by the historical drama "Taiga Drama," was born here in Himeji. Tatsuno Park" is a beautiful place to visit in early spring for flower viewing. For autumn foliage, a trip to "Momiji Valley" is a good choice.

Recommended spots for Himeji, Ako

Pick up sightseeing spots and specialties!

Himeji Castle

A graceful figure like a white-faced egret spreading its wings

The castle, the largest of its kind in Japan, has eight buildings designated as National Treasures, including the castle tower, and 74 other buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties. It was also registered as a World Cultural Heritage in 1993. The castle is characterized by its linked t...»

Himeji Central Park

This theme park combines a safari park and an amusement park. There is a drive-through safari where you can go around in your own car, a walking safari where you can see the animals on foot, and a sky safari where you can view the animals while enjoying the view from the sky from a ropeway. Visitor...»

Engyoji Temple

Nada Fighting Festival

Japan Toy Museum

Kokoen Japanese Garden

Taiyo Park

Tegarayama Central Park

Yodel Forest

Ako Misaki

Ako Oishi Shrine

Mineyama Plateau

Ako Seaside Park

Hirafuku

Sakoshi

Tonomine Plateau

Iwatsuhime Shrine

Nishi-Harima Astronomical Observatory

Hara Fudo Waterfall

Himeji Museum of Literature

Himeji City Museum of Art

Tatsuno Castle

Osake Shrine

Himeji City Zoo

Nanko Sunflower Field

Ako Marine Science Museum

Yoi Domon Cave

Himeji Oden

Kagakuji Temple

Mitsu Nature Observation Park

Kuroiwa Waterfall

Ibo-no-Ito (somen noodles)

Hormone Yaki Udon

Ako Shio (salt) Ramen

Salt flavored ramen made in a city of salt

A specialty of a city of salt called Banshuakou, Ako Shio Ramen. Salt Ramen was created for the revitalization of the community, and was promoted by eight different ramen shops. Each serves its unique salt ramen, and one of the best Ako Ramen should be the one "Ichimaru" serves. Though the soup is c...»

Oichi Bamboo Shoots

Hyogo Oyster

Anago (Sea Eel) from Hyogo

Champon-yaki

Tatsuno City Museum of History and Culture

Tatsuno Park

Ako Onsen (Ako Misaki Onsen)

Mount Shosha

Mt. Shosya Ropeway

Shosha Art & Craft Museum

Himeji City Aquarium

Shuentei

Tatsuno Shrine

Nominosukune Shrine

Shirasagiyama Park

Kajokan

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