Exploring Hyogo Prefecture.
#Kobe.
Home to one of Japan's oldest shrines, impressive gardens, and the famed Kobe Beef, a trip to the port city of Kobe is one not to be missed.
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Highlights: Nunobiki Herb Gardens, Nunobiki Falls, Kitano Tenman Shrine, Kitano Ijinkan-Gai, Ikuta Jinja, Sorakuen Garden, Kanteibyō (Kuan Ti Miao Temple), Minatogawa Jinja, Kobe Chinatown, Kobe Port Tower (pictured), Kobe Harbour.
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Transport: A popular day trip from Osaka, JR Kobe can be reached from JR Osaka in around 40 minutes. Hankyu Line Trains also run between Osaka-Umeda Station and Kobe-Sannomiya and take around the same amount of time. Note: Those planning to visit the Nunobiki Herb Gardens should take the Shinkansen from JR Shin-Osaka and alight at JR Shin-Kobe. The ropeway to the gardens is just a short walk from Shin-Kobe station.
#Himeji.
Home to one of the most notable castles in Japan, the city of Himeji attracts people from all over the world. Visitors hoping to avoid the crowds are recommended to aim for the early morning when the area has significantly fewer people, as well as the benefit of soft morning light - perfect for taking photos!
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Highlights: Himeji Castle (pictured), Himeji Gokoku Shrine, Koko-en, Miki Museum, Himeji Jinja, Himeji Rose Garden (JR Nibuno), Japan Toy Museum (JR Kōro), Haban Shrine (JR Ōichi), Zappa Village (JR Ōichi).
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Transport: The Shinkansen runs directly between JR Shin-Osaka and JR Himeji and take less than 30 minutes, with many services stopping at Shin-Kobe along the way.
#Kinosaki Onsen.
Kinosaki Onsen lies just under two and a half hours north of Kyoto City, making it a plausible day trip. The picturesque onsen town set around a canal is ideal for those hoping to try out an onsen as well as those just hoping to stroll around and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
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Highlights: Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway to Onsenji, Kitayanagi Dori, Benzaiten Shrine (for views over the township), Kinosaki Strawcraft Museum, Jizoyu Bridge, Momoshima Bridge, various onsen/bath houses.
Note: those who are more comfortable bathing alone or wish to bathe as a couple can hire out a private family onsen at Ichinoyu. -
Transport: Direct trains run from JR Kyoto and JR Kobe to JR Kinosakionsen and take about 2.5 hours. Direct trains also run from JR Osaka and take about 20 more minutes. Those planning to head further afield to Tottori can reach JR Tottori directly from JR Kinosakionsen, with a journey time of about 1 hour & 15 minutes between the two.
Note: Reservations are mandatory on all direct limited express train services to and from Kinosaki Onsen.