Access/Area

The Stork Culture Museum, which showcases efforts to reintroduce the Oriental White Stork into the wild, offers videos and exhibits telling the history of the reintroduction. Visitors can also observe the storks up close in the open breeding area. Educational programs such as biotope observation and nature watching events are regularly held here.

This cave is designated as a National Natural Monument and is known for its distinctive columnar jointing of basalt formed by lava flows from a volcanic eruption approximately 1.6 million years ago. Once used as a quarry, the stones extracted here were utilized in local stone materials and masonry that can still be seen throughout the city today.

Opened in 2008, this radon-rich alkaline hot spring is nestled amidst the serene mountain landscapes. Loved by locals as a welcoming day-use bath facility, it offers a tranquil escape surrounded by nature’s beauty. A small shop beside the baths features local vegetables and handcrafted goods, bringing a taste of the region’s bounty. After soaking in the soothing waters, refresh yourself with a hearty gulp of fresh local milk — pure comfort in every drop.

Built in 1919 (Taisho 8) after the closure of Mikobata Mine, the Mikobata Concentration Plant processed ore from the Akenobe Mine. It proudly held the title of the largest facility of its kind in East Asia until operations ceased in 1987 (Showa 62). Today, visitors can see remnants such as concrete foundations, parts of a device called a “thickener,” and the “Moose Former Residence,” a designated prefectural cultural property. Another highlight is the Mikobata Cast Iron Bridge, a nationally important cultural asset spanning about 1.7 km, which was constructed to transport ore to the Ikuno Smelting Plant.

A retro arcade shopping street just a one-minute walk from the station. Alongside yakitori shops and classic coffee houses, it’s home to the last remaining location of “Burger City,” famous for popularizing the 100-yen burger. Right across the street is Free schoolTOIRO, opened in 2020.

This hot spring is located next to the “Michi-no-Eki Kannabe Kogen .” It features a sauna and a relaxation room, and the roadside station itself offers dining and souvenir shops. Within walking distance from the nearby campground, it’s a perfect spot for campers to unwind and refresh.

Tataragi Dam is the lower dam of the Okutataragi Pumped-Storage Hydroelectric Power Station, one of Japan’s largest of its kind (with Kurokawa Dam serving as the upper dam). Constructed as a rock-fill dam, Okutataragi utilizes an elevation difference of about 400 meters, boasting the second-highest power output in the country. The area around the dam lake is renowned for its stunning autumn foliage, especially at Asago Eco Park located beside the power station, where the vibrant colors create a truly unforgettable scene.

A bookstore located in the heart of Kinosaki Onsen town. Here, you can find books from the publishing label “Books and Hot Springs,” launched by the Kinosaki Onsen Ryokan Management Association. The attached café offers craft beer and smoked delicacies, transforming into a cozy café bar in the evening. This spot also kindly serves as a meeting spot and staff rest area during the Toyooka Theater Festival.

Opened in 2012 using a former school building, this art facility embodies Yabu City’s vision known as the “Ooya Art Village Concept.” It features creative spaces including a handcrafted experience studio housed in a wooden school building, an exhibition hall in the gymnasium, and artist ateliers—offering visitors a chance to dive into hands-on artistic activities.

Opened in March 1979, this shopping center was born from the vision of the local shopping district. It made headlines as Tajima’s first place to unveil an escalator, anchored by supermarkets and a cooperative of stores. Alongside longtime tenants, the mall now welcomes new-generation shops, including an NPO supporting art by people with disabilities and a specialty juice bar. Inside, the mall’s modern color scheme and stylish architecture create a bright, contemporary atmosphere.

Located along the Maruyama River, Odai Agata Shrine is known as one of the Five Great Shrines of Tajima, representing the spiritual heart of the region. Every year on August 1st and 2nd, the Toyooka Yanagi Festival—Toyooka’s largest summer festival—is held here, drawing many visitors. The shrine is also dedicated to the deity of bags, and a special ritual called Kaban Kuyo (a memorial ceremony for bags) is conducted, reflecting Toyooka’s deep connection to craftsmanship and gratitude.

Tajima Farm Park, Hyogo Prefecture was established to promote the renowned Tajima cattle and support their production. The park features a museum, petting zoo, exhibition barns, and an exchange center. It also includes grazing fields and a ski area in winter. As a hub for interaction between urban and rural communities, visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences with animals and seasonal events throughout the year, all set in a beautiful natural environment.

The approximately 1-kilometer-long tourist mine tunnel at Ikuno Silver Mine brings the rich history of the mine’s heyday to life. Visitors can see vivid remnants of Edo-period hand-chiseled rock, alongside recreations of modern mining operations from the Meiji era onward. A highlight is the massive winding drum of the elevator once used by countless miners who entrusted their lives to it as they descended deep underground—an awe-inspiring testament to the past.

Ooikube Hyozu Shrine, affectionately known as “Tenno-san,” has long been cherished as a sacred place dedicated to the guardian deities of cattle and horses. Within its grounds stands a majestic cedar tree, estimated to be 400 years old, serving as a living testament to the shrine’s enduring spirit and the deep connection between nature and faith.

The Maruyama River, a first-class river with a rich and diverse ecosystem, offers a peaceful riverside and levee that serve as a relaxing spot for visitors to the theater festival. Take a leisurely walk here—you might even spot deer across the river.

Also known as Okyō-ji Temple, this guest hall features 165 sliding door paintings spread across 13 rooms, all created by Maruyama Ōkyo and his twelve disciples. Together, these works form a three-dimensional mandala that transforms each room into a unique sacred space. The temple grounds are solemn and majestic, crowned by a giant camphor tree estimated to be around 1,200 years old.

Named for its resemblance to a cat, Nekozaki Peninsula features Mount Kashima, which stands 141 meters tall. A popular route starts from Kashima Park in the south, passes over the summit of Mount Kashima, and leads to the Nekozaki Lighthouse in the north.

Part of the Japan Heritage site “The Silver Carriage Road and the Ore Trail Crossing Bantan,” Akenobe Mine offers visitors a unique chance to explore the historic mine tunnels. In addition, you can ride the famous “One-Yen Train,” a mining railway that once ran from Akenobe to Mikobata. For more details, please contact the Yabu City Akenobe Nature School.

Kannabe Mountain Crater, a popular mountain area within the San’in Kaigan Geopark, is perfect for trekking. Guided by a geo-guide, the easy and enjoyable course starts from the roadside station “Kannabe Kogen,” takes about 20 to 30 minutes on foot to reach the crater, and around 1.5 hours in total.

Silk Onsen, known as the “Beauty Hot Spring” due to its slippery water that springs from the boundary between granite and serpentine rocks. In addition to day-use bathing, the facility includes an inn, log houses, a campsite, and BBQ areas, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of ways to experience the hot spring.

Founded in 1708, this long-established sake brewery features striking red earthen walls. Recently restored, it has become a popular spot for photos. Their flagship sake is the junmai “Sasazuru.” Visitors can purchase and taste sake on site. They also sell delicious sweet sake, so even those who don’t drink alcohol can enjoy it.

Kannabe Kogen is bustling with ski visitors in winter. In the summer season, many campsites are set up where you can pitch a tent in the free camping area and enjoy a campfire at night. It has also been used as a venue for the theater festival, offering a unique experience where you can camp and enjoy performances—something special that only the festival can offer.

Located at the western edge of the hot spring town, the ropeway takes you up to the summit via Onsenji Station, midway up Mount Daishi. It allows visitors to reach the main temple without climbing the stone steps. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Kinosaki town and the Sea of Japan. There is also a café where you can relax and take in the scenery.

Takeda Castle Ruins sit atop Mt. Kojoyama at an elevation of 353 meters. As one of the rare mountain castles in Japan to remain almost completely intact, it is also known as “Torafusu Castle” or “Koga Castle,” named for its resemblance to a reclining tiger. On clear late-autumn mornings, the area is often shrouded in mystical sea fog—a beloved Tajima tradition. Visitors from far and wide come to witness this magical scene, where the castle appears to float in the sky.

Opened in 2003 to honor Futaro Yamada, renowned author of the original works behind Makai Tensho and the Ninpouchou series, this museum offers a deep dive into his life and creations. On display are around 1,500 items donated by Yamada himself during his lifetime, including first editions, handwritten manuscripts, creative notes, letters, scrapbooks, photographs, clothing, and personal belongings—an intimate glimpse into the world of this legendary writer.

Hamasaka Beach is a sandy beach formed by the gravel of the Kishida River and the action of the sea, with rice fields spreading out behind it. It is a port for landing Matsuba crabs and firefly squids, and the sand prevention forest “Matsu no Niwa” has been selected as one of the “100 Best Places for Lovers” thanks to conservation efforts. In summer, you can enjoy camping, swimming, and collecting stones, making it a seaside resort loved by both locals and tourists.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary since opening in 1971, Oku-Kinosaki Seaside Hotel was renewed and reopened in 2021. It features a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Takenohama Beach, which is selected as one of Japan’s “Top 100 Beaches.” The hotel also offers guest rooms specially designed for workation stays.

Denjohato is a small shop in Hidaka-cho, lovingly self-renovated with local carpenters in an old traditional house. They offer everyday essentials like long-lasting household goods, clothing, tableware, and food. Recently, they have also produced a rental apartment called “Kuruma-ya Apartment.”

This guesthouse and bar was lovingly renovated by the local community, transforming a building that had been vacant for about 10 years. Inside, you’ll find a cozy collection of favorite books donated by locals and past guests, perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Please check with the venue for the latest information on bar hours.

Built in 1887 as the district office, this rare wooden pseudo-Western-style building is the only remaining Western-style structure from the Meiji era in Izushi. Now designated as a cultural asset of the town, it houses the Izushi Local History Museum, with permanent exhibits introducing notable figures from the region.

Located along the historic “Silk Road” that once transported Tajima Chirimen silk to Kyoto, this museum opened in 1996 as a gateway to cultural exchange with Mongolia. It showcases a rich collection of Mongolian ethnographic artifacts alongside folk materials from the Tanto region. Visitors are also greeted by the museum’s charming mascot—a black goat—adding a warm, local touch to the experience.

Located in the Kaminogo district of Hidaka-cho, Keta Shrine is regarded as the main shrine of Tajima Province, surrounded by a lush forest-like sacred grove. It preserves a waniguchi—a temple bell hung under the eaves and struck to call worshippers—dating back to the 15th century, designated as a cultural asset by Toyooka City.

Arayu transforms eggs, vegetables, and tofu into surprisingly rich and mellow flavors. If you peek into the boiling pools, you can see the water bubbling vigorously. An impressive 470 liters of hot water gush naturally from Arayu every minute—it’s not pumped up by drilling but springs forth spontaneously from the ground. This natural flow has remained unchanged since the hot spring first opened.

In Takenocho, Takenohama, you’ll find maze-like alleys lined with traditional houses made from charred cedar boards called “yakisugiban.” Peeking through these alleys, the emerald waters of Takenohama Beach create a nostalgic and soothing scene that touches the heart. It’s a special view that only those who wander through the streets get to experience.

This museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and exhibiting materials related to the Geopark, as well as offering hands-on learning experiences. Its mission is to contribute to regional revitalization, education, and cultural development. Highlights include detailed models that clearly explain the geological layers of the San’in Kaigan coast, and a diverse collection of rocks from the area’s geosites—such as basalt, andesite, and tuff.

Located at the northernmost tip of Hyogo Prefecture, Nekozaki Peninsula is home to numerous rounded holes called “potholes,” formed by the erosive power of seawater. These wave-eroded pothole formations, created over thousands of years, are designated as a Natural Monument of Hyogo Prefecture.

Running parallel to the main Otemae Street that leads to the Izushi Castle ruins, Tainosho Street is a local shopping street lined with clothing and porcelain shops. On the 15th of each month, three women who work at nearby shops organize the “Irodori Market,” a small event that brings color and energy to the town.

Toyooka City, proud to lead Japan in bag shipment value, is home to Kaban Street—a bustling area lined with shops selling, cleaning, and repairing bags. Unique attractions like the world’s rare “Bag Vending Machines” are also installed here, making it a popular spot for tourists.

Located beside the inner moat of Izushi Castle, this Edo-period samurai residence appears to be a single-story house, but in fact features a hidden staircase leading to a second floor. It now serves as a public space showcasing materials related to the Izushi Domain and traditional daimyo processions.

Located along National Route 426, Ichinomiya Shrine is surrounded by towering zelkova trees that create a serene and almost otherworldly atmosphere, setting it apart from the everyday world. The spacious grounds stretch across a gently sloping hillside in terraced levels. As you ascend the stone steps, a beautifully preserved rural stage emerges—a cherished cultural treasure that echoes the traditions of the farming community.

A day-use hot spring located beside the Yadagawa River, set against a peaceful backdrop of rice fields. The spacious bathhouse features an open-air bath where you can soak while gazing at the surrounding mountains, along with a sauna and a cold plunge pool. The sauna, heated to a brisk 88°C, draws many regular visitors who come daily to unwind and recharge.

Located on the ridge’s tip at about 144 meters above sea level along Hōju Pass, which connects Wadayama and Santo, Chasuriyama Kofun is a large circular burial mound from the early 5th century. It is one of the tombs of the rulers who governed Tajima and, with a diameter of 90 meters, stands as one of the largest circular tumuli in the Kinki region. Recognized as a National Historic Site, the mound’s central coffin yielded a vast collection of weapons and armor, reflecting the great power held by the ruler buried here.

Guests staying in Kinosaki Onsen are provided with geta sandals and yukata robes, allowing unlimited visits to the seven public baths. After soaking, enjoy the fun at the shooting galleries and souvenir shops nearby. What truly sets Kinosaki Onsen apart is how the entire town functions like one big inn. Be sure to experience the charm of the public bath tour during your visit.

Originally established as a traditional high-end restaurant in 1847 (Kōka 4), this historic building has been renovated into a multi-purpose space that includes a café, retail shop, and event venue. Conveniently located near JR Toyooka Station, it serves as a welcoming hub for visitors heading to various Toyooka Theater Festival venues or exploring Kaban Street.

Opened in April 1994 to honor local-born adventurer Naomi Uemura, a recipient of the People’s Honor Award. It was renewed and reopened in April 2021, introducing the popular new “Donguri Base,” featuring large net playground equipment and a climbing wall that kids absolutely love.

Located in the heart of Kinosaki Onsen town, this facility brings together 10 shops under the theme of “Japanese Hospitality.” You’ll find a variety of dining options, souvenir and craft shops, and even an esthetic salon. With plenty of benches around, it’s also a perfect spot to take a relaxing break.

Founded in 1274 (Bunei 11), Nanukaichi Tenman Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the revered deity of scholarship. In 2002, the grand Senhyaku-nen Daimanto Festival was held, celebrating its long history. In 2022, as part of public works, the shrine underwent careful relocation and roof restoration. Despite its town-center location, the grounds—long watched over by ancient zelkova, camphor, and ginkgo trees—were beautifully revitalized, enhancing its sacred atmosphere.

The popular direct sales shop “Yasaigura” offers fresh vegetables and unique processed products grown right here in Yabu City. About 180 local producers are registered members who regularly supply new harvests based on sales demand, ensuring the shelves are always stocked with the freshest, just-picked produce.

Located to the east of the former castle town, Sukyoji Temple—also known as “Takuan Temple”—was revived in 1616 by the famous Zen monk Takuan Soho after a long period of decline following Oda Nobunaga’s campaign in Tajima. One of its highlights is the “Crane and Turtle Garden,” said to have been designed by Takuan himself.

A four-story dome with distinctly different appearances on its south and north sides—the north side has the feel of a large mountain lodge. Inside, you’ll find a sports museum, training rooms, and an inline skate park. Outside, there are nature-themed play equipment, a grassy field, jogging courses, and open spaces. The entire facility functions as a comprehensive sports museum.

Bunshindo is a bookstore and stationery shop located in front of Ehara Station, serving the community for over 40 years. They offer a wide range of school materials to support lifelong learning, and their in-store free gallery showcases works by local Tajima artists, helping to share the culture and stories of the region.

With the concept of being “more than just an aquarium,” Kinosaki Marine World attracts many visitors from both inside and outside the prefecture. Home to one of Japan’s largest giant salamanders, charming penguin walks, and exciting dolphin and sea lion shows, this attraction is packed with experiences that will keep you entertained all day long.

Located just east of the Izushi Castle ruins, Morosugi Shrine has a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Every October, the parishioners of this shrine, along with those of two other shrines in Izushi Town, parade through the neighborhood in the lively “Danjiri Festival.”

Just a step away from the main street, you’ll find one of Japan’s oldest wooden public markets. Alongside long-standing shops such as florists and fishmongers, a guesthouse has recently opened, drawing in a growing number of visitors. If you walk through the market, you’ll arrive at the Aozora Market, where a lively morning market is held in the early hours.