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Jan 13
Beauty Forged in Fire
Nestled in the mountains of southwestern Hyogo, Kikyo Hayamitsu Swordsmith invites anyone with an interest in traditional craftmanship...


Dec 16, 2024
Discover the Delicious World of Ekiben!
If you're planning to travel around Japan, especially by bullet train (Shinkansen), don't miss the opportunity to experience Ekiben!


Oct 25, 2024
Fall Festivals in Hyogo
As fall approaches, while Washington State feels the chill of the season, Hyogo Prefecture continues to enjoy milder temperatures and...

Aug 26, 2024
Immerse in Izakaya in Kobe, Hyogo
Kobe, the capital city of Hyogo Prefecture, has various izakaya that are beloved by the local people.


Jun 5, 2024
A Rejuvenating Trip to Kinosaki Onsen
Treat yourself to some rest and relaxation in the rejuvenating waters of Kinosaki Onsen! Japan is world-renowned for the soothing nature of

May 9, 2024
A Townscape Frozen in Time
For those captivated by the drama of Shogun and eager to delve deeper into Japan’s rich historical tapestry, Tamba-Sasayama City in Hyogo...


May 18, 2023
Wonderful Wisteria in Hyogo
Some may think that the end of the cherry blossom season marks the conclusion of Japan’s notable flowers for the year, but this couldn’t...

Mar 23, 2023
Cherry Blossoms off the Beaten Path
Sakura season has already begin in many areas of Japan. Throughout the country, there are numerous places to view these iconic cherry...


Feb 1, 2023
A Special Setsubun Ceremony
“Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” (Devils out! Fortune in!) When walking through the streets of Japan in early February, travelers may hear...

Dec 16, 2022
Holidays & Hatsumōde in Hyogo
In Japan, the first temple or shrine visit of the year, called hatsumōde, usually takes place on January 1st, 2nd, or 3rd. Travelers to...

Nov 30, 2022
Wintertime Sports & Relaxation
Wintertime is almost upon us, which brings the perfect weather for snow sports, followed by a toasty hot spring bath. Whether a traveler...

Nov 3, 2022
Folk Culture & More at Fall Festivals
In Japan, every season is deeply appreciated through seasonal nature-viewing, seasonal treats, and many, many festivals. In Hyogo...


Sep 29, 2022
Autumn Leaves & Accommodations
Visiting Japan is the perfect opportunity to experience both tradition and nature. Visitors can find tradition in all sorts of places,...


Aug 30, 2022
End of Summer Fun
When thinking of summer in Japan, fireworks and camping will often come to mind. Hyogo is home to many summer fireworks festivals and...

Jul 20, 2022
Summer of Sun & Sand
With a coastline on both the Sea of Japan and the Seto Inland Sea, Hyogo Prefecture is home to many beautiful beaches and seaside spots....

Jun 22, 2022
Zen Wellness & Godzilla Madness
Awaji Island, an island in Hyogo Prefecture, is filled with personality and intriguing sights. According to some ancient Japanese...


May 19, 2022
Relaxing in Ryokan
When booking a trip to Japan, one option that is sometimes overlooked is staying in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. Ryokan...


Apr 28, 2022
Sakura by the Sea, Onsen, and Castles
If you look at lists of top 10 places to view sakura (cherry blossoms) in Japan, you’ll likely come across parks in Tokyo, at shrines &...
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