List of Spring Outing Spots in Nishi-Harima

Nishi-Harima sansho pepperShiso City, Tatsuno City, Taishi Town

In recent years, the cultivation of Japanese pepper (sansho) has become popular in Shiso City, Tatsuno City, and Taishi Town, with the aim of utilizing fallow fields. Efforts are underway to brand it as "Nishi-Harima Sansho."
"Nishi-Harima Sansho" is characterized by its large fruits and refreshing citrus aroma. The harvest season is around late May, and the warm climate allows the fruits to grow to a vibrant color.
Some cafes and restaurants offer menus that use sansho pepper as an accent, such as gateau chocolat, blancmange, and macarons. In particular, Taishi Town has established the "Taishi Sansho Research Association," which has created a gourmet map listing restaurants where you can eat "Nishi-Harima Sansho." They are also developing recipes, hoping to let many people, including locals, know about the appeal of "Nishi-Harima Sansho." Keep an eye on this new specialty product of Nishi-Harima.
*Please note that the items listed below may not be available at all times of the year. Please inquire with the store before purchasing.

■Main sales locations

Shunsai Kura YamazakiMAP
Shunsai Kura TatsunoMAP
・Michi-no-Eki Minami HagaMAP

Ako SaltAko City

Akō, facing the Seto Inland Sea, is blessed with a calm sea and climate. The high-quality sand from the Chūgoku Mountains, brought by the pristine Chikusa River, forms tidal flats, and during the Edo period, a highly productive salt-making technique using tidal flats was established. Since then, "Akō salt" has been known throughout Japan, and although the salt-making methods have changed, it remains deeply rooted in the history and culture of Akō.
At the Akaho City Marine Science Museum, with "The Seto Inland Sea and Salt" as its main theme, visitors can learn about the history of salt production in Akaho and about salt itself while viewing the exhibits.
At the adjacent "Land of Salt," you can visit facilities that recreate the various salt-making methods used throughout history, including agehama-style, irihama-style, and ryuka-style salt fields. Experience the history of salt making in a truly immersive way. Salt-making workshops are also available, so please inquire if you are interested. (Inquiries: TEL 0791-43-4192)

Hormone-yaki udonSayo Town

"Horumon Yaki Udon" is a local specialty that originated in Sayo Town about 70 years ago. It's an unusual teppanyaki dish where offal, vegetables such as cabbage and green onions, and udon noodles are grilled on a hot plate, and then eaten with a dipping sauce. It is said that the dish became popular in town because livestock farming and meat processing were once thriving, making fresh offal readily available. Two types of sauces are available: a spicy soy sauce base and a sweet miso base, so you can mix them according to your preference.
The noodles used are mainly udon from the local "Hiraya Noodle Factory." These flat noodles don't easily fall apart when grilled and absorb the sauce well. In Sayo Town, it's made not only in restaurants but also in ordinary households, and is known as a soul food loved by the locals. Each of the hormone-grilled udon restaurants in town has its own unique character, so search for a restaurant on the Sayo Town Tourism Association website and enjoy comparing them.

Tazumi eggsIchikawa Town

"Tazumi eggs" come from hens raised on natural feed and natural water rich in minerals, without the use of any chemical fertilizers. Produced at the Tazumi Poultry Farm in Ichikawa Town, these brand eggs are shipped nationwide.
Once the hens mature into adult chickens, they are fed not only natural foods but also bell peppers to build up their resistance to disease and increase their appetite. "Tazumi eggs," laid by these adult hens that have stored up abundant nutrients, are characterized by their rich, firm yolks. They are rich in vitamin E and calcium, and are expected to have health and beauty benefits. They are perfect for incorporating into your daily meals, and also make a great gift.
Restaurants in Ichikawa Town offer dishes such as rice with raw egg and cream buns made with "Tazumi eggs." Be sure to check them out when you visit the town.

■Main sales locations

Tasumi Poultry FarmMAP

Enshin MorodonKamigori Town

Enshin Morodon is a local specialty of Kamigori Town. Morodon refers to udon noodles made with molokhia, which gives the noodles their characteristic firmness and smooth texture.
In the 1990s, product development using molokhia began as part of a town revitalization effort. Currently, the town is working with private companies to cultivate approximately 3,000 square meters of land dedicated to molokhia, known as "Moro Plain (Heiya)," and is making a town-wide effort to popularize it.
Restaurants in town offer a variety of dishes, including warm morodon topped with beef tendon and a soft-boiled egg, dipping morodon, and a summer-only salad morodon. Molokhia has no strong taste or bitterness, making it easy for children to eat. It is also attracting attention as a highly nutritious vegetable, containing about 29 times more beta-carotene than bitter melon.

Light soy sauceTatsuno City

"Usukuchi" soy sauce enhances the color, flavor, and aroma of the ingredients. This specialty product was born in Tatsuno, a region blessed with the geographical conditions necessary for soy sauce production, including the availability of Harima wheat, Shiso crescent-shaped soybeans, and Ako salt from nearby areas, as well as the soft water of the Ibo River, which is low in iron. It is said that the ability to secure sales channels to major consumption areas such as Kyoto and Osaka via boat transport from the Sompo River allowed it to spread to dinner tables throughout Japan.
At the Usukuchi Tatsuno Soy Sauce Museum in Tatsuno City, approximately 2,400 tools and documents that tell the story of traditional soy sauce making are on display. The entrance fee is a mere 10 yen, a play on words meaning "double good fortune." The Tatsuno castle town is dotted with shops that sell light soy sauce and restaurants where you can enjoy gourmet food made with soy sauce, so why not take a stroll around and discover the new charms of light soy sauce?

■Main sales locations

・Kuraterasu TatsunoMAP
Tatsuno Tourist Shop Sakura RoadMAP

Himeji CastleHimeji City

Himeji Castle, a national treasure and the first site in Japan to be designated a World Cultural Heritage site, is affectionately known as "White Heron Castle" due to its white plaster walls and elegant appearance resembling a white heron spreading its wings.
Himeji Castle, selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots, is adorned with approximately 1,000 cherry trees planted within its grounds that bloom profusely from late March each year, adding a vibrant touch to the white plaster walls of the castle. While every vantage point offers photogenic scenery, we recommend including the red "Shiromibashi" bridge visible from near Himeji Gokoku Shrine, south of Himeji City Zoo. Find your own perfect angle!
In addition, a "Night Cherry Blossom Viewing" event is held every year in the Nishinomaru Garden to coincide with the cherry blossom season. The fantastical collaboration of the illuminated Himeji Castle and the cherry blossoms at night is a must-see! Be captivated by the charm that is different from that of the daytime. (Photo courtesy of Himeji City)

location: 68 Honmachi, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: Himeji Castle Management Office 079-285-1146
Business Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry accepted at 4:00 PM)
*Subject to change depending on the season.
Closed on: December 29th and 30th
Entry materials: Adults (18 years and older): 1,000 yen, Children (elementary, middle, and high school students): 300 yen
*An admission fee is required for the evening cherry blossom viewing.

Akaho Seaside ParkAko City

Akaho Seaside Park, a landmark of Akaho City, is a large park located along the coast, boasting an area of approximately 72 hectares.
Upon entering the vast grounds, you'll be greeted by rows of palm trees. The resort-like atmosphere is sure to excite both adults and children! There are plenty of attractive facilities to enjoy, enough to fill you up in just one day, including a retro amusement park area that evokes a sense of nostalgia, a free-to-enter playground, and the Salt Science Museum "Salt Country" where you can experience the unique charm of Akaho. Campgrounds and cottages are also available, so staying overnight and enjoying yourself at a leisurely pace is also a great option.
In spring, it's a famous spot for cherry blossom viewing, attracting many visitors. There are plenty of cafes in the city, and they offer a wide variety of takeout options, so be sure to check them out. Even if you can't wake up early to make a packed lunch, that's okay! A stylish cafe meal will surely enhance your cherry blossom viewing experience.

location: 1857-5 Misaki, Ako City, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 0791-45-0800
Business Hours: 9：00～17：00
*Please check the official website for each facility's operating hours.
Closed on: Year-end and New Year holidays (December 29th to January 1st)

Koto Tulip GardenKamigori Town

In Harima Science Park City, the "Koto Tulip Garden" opens every year from early to late April. Approximately 40,000 tulips of 16 varieties bloom across a 5,000 square meter area, offering visitors the chance to encounter tulips in six unique colors and shapes. (Please check the official website for opening dates and blooming status.)
The meticulously maintained garden is entirely managed by a local volunteer group, from planting the bulbs onwards. After the flowers have finished blooming, they dig up each bulb one by one to ensure they bloom again next year. The vibrant flowers clearly show the love and care they receive from their care.
Admission is free, and there's even free parking on the north side of the park, which is a nice bonus. Why not take a trip to see the tulips with family and friends on a sunny day?

location: 2-21 Kōto, Kamigōri-chō, Akō-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: Harima Highlands Regional Administrative Association 0791-58-0575
Business Hours: 9：00～17：00
Closed on: Open every day during the park's operating season.

Clam diggingTatsuno City

At Shinmaiko Beach in Tatsuno City, you can enjoy clam digging from mid-April to late June (the clam digging period changes every year, so please check the website). The shallow, calm beach is popular with families as even small children can safely enjoy clam digging. During the season, many people visit from outside the prefecture as well.
Items such as rakes and buckets can be rented on-site, which is a great advantage as it allows you to travel light. They are also sold at retail stores around Shinmaiko during this season, so be sure to check before you go.
Clam digging is like a treasure hunt, as you never know what you'll find, from Manila clams and cockles to surf clams and razor clams! In fact, it seems that more adults than children get hooked on it. You can take home the shellfish you collect (there is a weight limit). Even if you don't collect many, you'll get a souvenir, so don't worry.

location: 1414 Kurosaki, Mitsu-cho, Tatsuno City, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: Mitsu Town Shinmaiko Tourism Cooperative 079-322-0424
Business Hours: 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM during Golden Week)
Closed on: Tuesday (Open on Tuesdays during Golden Week)

Ieshima CanoeHimeji City

Located on Nishijima, the largest island in the Ieshima Islands in the Seto Inland Sea, is the "Ieshima Nature Experience Center." It offers facilities for outdoor activities, including a campsite and lodges, allowing visitors to enjoy authentic outdoor experiences. From May to October each year, marine activities such as canoeing and kayaking, enjoyed amidst nature, are particularly popular.
Experienced instructors provide friendly guidance, so even beginners can enjoy canoeing with peace of mind. The canoes can accommodate up to four people, so even young children can participate with parental supervision.
The calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea make it perfect for canoeing. On clear days, you can even see Shodoshima Island. Sharing the breathtaking scenery with family and friends while feeling the refreshing sea breeze amidst unobstructed views is sure to create lifelong memories! Why not put your smartphone away for a day and immerse yourself in nature? (Advance reservations are required to enter the island center.)

location: Nishijima, Ieshima-cho, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 079-327-1508
Business Hours: 7:30 AM - 9:00 PM (Reception hours at the counter)
Closed on: Open every day

Amagaya Tatara ParkShiso City

Chigusa-cho in Shiso City is known for producing high-quality "Chikusa iron (Shiso iron)" and is mentioned in the "Harima Province Fudoki," a regional gazetteer compiled during the Nara period. At "Amagoya Tatara Park," you can learn about the history of "tatara ironmaking," which was once thriving, by visiting the "Takadono" (high hall) and other sites at the Amagoya iron mine ruins.
The park area still retains a rich natural environment, allowing visitors to enjoy a unique world that feels like stepping into a movie. Be sure to also visit the "Tatara Village Learning Center" (admission fee required), which displays famous swords made from Chigusa iron.
Environmental improvements made to protect the ruins have been successful, and the number of naturally growing primroses has increased. Every year from mid-May to mid-June, they bloom with lovely purple flowers. If you see them, please take a moment to admire them gently.

location: 1048-38 Nishikawachi, Chikusa-cho, Shiso City, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 0790-76-3833
Business Hours: 9：00～17：00
Closed on: Wednesdays, December 1st to March 31st of the following year

Nyunyu WorkshopIchikawa Town

Nyunyu Kobo is a gelato shop nestled in the lush, mountainous area of Ichikawa Town, Kanzaki District. They always have 12 kinds of gelato available, made with plenty of milk from Hyogo Prefecture and seasonal fruits.
Our most popular flavor since our founding, "Original Milk," offers a refreshing taste while still retaining the richness of milk. We recommend pairing it with our limited-edition flavors. Every spring, we offer a cherry blossom flavor that evokes the aroma of cherry blossom mochi.
In addition, in the summer they offer sherbet served in half an Inamino melon from Inami Town, and in the fall they offer gelato made with local sweet potatoes, so you're likely to encounter a new flavor each time you visit.
Takeaway gelato (320 yen) and monaka (320 yen) are also popular. Cookie sandwiches (320 yen) require reservations. Why not take a drive to Ichikawa Town and check it out?

location: 958-1 Shimoseka, Ichikawa-cho, Kanzaki-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 0790-27-0241
Business Hours: Weekdays 10:00 - 17:00
Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Closed on: Wednesdays (open every day in August)

Google MAP

Fireflies of YasutomiHimeji City

Along the Hayashida River in Yasutomi-cho, Himeji City, you can enjoy the sight of fireflies, a quintessential early summer spectacle. Genji fireflies begin to appear in the southern Sawado area around late May, and as the weather warms up, they gradually spread to the northern areas, with Hime fireflies starting to fly in the northernmost Seki area (around Green Station) around early July. The soft light of the fireflies flitting about in the darkness is truly mystical.
In the past, fireflies disappeared from the Hayashida River area due to the effects of pesticides and other factors, but local residents worked to restore them, and now fireflies can be seen in almost all areas south of the Seki district. The entire town takes care to protect the fireflies, taking precautions such as being careful about when mowing the grass. When you visit, please be sure to observe proper etiquette and enjoy watching the fireflies.

■Sato area➡︎Google MAP
■Seki area ➡︎Google MAP

location: Yasutomi-cho, Himeji City (along the Hayashida River)

Peiron FestivalAioi City

The Aioi Peiron Festival is held every year on the last Sunday of May in Aioi Bay. Peiron is a type of boat that was introduced to Nagasaki from China, and its history is long. It is said that the Peiron Festival originated in 1922 when a shipyard employee from Nagasaki introduced Peiron boat racing and it began as a company event.
Approximately 70 teams from both within and outside the city will participate, competing to see who can complete a 300-meter course on the sea the fastest. The thrilling race featuring 28 rowers is a must-see!
Additionally, approximately 5,000 fireworks are launched during the fireworks display at sea the night before the festival. With around 270 food stalls and a land parade featuring elementary and junior high school students from the city, the festival atmosphere is instantly enlivened.
Why not head out to enjoy an early summer festival? (For information on the Peiron Festival, please check the Aioi City Tourism Association website.)

location: 1-chome, Asahi, Aioi City, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: Aioi City Regional Development Division 0791-23-7133

Kamikawa Town CyclingKamikawa Town

Kamikawa Town boasts well-maintained cycling courses where you can experience its rich natural beauty and history. Why not enjoy a bike ride while basking in the warm spring sunshine?
The "Ochigawa Famous Water Road Course" allows you to cycle downhill while visiting famous water spots such as the impressive "Fudo Falls" and "Chigamine Minamiyama Famous Water," and in the summer you can enjoy playing in the river.
In 2022, two new courses were added. The "Mineyama Plateau Foothills Course" allows you to experience the history of Kamikawa Town, and the "Tomine Plateau Foothills Course" is dotted with power spots and cafes. You can enjoy sights you might not notice by car, beautiful scenery, and interactions with local people.
For all courses, you'll travel by bus or taxi to the starting point, and your bicycle will be loaded onto a tow vehicle at the rear of the vehicle, transporting you from the meeting point to the starting point. This makes it easy to try cycling. Check the official website for details.

location: Kamikawa Town, Kanzaki District, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: Kamikawa Town Tourism Association 0790-34-1001
Business Hours: Implementation period: Late March to November 30th
[Reservations for each course are as follows]
・Ochigawa Famous Water Road Course
Telephone reservations: 0790-32-1021 (Shinki Green Bus Awaga Sales Office) - Mineyama Plateau Foothills Course, Tomine Plateau Foothills Course
Please check the website "Kamikawa Tourism Navi" for details.
Closed on: Other than the seasons mentioned above

HP

NIPPONIA Harima Fukusaki LibraryFukusaki Town

"NIPPONIA Harima Fukusaki Library" offers a variety of services, including accommodation, restaurants, cafes, and weddings.
The "Miki Family Residence," said to be the place where Kunio Yanagita, the father of Japanese folklore studies, immersed himself in books at the age of 11 and laid the foundation for his scholarship, and the guest rooms, which have been renovated from the "Former Tsujikawa Post Office," a nationally registered tangible cultural property, house a collection of approximately 1,000 books, including those related to folklore and yokai (supernatural beings).
You can enjoy a sophisticated course lunch at this restaurant, which focuses on using locally sourced ingredients, and day trips are also welcome.
The venue, with its elegant setting over 300 years old, is attracting attention from couples who want to hold a truly unique wedding ceremony.

location: 1106 Nishitahara, Fukusaki-cho, Kanzaki-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: NIPPONIA Harima Fukusaki Library 0120-293-958
Business Hours: [Accommodation] Thursday to Monday
[Restaurant] Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM (Last Order 1:30 PM)
*Reservations required at least two days in advance.
Closed on: Tuesday and Wednesday

Yamasa Kamaboko's Moss PhloxHimeji City

Since its founding in 1916, Yamasa Kamaboko has been a staple on Himeji's dinner tables. At its headquarters factory in Yumemae-cho, moss phlox blooms in profusion every year from mid-April to Golden Week, attracting many visitors. The approximately 210,000 moss phlox plants planted on a 6,500 square meter site are truly breathtaking. The fact that admission is free is another great point.
The "moss phlox path" on the grounds is full of photo opportunities. If you spot the "Sacchan" statue, the mascot character of Yamasa Kamaboko along the way, don't forget to take a commemorative photo with the moss phlox.
If you're feeling a little hungry, head to the kamaboko (fish cake) workshop "Yumesenkan". Be sure to try their hugely popular one-handed gourmet treat, "Jokamachi Dog" (180 yen).

location: 327-16 Okimoto, Yumemae-cho, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: Yamasa Kamaboko General Affairs Department 079-335-1055
Business Hours: 9：00〜17：00
Closed on: Open every day (except during the New Year holidays)
Entry materials: free
parking: It's informative.

Nishi HarimaList of spring outing spots

Local spring cuisine

Nishi-Harima sansho pepper

Ako Salt

Hormone-yaki udon

Tazumi eggs

Enshin Morodon

Light soy sauce

Outings, experiences, and scenic spots

Himeji Castle

Akaho Seaside Park

Koto Tulip Garden

Clam digging

Ieshima Canoe

Amagaya Tatara Park

Nyunyu Workshop

Fireflies of Yasutomi

Peiron Festival

Kamikawa Town Cycling

NIPPONIA Harima Fukusaki Library

Yamasa Kamaboko's Moss Phlox

We're showcasing the charms of West Harima!

Nishi-Harima sansho pepperShiso City, Tatsuno City, Taishi Town

Ako SaltAko City

Hormone-yaki udonSayo Town

Tazumi eggsIchikawa Town

Enshin MorodonKamigori Town

Light soy sauceTatsuno City

Himeji CastleHimeji City

Himeji Castle

Akaho Seaside ParkAko City

Hyogo Prefectural Akaho Seaside Park

Koto Tulip GardenKamigori Town

Koto Tulip Garden

Clam diggingTatsuno City

Shinmaiko Clam Digging Area

Ieshima CanoeHimeji City

Hyogo Prefectural Ieshima Nature Experience Center

Amagaya Tatara ParkShiso City

Tatara Village Learning Center

Nyunyu WorkshopIchikawa Town

Nyunyu Workshop

Fireflies of YasutomiHimeji City

Peiron FestivalAioi City

Aioi Peiron Festival

Kamikawa Town CyclingKamikawa Town

Kamikawa Town Cycling

NIPPONIA Harima Fukusaki LibraryFukusaki Town

NIPPONIA Harima Fukusaki Library

Yamasa Kamaboko's Moss PhloxHimeji City

Yamasa Kamaboko (Kamaboko Workshop Yumekan)