List of summer outing spots in Nishi-Harima

Hand-stretched somen noodles, IbonoitoTatsuno City

Ibonoito, the hand-stretched somen noodles familiar from the TV commercial "Somen, it's gotta be Ibonoito♪", is a specialty product of Tatsuno City, made using carefully selected ingredients and a traditional hand-stretching method that has been passed down for approximately 600 years. There are several grades depending on the quality of the wheat flour, the thickness of the noodles, and the time of manufacture, and this is indicated by the color of the band that bundles the noodles. The top-grade product with a black band uses high-quality wheat flour and is a masterpiece made by selected artisans to make the noodles even thinner during the colder months, making it an excellent gift for occasions such as Obon (mid-year gift-giving).
Somen noodles are an essential part of summer meals, but they go well with Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine, so you can enjoy them all year round. Because they're so easy to prepare, recently, variations like "somen bento" (somen lunch boxes) and "outdoor somen" have become popular. The official Ibonoito website offers a variety of recipes to inspire your menu.

■Main sales locations

Ibonoito Museum, Somen VillageMAP

Taishi FigTaishi Town

"Taishi figs," whose cultivation began around 1975, are now grown throughout Taishi Town as a local specialty. The "Taishi Fig Association" plays a central role in promoting cultivation, aiming to improve cultivation techniques and quality. With a focus on freshness, sugar content, and color, Taishi figs, grown in a warm climate, are characterized by their freshness and sweetness. Figs harvested at dawn are sold the same day at the "Fureai Market" (available from August to October) located on the grounds of the Taishi Town Hall, as well as at nearby supermarkets. Processed products such as "fig jam" can also be purchased at the roadside station.
In addition, sweets made with locally grown figs, such as fig cream puffs, crepes, and pies, have been developed and are available at local Japanese and Western confectionery shops. Be sure to try "Taishi Figs," which Taishi Town proudly recommends.

■Main sales locations

- Taishi Town Hall Agricultural Products Sales Outlet "Fureai Market"MAP

Oysters and whitebaitAko City

Oysters are famous as a winter delicacy, but in Akaho City, you can enjoy them even in summer. Oysters were previously considered unsuitable for consumption as temperatures rise and they begin preparing to spawn. So, oyster farmers in Akaho and Sakoshi began development to create oysters that could be enjoyed even in summer, and in 2012, "Natsumi Oysters" were born. They are in season from June to August and are characterized by their large size, rich flavor, and sweetness, just as good as winter oysters. You can enjoy them for a limited time at restaurants in the city.
Furthermore, be sure to check out the shirasu (whitebait), which is caught from late April to around November each year. In addition to shirasu donburi (rice bowl with shirasu), which is enjoyed simply with condiments and soy sauce, there is also raw shirasu, which has a translucent appearance that can only be enjoyed when it is fresh. Be sure to visit Akaho this summer and enjoy the bounty of the sea.

conger eelHimeji City

Conger eels are in season in early summer. In Himeji City, which faces the Harima Sea in the Seto Inland Sea, you can enjoy high-quality conger eels. Raised in nutrient-rich sandy areas created by strong currents, they boast thick, meaty flesh without any muddy smell. The firm flesh and high-quality fat are light and refreshing, making them suitable for a variety of dishes. In addition to grilled conger eels with plenty of special sauce, you can also enjoy them in tempura, sashimi, conger eel sushi, and more... You'll likely enjoy the time spent trying them in various dishes and finding your favorite.
Although conger eel has a reputation for being expensive due to declining catches in recent years, it's something you should definitely try at least once. You can enjoy it at Japanese restaurants in Himeji, and processed conger eel products can be purchased at souvenir shops. When you visit Himeji, be sure to stop by and savor the taste of early summer.

Mochimugi (Food with Functional Claims, Hyogo Recommended Brand)Fukusaki Town

Mochimugi, a type of barley, is characterized by its stickiness and chewier texture compared to regular barley. Among the many varieties, mochimugi from Fukusaki is of the highest quality, boasting a fragrant barley aroma and firm texture. Mochimugi noodles, in particular, are a specialty product that has received an award from the Director-General of the Food Distribution Bureau of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. The noodles, milled using traditional stone milling methods, have a smooth texture and are very satisfying. In the summer, it is recommended to enjoy them as zaru noodles with ginger and grated daikon radish for a refreshing taste.
At "Mochimugi no Yakata," a specialty product center in Fukusaki Town, you can even take a tour of the noodle-making process. The shop sells sweets made with "mochimugi" (glutinous barley), such as dorayaki (red bean paste pancakes), castella (sponge cake), and "mochimugi soft serve ice cream" (large size, 300 yen). At the restaurant, you can enjoy not only noodles but also "mochimugi soft serve ice cream" at a great price after your meal. Be sure to visit and try the flavors for yourself!

■Main sales locations

・Mochimugi no YakataMAP

Yano MelonAioi City

"Yano Melon" is a rare brand produced by only seven farmers in Yano-cho, Aioi City. Characterized by its elongated shape and sweet, thick flesh, each melon has a sticker indicating its ripeness. The juicy fruit bursts forth the moment you cut it open, so juicy you won't want to waste a single drop. Chilling it 2-3 hours before eating enhances its sweetness even further. It's perfect for personal enjoyment, and would also make a wonderful mid-year gift or present.
The distribution period is only about two weeks each year, from late June to early July. It's so popular that lines form at the direct sales outlets even before they open. Another appealing point is that it's reasonably priced compared to other melon brands. Try this exquisite summer delicacy, known as the "phantom melon," at least once.

■Main sales locations

・Michi-no-Eki Aioi HakuryujoMAP
Rakan no SatoMAP
Cosmos VillageMAP

Nanko Sunflower FieldSayo Town

In the Nanko area of Sayo Town, hundreds of thousands of sunflowers, one of the largest displays in the Kansai region, bloom in profusion. By staggering the cultivation times in four different districts, visitors can enjoy the flowers for a relatively long period, from early July to early August. Take in the breathtaking sight of the sunflowers spreading out like a carpet of yellow. Every year, the Nanko Sunflower Festival is held around Nanko Sports Park. You can enjoy Sayo Town's gourmet food at the local product sales tent village, play in a sunflower maze, compare sunflowers from around the world, and fully enjoy this summer tradition in new ways. Check the Sayo Town Hall official website for event dates and times.
After admiring the sunflowers, be sure to stop by the Nanko Sunflower Hall. You'll find specialty products like sunflower oil, made from organically grown sunflowers, and sunflower dressing—items that are perfect for a refreshing summer meal.

location: 839 Hayashizaki, Sayo-cho, Sayo-gun, Hyogo Prefecture (near Nanko Sports Park)
telephone number: 0790-82-2521
Business Hours: Early July to early August
8：30〜17：00
Closed on: Other than the seasons mentioned above

Onsuiko Canoe ClubShiso City

Onzuiko Canoe Club is one of the few places in Hyogo Prefecture where you can experience lake activities. They offer a wide variety of activities that can be enjoyed with your loved ones, friends, or family, from classic kayaking to giant SUPs that can accommodate up to eight people paddling across the water. The water is calmer than the sea, making it a great option for beginners. If you're feeling apprehensive, there are also lesson plans available, so be sure to check them out. Shower climbing has recently become a hot topic. It's an activity where you can experience summer with your whole body, climbing up streams and jumping from rocks. Even small children can enjoy participating. Why not embark on an extraordinary adventure amidst beautiful nature? (Reservations recommended at least one month in advance)

location: 328-44 Hikihara, Haga-cho, Shiso City, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 0790-73-0336
Business Hours: Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and during the summer vacation period
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry at 3:45 PM)
Closed on: Monday to Friday
*Open every day on public holidays and during the summer vacation period.

Jūrinzan Kōmyōji TempleSayo Town

At Komyoji Temple in Hirafuku, Sayo Town, the refreshing sound of wind chimes rings out in the summer. Every year from July to September, the temple holds a "Wind Chime Festival" where approximately 3,000 colorful wind chimes and origami cranes dance, creating a photogenic scene that's become a hot topic on social media. Also noteworthy are the numerous owl figurines enshrined on the temple grounds. Known as the "Owl Temple" for bringing good fortune, you can encounter a variety of owls, from cute to fierce-looking. Apparently, even the temple's official stamp (goshuin) features an owl design.
There are also chairs where you can make wishes, and votive tablets with the character for "bad luck" carved out to ward off bad luck, making for a fun and unique stroll. This is a place where you can naturally feel a smile and positive energy, thanks to the playful spirit of the head priest who "loves to entertain people."

location: 149 Hirafuku, Sayo-cho, Sayo-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 0790-83-2646

Himeji Central ParkHimeji City

Himeji Central Park, affectionately known as "Hime-Sen" by locals, is one of Kansai's leading theme parks. Its vast grounds include a safari park and an amusement park, and with swimming pools in the summer and ice skating in the winter, it's a popular spot that can be enjoyed year-round.
At the drive-through safari, you can get up close and personal with awe-inspiring lions and tigers in the carnivore area, creating an exciting atmosphere inside your vehicle! You'll also encounter herds of herbivores and be amazed by the size of giraffes and rhinos. For a family summer vacation, check out "Aquaria," one of the largest resort pools in western Japan, featuring four unique pools and a variety of thrilling slides. Himeji Central Park offers something for everyone to enjoy, so why not head there and create lasting memories with your family and loved ones?

location: 1434 Okura, Kamiya, Tomitomi-cho, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 079-264-1611
Business Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (subject to change)
Closed on: Please check the official website for opening hours and closing days.

Himeji Kanbei-doHimeji City

Himeji Kanbeido is a shaved ice specialty shop located in the Miyuki-dori shopping arcade in front of Himeji Station. You can enjoy shaved ice all year round, and it's a popular spot not only for locals but also for foreign tourists. The secret to its popularity is the fluffy texture of the ice. They personally source rare natural ice, which can only be obtained using traditional Japanese techniques, from Yamanashi Prefecture every year. The syrups are handmade using seasonal fruits without any additives or artificial flavors.
The menu always features 7 to 10 items. If you're unsure what to choose, go for their signature "Strawberry Mascarpone" (1,600 yen). The espuma topping melts in your mouth, releasing a subtle aroma of mascarpone cheese. They also offer other visually appealing shaved ice treats, such as those adorned with colorful rice crackers, perfect for taking photos! Be sure to stop by when you visit Himeji Castle.

location: 48 Nikaicho, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture, 2nd floor (within Miyuki-dori Shopping Arcade)
telephone number: 079-288-1000
Business Hours: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (or until syrup runs out)
*Please check our Instagram as opening hours may vary during the fall and winter seasons.
Closed on: Irregular holidays
*Check on Instagram

Yodel ForestKamikawa Town

"Yodel no Mori" (Yodel Forest) is surrounded by the rich nature of Kamikawa Town. Within the park, you can interact with approximately 60 different kinds of adorable animals, and there are plenty of attractions that will captivate both adults and children. The vast flower fields spread across the grounds are filled with the vibrant colors of seasonal flowers. In the summer, you can see sunflowers and yellow cosmos.
There's also a splash pool that utilizes the natural flow of the river. With changing rooms and showers available, you can forget about the heat and have a blast.
Perfect for summer vacation crafts or creating travel memories, we regularly hold craft experiences, including "animal bread making" that even children can easily try. If you visit with friends or family, you're guaranteed to have an active day! Why not head out and create some fun summer memories?

location: 1868 Inosasa, Kamikawa-cho, Kanzaki-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 0790-32-2911
Business Hours: [Weekends, public holidays, spring break, Golden Week, Obon period] 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
(November) 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
(December to February) 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM

[Weekdays] 10:00 - 16:30
Closed on: March to November: Closed on Wednesdays (Open during spring break, Golden Week, and summer holidays)
December to February: Weekdays (Open during winter holidays)

Sariita SakamotoAko City

Sakarita is a Western-style confectionery shop located in Sakoshi, Ako City. It specializes in "Aragosta," a traditional Neapolitan pastry consisting of custard cream inside a pastry dough called "tappi." The shop has created many pastries with unique shapes and flavors, and is a popular spot that attracts many tourists from far away.
Located on a main street lined with old houses in Sakagoshi, a town that retains its port townscape, this shop is worth checking out for its charming atmosphere, which comes from a renovated old house that is over 70 years old.
For a stroll, we recommend the "Fresh Milk Soft Serve" (518 yen). Instead of a cone, it uses "Aragosta" pastry, and the crispy pastry and rich milk soft serve ice cream are a perfect match. There are also seasonal sweets, including some with different fruits. There are plenty of Instagrammable items, so why not take a photo of them along with your memories of your trip to Akaho?

location: 2083 Sakoshi, Ako City, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 0791-48-8658
Business Hours: 10：00～17：00
Closed on: Every Tuesday, the first Wednesday, and the third Monday

Nishi-Harima Astronomical ObservatorySayo Town

The Nishi-Harima Astronomical Observatory, a public observatory, boasts the world's largest telescope open to the public, the "Nayuta Telescope," where visitors can enjoy astronomical observations. Surrounded by abundant nature, why not gaze upon the glittering starry sky? You might even be able to observe the "Summer Triangle," a quintessential summer night sky phenomenon. Pay attention to the "Nighttime Astronomical Observation Sessions" where you can observe the night sky with the "Nayuta Telescope." In addition to "General Observation Sessions" held on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, where you can observe astronomical objects on a day trip, there are also "Observation Sessions for Overnight Guests" held every night exclusively for those staying at the facility. Participating with your family is sure to create wonderful summer vacation memories. It's also recommended for children's summer research projects. Experience the "real" starry sky, not an artificial one. Some sessions require reservations, so check the official website for details. (Photo courtesy of Hyogo Prefectural University Nishi-Harima Astronomical Observatory)

location: 407-2 Nishikawachi, Sayo-cho, Sayo-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 0790-82-3886
Business Hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Building tours available until 6:00 PM)
Closed on: Every second and fourth Monday of the month
*If it is a public holiday, it will be the following day.

Glass Studio TokiKamigori Town

Glass art pieces, while cool and refreshing, also give off a warm and inviting impression with their vibrant colors. At "Glass Studio Toki" in Kamigori-cho, Ako-gun, you can experience glassblowing. Choose from 50 colors and 10 shapes to create glasses, vases, small bowls, and more. The process of wrapping molten glass in a furnace heated to 1,200 degrees, adding color and decorations, and blowing air into it feels almost like working with a living thing. Because it's a delicate process with no room for error, the joy of creating a one-of-a-kind original piece is all the more special. It's perfect for yourself, or as a gift for family and friends.
The instructor is a professional craftsman with numerous awards, and is renowned for his meticulous one-on-one instruction. Experience the joy of creating a one-of-a-kind piece that is uniquely yours. Reservations are required in advance by phone or email.

location: 837 Kamigori, Kamigori-cho, Ako-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 0791-52-1830
Business Hours: 9：30～18：00
Closed on: Irregular holidays

Refresh Park IchikawaIchikawa Town

Refresh Park Ichikawa is a complex facility that brings together campsites, cottages, accommodations, and hot springs. Surrounded by greenery, it offers an active leisure experience that will blow away the fatigue of your mind and body while feeling close to nature. There is a "Forest Playground" with athletic equipment and an "Insect Exhibition Room". Furthermore, during the summer only, the "Beetle Dome" appears, where rhinoceros beetles are released into the forest! You can observe and touch the beetles. You can also purchase beetles at the shop. Be sure to visit for a summer outing with your children.
The property also includes a restaurant, and they strive to provide heartwarming hospitality that evokes a sense of home. You can also have a barbecue at the campsite or cottages, so after a day of fun, why not spend some quality time with your family?

location: 2557-1 Shimogushio, Ichikawa-cho, Kanzaki-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 0790-27-0313
Business Hours: 9：00～18：00
Closed on: Every Tuesday, December 31st - January 2nd

Kuraterasu TatsunoTatsuno City

Located in the castle town of Tatsuno, the "Shoyu no Sato Taisho Roman-kan" is a landmark in the Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. It provides information about local industries and other regional topics in Tatsuno City.
At "Kura Terrace Tatsuno" on the premises, you can enjoy meals at a locally sourced cafe and purchase souvenirs. Popular items at the cafe include the "Chef's Choice Deli Lunch" (1,100 yen), which uses plenty of local ingredients, and the "Original Gelato" (single 400 yen, double 570 yen). The attached shop stocks local specialties such as light soy sauce, Ibonoito noodles, and leather goods. Nationwide shipping is also available, making it a great option for gifts to those far away.
Also, at its sister store "Kawaraya" located in the same town, you can enjoy "Tatsuno Soy Sauce Soft Serve Ice Cream" (380 yen), made with Tatsuno soy sauce. Why not stop by while strolling through the castle town?

location: 126 Kamikajo, Tatsuno-cho, Tatsuno City, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 0791-72-9291
Business Hours: Shop hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Lunch 11:30 - 14:00
Cafe 10:00 - 16:30
Closed on: Monday

Somen VillageTatsuno City

"Somen no Sato" is a museum where visitors can learn about the history and manufacturing process of hand-stretched somen noodles, "Ibonoito." In addition to recreating the somen-making process of the Meiji era with life-sized mannequins, the museum is designed to allow children to learn about history and culture in a fun way through videos and quizzes.
The museum's restaurant, "Iori," offers a variety of Japanese, Western, and Chinese somen noodle dishes, including "Tai Somen" (sea bream somen) and "Somen Maki Sushi" (somen rolled sushi), which are adaptations of local cuisine. The classic "Somen Nagashi" (flowing somen noodles) and the popular "Slider Somen Nagashi" (flowing somen noodles on a slider) are also available for a limited time. Don't forget to pick up some souvenirs after you've had your fill. The gift shop offers a wide selection of Tatsuno City's specialties, including Ibonoito somen, hiyamugi, and udon noodles, as well as soy sauce and local sake. Learn, eat, and have fun! Come visit the museum where you can have a variety of experiences.

location: 56 Okumura, Kamioka-cho, Tatsuno City, Hyogo Prefecture
telephone number: 0791-65-9000
Business Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
The restaurant is open from 11:00 to 21:00 (last order at 20:00).
Closed on: Closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday), and during the New Year holidays.

Nishi HarimaList of summer outing spots

Summer local cuisine

Hand-stretched somen noodles, Ibonoito

Taishi Fig

Oysters and whitebait

conger eel

Mochimugi (Food with Functional Claims, Hyogo Recommended Brand)

Yano Melon

Outings, experiences, and scenic spots

Nanko Sunflower Field

Onsuiko Canoe Club

Jūrinzan Kōmyōji Temple

Himeji Central Park

Himeji Kanbei-do

Yodel Forest

Sariita Sakamoto

Nishi-Harima Astronomical Observatory

Glass Studio Toki

Refresh Park Ichikawa

Kuraterasu Tatsuno

Somen Village

We're showcasing the charms of West Harima!

Hand-stretched somen noodles, IbonoitoTatsuno City

Taishi FigTaishi Town

Oysters and whitebaitAko City

conger eelHimeji City

Mochimugi (Food with Functional Claims, Hyogo Recommended Brand)Fukusaki Town

Yano MelonAioi City

Nanko Sunflower FieldSayo Town

Nanko Sunflower Field

Onsuiko Canoe ClubShiso City

Onsuiko Canoe Club

Jūrinzan Kōmyōji TempleSayo Town

Jūrinzan Kōmyōji Temple

Himeji Central ParkHimeji City

Himeji Central Park

Himeji Kanbei-doHimeji City

Natural ice shaved ice at Himeji Kanbeido

Yodel ForestKamikawa Town

Kanzaki Rural Park Yodel Forest

Sariita SakamotoAko City

Sariita Sakamoto

Nishi-Harima Astronomical ObservatorySayo Town

Hyogo Prefectural University Nishi-Harima Astronomical Observatory

Glass Studio TokiKamigori Town

Glass Studio Toki

Refresh Park IchikawaIchikawa Town

Refresh Park Ichikawa

Kuraterasu TatsunoTatsuno City

Kuraterasu Tatsuno

Somen VillageTatsuno City

Ibonoito Museum, Somen Village