West HarimanoList of summer outing spots
Sunflowers blooming vigorously in the sunlight, and an observatory where you can gaze upon a starry sky,
Enjoy refreshing water activities and other nature-inspired activities! Get into the summer mood with cool gourmet food and refreshing sweets.
Local summer gourmet
Outings, experiences, and scenic spots
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Nanko Sunflower Fields
Sayo Town
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Lake Otomizu Canoe Club
Shiso City
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Mount Juwa Komyo-ji Temple
Sayo Town
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Himeji Central Park
Himeji City
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Himeji Kanbeido
Himeji City
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Yodel Forest
Kamikawa Town
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Sakarita (Sarita)
Ako City
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Nishi-Harima Astronomical Observatory
Sayo Town
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Glass Studio Toki
Kamigori Town
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Refresh Park Ichikawa
Ichikawa Town
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Craterus Tatsuno
Tatsuno City
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Somen Village
Tatsuno City
Hand-stretched somen noodles, IbonoitoTatsuno City
Ibonoito is a hand-pulled somen noodle that is familiar from the commercial "Somen, Ibonoito is the best!". Made with carefully selected ingredients and using a traditional hand-pulled method that has been passed down for about 600 years, it is a specialty of Tatsuno City. There are several grades depending on the quality of the flour, the thinness of the noodles, and the time of production, and these are indicated by the color of the band that binds the noodles. The special grade with a black band is made using high-quality flour and is made thinner by selected craftsmen during the cold season, making it a great gift for midsummer gifts.
Somen noodles are an essential part of the summer dinner table, but they can be enjoyed all year round as they complement any Japanese, Western, or Chinese cuisine. Because they are so easy to prepare, somen noodles have recently become popular in various recipes, such as "somen bento" and "outdoor somen." The official website of "Ibonoito" has a wide variety of recipes available for use as reference for meal planning.
■ Main sales locations
- ・Ibonoito Museum Somen VillageMAP
Prince FigTaishi Town
Taishi figs began to be cultivated around 1975. The Taishi Fig Committee, which aims to improve cultivation techniques and quality, is at the forefront of cultivation, and they are grown throughout the town as a specialty of Taishi. Grown in a warm climate with a focus on freshness, sugar content, and color, Taishi figs are known for their freshness and sweetness. Figs are harvested at dawn and sold that same day at the Fureai Market (sold from August to October) located on the grounds of 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 offered at Japanese and Western confectionery shops in the town. Be sure to try the "Taishi Figs" that Taishi Town proudly recommends.
■ Main sales locations
- ・Taishi Town Hall Agricultural Products Sales Center "Fureai Market"MAP
Oysters and whitebaitAko City
Oysters are famous as a winter delicacy, but in Ako City they can be enjoyed in the summer as well. As temperatures rise, oysters begin preparing to spawn, so they were previously considered unsuitable for consumption. However, oyster farmers in Ako and Sakae began developing oysters that could be enjoyed in the summer, and in 2012, "Natsumi Oysters" were born. Oysters are in season from June to August, and are characterized by their large, rich, sweet flesh that rivals winter oysters. They can be enjoyed for a limited time at restaurants in the city.
Also, be sure to check out the whitebait, which is caught every year from late April to around November. In addition to the refreshing whitebait rice bowl served with condiments and soy sauce, there is also the fresh raw whitebait, characterized by its translucent appearance. Be sure to visit Ako this summer and enjoy the bounty of the sea.
conger eelHimeji City
Conger eel is in season in early summer. You can enjoy high-quality conger eel in Himeji City, which faces the Seto Inland Sea and the Harima Nada Sea. Because they grow in nutrient-rich sandy soil created by rapid currents, they boast thick flesh without the smell of mud. The firm flesh and high-quality fat give them a light taste, making them a great complement to a variety of dishes. In addition to grilled conger eel smothered in a generous amount of special sauce, you can also enjoy it in tempura, sashimi, conger eel sushi, and more, so you can have fun trying them in a variety of dishes and finding your favorite.
In recent years, the catch has decreased, so it has an image of being expensive, but it's something you'll want to try at least once. You can eat it at Japanese restaurants in Himeji City, and you can also purchase processed conger eel products at souvenir shops. If you're sightseeing in Himeji, be sure to stop by and enjoy the taste of early summer.
Mochimugi (functional food, Hyogo recommended brand)Fukusaki Town
Mochimugi, a type of barley, is sticky and has a chewier texture than regular barley. Among the many varieties, Mochimugi grown in Fukusaki is of the highest quality, boasting a fragrant barley aroma and a chewy texture. Mochimugi noodles in particular are a local specialty 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 the traditional stone mill method, are smooth and satisfying to eat. In the summer, we recommend enjoying them in a refreshing zaru noodle dish with ginger and grated daikon radish.
At the Mochimugi no Yakata specialty store in Fukusaki Town, you can observe the noodle-making process. The shop sells dorayaki and castella cakes made with mochimugi, as well as sweets such as mochimugi soft serve (large, 300 yen). At the restaurant, you can enjoy not only noodles but also a great deal of mochimugi soft serve after your meal. Be sure to stop by to try out the flavor you're interested in.
■ Main sales locations
- ・Mochimugi no YakataMAP
Yano MelonAioi City
"Yano Melon" is a rare brand produced only by seven farms in Yano-cho, Aioi City. Characterized by their long, vertical silhouette and sweet, thick flesh, each melon is labeled with a sticker indicating when it's ripe to eat. The fresh juice that spills out the moment you cut it is so juicy you won't want to waste a single drop. To enjoy the sweetness even more, chill it for 2-3 hours before eating. It's perfect for home use, or as a mid-year gift or other special occasion.
It is only available for about two weeks each year, from late June to early July. It is so popular that people line up at the direct sales store even before it opens. Another great thing about it is that it is reasonably priced among melon brands. Please try this exquisite summer gift, known as the "phantom melon."
Nanko Sunflower FieldsSayo Town
The Nanko area of Sayo Town boasts hundreds of thousands of sunflowers, one of the largest in the Kansai region. By cultivating sunflowers at staggered times across four districts, you can enjoy the sunflowers for a relatively long period of time, from early July to early August. The spectacular view of the sunflowers spreading out like a yellow carpet is sure to imprint itself in your memory. Every year, the Nanko Sunflower Festival is held around Nanko Sports Park. Enjoy Sayo Town gourmet food at the tent village selling local products, play in the sunflower maze, and compare sunflowers from around the world, all in a new way to enjoy this summer tradition. Check the official Sayo Town Hall website for the event dates and times.
After viewing the sunflowers, stop by the Nanko Sunflower Museum. They have a selection of light and refreshing products perfect for hot summer days, such as sunflower oil, a specialty made from pesticide-free sunflowers, and sunflower dressing.
- location
- Around Nanko Sports Park, 839 Hayashizaki, Sayo-cho, Sayo-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
- telephone number
- 0790-82-2521
- Opening hours
- Early July to early August
8：30〜17：00 - Closed days
- Other than the above seasons
Nanko Sunflower Fields
Lake Otomizu Canoe ClubShiso City
Onzuiko Canoe Club is one of the few places in Hyogo Prefecture where you can experience lake activities. From the classic kayak to the giant SUP, where up to eight people paddle across the water, there are plenty of activities you can enjoy with your partner, friends, or family. The waves are fewer than at sea, making it easy for beginners. If you're nervous, there are plans with lessons, so check them out. One activity that's been particularly popular recently is "shower climbing." It's an activity where you climb up a mountain stream, jump off rocks, and feel the summer with your whole body. Even small children can have fun participating. Why not embark on an extraordinary adventure amidst beautiful nature? (Reservations are recommended at least one month in advance.)
- location
- 328-44 Hikihara, Hagacho, Shiso City, Hyogo Prefecture
- telephone number
- 0790-73-0336
- Opening hours
- Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and during the summer vacation period
9:00-17:00 (last admission 15:45) - Closed days
- Monday to Friday
*Open every day on public holidays and during the summer vacation period
Lake Otomizu Canoe Club
Mount Juwa Komyo-ji TempleSayo Town
In the summer, the refreshing sounds of wind chimes resonate at Juwayama Komyo-ji Temple in Hirafuku, Sayo Town. The Wind Chime Festival, held every year from July to September within the temple grounds, features around 3,000 colorful wind chimes and paper cranes dancing about, making it a popular Instagram photo spot on social media. Also noteworthy are the numerous owl ornaments enshrined within the temple grounds. Also known as the "Owl Temple," which brings good fortune, you can encounter a variety of owls, from cute to brave. Apparently, an owl stamp is also included on the temple seals.
There are also plenty of other unique lucky charms to enjoy strolling around, such as chairs where you can make wishes and votive plaques with the character for "yaku" (bad luck) carved into them to ward off bad luck. The head priest, who says he "loves to entertain people," has a playful spirit that will naturally bring a smile to your face and give you energy.
- location
- 149 Hirafuku, Sayo-cho, Sayo-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
- telephone number
- 0790-83-2646
Mount Juwa Komyo-ji Temple
Himeji Central ParkHimeji City
Himeji Central Park, affectionately known locally as "Hime Sen," is a theme park representing the Kansai region. The vast grounds include a safari park and an amusement park, as well as a pool in the summer and ice skating in the winter, making it a popular spot that can be enjoyed all year round.
The drive-through safari will have you excited as you get up close and personal with the impressive lions and tigers in the wild animal area! You'll encounter herds of herbivores and be amazed at the size of the giraffes and rhinos. Aquaria is a great place to visit with your family during summer vacation. It's one of the largest resort pools in western Japan, with four unique pools and a variety of thrilling slides. Why not head to Princess Sen, where everyone can have fun, and create memories with your family and loved ones?
- location
- 1434 Okura, Kamiya, Toyotomi-cho, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture
- telephone number
- 079-264-1611
- Opening hours
- 10:00-17:00 (subject to change)
- Closed days
- Please check the official website for opening hours and closing days.
Himeji Central Park
Himeji KanbeidoHimeji City
Himeji Kanbeido is a shaved ice specialty shop located in Miyuki-dori Shopping Street in front of Himeji Station. You can enjoy shaved ice all year round, and it's a popular shop that attracts both locals and foreign tourists. The secret to its popularity is the fluffy texture of the ice. Apparently, the shop travels to Yamanashi Prefecture every year to personally source this rare natural ice, which can only be obtained using traditional Japanese techniques. The syrup is handmade using seasonal fruits without any additives or flavorings.
There are usually 7 to 10 different items on the menu. If you can't decide, try the signature "Strawberry Mascarpone" (1,600 yen). The espuma topping gives off a subtle mascarpone cheese aroma the moment it melts in your mouth. They also have a variety of other cute treats you'll want to take photos of, such as shaved ice decorated with colorful oiri. Be sure to stop by when you visit Himeji Castle.
- location
- 2nd floor, 48 Nikaicho, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture (Miyuki Street Shopping Arcade)
- telephone number
- 079-288-1000
- Opening hours
- 11:00-18:00 (Ends when syrup runs out)
*Business hours may vary during autumn and winter, so please check Instagram. - Closed days
- Irregular holidays
*Check on Instagram
Himeji Kanbeido Shaved Ice Made with Natural Ice
Yodel ForestKamikawa Town
Yodel Forest is surrounded by the rich nature of Kamikawa Town. Inside the park, you can interact with around 60 types of cute animals and there are plenty of attractions that will keep both adults and children entertained. The flower fields that spread across the vast grounds are filled with colorful seasonal flowers in full bloom. In the summer, you can see sunflowers and yellow cosmos.
There is also a splash pool that uses the natural flow of the river. There are changing rooms and showers, so you can forget about the heat and have fun to your heart's content.
There are also craft experiences that are perfect for summer vacation crafts or as a travel memory, and "animal bread making" that children can easily try. If you come with friends or family, you're sure to have an active day! Why not go out and make some fun summer memories?
- location
- 1868 Inoshino, Kamikawa-cho, Kanzaki-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
- telephone number
- 0790-32-2911
- Opening hours
- [Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, spring break, Golden Week, Obon period] 9:30-17:30
(November) 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
(December to February) 10:30 to 17:00
[Weekdays] 10:00-16:30 - Closed days
- March to November: Wednesdays (open during spring break, Golden Week, and summer holidays)
December to February: Weekdays (open during winter holidays)
Kanzaki Rural Park Yodel Forest
Sakarita (Sarita)Ako City
Sakarita is a Western-style pastry shop located in Sakae, Ako City. It specializes in the traditional Neapolitan pastry "Aragosta," which is a pie dough called "tappi" filled with custard cream. The shop has created many pie pastries with unique shapes and flavors, and is a famous shop that attracts many tourists from far and wide.
The restaurant is located on a main street lined with old houses in Sakae, where the port townscape remains. The restaurant is a renovated old house that is over 70 years old and has a charming atmosphere.
We recommend the "Fresh Milk Soft Serve" (518 yen) as a great accompaniment to your stroll. Using "Aragosta" instead of corn, the crispy pie crust and rich milk soft serve ice cream go perfectly together. There are also limited-time sweets on the menu, such as ones with seasonal fruits. There are plenty of menus that look great on social media, so why not take some photos to commemorate your trip to Ako?
- location
- 2083 Sakakoshi, Ako City, Hyogo Prefecture
- telephone number
- 0791-48-8658
- Opening hours
- 10：00～17：00
- Closed days
- Every Tuesday, 1st Wednesday, 3rd Monday
Sakarita (Sarita)
Nishi-Harima Astronomical ObservatorySayo Town
Nishi-Harima Astronomical Observatory is a public observatory where you can enjoy stargazing through the Nayuta Telescope, the world's largest telescope open to the public. Surrounded by lush nature, why not contemplate the sparkling starry sky? You might even be able to observe the "Summer Triangle," a seasonal feature of the summer night sky. Don't miss the "Nighttime Astronomical Observation Event," where you can observe the night sky through the Nayuta Telescope. Public observation events are held on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, allowing daytime stargazing. Guest observation events are also held every night, exclusively for guests staying at the facility. Bringing the whole family is sure to create wonderful memories over the summer vacation. It's also recommended for children's independent research projects. Experience a starry sky that isn't artificial, but is "real." Reservations are required for some events, so check the official website for details. (Photo courtesy of Nishi-Harima Astronomical Observatory, University of Hyogo)
- location
- 407-2 Nishikawachi, Sayo-cho, Sayo-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
- telephone number
- 0790-82-3886
- Opening hours
- 9:00-21:00 (building tours available until 18:00)
- Closed days
- 2nd and 4th Monday of every month
*If a public holiday falls on a Monday, the following day
University of Hyogo Nishi-Harima Astronomical Observatory
Glass Studio TokiKamigori Town
Glass crafts have a cool yet vibrant color that gives off a warm impression. At Glass Studio Toki in Kamigori Town, Ako District, you can try your hand at glassblowing. Choose from 50 different colors and 10 different shapes to create glasses, vases, small bowls, and more. The process of rolling molten glass in a furnace heated to 1,200 degrees, adding color and decorations, and then blowing it into life is almost like handling a living creature. Because it is a process using delicate glass that cannot be redone, the joy of seeing your one-of-a-kind original work come to life is all the more special. We recommend this glassblowing experience for yourself or as a gift for family and friends.
The instructor is a professional craftsman who has won numerous awards, and is known for his careful, one-on-one instruction. Experience the joy of creating a one-of-a-kind, original piece. Reservations are required in advance by phone or email.
- location
- 837 Kamigori, Kamigori-cho, Ako-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
- telephone number
- 0791-52-1830
- Opening hours
- 9：30～18：00
- Closed days
- Irregular holidays
Glass Studio Toki
Refresh Park IchikawaIchikawa Town
Refresh Park Ichikawa is a complex that brings together campsites, cottages, accommodations, hot springs, and more. Surrounded by greenery, you can experience active leisure activities that will blow away the fatigue of your mind and body while immersing yourself in nature. There is also the Forest Playground, which has a variety of athletic play equipment, and the Insect Exhibition Room. In addition, only during the summer, there is the Rhinoceros Beetle Dome, where rhinoceros beetles are allowed to roam freely in the forest! You can observe and touch the beetles. You can also purchase rhinoceros beetles at the gift shop. Be sure to visit this park for your children's summer vacation outing.
There is also a restaurant on the premises, and they aim to provide heartwarming hospitality that will remind you of home. You can also have a barbecue at the campsite or cottages, so why not spend some quality time with your family after playing?
- location
- 2557-1 Shimoushio, Ichikawa-cho, Kanzaki-gun, Hyogo Prefecture
- telephone number
- 0790-27-0313
- Opening hours
- 9：00～18：00
- Closed days
- Every Tuesday, December 31st to January 2nd
Refresh Park Ichikawa
Craterus TatsunoTatsuno City
Located in Tatsuno Castle Town, the Soy Sauce Village Taisho Roman Museum is a landmark spot in the Important Preservation District. It provides information about the local industry and other regional information.
At Kura Terrace Tatsuno, located on the premises, you can enjoy a meal at the locally produced cafe and purchase souvenirs. The cafe's popular dishes include the Chef's Choice 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 thread, and leather goods. Nationwide shipping is available, making it a great gift for someone far away.
Also, at Kawaraya, a sister store located in the same town, you can eat "Tatsuno Soy Sauce Soft Serve Ice Cream" (380 yen) made with Tatsuno soy sauce. Why not stop by while strolling around the castle town?
- location
- 126 Kamikashiro, Tatsuno-cho, Tatsuno City, Hyogo Prefecture
- telephone number
- 0791-72-9291
- Opening hours
- Shop 10:00-17:00
Lunch 11:30-14:00
Cafe 10:00-16:30 - Closed days
- Monday
Craterus Tatsuno
Somen VillageTatsuno City
Somen no Sato is a museum where you can learn about the history and manufacturing process of hand-stretched somen noodles, Ibonoito. In addition to recreating the process of making somen noodles in the Meiji era using life-size dolls, the museum is designed to allow children to learn about history and culture in a fun way through videos and quizzes.
The restaurant "Iori" inside the museum serves a variety of somen dishes from Japanese, Western and Chinese cuisine, including local adaptations of "Tai Somen" and "Somen Roll Sushi." The classic "Somen Nagashi" and the "Slider Somen Nagashi," which is extremely popular with children, are also being held for a limited time. Once you've had your fill, don't forget to pick up some souvenirs. The shop has a wide selection of Tatsuno City specialties, including Ibonoito somen, hiyamugi, and udon, as well as soy sauce and local sake. Learn, eat, and have fun! Come visit the museum where you can enjoy a variety of experiences.
- location
- 56 Okumura, Kamioka-cho, Tatsuno City, Hyogo Prefecture
- telephone number
- 0791-65-9000
- Opening hours
- 9:00-17:00 (last admission 16:30)
Restaurant hours: 11:00-21:00 (last orders 20:00) - Closed days
- Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday), New Year's holidays