4D3N Hyogo itinerary for S’poreans who want to explore a different side of Japan

So you have seen Tokyo’s neon lights and Kyoto’s temples, but now it is time for something even better—Hyogo Prefecture.

This is where food is not just a meal, it is an adventure. From melt-in-your-mouth Kobe beef to seafood so fresh it will blow your mind, Hyogo is a food lover’s paradise.

Plus, the stunning mountains, sparkling seas, and charming villages make the perfect backdrop for your culinary journey.

Ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about Japanese cuisine? Here is a 4D3N itinerary. Let’s dive in.

Day 1: Welcome to Kobe – The Heart of Kobe Beef

Check-In: Arriving in Kobe

Start your Hyogo adventure by checking into your base: Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel.

This luxe hotel is all about location—perched right by the water with stunning views of Kobe Port, Kobe’s famous waterfront.

It is a perfect mix of comfort and convenience, with easy access to the best food and sights in the city.

Alternatively, if you're after something a little more traditional, Arima Onsen has plenty of ryokan-style stays, where you can soak in natural hot springs after a day of exploring.

Afternoon: Explore the Best of Kobe

Once you have checked in, take a 10-minute stroll to Kobe Harborland, a waterfront spot for shopping, dining, and views of Kobe Port Tower. It is the perfect place for some sightseeing and a photo with the city skyline.

From there, it is a quick 10-minute walk to Ikuta Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines. Nestled in the heart of the city, it offers a serene break with over 1,800 years of history.

Next, head over to Nankinmachi, Kobe’s Chinatown, just a short walk from Ikuta Shrine. The lively atmosphere hits you with Chinese street food stalls, quirky shops, and the hum of activity. Don’t miss out on the delicious steamed buns and dumplings!

Dinner: Indulge in premium Kobe beef

Begin your culinary journey with a luxurious dinner featuring Kobe beef, known worldwide for its delicate marbling, rich umami, and melt-in-your-mouth texture at Misono Kobe Main Store.

Said to be the originator of teppanyaki steak, you can expect a dining experience steeped in history as you enjoy the skillful grilling techniques, the sizzle of meat on the teppan, and the staff's attentive service.

Day 2: Exploring Tajima cattle and local traditions

Morning: Visit Tajima Pasture Park

Travel to Tajima Pasture Park in Kami Town, the birthplace of Tajima cattle—the ancestors of Kobe beef.

Take a lift to the summit of Mt. Atago for breathtaking views and observe the cattle grazing peacefully.

Want to get up close? You will need to register at the visitor house first—this helps protect the cattle from any potential diseases.

Oh, and if you have just flown in from overseas within the last week, sorry, no petting privileges. It is all about keeping those prized cows healthy!

While you are there, check out the Tajima Cattle Museum, packed with interactive exhibits that dive into the history of these prized cattle.

Guided tours with expert staff are a hit—translation devices are available, so international visitors won’t miss a thing.

Lunch: Dine at Restaurant Furusato

Savor a Tajima beef steak set at Furusato, where you can cook your barbecue-style steak to your liking.

Pro tip: book at least a day in advance—trust us, you do not want to miss out!

Afternoon: Explore Kasumi’s coastal charm

It is time to head to Kasumi, a hidden gem by the Sea of Japan in Hyogo Prefecture.

Ride on the JR San'in Main Line will take you from Kami Town Station to Kasumi Station (30 minutes)—get ready for a beautiful countryside journey as you make your way to the coast.

Once you arrive, you will find Kasumi is a compact, easily walkable town.

Rent a bike from the Kami Town Kasumi Tourism Association near the station for a more leisurely pace. If you prefer, you can also explore the town on foot.

Your first stop should be Okami Park, just a short stroll from the station.

It’s the perfect spot to take in breathtaking views of Kasumi Coast, particularly at sunset.

In spring, the park comes alive with cherry blossoms, while in winter, the powerful waves create dramatic “wave flowers”—a must-see for nature lovers.

Take a break at the Okami Old House Cafe & Rental Space, where you can unwind with a cup of tea while soaking in the stunning scenery.

Next, head to Kasumi Marine Geotaxi for a unique boat tour of the Kasumi Coast, a UNESCO-certified area of the San'in Coast Geopark.

The Geotaxi will resume operation on May 2, 2025, offering scenic tours of the Kasumi Coast that range from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the route.

The tours are guided by experienced local fishermen who take you around the stunning coastline, including hidden caves and volcanic rock formations.

Reservations are recommended, especially if you require English-speaking guides. Book your tickets via the official website.

Dinner: A feast of Kasumi’s legendary crab

You can't miss the legendary Kasumi red snow crab, a regional delicacy caught fresh from the Kasumi fishing port in Hyogo.

This sweet, juicy crab is a local favorite and a must-try for any seafood lover.

The crab season runs from September 1 to May 31, so plan your visit accordingly to experience it at its best.

Head over to Kawai Kasumi Honten in Kami Town, where you can enjoy a variety of crab dishes, including Kasumi crab sashimi, grilled crab miso (crab butter), and ceramic plate-grilled crab. The crab is sourced straight from the port’s daily auctions, ensuring you get the freshest taste of the sea.

Whether you prefer it raw, grilled, or in a hearty crab hot pot, this place serves up an unforgettable crab feast that lets you experience all the rich flavors Kasumi has to offer.

Day 3: Explore Awaji Island and the Akashi Strait

Morning: Crossing the Akashi Strait to Awaji’s culinary treasures

Start your day early by catching a train from Kobe Station, to Himeji station (40 minutes).

Get ready to explore the stunning Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You will find yourself wandering through the castle’s impressive grounds and be sure to climb to the top for jaw-dropping views of the city and surrounding countryside.

After soaking in all that history, take the train to Maiko station (30 minutes). Then, transfer to the Awaji Kōtsū bus for a scenic ride across the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, one of Japan's most iconic landmarks that links Kobe to Awaji Island.

The bridge offers stunning views as you cross the Akashi Strait, known for its clear blue waters and abundant marine life.

Once on Awaji Island, head straight to Ikoi Japanese Cuisine, a top spot for Hamo eel dishes.

Enjoy a full-course meal with sashimi, tempura, soup, and the famed hamo hot pot, which includes tender pieces of eel simmered with local Awaji onions.

Pair this with the island’s famous hand-pulled somen noodles for a complete culinary experience.

Afternoon: Awaji Island highlights

After a delicious meal, head to Awaji Yumebutai, an architectural gem designed by famed architect Tadao Ando.

This sprawling complex beautifully integrates nature with minimalist design, offering a peaceful escape and panoramic views of the island's landscapes.

Nearby, visit the Awaji Hanasajiki Flower Park, where seasonal flowers bloom vibrantly in spring, adding a colorful contrast to the lush natural surroundings.

For a taste of serenity, unwind at Sumoto Onsen or Minami Awaji Onsen, where you can relax in the therapeutic hot spring waters.

These onsen are perfect for recharging before you continue exploring or head back to the city.

Evening: Akashi sea bream dinner

For dinner, head to Sakanaya Ebisui, a celebrated restaurant known for serving Akashi sea bream, prized for its sweetness and texture.

Indulge in their signature tai-meshi (sea bream rice), where the fish’s rich flavor infuses the rice, or opt for a variety of dishes like sashimi, grilled sea bream, or tempura to savor the freshest catch from the Akashi Strait.

Final Morning: Souvenirs and sayonara

You have eaten your way through Kobe, it is time for a quick shop-and-go.

Hit up Motomachi Shopping Street for quirky local finds like Kobe pudding or crafty leather goods. Perfect for taking a slice of Hyogo home.

Don’t leave without trying the iconic Isuzu Bakery with a vast selection of pastries.

With your bags stuffed with souvenirs and your stomach still full of all that delicious food, it is time to head to the airport. Farewell, Hyogo—until next time!

This is a branded article by Hyogo Prefecture.