Explore the hidden beauty of Japan: Toyooka, Hyogo Prefecture

🌿 A forgotten paradise, Toyooka is a must-visit!

Toyooka is located in northern Hyogo Prefecture. It is a quiet city full of Edo-style charm, with Japan's oldest hot springs, beautiful coastlines, lovely oriental white storks, authentic food, and cozy Japanese inns. Let's see what Toyooka has to offer!

📍 Must-see attractions

🏯 Kinosaki Onsen

A thousand-year-old hot spring town with seven public baths (soto-yu), each with its own unique features. We recommend Goshono-yu, where you can soak in the hot springs and enjoy the poetic Edo-style charm.

🏖 Takenohama Beach

Known as the "Maldives of Japan," this beach has clear water and fine sand. It's perfect for swimming and surfing in summer, and for enjoying the spectacular sea views and sunsets in fall and winter.

🕊️ Hyogo Park of the Oriental White Stork

The only habitat for wild oriental white storks in Japan, where you can observe these elegant birds up close. They symbolize good fortune and happiness.

🚂 Izushi Castle Town

A "Little Kyoto" town where you can wear a kimono, walk on cobblestone streets, visit the Izushi Castle ruins, and try the famous Izushi soba noodles.

⛰️ Genbudo Park

A national natural monument with volcanic basalt wonders. The colorful rock walls are like natural artworks, perfect for taking photos!

🍜 Must-try food in Toyooka

🍣 Kasumi-gani - Fresh Matsuba crab only available in winter, with a sweet and fresh taste.
🥢 Izushi soba - Unique small plate serving style, delicious with dipping sauce!
🐡 Fugu - A winter specialty in Toyooka. We recommend trying the sashimi or hot pot.

🏠 Accommodation recommendations

🏨 Nishimuraya Honkan | Address: 469 Yushima, Kinosaki-cho, Toyooka-shi, Hyogo
A century-old hot spring inn with a strong Edo-style charm. Enjoy hot springs and kaiseki cuisine for the ultimate experience!

🏨 Kinosaki Onsen Kinosaki Kouraku | Address: 781 Yushima, Kinosaki-cho, Toyooka-shi, Hyogo
Close to the hot spring street, with rooms featuring open-air baths. Great value for money!

💡 Tips

🔹 Transportation: Take the JR limited express train from Osaka to Toyooka in about 2.5 hours.
🔹 Clothing: It's cold in fall and winter, so we recommend bringing a thick coat. You can rent a kimono on the hot spring street.
🔹 Japanese etiquette: Wash yourself before entering the hot springs, and take off your shoes when entering a traditional inn.

Toyooka is a hidden gem in Japan that you can take your time to explore. Come and check it out!