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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Nagi.
Nestled in the heart of Japan lies a hidden gem known as Nagi – a city brimming with excitement and adventure.
Whether you desire to soar high like a bird in the sky or bask in the serenity of nature, Nagi has something for everyone.
Step into a world full of wonder and explore the endless possibilities waiting to be unravelled in this captivating destination.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Nagi:
1. Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site that stands tall in Japan’s Hyogo prefecture.
It is one of the twelve original castles in the country, dating back to the 17th century and considered a masterpiece of Japanese architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the five-story main keep, which features a maze-like interior with steep staircases and trapdoors. They can also take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from the castle’s top levels.
The castle’s expansive grounds also offer beautiful gardens, a teahouse, and a museum with exhibits on the castle’s history and restoration.
Don’t miss: The impressive interior of the main keep, the stunning white facade of the castle, and the surrounding gardens are must-sees when visiting Himeji Castle.
Also, don’t miss the opportunity to take a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s rich history and cultural significance.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb in the main keep. It is also recommended to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
Visitors can also take a short train ride to Nagi, a nearby town that offers hot springs and traditional Japanese accommodations.
2. Mount Shosha
Mount Shosha is a sacred mountain located in the Nagi city of Japan’s Hyogo Prefecture.
What to see or do: The mountain is home to Engyoji, a Buddhist temple complex dating back to the 10th century. Visitors to Mount Shosha can explore the temple complex’s various halls and pagodas, including Maniden, Jikido, and Daikodo.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the three-story pagoda, which is the centerpiece of Engyoji’s temple complex and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as the climb to the temple complex can be steep and challenging.
3. Ako Castle Ruins
Ako Castle ruins is a historical site located in Nagi, Okayama Prefecture, Japan. It was built in the 17th century, and served as a stronghold for the Ako domain.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the castle, including the impressive stone walls and foundations. There is also a museum on site with exhibits about the history of the castle and the Ako domain.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the scenic views from the top of the castle ruins. On a clear day, visitors can see all the way to the Seto Inland Sea.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking and climbing involved in exploring the castle ruins. It’s also worth considering hiring a local guide to learn even more about the history and significance of the site.
4. Tatsuno Castle Ruins
Tatsuno Castle Ruins is a historic site located in the mountainous area of Nagi, Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of the castle and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the stone steps to the top of the castle ruins and enjoy the panoramic views.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as there are a lot of stairs and steep slopes to navigate.
5. Koko-en Garden
Koko-en Garden is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden located in the city of Himeji, Japan.
What to see or do: The garden is home to nine separate gardens, each with a unique design and theme, including a tea garden, bamboo garden, and a pine tree garden.
Visitors can stroll through the winding paths and bridges, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the tea house where you can enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and sample some matcha tea.
Also, make sure to check out the koi pond, which is home to over 100 colorful koi fish.
Insider travel tips: – If possible, visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
6. Taiyo Park
Taiyo Park is a 60-acre nature park located in Nagi, Okayama, Japan.
What to see or do: – Walk through the beautiful Japanese gardens, complete with a koi pond and elegant bridges.
Don’t miss: – The park’s signature feature, Kikko Lake, which is shaped like a turtle shell.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re visiting with children, be sure to check out the petting zoo and pony rides.
7. Engyo-ji Temple
Engyo-ji Temple is a Japanese Buddhist temple located in the remote Mount Shosha range near Himeji.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the serene gardens and admire the temple’s main buildings, including the Maniden (Worship hall), Jikido (Dining hall), and Daikodo (Scripture Hall).
Hiking around the temple complex is also a popular activity, as the area boasts a lush forest with breathtaking views.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the massive statue of the temple’s principal deity, Senju-kannon, standing over 30 feet tall and surrounded by smaller statues.
Another highlight is the temple’s bell, which is one of the largest in Japan and renowned for its beautiful sound.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, plan to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
The area is also famous for its delicious soba noodles made from locally sourced buckwheat, so grab a bowl at one of the nearby restaurants after your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some steep hikes and stairs.
8. Shoshazan Ropeway
A scenic ropeway ride that takes you to the top of Mount Shoshazan, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
What to see or do: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountain and the Seto Inland Sea from the cable car.
Explore the Shoshazan Engyoji temple complex, which includes several Buddhist temples and pagodas, including the famous Maniden Hall, used in the film The Last Samurai.
Don’t miss: The spectacular autumn foliage in November, as well as the cherry blossoms in April. In addition, be sure to check out the Engyoji temple’s beautiful illumination displays in the evenings.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Additionally, wear comfortable shoes as there are a lot of stairs to climb to explore the temple complex.
Finally, make sure to try the local specialty food, soy sauce-flavored ice cream, available at the top of the mountain.
9. Nagi Museum Of Contemporary Art
Nagi Museum of Contemporary Art is a modern art museum located in Okayama Prefecture, Japan, featuring a diverse collection of contemporary Japanese and international artwork.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the impressive collection of contemporary pieces from some of the world’s most renowned artists, including Shozo Shimamoto, Yayoi Kusama, and Andy Warhol.
The museum also showcases contemporary photography, sculptures, and installations.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the outdoor sculpture garden, featuring works by famous artists such as Jean-Michel Othoniel and Bernar Venet.
The garden offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to take advantage of the guided tours or audio guides to fully appreciate the artwork on display.
10. Nagi Chou Station
A train station located in Nagi, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the minimalist and striking architecture of the station building that was designed by renowned architect Hiroshi Naito. Take a train ride and enjoy the scenic countryside views that surround the station.
Don’t miss: The famous torii gate, a traditional Japanese gate that marks the entrance to the station, and the station clock that features a unique design resembling a traditional Japanese fan.
Insider travel tips: Visit during spring or autumn for the best views of cherry blossoms and foliage, respectively. Grab a snack from the small food cart located inside the station building, which serves delicious local treats.
11. Isaniwa Shrine
Isaniwa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nagi, Okayama Prefecture, Japan. It is dedicated to the gods Izanagi and Izanami, who, according to legend, created the Japanese archipelago.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the shrine’s beautiful grounds and architecture, including the main gate and entrance bridge.
They can also participate in various rituals and ceremonies, such as offering coins, writing prayers on wooden plaques, and purifying themselves with water.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Isaniwa Shrine is its annual festival, held every year on the 4th and 5th of September.
This festival features a parade of portable shrines, traditional music and dance performances, and other festive activities.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds, visit the shrine early in the morning or on weekdays.
12. Okishrine
Okishrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nagi, Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors to Okishrine can see the beautiful traditional Japanese architecture and explore the peaceful surrounding forested area. The shrine also has a small museum that showcases its history and artifacts.
Don’t miss: The annual Okishinohiroba Festival, held on the second Sunday of October, is a spectacular event where dozens of portable shrines are carried through the town in a vibrant parade.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to follow the proper etiquette when visiting a Shinto shrine, such as purifying yourself before entering the shrine grounds.
Additionally, it’s recommended to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and take advantage of the tranquil atmosphere.
13. Tatsuno Onsen
Tatsuno Onsen is a hot spring resort town located in Nagi, Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy soaking in the natural hot springs, which are said to have healing properties, and walking around the scenic town, surrounded by mountains and rivers.
Don’t miss: Make sure to try the local specialty, Bote Toro (blowfish) cuisine, which is only available in the winter months.
Insider travel tips: Consider staying at a ryokan or traditional Japanese inn to fully immerse yourself in the culture and experience the onsen in a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
And don’t forget to bring your own towel and toiletries, as they may not be provided at the onsen.
14. Myoji-ji Temple
Myoji-ji Temple is a 14th-century Buddhist temple located in Nagi, Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: – Admire the traditional Japanese architecture of the main hall and gate.
Don’t miss: – The annual Cherry Blossom Festival in early April, when the temple gardens are filled with blooming cherry trees.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to remove your shoes before entering the main hall.
15. Nagi Forest Park
Nagi Forest Park is a beautiful nature reserve located in the mountains of Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: This park is a perfect escape for nature lovers, offering a vast area of dense forests, winding trails, and a network of small streams.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the walking paths and picnic in the cleared areas. For more adventurous visitors, there are also hiking trails, campsites, and fishing spots.
Don’t miss: One of the park’s highlights is the Nagi-no-yu hot spring, where you can relax and soak in the natural hot spring waters, with stunning views of the forest.
Another must-see is the Tamadare Falls, a picturesque waterfall located within the park.
Insider travel tips: If you plan to hike or camp in the park, be sure to come well-prepared, with proper gear and clothing.
Also, note that the hot spring and camping sites can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so consider visiting on a weekday.