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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Nishinomiya sharing quite a few of those!
Discover the vibrant heartbeat of Nishinomiya, where the city’s culture and history come alive in its streets.
From immersing in the beauty of the city’s temples to indulging in the mouth-watering local cuisine, Nishinomiya has something for everyone.
Whether you crave adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, this city is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.
So pack your bags and get ready to uncover the many wonders that Nishinomiya has to offer.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Nishinomiya:
1. Kobe Beef Nishinomiya Hankyu JN Building
A meat shop and restaurant specializing in Kobe beef located in Nishinomiya Hankyu JN Building.
What to see or do: Enjoy premium Kobe beef in various cuts and preparations, cooked to perfection by expert chefs.
Don’t miss: Trying the signature Kobe beef sirloin steak or the Kobe beef sushi for a unique culinary experience.
Insider travel tips: Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant tends to get busy. For a more affordable option, check out the meat shop and take home some Kobe beef to cook yourself.
2. Nishinomiya Shrine
Nishinomiya Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Nishinomiya, Hyogo prefecture, Japan.
It is dedicated to Ebisu, the god of business and fishing, and is renowned for its annual festival, the Toka Ebisu Festival.
What to see or do: Visit the shrine and participate in the Toka Ebisu Festival, which is held annually from January 9 to 1The festival is one of the biggest and most popular in Japan, attracting thousands of worshippers and tourists who come to pray for good fortune in business and health.
Don’t miss: The shaden, a small shrine within the main shrine, which is dedicated to the god of love and relationships.
It is believed that if you write your wish for love on a wooden plaque and tie it to the shrine, your wish will be granted.
Insider travel tips: – If you want to avoid the crowds during the Toka Ebisu Festival, visit the shrine early in the morning or in the evening.
3. Seibu Outlet Park Nishinomiya
A large outdoor shopping mall located in Nishinomiya, Japan.
What to see or do: It features over 180 shops including luxury brands, sports equipment, cosmetics, electronics, and restaurants. You can find great deals on popular Japanese and international brands.
Don’t miss: The Ferris wheel, known as the Redhorse Osaka Wheel, that provides a great view of the surrounding area. There is also a food court offering a variety of Japanese and international cuisine options.
Insider travel tips: If you are visiting during the summer, be sure to take advantage of the rooftop beer garden. Additionally, the outlet mall offers shuttle buses from nearby train stations for easy access.
4. Hanshin Koshien Stadium
A baseball stadium located in Nishinomiya, Japan, home to the Hanshin Tigers.
What to see or do: Watch a baseball game, enjoy the lively atmosphere and passionate fans, and explore the stadium’s museum and shops.
Don’t miss: The “Waku Waku Gate” area, where fans can participate in various baseball-themed activities and take photos with the team’s mascot.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to soak up the pre-game excitement and grab a bento (boxed meal) from one of the many vendors outside the stadium.
Be sure to join in on singing the team’s fight songs with the enthusiastic fans.
5. Takarazuka Revue Theater
The Takarazuka Revue Theater is a famous all-female musical theater troupe based in Takarazuka City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a range of lavish musical productions featuring talented actresses known for their beautiful singing and dancing performances. The shows cover a variety of genres, from Japanese traditional folk tales to classic Broadway hits.
Don’t miss: The grand stage sets and stunning costumes are part of what makes the Takarazuka Revue experience so special. Their handcrafted, intricate pieces will take your breath away.
Insider travel tips: Book tickets in advance, as these shows tend to sell out quickly. If you have a particular performance in mind, make sure to check the schedule ahead of time and plan accordingly.
Additionally, some shows have English subtitles available, so look out for those when purchasing your tickets.
6. Kansai University
Kansai University is a private university located in the city of Nishinomiya, Japan, which was established in 1886.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the scenic campus grounds, which features a blend of traditional Japanese and modern architectural styles. The university also boasts a museum filled with valuable artifacts from all around Japan and the world.
Visitors can also attend lectures, seminars, and stay at the university’s accommodation facilities.
Don’t miss: Don’t forget to visit the stunning Nakanoshima Park located just a few blocks away from the university.
It is a great place to relax and enjoy a picnic while taking in the beautiful scenery of the lush green park.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit the university during the cherry blossom season, which falls around late March to early April, when the campus is covered in the beautiful cherry blossom trees.
Visitors should also try the local delicacies such as Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki, which are popular near the university.
7. Nishinomiya Kitayama Botanical Garden
The Nishinomiya Kitayama Botanical Garden is a sprawling garden located in Nishinomiya, Japan.
What to see or do: The garden features a wide variety of plant life, including a diverse collection of Japanese and international flowers, shrubs, and trees.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden’s floral displays, including the Japanese garden, herb garden, and tropical greenhouse.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the stunning cherry blossom trees that line the garden’s paths during springtime.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
8. Hyogo Performing Arts Center
Hyogo Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art concert hall and performing arts complex located in Nishinomiya, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The center features two main concert halls – the large Concert Hall with a seating capacity of 1,743 and the more intimate Recital Hall which can accommodate up to 500 people.
There are also rehearsal rooms, recording studios, a gallery, and a restaurant.
Don’t miss: The center hosts a wide range of performances throughout the year, including classical music concerts, opera, ballet, theater, and traditional Japanese performing arts.
Insider travel tips: – Check the center’s website for the performance schedule and ticket information.
9. Nishinomiya City Otaguchi Park
Nishinomiya City Otaguchi Park is a beautiful park located in Nishinomiya, Japan, known for its stunning cherry blossoms and serene atmosphere.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely walk through the park and enjoy the picturesque scenery of the cherry blossoms. Sit by the pond and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Don’t miss: The main attraction of the park is undoubtedly the cherry blossom trees that bloom in early spring, offering a breathtaking sight of pink and white petals.
Insider travel tips: For an even more spectacular view, visit the park at night when the cherry blossoms are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
Bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature.
10. Nishinomiya Park
A spacious park in Nishinomiya, Japan, known for its cherry blossom trees and stunning views.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the park and admire the beautiful scenery, especially during cherry blossom season when the park is transformed into a pink wonderland.
There are also various sporting facilities such as tennis courts, soccer fields, and a swimming pool for visitors to use.
Don’t miss: Nishinomiya Shrine, a picturesque shrine that is located at the southern end of the park. The shrine is a popular spot for locals to visit and pray for good luck.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds during cherry blossom season, visit the park early in the morning or on a weekday. Bring a picnic blanket and some snacks to enjoy a peaceful picnic under the cherry blossom trees.
Don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes as the park is quite large and there are many paths to explore.
11. Inagawa Cemetery
What to see or do:
– Explore the three main sections of the cemetery:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips:
12. Tada Shrine
Tada Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nishinomiya, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. It is dedicated to Tadakatsu Honda, a famous samurai who served under Tokugawa Ieyasu during the Edo period.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning traditional Japanese architecture of the shrine, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque gardens. Take a leisurely stroll around the grounds and admire the ornate details of the buildings.
Don’t miss: The main attraction of Tada Shrine is the Honda Museum, where you can learn about the life and achievements of Tadakatsu Honda through exhibits and artifacts.
Make sure to also visit the sacred well, where water believed to have healing powers flows.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Tada Shrine is during the annual Tadakatsu Festival in late May, when the shrine and surrounding area come alive with traditional music, performances, and food stalls.
If you’re looking for a unique souvenir, make sure to pick up a Tadakatsu Honda omamori (amulet) from the shrine’s gift shop.
13. Hiraoka Shrine
Hiraoka Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nishinomiya, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the spacious grounds. The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens, traditional architecture, and peaceful atmosphere.
Guests can also participate in traditional Shinto rituals and ceremonies, or enjoy the seasonal festivals such as the cherry blossom viewing in the spring and chrysanthemum festivals in the fall.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the main hall of the shrine which was built in the late 16th century and designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
Another must-see is the ‘Keidai no niwa’ garden, renowned for its immaculately designed pond and vibrant foliage.
Insider travel tips: Visitors are recommended to visit the shrine early in the morning or later in the evening to enjoy a more tranquil atmosphere.
During festivals, the temple can become crowded, so be prepared for larger crowds. Also, don’t forget to try the local delicacy, “Hiraoka sushi,” which is a unique twist on traditional sushi.
14. Rokko Country House
Rokko Country House is a picturesque mountain retreat located in Nishinomiya, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning views of Osaka Bay and Mount Rokko from the comfort of your own private hot spring bath. Take a stroll through the scenic garden, which features a variety of beautiful flora and fauna.
The house also offers Japanese-style rooms, perfect for experiencing traditional Japanese hospitality.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try the delicious cuisine prepared using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The meals are not only visually stunning but also deliciously satisfying.
Insider travel tips: If you have the opportunity, try to book a room with an ocean view for an even more breathtaking experience. Keep in mind that transportation to and from the location may require a bit of planning, so plan accordingly.
15. Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Village
Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Village is a picturesque and traditional Japanese village located in Nishinomiya City, Japan.
What to see or do: Stroll through the charming streets and admire the authentic Japanese architecture of the houses and shops. Visitors can also enjoy tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons, and traditional performances like koto and shamisen music.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the beautiful garden of Tsutakawa-en, which features a large pond with bridges, waterfalls, and a variety of flora that changes with the seasons.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in learning more about Japanese culture, consider taking a Japanese language or culture class at the Tsutakawa Sogo Center.
Additionally, the village is often less crowded on weekdays, so plan accordingly for a quieter visit.