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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Toyooka sharing quite a few of those!
Toyooka is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, offering a plethora of experiences that will leave you breathless and wanting more.
From soaking in the natural hot springs to exploring the untamed wilderness, Toyooka promises to be an adventure that will ignite your soul and awaken your senses.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Toyooka:
1. Kinosaki Onsen
Kinosaki Onsen is a charming onsen (hot spring) town located in the Hyogo prefecture of Japan. It has been a popular destination for tourists and locals alike for over 1,300 years!
What to see or do: Soak in the seven public hot spring baths (onsen), each with its own unique atmosphere and healing properties.
Take a stroll down the pretty willow-lined canal, and taste some locally caught seafood at one of the many restaurants around town.
You can also experience Japanese culture with traditional tea ceremonies and kimono rentals.
Don’t miss: The “Sotoyu” foot bath, located at the entrance of Kinosaki Onsen, is free for visitors to use and provides a great opportunity to sit and relax while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Insider travel tips: Purchase a “Yukata” rental ticket that allows you to wear traditional Japanese clothing throughout the town for a discounted price.
2. Tajima-Kogen Botanical Garden
Tajima-Kogen Botanical Garden is a stunning natural attraction located in Toyooka, Japan.
It is spread across an area of 42 hectares and is home to a large variety of plants, including over 1,000 species of alpine plants.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy relaxed strolls through the garden’s walking trails, surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers. The garden also features a greenhouse filled with tropical plants and a medicinal herb garden.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the garden’s impressive collection of alpine plants, including rare and endangered species.
The garden also offers seasonal events, such as cherry blossom viewing in the spring and autumn leaves viewing in the fall.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Tajima-Kogen Botanical Garden is from late April to early June when the seasonal flowers are in full bloom.
3. Hyogo Prefectural Oji Zoo
Hyogo Prefectural Oji Zoo is a popular zoo located in Toyooka, Hyogo Prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: The zoo is home to over 850 animals from around the world, including many rare and endangered species.
Visitors can see a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, and hippos, as well as many different types of birds, reptiles, and aquatic creatures.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the zoo is the opportunity to see the animals up close and personal.
Visitors can feed the giraffes, watch the elephants take a bath, and even touch some of the animals at the petting zoo.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it is recommended to visit the zoo on weekdays rather than weekends or holidays. Visitors can also save money on admission by purchasing tickets in advance online.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the zoo is quite large and requires a lot of walking.
4. Kouno-yu
Historic public hot spring bathhouse located in Toyooka, Japan.
What to see or do: Soak in the naturally heated mineral water while surrounded by traditional Japanese architecture and beautiful scenery.
Don’t miss: Trying all seven of the unique hot spring baths, each with different healing properties.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring your own towel and toiletries as they are not provided.
Visit during the week to avoid crowds and consider staying at a nearby ryokan for the full Japanese hot spring experience.
5. Hachigoro’s Tojima Wetlands
Hachigoro’s Tojima Wetlands is a picturesque wetland area located in the Hyogo Prefecture of Japan. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and is a popular spot for nature lovers.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy hiking and birdwatching in the serene surroundings of the wetlands.
There are several observation points and walking trails in the area, offering stunning panoramic views of the wetlands and the nearby mountain range.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the Hachigoro’s Tojima Wetlands is the sight of the majestic Japanese crane. Visitors can witness these graceful birds in their natural habitat from the observation platforms or while hiking the trails.
The wetlands are also known for their stunning autumn foliage, which is a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is during the autumn season when the foliage is at its peak.
6. Izushi Castle Town
A preserved castle town located in Toyooka, Japan, and designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.
What to see or do: Izushi Castle Town is famous for its unique soba noodles, which can be enjoyed at local restaurants.
In addition, visitors can explore the historic streets and traditional Japanese buildings, including the preserved samurai residences and the reconstructed Izushi Castle.
Don’t miss: The Izushi Castle Town Museum, which offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area, and the Kiyamachi-dori Street, a picturesque area filled with souvenir shops and cafes.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to try the local specialty dish, the “Izushi Sara Soba,” which comes on a small plate with many tiny portions of soba noodles.
It is said that this dish makes it easy to gauge one’s appetite and regulate the intake of food.
Also, consider visiting during the winter season when the town is illuminated with thousands of snow lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere.
7. Toyooka Sky Park
Toyooka Sky Park is a public park located in Hyogo prefecture, Japan, known for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Sea of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a cable car up to the park’s observation deck, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The observation deck also houses a small café, gift shop, and museum showcasing the local wildlife and nature.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Sky Walk, a glass-bottomed walkway that extends out from the observation deck and allows visitors to literally walk on air while taking in the breathtaking views below.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during sunset for a magical experience as the views become even more spectacular as the sun sets behind the mountains.
8. Izushi Shrine
Izushi Shrine is a small, charming Shinto shrine located in the historic town of Izushi, Toyooka.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved shrine grounds and see the numerous torii gates that mark the path to the main shrine building.
The shrine is also known for its beautiful gardens, which are particularly stunning in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the shrine’s main hall, which has a unique thatched roof. The roof was designed to resemble the hairstyle of a woman wearing a traditional Japanese wig.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit the shrine early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid crowds.
If you’re a fan of Japanese animation, look out for the wooden ema plaques with anime designs that are sold at the shrine.
And if you’re feeling hungry, be sure to try the local specialty dish – Izushi soba noodles – at one of the many restaurants near the shrine.
9. Kounoike Jizo
Kounoike Jizo is a small Buddhist statue in the city of Toyooka, Japan.
What to see or do: The statue is located in the middle of a serene forest, providing a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can walk around the area and admire the natural surroundings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to observe the intricate details of Kounoike Jizo. Despite its small size, the statue boasts remarkable craftsmanship and detail.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as they will need to walk some distance to reach the statue. It is also customary to offer a small prayer or bow to the statue as a sign of respect.
Be mindful of the quiet surroundings and keep noise levels to a minimum.
10. Takeno Beach
Takeno Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline, located in the northern part of Hyogo Prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: With its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand, Takeno Beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Visitors can rent umbrellas, chairs, and various water sports equipment on-site.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a stroll along the boardwalk, which offers stunning views of the sea. The beach is also famous for its beautiful sunsets, which make for the perfect photo opportunity.
Insider travel tips: – The beach can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so plan to arrive early to secure a good spot.
11. Yumura Onsen
A historical hot spring town located in Toyooka, Japan that dates back over 1,300 years.
What to see or do: Relax in one of the many hot spring baths, visit the Yumura Shrine that has been standing since 936 AD, try the local specialty of steamed buns made with hot spring water, or take a walk around the charming town filled with traditional Japanese architecture.
Don’t miss: The unique foot bath where you can soak your feet in hot spring water while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Insider travel tips: Try visiting during the fall to see the beautiful autumn foliage or during winter to experience a traditional Japanese snowscape. Also, make sure to bring a towel and change of clothes if you plan on indulging in the hot springs!
12. Amanohashidate View Land
A scenic park overlooking Amanohashidate sandbar.
What to see or do: Enjoy panoramic views of the sandbar from the lookout tower or take a relaxing stroll through the park’s gardens.
Don’t miss: Walking across the “Bridge to Heaven”, a narrow sandbar that spans the bay.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early morning or during sunset for stunning views of the sandbar. Consider renting a bicycle to explore the area around the park.
13. Toyooka Hanakaido
Toyooka Hanakaido is a luxurious Japanese-style ryokan (inn) located in the scenic Hyogo Prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do:
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14. Kasumi-An sake brewery tour
Kasumi-An is a renowned sake brewery located in the city of Toyooka, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour and learn about the intricate process of how sake is made. Explore the facility and see how the barley and rice are polished to perfection.
You’ll also get to see the brewing process up close and personal.
Don’t miss: The tasting room at the end of the tour where you can taste some of the brewery’s best sake varieties, including the rare “Kasumi Tsuru” sake.
Insider travel tips: Book your tour in advance to guarantee a spot. Try to avoid visiting during the peak season (late December – January) as it can get extremely crowded.
Take some time to explore the nearby town of Kinosaki Onsen for a relaxing soak in the hot springs after your brewery tour.