Visit HYOGO

The YODOKO Guest House in Ashiya City, Hyogo Prefecture, was designed by American Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the three great masters of modern architecture, who also designed several other buildings, including the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo.

Rokkosan, developed as a recreation area by foreigners who lived in the old settlement area of Kobe.Italian architect Michele De Lucchi, whose project began with the renovation of the former Rokkosan Hotel designed by Takenaka Corporation nearly 100 years ago, will also design a wooden Scandinavian pavilion for the Osaka/Kansai Expo.

The Foreign Settlement, which was established at the Port of Kobe when it opened in 1868, was designed using modern European urban planning techniques, and the buildings that remain from that era are still in place today as important cultural assets.

The only corporate museum in Japan established by Takenaka Corporation, one of Japan's leading general construction companies, to collect and preserve carpentry tools. The museum attracts visitors from all over the world involved in construction, as they can observe traditional Japanese wooden construction techniques up close and personal.

This famous castle is representative of Japan, being the country’s first registered UNESCO World Heritage site together with Horyuji Temple in Nara. Its beautiful white walls have given it the nickname “white heron castle,” and visitors are captivated by its elegant shape, resembling a heron spreading its wings. This castle boasts around 400 years of history, and has been passed down to us today in its original form as a castle that escaped the fires and ravages of war.

Its ingenious design to prevent enemy invasion is one reason for its fame. The castle’s clever tricks, such as its complex, maze-like pathways and steep steps, excite each time you step inside. We also recommend looking for the kokuin, the carved seals of the stonemasons engraved all over the stone walls. The top floor of the keep offers a superb 360-degree panoramic view! Enjoy picturesque scenery as you look out over the castle town and the distant mountains.

Himeji Castle’s countenance differs in each season. In the spring, the blooming cherry blossoms create a contrast between the white keep and the pink flowers, with particularly breathtaking beauty. Plus, you mustn’t miss the castle when it is lit up at night in white, bringing out the white plaster, and in seasonal colors.

Awaji Yumebutai is a facility complex created by Tadao Ando, an architect that has captivated the world. Its buildings exist in beautiful harmony with nature.

Hyakudan-en, which has been a hot topic on social media, is a must-see. This garden formed of 100 flowerbeds arranged in steps holds colorful blooms, including sunflowers, marigolds, and cosmos; it's a garden that seems to float in the sky. Walk up the stairs, surrounded by flowers, and from the top you’ll see the stunning scenery of the Seto Inland Sea: an unforgettable experience.

We also recommend the renovated Awaji Greenhouse, where rare plants from across the globe invite you to a world of the extraordinary. This geometric space made up of light and shadow is artfully beautiful in all parts, and you’ll definitely be able to take a memorable and wonderful photo here. It also hosts fun events, including flower sales and workshops.

Don't miss the gourmet food if you’re visiting Yumebutai. There’s a luxurious lineup of options that enable you to try fresh marine delights from Awaji Island, landed in the fishing port right in front of you, Awaji vegetables grown in the plentiful sunlight, and superb Awaji Beef. The soups and curries made using entire onions, Awaji Island’s specialty, are not only delicious, they look so great they’re perfect for social media too.

Why not soothe your everyday tiredness in a special place that brings together architecture, nature and gourmet?

 "Zenbo Seinei," a place for Zen experiences, is born in the vast nature of Awaji Island at the longitude 135 degrees east. Here, you can savor the ever-changing seasonal views of Awaji Island, spreading 360 degrees as far as the eye can see. It offers a special space where you can enjoy the brilliant sunlight, clear air, majestic greenery, and the stars shining in the night sky. Please experience the healing of the mind and body in the tranquility. Welcome drink, ZEN Wellness, Zenbo cuisine, ZEN calligraphy, ZEN tea, ZEN incense ZEN Experience: Incorporating Zen philosophy, this detox & retreat wellness program adjusts the balance of mind and body in a short period through Zen, meditation, and nutrition. For those with a busy lifestyle and limited time, balancing the mind and body is a crucial focus.Zenbo Cuisine: Using ingredients such as porridge, tofu, and Awaji Island vegetables, you can taste healthy "Zenbo cuisine" that balances the body from its core. (No animal products, oil, wheat flour, or sugar are used.)

This guest house has a history of more than 100 years and has been selected as a tangible cultural property designated by Hyogo Prefecture. After a special visit to the venerable Sumadera Temple that stands nearby, guests will enjoy a meal that recreates a party of the good old days.