(Year-Round) Hidden Castle Towns in the West

DETAILS
  • beyond
  • 3 days, 2 nights
  • rental car / taxi
  • solo travelersenior travelerfamily with kids
  • All season
Day 1
Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle, also known as the "White Heron Castle," dates back to the 14th century and is the best preserved castle in Japan.

It is also frequently referred to as "the most beautiful castle in Japan."

You can walk up to the castle on your own, or inquire staff about an English guide.

The Japanese gardens next to the castle are also not to be missed!
About180min. by train
Takeda Castle Ruins
On the way to Kinosaki Onsen, you will find "a castle in the sky."

Unlike the well-preserved Himeji Castle, only the ruins remain and have been left in the clouds since long ago.
About120min. by train
Kinosaki Onsen
It's time to check into your accommodation!

Tonight will be an evening of hot springs, kaiseki banquet meals, and charming scenery in Kinosaki Onsen, a tattoo-friendly hot spring town.
Day 2
Kinosaki Onsen
About12min. by train
Toyooka Station
About30min. by bus
Izushi Castle Town
This small town brims with old world charm through its retro Japanese architecture and ancient castle ruins.

Izushi is a town that thrives on its history.

Today it is a castle town popular for its nostalgic atmosphere of old Japan. Changing into a kimono and strolling through the town will whisk you away to a simpler time.

Here shops, homes, and other buildings retain their original charm as well as community and rural life.

Unlike other large tourist destinations, locals still live in the town, adding to the atmosphere.
About30min. by bus
Toyooka Station
About12min. by train
Kinosaki Onsen
Take another night in Kinosaki Onsen.

Riding the Kinosaki Ropeway to the top of Mount Daishi is highly recommended - the view was awarded a michelin star!
Day 3
Kinosaki Onsen
After breakfast, say your goodbyes to the hot springs with one final soak...or more.
About150min. by train
Tanba Sasayama
Wander a preserved Japanese historic district and taste black soybean delicacies.
About100min. by train
Osaka Station
Option : Another Night Stay in a Traditional Thatched Roof House in Miyama
Tanba Sasayama
About60min. by train
Fukuchiyama Station
About60min. by train
Shinkyudaigaku-Mae Station
About60min. by bus
Miyama
Charming overnight cottages line the mountainside roads of this quaint farming town.

These homes stand tall and proud thanks to their “kayabuki” thatched roofs, a traditional architectural practice common in the area.
About60min. by bus
Hiyoshi Station
About50min. by train
Kyoto Station
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