Hyogo Prefecture
Hyogo Prefecture was once known as 摂津国 (settsu-no-kuni), 播磨国 (harima-no-kuni), 但馬国 (tajima-no-kuni), 丹波国 (tanba-no-kuni), and 淡路国 (awaji-no-kuni). A significant portion of Japan’s long history is here. Japan’s origins are said to lie on Awaji Island, here in Hyogo Prefecture.
In the Japanese Creation Legend, two gods—伊邪那岐命 (izanagi-no-mikoto) and 伊邪那美命 (izanami-no-mikoto)—were said to have created the country. 淡道之穂之狭別島 (awaji-no-ho-no-sawake-no-shima) is recorded as the first island these gods created. This island is believed to be present-day Awaji Island. Awaji Island not only has a long history, but is also home to one of the oldest Shintō shrines in the country, Izanagi Shrine. This is one of the most important parts of Japan, seeing as it’s where the country began.
Hyogo Prefecture is known for producing high-quality, well-known alcohol. It’s one of the most important producers of rice wine—traditional Japanese alcohol made from rice. There are roughly 70 rice wine breweries in this prefecture, accounting for roughly 30% of total production (across the country). Many of the breweries in this prefecture offer tours. Part of the fun of coming here is seeing how rice wine is made, and then tasting some afterward. Hyogo Prefecture is also well-known for producing 酒米 (saka-mai—rice specifically grown for rice wine production). The variety produced here is called 山田錦 (yamada-nishiki). The yamada-nishiki rice grown here is said to be the best in the country. Some of the best (and high-quality) rice wine in the country is made here.
Here, there’s also a wide range of local foods. In particular, Hyogo Prefecture is well known for its Kobe beef. This is a type of 和牛 (wagyū—high-quality Japanese beef). Kobe beef has become extremely popular with international visitors, and many people travel here specifically to try it. Kobe beef comes from Tajima cattle raised in the Tajima region (the northern region) of Hyogo Prefecture and is known for being tender and melting in one’s mouth. Another local dish worth trying is 明石焼き (akashi-yaki). These small, ball-shaped snacks resemble たこ焼き (tako-yaki—small doughnut-like balls with octopus), which originated in Osaka Prefecture. Akashi-yaki contains more eggs, giving it a softer, lighter texture. It’s typically dipped in a warm broth rather than eaten with sauce.
What is (possibly) less well known outside of Japan is that Hyogo Prefecture is also famous for its theatre. Here, one will find the 宝塚歌劇団 (takarazuka-kagekidan) or Takarazuka Revue theatre group. Originating in (the city of) Takarazuka, it became so popular that performances are now also held at the 東京宝塚劇場 (tokyo-takarazuka-gekijō) theatre in Tokyo. Established in 1914, this theatre company has over a century of history. What makes it unique is that the entire cast is women. This was the vision of its founder, Ichizō Kobayashi. He believed that an ideal theatre group should be “pure, proper, and beautiful”. Having an all-female cast also helped create a unique style.
Hyogo Prefecture is (one of the) most attractive places to visit in Japan. Not only is there a rich history here, but there are also lots of delicious foods, and much more. Here, one will also find 有馬温泉 (arima-onsen), a very famous hot spring. There’s also Himeji Castle, widely regarded as Japan’s most beautiful castle. As mentioned, this is the prefecture where Japan is said to have originated, also making it one of the most important areas in the country. When planning a trip to Japan, why not visit Hyogo Prefecture and discover a different side of the Kansai Region?
