Amagasaki Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Amagasaki, plus tips on transportation and safety.


Introduction to Amagasaki

Located in Hyogo Prefecture, Amagasaki is a city in the Kansai region of Japan. With a population of over 440,000 people, Amagasaki is a bustling city with a rich history and culture. The city is famous for its manufacturing industry and is home to a number of factories that specialize in producing electrical equipment, machinery, and chemicals.

Despite its industrial image, Amagasaki has a lot to offer tourists looking to explore Japan off the beaten path. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in Amagasaki.

List of Places to Visit in Amagasaki

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in learning about the history and culture of Amagasaki, there are several museums and historical places that you shouldn’t miss.

Amagasaki Castle

Amagasaki Castle is a historical landmark in the city that dates back to the 17th century. While the castle itself is no longer standing, the castle grounds have been preserved as a park and offer stunning views of the surrounding area.

Amagasaki Cultural Center

The Amagasaki Cultural Center is a modern complex that houses a number of cultural attractions, including a museum, art galleries, and a theater. Visitors can take in rotating exhibitions of Japanese art and artifacts, as well as attend performances of traditional Japanese theater and music.

Natural Attractions of Amagasaki: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Amagasaki may be a city, but it’s also home to several parks and natural areas that offer a break from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Tsukaguchi Waterfront Park

The Tsukaguchi Waterfront Park is a picturesque park that runs along the Yodogawa River. Visitors can take a stroll along the riverbank, enjoy a picnic, or rent bicycles and explore the park’s many trails.

Kanzaki Shrine

Kanzaki Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in a forested area of Amagasaki. The shrine is famous for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere, making it a popular spot for meditation and reflection.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Amagasaki

Amagasaki is surrounded by lush green hills and mountains, making it an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some popular routes for hiking and biking include:

  • Mount Rokko
  • Mount Maya
  • Higashiyama Natural Observation Forest

Each of these destinations offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a great way to get in touch with nature while exploring Japan.

Best Things to Do in Amagasaki: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, Amagasaki offers a variety of other activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Some popular options include:

  • Sake Tasting Tours: Amagasaki is known for its sake production, and visitors can take guided tours of local breweries to learn about the brewing process and taste a variety of sake varieties.

  • Hanami: During the spring, Amagasaki’s parks are filled with cherry blossoms, making it a popular time to visit and enjoy the scenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Amagasaki

For visitors interested in spending a week exploring Amagasaki and the surrounding area, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Explore Amagasaki Castle and the surrounding park. Day 2: Take a tour of a local sake brewery and enjoy some sake tasting. Day 3: Spend the day hiking or biking in the nearby mountains. Day 4: Visit the Amagasaki Cultural Center and attend a traditional Japanese theater performance. Day 5: Explore the Tsukaguchi Waterfront Park and have a picnic. Day 6: Take a day trip to Kobe and explore its many attractions, such as Kobe Harborland and Kobe Kitano Ijinkan. Day 7: Visit Kanzaki Shrine and spend some time meditating and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Food and Drink Scene of Amagasaki

Must-Try Dishes

Amagasaki’s food scene is a blend of traditional Japanese cuisine and modern fusion dishes. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Kitsune Udon: A local specialty, this dish features udon noodles in a savory broth topped with fried tofu.

  • Takoyaki: A popular street food in Japan, takoyaki are small fried balls of batter filled with diced octopus and topped with a variety of sauces.

Local Beverages

As mentioned earlier, Amagasaki is known for its sake production. In addition to sake, visitors can also enjoy a variety of other local beverages, such as:

  • Yuzushu: A sweet and sour Japanese liquor made from yuzu, a type of citrus fruit.

  • Umeshu: A sweet and fruity plum wine that is popular throughout Japan.

Where to Stay in Amagasaki: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Amagasaki has a variety of accommodation options to suit any budget or preference. Some recommended options include:

  • Hotel Monterey Amalie: A stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Amagasaki.

  • Guest House Pekola: A cozy guesthouse located near the Tsukaguchi Waterfront Park.

What to Buy in Amagasaki: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For visitors looking to bring home a piece of Amagasaki, there are several local products and souvenirs to choose from. Some popular options include:

  • Sake: Amagasaki’s sake is famous throughout Japan and makes a great souvenir.

  • Traditional Japanese Crafts: Amagasaki is home to several artisans who specialize in traditional Japanese crafts, such as ceramics and pottery.

Local Culture and Customs of Amagasaki

While Amagasaki is a modern city, it still retains many of its traditional Japanese customs and culture. Visitors should take care to respect these customs and be aware of the following:

  • Bowing: In Japan, bowing is a common greeting and sign of respect. Visitors should take care to bow when meeting new people or expressing appreciation.

  • Removing shoes: In many places in Japan, it is customary to remove shoes before entering homes or temples. Visitors should take care to follow this custom when visiting private homes or religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Amagasaki

The best time to visit Amagasaki depends largely on personal preference, as the city offers something to see and do year-round. However, some popular times to visit include:

  • Spring (March to May): During this time, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making it a popular time to visit and enjoy the scenic parks and gardens.

  • Fall (September to November): The fall foliage in Amagasaki is stunning, and visitors can enjoy hiking or biking through the changing leaves.

Do’s and Don’ts of Amagasaki

Do:

  • Take your shoes off when entering homes or temples.

  • Respect local customs and culture.

Don’t:

  • Tip in restaurants or cafes - it is not customary in Japan.

  • Wear shoes inside homes or temples.

Safety and Health

Safety in Amagasaki

Amagasaki is a generally safe city, with low levels of crime. However, visitors should still take common sense precautions, such as:

  • Keeping an eye on belongings in crowded areas.

  • Avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Amagasaki

Amagasaki has a high level of healthcare facilities, and visitors should have no trouble finding medical care if needed. It is recommended to have travel insurance when visiting Japan.

Getting to Amagasaki: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Amagasaki

The nearest airport to Amagasaki is Kansai International Airport, which is located about an hour away by train. Visitors can also fly into Itami Airport, which is located closer to Amagasaki but has fewer international flights.

Bus Stations Near Amagasaki

Amagasaki is well-connected to the surrounding region by bus, with several bus stations located throughout the city. Visitors can take a bus to nearby cities and attractions, such as Kobe or Osaka.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Amagasaki by train, with several major train lines running through the city.

How to Get Around in Amagasaki

Amagasaki is a relatively small city, and visitors can easily get around on foot or by bicycle. The city also has a well-developed bus and train system for those who prefer public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Amagasaki: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of the Kansai region, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to choose from. Some popular options include:

  • Kobe: A vibrant port city known for its beef and historic sites.

  • Osaka: A bustling metropolis known for its food and modern architecture.

  • Kyoto: A cultural and historical hub of Japan, with countless temples, shrines, and gardens to explore.

Conclusion

Amagasaki may not be as well-known as some of Japan’s larger cities, but it offers a unique blend of traditional culture and modern amenities. From hiking and biking to learning about sake production, there’s no shortage of activities and attractions to enjoy in Amagasaki. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well on your way to planning a fantastic trip to this hidden gem of Japan.