Asago Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Asago, Japan, including places to visit, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, what to buy, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Asago

Located in Hyogo, in the Kansai region of Japan, Asago is a small city nestled in the midst of scenic mountains and valleys. It is famous for its stunning and picturesque scenery, ancient temples and shrines, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you are an avid nature lover, a history buff, or a culture enthusiast, Asago has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Asago

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Asago boasts numerous cultural and historical sites that are worth visiting.

  • Takeda Castle Ruins - This 15th-century castle, located on top of a mountain, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
  • Osake Shrine - This ancient Shinto shrine, also known as Omiwa-jinja, is said to be one of Japan’s oldest shrines and is believed to be the birthplace of Japan’s sake culture.
  • Asago Art Village - This contemporary art museum showcases the works of both Japanese and international artists and is a popular destination for art lovers.
  • Asago Tourism Center - This center provides information about Asago’s history, culture, and tourist attractions, making it a great place to start your journey.

Natural Attractions of Asago: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Asago’s natural beauty is truly awe-inspiring. From lush forests and glistening waterfalls to fascinating rock formations and serene lakes, Asago has everything one could ask for when it comes to natural attractions.

  • Hiruzen Herb Garden - This garden boasts an array of colorful flowers, herbs, and plants, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Tendaki Dam - This massive dam, surrounded by lush forests, provides a stunning backdrop for hiking and picnicking.
  • Iwama Valley - This breathtaking valley is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and enjoying the scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Asago

Asago is a hiker’s paradise, offering numerous trails that take visitors deep into the heart of nature.

  • Kinojo-Mori Walk - This easy and scenic trail takes visitors through a beautiful forest and ends at an ancient castle ruin.
  • Yamabuki-Nara Course - This intermediate course takes hikers through a picturesque valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Hyogo Trail - This challenging trail spans the entire Hyogo prefecture and takes hikers through some of the most stunning landscapes in the region.

Best Things to Do in Asago: Activities and Tours

Asago has plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors entertained.

  • Kayaking in Maruyama - This guided tour takes visitors down the Maruyama river, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Cycling & Wine Tasting - This tour takes visitors on a leisurely bike ride around Hiruzen, which includes stops at local wineries for wine tasting and traditional Japanese snacks.
  • Sake Brewery and Tasting Tour - This tour takes visitors to some of Asago’s most famous sake breweries, where they can learn about the process of making sake and sample a variety of local sake.

Week-Long Itinerary for Asago

To make the most out of your visit to Asago, here’s a suggested week-long itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Asago Art Village and Osake Shrine
Day 2 Hike Kinojo-Mori Walk and explore Takeda Castle Ruins
Day 3 Kayak down Maruyama river and visit Hiruzen Herb Garden
Day 4 Take a cycling tour and visit local wineries
Day 5 Explore Iwama valley and hike the Yamabuki-Nara Course
Day 6 Visit local sake breweries and try different local sakes
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Tendaki Dam

Food and Drink Scene of Asago

Asago is famous for its unique and delicious local cuisine, which includes a wide range of dishes made from fresh local ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Yakiniku - grilled beef dishes that are popular throughout Asago
  • Soba Noodles - a type of thin Japanese noodle made from buckwheat flour that is especially popular during the autumn season
  • Heshiko - a traditional preserved fish dish that has been enjoyed in Asago for many years

Local Beverages

Asago is also famous for its local beverages, which include a variety of sake and other alcoholic drinks.

  • Sake - Asago’s sake is known for its smooth and rich flavor, and it has been produced in the region for centuries.
  • Shochu - a type of traditional Japanese distilled beverage that is made from barley or sweet potato

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

Asago offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

  • Asago Hotel - a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Asago, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Hostel Nihon-no-Mura - a budget-friendly hostel that offers both dormitory and private rooms.
  • Guesthouse Asago-kirara - a cozy guesthouse located in the countryside, offering guests a chance to experience Japanese rural life.

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

Asago is famous for its unique and high-quality local products, which make great souvenirs and gifts.

  • Asago Sake - Asago’s sake is a must-try, and many local breweries offer visitors a chance to sample and purchase their products.
  • Washi Paper Products - Asago is known for its high-quality washi paper, which can be used to create a variety of unique and beautiful crafts and souvenirs.
  • Heshiko - Asago’s traditional preserved fish is a unique and delicious gift to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Asago

Asago has a rich and fascinating history and culture, and visitors can experience this through various cultural events and traditions.

  • Asago Otaue Rice Planting Festival - This colorful and traditional festival takes place in May, celebrating the planting of the rice fields.
  • Asago Fire Festival - This traditional festival takes place in October and celebrates the changing of the seasons with bonfires and a procession.

Best Time to Visit Asago

The best time to visit Asago is during the autumn season, from late September to early December, when the leaves change color, and the weather is pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Asago

Do:

  • Try local cuisine and sake
  • Respect local traditions and customs
  • Take your shoes off when entering temples and shrines

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places
  • Talk loudly in public or on transportation
  • Leave trash or litter in public areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Asago

Asago is generally a safe city, with low crime rates. However, visitors should still take standard safety precautions, such as avoiding unlit and deserted areas at night, and keeping valuables secured.

Health in Asago

Asago has excellent medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance before visiting.

Getting to Asago: Transportation Options and Logistics

Asago is easily accessible by various modes of transportation.

Airports Near Asago

  • Osaka International Airport - located approximately 2 hours away by car or train
  • Kobe Airport - located approximately 1.5 hours away by car or train

Bus Stations Near Asago

  • Asago Bus Terminal
  • JR Sasayama Station

Other Options

  • Railways - Asago is well-connected by railways, with numerous stations spread out throughout the city.
  • Car Rental - Visitors can also rent a car to explore the city and surrounding areas at their own leisure.

How to Get Around in Asago

Asago is a small city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance from each other. Visitors can also use public transportation, such as buses and trains, to get around. Taxis and car rentals are also available.

Where to Go Next from Asago: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Asago is located in a beautiful and scenic part of Japan and is surrounded by numerous destinations that are well worth a visit.

  • Himeji Castle - a stunning 17th-century castle and UNESCO World Heritage site located approximately 1.5 hours away by train.
  • Kinosaki Onsen - a charming hot springs town located approximately 2 hours away by train.
  • Kobe - a bustling port city famous for its unique cosmopolitan culture and delicious Kobe beef, located approximately 1.5 hours away by train.

Conclusion

Asago is a truly enchanting and picturesque city that offers visitors a chance to experience Japan’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are looking to hike through lush forests, sample delicious local cuisine, or immerse yourself in ancient traditions and customs, Asago is the perfect destination for you.

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