Day 2 START
Tatsuno Castle Town
Known as the “Little Kyoto of Harima,” this castle town retains its Edo-era charm with the Tatsuno Castle ruins, samurai residences, and more. The town also flourished as the birthplace of usukuchi (light) soy sauce, meaning you can savor local fare made with soy sauce and fermented foods amid the charm of old brewery chimneys and cobblestone streets.
1minutes by car
Shoyu-no-Sato Taisho Roman-kan
This Western-style building, a registered tangible cultural property of Japan, was renovated from the former Tatsuno Soy Sauce Association office and brewery built in the Taisho era. The charming retro-modern building houses a locally sourced cafe and souvenir shop, making it a hub for Tatsuno's soy sauce culture and tourism.
10 minutes by Car
IbonoIto Museum: Somen-no-Sato
This facility showcases the traditional craft and flavors of Ibonoito, hand-stretched somen noodles that are a Tatsuno tradition. The museum traces the history and production process of somen noodles, while the restaurant lets you taste the real thing and the seasonal event nagashi somen (noodles poured down a slide) adds to the fun.
30 minutes by Car
Kikyo Hayamitsu Japanese Sword Smithy
Step into the world of swordsmithing, a tradition spanning a thousand years. At Kikyo Hayamitsu Japanese Sword Smithy, where sparks fly and the rhythmic breath of the smith fills the air, witness firsthand the profound artistry of Japanese sword making.
35 minutes by car
Ginpaso
A premier luxury inn representing Ako Onsen. Every room offers an ocean view, and the inn boasts an infinity open-air bath where you feel as though you are one with the sea. Let the sound of the waves wash over you as you get lost in the breathtaking Seto Inland Sea sunset, recognized as one of Japan’s 100 Best Sunsets.
