9 Best Things to Do in Hyogo (Koube) in Winter (December to February)

The winter in Hyogo Prefecture is harshly cold, but it is worth visiting due to its beautiful natural scenery and intriguing tourist spots. In particular, you can enjoy the snowy landscapes, hot springs, and illumination events in Hyogo during winter. Additionally, there are plenty of winter delicacies that will warm both your heart and body.

※ The events introduced may have changes in their schedules. Please check the official website of the facility for the latest information.

About Winter in Hyogo Prefecture

Features and Attractions

The winter in Hyogo Prefecture is characterized by clear air and beautiful snowy landscapes. In areas like “Mount Rokko,” Tamba, and Kami Town, where the snow accumulates, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snow play. In urban areas such as Kobe and Himeji, Christmas illuminations and winter events are held, allowing you to spend romantic moments. Each tourist spot in Hyogo Prefecture offers unique ways to enjoy winter, making it a special experience.

Climate and Clothing

The winter in Hyogo Prefecture is cold, especially in mountainous and northern areas where snow accumulates. Even in urban areas, the cold is severe, so down jackets and cold-weather gear are essential. Wearing thick sweaters and warm inner layers is advisable. In snowy regions, be sure to wear non-slip shoes, gloves, and hats to stay warm.

Winter Outing Spots

Hyogo Prefecture has many spots to visit in winter. Here are some places where you can enjoy beautiful snowy landscapes and winter activities.

Mount Rokko Snow Park

“Mount Rokko Snow Park” is a ski resort with good access from the Kansai area. It offers courses for beginners to advanced skiers and is popular with families. Especially in “Snow Land,” there are slopes dedicated to sledding and snow play, making it safe and enjoyable for small children.

Himeji Central Park Ice Park

At the “Himeji Central Park Ice Park,” you can enjoy ice skating indoors. The charm is that you can skate regardless of the weather. The admission fee for the Ice Park includes entry to the safari and amusement park, so you can enjoy a full day of fun.

Up Kannabe Snow Wonderland

“Up Kannabe” is one of the largest ski resorts in the Kansai area, offering a variety of activities for both adults and children. At “Snow Kindergarten,” you can enjoy attractions like snow rafting and snow tubing, making it especially recommended for families with children.

Illumination Spots

In winter, Hyogo Prefecture offers beautiful illuminations at various locations. Here are some recommended illumination spots.

Kobe Illuminage

Held at the “Kobe Fruit & Flower Park,” “Kobe Illuminage” attracts many visitors every year. You can enjoy different themed illuminations such as a giant maze and an Arabian palace. Visit with your family, friends, or loved ones and indulge in the magical world of lights.

Nesta Resort Kobe Nesta Illumina

At “Nesta Resort Kobe,” “Nesta Illumina” features about 3 million lights that blend beautifully with nature. There are many areas where you can enjoy light and sound shows, such as the Dancing Wall and Fantasy Lagoon. The “Great Nature of Four Seasons” area, in particular, showcases the beauty of each season through projection mapping, making it a highlight.

Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens Christmas at the Old Castle

At “Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens,” you can enjoy illuminations themed “Christmas at the Old Castle.” The observation area and herb garden, designed to resemble a medieval European castle, are enveloped in a Christmas atmosphere, with a 25-meter tall Metasequoia Christmas tree being a must-see.

Winter Gourmet

Winter in Hyogo Prefecture is also a season to enjoy delicious food. Here are some gourmet delights that feature the bounty of the sea and mountains.

Crab from Kasumi Fishing Port

At “Kasumi Fishing Port” in Kami Town, you can enjoy fresh crab. Particularly, “Kasumi Crab” is a local delicacy that you can only taste here. At the fish market, you can even eat freshly boiled crab on the spot, indulging in the luxurious flavors of winter.

Botan Nabe from Tamba Sasayama

The local dish “Botan Nabe” from Tamba Sasayama is a miso-based hot pot featuring wild boar meat and seasonal vegetables. Especially at “Ryokan Takasago,” you can enjoy authentic Botan Nabe made with locally sourced ingredients. It’s a perfect warm dish for the cold winter.

Awaji Island 3-Year-Old Tiger Pufferfish

The “Awaji Island 3-Year-Old Tiger Pufferfish,” raised in the southern part of Awaji Island, is known for its firm texture and chewiness. At “Zekkei Restaurant Uzunokoka,” you can enjoy set menus featuring pufferfish hot pot and pufferfish sashimi while overlooking the Naruto Strait.