Shiso City, located in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, is emerging as one of the country’s most exciting and unique travel destinations. Nestled in the central-western part of Hyogo, this charming city is just a short 90-minute drive from the bustling cities of Kyoto and Osaka. What makes Shiso City stand out is its focus on nature-based tourism, which combines the peaceful atmosphere of the region’s lush forests, the rich history of Japanese fermentation culture, and a heritage railway that brings visitors closer to its past. If you’re searching for a quiet yet compelling travel experience, this hidden gem should be at the top of your list.
Shiso City offers a unique blend of history, nature, and culture that draws travelers seeking a meaningful and sustainable tourism experience. With approximately 90% of the city’s land covered by forests, it provides an immersive environment for visitors to explore and learn about the area’s deep-rooted traditions. Shiso City is a place where every corner invites exploration, whether it’s through walking trails, the revival of a historical forest railway, or experiencing the art of fermentation, especially the iconic Japanese sake.
A Journey into Shiso City’s Natural Beauty and History
Shiso City presents a perfect combination of nature-based tourism and cultural experiences, offering visitors more than just scenic beauty. The city is becoming increasingly known for its sustainable travel options, with a focus on enriching cultural experiences tied to forests, fermentation, and its heritage railway.
Let’s dive deeper into the key attractions and experiences that make Shiso City a must-visit destination.
A “Forest Kingdom” Rich in Natural Beauty
Shiso City is known as a “Forest Kingdom”, with its vast forests covering an incredible 90% of the town’s area. The forestry industry has played a crucial role in the local economy and culture for generations. In fact, from the Taisho era through to the late Showa period, the city was home to a forest railway that transported timber from the mountain valleys. Today, these historical forest resources have been transformed into a unique tourism experience, giving visitors a glimpse of the region’s past while exploring its natural beauty.
Heritage Railway Experience: A Journey Back in Time
One of the most exciting features of Shiso City is the heritage railway, revived by the local community. The Forest Station Haga hosts a tourist railway built with a diesel locomotive that was previously used for erosion control and forestry projects. This short 678-meter railway track offers visitors the opportunity to physically engage with the region’s history, taking a ride through the mountains that were once traversed by timber transport. The facility includes hot spring baths and nearby accommodation, offering visitors the perfect mix of relaxation and cultural exploration.
Forest Therapy: A Tranquil Escape in the Western Oirase Gorge
For those who are looking to unwind and reconnect with nature, Shiso City offers forest therapy experiences. Recognized as a Forest Therapy Base, the city is home to the stunning Akasai Gorge, often referred to as the “Western Oirase Gorge” due to its resemblance to the famous Oirase Stream in Aomori Prefecture. This serene gorge, complete with waterfalls and clear streams, is a sanctuary for both the body and mind. Visitors can enjoy a forest therapy trail that offers restorative walks through nature. Along the way, they can take in the seasonal beauty of the gorge, particularly in Fukuchi Gorge, which has been praised by Japanese author Seiko Tanabe.
The Fermentation Culture: The Birthplace of Japanese Sake
In addition to its forests, Shiso City is also renowned for its fermentation culture, particularly in Japanese sake production. The city is proud to be the birthplace of sake brewing, with records dating back to the Harima Fudoki, the oldest surviving regional chronicle in Japan. The area’s long-standing relationship with fermentation is most evident in the Yamazaki district, where visitors can explore a historic sake brewery street. There are two breweries in operation, and visitors can enjoy brewery tours and tastings, learning about the traditional methods used to produce this beloved drink. The historic brewery founded in 1768 also operates a dining venue, where visitors can enjoy fermented foods alongside local cuisine, making it a truly immersive experience.
Creating a Sustainable Regional Tourism Model
Shiso City’s approach to tourism focuses on sustainability, heritage preservation, and meaningful travel experiences. The city has crafted several model itineraries that allow visitors to enjoy a combination of activities, from forest therapy and gorge walks to riding the heritage forest railway and tasting locally brewed sake. These itineraries offer flexibility, making them perfect for both day trips and overnight stays.
In 2025, Shiso City will mark the 20th anniversary of its municipal establishment, and to celebrate, the city is enhancing its efforts to attract domestic and international travelers. This move comes as part of the city’s ongoing focus on sustainable tourism, which aims to give travelers a deeper understanding of the region’s natural environment and cultural heritage.
Suggested Itineraries for Visitors
Shiso City offers a variety of itineraries, catering to different needs and interests. Some of the most popular options include:
2-Day / 1-Night Model Course
This immersive journey takes visitors through Shiso City’s forests, fermentation, and railway heritage:
- Day 1: Start with a visit to Yamazaki Sake Brewery Street for a tour and tasting. Enjoy lunch featuring fermented cuisine at a long-established sake brewery. Afterward, visit Niwata Shrine and then embark on a nature walk to Harafudo Waterfall. End the day with a visit to Forest Station Haga, where visitors can relax in hot spring baths and stay overnight.
- Day 2: Ride the heritage forest railway at Forest Station Haga. Explore Akasai Gorge with a forest therapy experience, followed by lunch and shopping at Minami-Haga Roadside Station.
Day Trip Model Course
For those with limited time, this day trip model allows visitors to experience the highlights of Shiso City:
- Begin at Yamazaki Interchange for a visit to the sake brewery street and enjoy fermented cuisine. Then, take a ride on the heritage railway at Forest Station Haga and enjoy shopping at the Minami-Haga Roadside Station.
Why Visit Shiso City?
Shiso City stands out as a sustainable tourism destination, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. With its rich forest landscapes, rejuvenated heritage railway, and world-renowned sake culture, this hidden gem in Hyogo Prefecture offers a more authentic and immersive experience than the usual tourist hotspots. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural discovery, Shiso City delivers it all.
Conclusion
If you are seeking a meaningful and sustainable travel experience in Japan, look no further than Shiso City. With its lush forests, cultural richness, and commitment to preserving its heritage, the city is poised to become one of Japan’s top eco-tourism destinations. Escape the crowds and explore the beauty of Shiso City, where nature, culture, and history come together in perfect harmony.
The post Discover Shiso City, Hyogo: Japan’s Hidden Gem with Breathtaking Forests, Timeless Sake, and Unforgettable Heritage Railways – Your Ultimate Sustainable Getaway Awaits! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
