Discover a stunning park that's breathtaking any time of the year. Spend a whole day exploring its scenic beauty and relaxing atmosphere. Inside, you'll find charming eateries and a delightful tea house, perfect for a quick refresh or a leisurely sip. Don't forget, for just 100 yen, you can buy food to feed the cheerful fish, adding a fun touch to your visit.

It’s a beautiful park with many things to see and many rest areas for guests to get a snack and experience the zen-ness of Japanese gardens. I think that this one is better than korakuen at nearby okayama ;) a round trip within the garden takes about 1hour so pace yourself!

One of my favourite gardens in Japan! Not crowded at all but so well maintained and it was absolutely beautiful! I was not expecting it to be so big and they had a stamp rally that made it fun to go around and collect them! The teahouses were also lovely. Even the staff and volunteers were incredibly nice, met a wonderful volunteer named Toyota-san who spoke wonderful Englush and had amazing stories to tell!

It was better than I expected. The Kikugetsu Stay, which borders the largest pond inside the park, made me want to be there for a long time. The staff wearing kimonos guided me inside an old wooden house, drank tea, and it was an experience that made me realize that I had come to Japan. I went around every corner of the building, felt the atmosphere, and explored the space. I would like to visit again next time. 🌳

A very nice Japanese park, good for strolling and bird watching. A lot of people were bringing their long lense camera. There's also stamp rally going on inside the park, you don't have to collect all of them (there are 8 spots), you can get a sticker! The routes are very pebble-ly , might be challenging for wheelchair users. There's quite a few steps as well. There's also a tea house where they serve you green tea in ceremony style... and lots of koi fishes! They sells the koi treats for 100円 there's stick version (like ice cream cone) and the normal pellet too. Wedding ice cream is fun to eat too.

I decided on a morning run from my hotel to Ritsurin Garden, hoping for a quiet solo stroll. Upon arrival, a guide kindly offered me a tour. I was hesitant at first due to my limited Japanese, but the guide was incredibly patient and welcoming. We managed to communicate using a mix of basic phrases, gestures, and a little help from Google Translate. The result was a fantastic, personalized tour that taught me so much about the garden's deep history and exquisite beauty. It was a highlight of my trip—highly recommend accepting the offer if you get the chance!

We made a reservation online weeks earlier for the boat tour at 9:30am. I originally thought the boat tour would take us around the whole garden, especially since it was summer and I wanted to avoid walking too much under the hot sun. But I was wrong, the boat only goes around one corner of the garden (though it is the most beautiful part), and it is not shaded. A hat was provided to each customer, which helped a little. The boat rower kindly explained the garden’s history and even sang an Italian song for us towards the end 😁 Still, I found the garden itself rather boring, and summer is probably not the best season to visit.

Terminal station for the Kotoden. Passengers heading to the nearby Ritsurin Garden may consider using the train to get there.

Small station and not that really clean, but a very simple terminus station tue staffs are really nice and close to restaurants hotels and the JR Takamatsu station, so I gave it a 3 star

Small station in Takamatsu.

(Translated by Google) [August 2025] Kotohira Electric Railway Co., Ltd. (commonly known as Kotoden) has become so entrenched in local transportation that no one even calls it by its official name anymore, and it's used by so many people. However, the rolling stock is rapidly aging, and other operational equipment that isn't noticeable to the average passenger is also likely outdated. I'm not a resident, so I use the line frequently whenever I come to Takamatsu. However, Takamatsu-Chikko Station is about 300 meters from JR Takamatsu Station, and on hot midsummer days like today, it's really tiring to walk there with my luggage and wait for the traffic lights on the main road. There were apparently plans to extend the line all the way to near JR Takamatsu Station, but this was abandoned due to financial difficulties. This is exactly the kind of situation where politicians come into play, so I hope they will create and promote projects for the local community, including ways to cover the funding. This problem of major JR stations and local private railway stations being some distance apart is found all over the country, and in places like Toyama Station, which has already been improved, and Hiroshima Station, which was just completed, extensions of railway lines and changes to routes are being implemented to improve access. On this day, I saw many passengers walking from Takamatsu-Chikko Station towards JR Takamatsu Station, and I believe that improved access will increase the number of passengers and ultimately lead to improved business performance for Kotoden. (Original) 【2025年8月】 琴平電気鉄道株式会社（通称ことでん）はもはや誰も正式な名称で呼ばないほど地元民の足として定着し、多くの人たちに利用されています。 しかし車両もどんどん老朽化してきており、そのほか一般のお客さんには目立たない運行設備なども古くなっていると思われます。 わたしは在住者ではないので高松に来るたびに頻繁に利用していますが、高松築港駅がJR高松駅前と300メートル程度離れていて、この日のように暑い真夏日になると荷物を持って大通りの信号を待って歩いて行くのが本当に疲れます。 かつては、JR高松駅近くまで延伸する計画があったようですが、財政難で断念したそうです。 こういう事こそ政治家の出番なので資金の負担の方法など、ぜひ地域のためにプロジェクトを作って推進してほしいものです。 JRの主要駅と地方の私鉄の駅が少しだけ離れているというパターンの問題は全国のあちこちにあって、既に改良された富山駅や完成したばかりの広島駅などのように、アクセス改善のための鉄道延伸やルート変更などが実施されてきています。 この日も大勢のお客さんが高松築港駅からJR高松駅方面に歩いて移動するのを見ていますが、 アクセス改善により利用者が増加して最終的には琴電の業績向上にも繋がっていくものと思います。

(Translated by Google) I took the 8:00 Kotohira train, and it seems to be frequented by many students. I was impressed by the fact that Kotoden issues transportation IC cards with self-deprecating humor, such as "Do you need it?" The ride wasn't particularly comfortable, but it had a certain charm and brought back some nostalgic memories. (Original) 8時00分の琴平行を利用させていただきましたが、学生さんも多く利用者が多いのですね 琴電は「要るか？」などと自虐的なネタの交通系ICカードを発行しているのでちょっと感動しました。　乗り心地はお世辞にも良くはありませんでしたが、味があってとても懐かしい気持ちになれましたね

(Translated by Google) This is the starting station for the Takamatsu-Kotohira Electric Railway, and is about a 5-minute walk from JR Takamatsu Station. Trains departing from Takamatsu-Chikko enter the Kotohira Line and Nagao Line, but split off at Kawaramachi along the way. You must change at Kawaramachi Station to board the Shido Line. The line runs through the Sanuki region, providing a convenient means of transportation for daily life in the Takamatsu area, and the idyllic rural scenery stretches out along the line. It also provides access to historic sites and scenic spots such as Ritsurin Garden, and Takamatsu-Chikko Station is adjacent to Takamatsu Castle Ruins Park. You can reach Kotohira in around an hour, so it rivals JR in terms of access to Konpira. (Original) 高松琴平電鉄の始発駅で、JR高松駅とは徒歩5分程度でアクセスできます。 高松築港から出発した電車は琴平線・長尾線に入りますが、途中の瓦町から分かれます。 志度線は瓦町駅で乗り換えとなります。 高松近郊の生活の足として讃岐地区を貫き、沿線はのどかな田園風景が拡がります。 栗林公園等の史跡名勝へもアクセスでき、高松築港駅も高松城址公園と隣接しています。 1時間程度で琴平まで到達できるので、こんぴらアクセスの面ではJRともライバルですね。

(Translated by Google) The starting/ending station of the Kotoden Kotohira Line and Nagao Line. JR Takamatsu Station is about a 5-minute walk away. The Shido Line starts at Kawaramachi Station, which is a dead end like this station. Like Kataharamachi Station and Kawaramachi Station, there are station staff and a dolphin charge machine, ticket vending machine, timetable, toilet, and automatic ticket gates for transportation IC cards. This station is close to Sunport Takamatsu, JR Takamatsu Station, the court, the Legal Affairs Bureau Joint Government Building, Takamatsu Kita Police Station, and the port for ferries and high-speed boats to Shodoshima, Naoshima, and Teshima, so there are quite a lot of passengers, especially in the mornings and evenings. This station is adjacent to Tamamo Castle. Tamamo Castle is one of the three great water castles in Japan, and it takes in seawater, with saltwater fish swimming in the moat. (Original) ことでん琴平線と長尾線の始発／終着駅。JR高松駅へは徒歩5分くらい。なお志度線は瓦町駅が始発駅となっていてこの駅のように行き止まりになっている。片原町駅、瓦町駅と同じように駅員がいてイルカチャージ機、券売機、時刻表、トイレ、交通系ＩＣカード専用の自動改札機がある。この駅はサンポート高松、JR高松駅、裁判所、法務局合同庁舎、高松北警察署、そして小豆島、直島、豊島へのフェリーや高速艇発着の港が近く、特に朝夕は乗降客がそれなりに多い。この駅は玉藻城に隣接している。玉藻城は日本三大水城の一つに数えられ、海水を取り込んでおり、堀には海水魚が泳いでいます。

A historical site of Takamatsu Castle near the sea. Ticket cost 200 yen for adult. Good to visit and there are many good photo spots.

Very interesting to get a look at this partially ruined castle, where only two towers remain, both beautiful, but of the main keep, only the rock foundation at the centre still stands. It is noteworthy in a different way, rougher and simultaneously it appears like a modern art installation. Quite rare in Japan, the moat is connected to the sea, so fish and other sea creatures can swim around. The park also has a nice temple/tea house building, although currently under restoration. Great place to have a picnic.

Admission is only 200 yen, but I was disappointed to find that the main keep no longer exists — it is planned for reconstruction in the future. There are a few historic buildings on-site, but I was unable to enter them due to ongoing events during my visit. Instead, I was directed to a VR tour on my phone. It would have been an acceptable visit if I had gone expecting a park. However, visiting specifically for a castle and finding very little to see felt misleading. This should be named as "Castle Ruin" instead.

You need to purchase a ticket at the counter to enter the grounds. However, despite it being well maintained, there's not much ground to cover here. Even the ruins covered only a very small area.

This historical castle was part of the park. A small entrance fee was required. Two carparks were very convenient. The railway was just outside the park. Although the castle and other buildings were not so large, they were well maintained and worth paying a visit. The garden was planted with lots of cherry trees. Some seats and tables were available. Toilets were clean. This was one of the sightseeing points in the city, which was easily accessible with or without a car.

Immaculately kept castle and park. The moat and gardens were the highlight. There was even a boat giving rides around the keep. No huge crowds and very tranquil. Well worth an hour of your time.

A good place to check out, if you’re in Takamatsu area. Small, but the place embraces a couple of picturesque spots.

A historical site of Takamatsu Castle near the sea. Ticket cost 200 yen for adult. Good to visit and there are many good photo spots.

Very interesting to get a look at this partially ruined castle, where only two towers remain, both beautiful, but of the main keep, only the rock foundation at the centre still stands. It is noteworthy in a different way, rougher and simultaneously it appears like a modern art installation. Quite rare in Japan, the moat is connected to the sea, so fish and other sea creatures can swim around. The park also has a nice temple/tea house building, although currently under restoration. Great place to have a picnic.

Admission is only 200 yen, but I was disappointed to find that the main keep no longer exists — it is planned for reconstruction in the future. There are a few historic buildings on-site, but I was unable to enter them due to ongoing events during my visit. Instead, I was directed to a VR tour on my phone. It would have been an acceptable visit if I had gone expecting a park. However, visiting specifically for a castle and finding very little to see felt misleading. This should be named as "Castle Ruin" instead.

You need to purchase a ticket at the counter to enter the grounds. However, despite it being well maintained, there's not much ground to cover here. Even the ruins covered only a very small area.

This historical castle was part of the park. A small entrance fee was required. Two carparks were very convenient. The railway was just outside the park. Although the castle and other buildings were not so large, they were well maintained and worth paying a visit. The garden was planted with lots of cherry trees. Some seats and tables were available. Toilets were clean. This was one of the sightseeing points in the city, which was easily accessible with or without a car.

Immaculately kept castle and park. The moat and gardens were the highlight. There was even a boat giving rides around the keep. No huge crowds and very tranquil. Well worth an hour of your time.

A good place to check out, if you’re in Takamatsu area. Small, but the place embraces a couple of picturesque spots.

Houses are originally built for Kajimura house hold which is bankers family. several buildings are in the household. old one is from late edo, then Taisho era then Showa era.Garden isrebuild in early showa and is rehstered as national reaogngzed garden.

(Translated by Google) An old merchant's house. It is a blessing that such historical buildings remain and that tourists can easily see them. Tsuyama City, which is currently in a state of decline, is a reminder of how vibrant it once was. I visited during the Okayama Mori Art Festival. The exhibit made good use of the building's history and structure, and I was satisfied with both the art and the building. (Original) 昔の商人の家。 こういう歴史的な建物が残っていて、観光客が気軽に拝見できるのは有り難いことです。今は失礼ながら斜陽の津山市が、かつてどれほど元気があったかを偲ばせます。 岡山森の芸術祭で訪問しました。建物の歴史と構造がしっかりと活用された展示で、アートも建物も満足でした。

(Translated by Google) This is another amazing facility. There are no strange exhibits or warnings, and it is truly released as it is. You can see all the parts that were expanded during the Edo, Meiji, Taisho, and Showa periods. The person managing the building was very kind and I could feel their love for the building. It looks like it will become a lodging facility, so I hope they don't mess around with it. (Original) これまたすごい施設。 変な展示とか注意書きが一切なく、本当にそのままの状態で解放されています。 江戸、明治、大正、昭和と増築された部分が全部見れます。 管理をしてらっしゃる方もすごく親切で、建物に対する愛情を感じました。 宿泊施設になってしまうようで、そのためにあれこれいじられない事を願っております

(Translated by Google) A preserved townhouse that lives up to its name. You can go inside the building and take a look. (Original) 館名通りで、保存された町屋。建物内に上がって見学できる。

(Translated by Google) First of all, is it really okay to be allowed to tour such a historic building for free? That's what I thought 😄 At first, I went for a walk and just felt it, but before I knew it, a lot of time had passed. It is a space where you can feel the weight of history. (Original) まずこれだけの歴史的な建築物を本当に無料で見学させて貰って良いの？と思いました😄最初は散歩のついで感覚で入りましたが気が付いたら凄く時間が経過してました。歴史の重みを感じられる空間です。

(Translated by Google) This is an old house located on Kyu-Izumo Kaido Street on the east side of Tsuyama Castle, and you can tour the inside for free. (Original) 津山城の東側にある旧出雲街道通りにある旧家で、内部が無料で見学できます。

(Translated by Google) It was a very calm and quiet place, and it was a wonderful place that conveyed the atmosphere of the early Showa and Taisho periods. The guide was also very nice, and although it was a short time, he was able to tell us about the historical background and the highlights of the facility, which was a great thing. Also, the hallway with its Japanese bush warbler flooring was a highlight for the ferry. (Original) とても落ち着いた静かな環境で、昭和初期や大正時代の雰囲気を伝えてくれる素敵な場所でした🍀ガイドをしてくれた方もとても感じ良く、短い時間でしたが時代背景や施設の見処を伝えて頂き良いところです。 それとウグイス張りの廊下が渡しにとってポイント⤴️

Really nice view and went there close to sunset and it was pretty amazing the place was rather crowded though but would still highly recommend going there. As the view is pretty stunning!

✨ A magical and romantic place ✨ Visiting Angel Road was an unforgettable experience. The sandy path appears during low tide, connecting several small islands and creating a unique scenery. The atmosphere is peaceful, perfect for a romantic walk or enjoying the sunset. There’s also a viewpoint with a bell where couples ring it for good luck in love, which makes the place even more special. Make sure to check the tide schedule to walk the entire path. A must-see spot in Shodoshima, full of natural beauty and romance. 🌊💫

When we arrive the sun was already going down and the sunset view was amazing. The tide was already rising but there is still people trying to cross over. ( pls becarful if you do but I don’t recommend 🫣) There is a car park near by but not a lot of space tho.

We made a beeline straight for this place as soon as we got off the ferry, and were glad we took our car. The bus wait seemed a bit slow. We missed the tide around sunset, and it wasn’t too crowded when we went. I was able to fly my drone here and capture some beautiful footage of the rock formations around here. There was a couple that was getting wedded that day, and most people edged out of the way to let them take their wedding pictures. Most folks descend down the steps to here, and come straight to the beach area to take pictures of the “island”. But there also steps to the left that are a bit discreet; they lead up to a series of stairs that give you a nice panoramic view of the island and there is a lover’s bell up on the top as well.

Wonderful experience, check the low tide times before you go (your window is 2 hours before to 2 hours after for a total of 4 hours). Cool to see the flora and fauna that clearly were in the ocean water hours ago. Crossing the sand bar and back is picturesque and can be done in less than 30 minutes. Bonus trip up the stairs near the entrance leads you to a bell you can ring for love!

Took Olive bus no. 6 here. As it was low tide, we could walk on the road or rather the beach. We walked till the end where we saw past visitors had hang blessings notes on the branches of the tree. It was a nice stroll on the beach. After that we headed to Yumi Katsura Lover's Sanctuary where we could ring the bell and looked down on Angel road

Beautiful. But I recomend to stay there for 15 to 30 mins only

If you like studio ghibli then it’s a must go. The windmill is the highlight of the place. So many people taking photo there. After parking you need to go to the museum, they have a wall where they hang the famous Kiki broom. But sometime you need to wait since many took it for photo. After taking the break you can then head to the windmill. The olive oil ice cream was good also specially after all the jumping 😆😆😆.

tbh it’s frustrating to walk uphill under scorching sun, from the bus stop. it’s a nice olive park tho, big square with art installations and the windmill that everyone is crazy about. big souvenir shop, resto and stuff, even a shrine!! also a tiny museum and noodles place along the road. i spent 3hrs there, but i think most people left faster than i did. once is enough for me; i won’t go again if no one drives me uphill.

An olive garden with a lot of photogenic spots. There are the oldest olive tree in Japan, a windmill, a lovely house and a statue of Athena. There is a large souvenir shop with various olive products from snack, food to cosmetics.

You can borrow the broom for free to pretend to be Kiki in Ghibli Kiki's Delivery Service~ Please also go to lookout~

Though I am not a big fan of theme park, this scenic olive-theme park was definitely worth a visit. Its herb garden, museum, and olive farm were both beautiful and educational. Potential visitors need to budget their time accordingly as the buses run infrequently (especially in the late afternoon)!

The Olive Garden consists of multiple Greek style structures, like the iconic windmill and the herb garden. It was fun to look for heart shaped olive leaves

Not only famous for the olive, but also with a fabulous scenery!

You need to pay to visit the site but I think it’s worth it. Very beautiful and relaxing. Some of the time they have tours coming in, so it’s abit crowded. Many place to take photos so if you like taking photo you must go. Many parking outside the site so no need to worry.

My wife really enjoyed some of the books which were based of some of the movie which were filmed here. If you are a historical japanese movie buff black and white movie etc you may have seen one or two that was filmed here. You can go into every building and see photos and articles from all the old movie. If you don't like old movies maybe not worth the visit

Nice scenery but the building and expo are a littéralement bit messy. I would have expect more fous on cinéma world. Many housse just host shop selling unrelated art stuff. Maybe good for a quick stop (but ticket is 1000 yens per adult.

Beautiful and nostalgic place to visit. I bought also a lot of souvenirs. The shop keepers were sooo nice to me. 🩷👍🏻👍🏻

I only stayed outside as I only got 15 mins before the bus comes. I need to catch this bus as my luggage storage ends at 4:30pm. It looks pretty good from the outside, I manage to take a peak from the gaps of the gate, inside seem to have the houses you see in a samurai movie. Visited on 1 Apr 2025

This place exceeded my expectations… admittedly it was a gorgeous day to see the coast and buildings, but a fascinating spot to learn about early Japanese film making and culture. The coffee shop has Italian sodas which hit the spot in the 35 degree heat! The carp and cod to feed in the river are also huge!!!

An old style Japanese film studio. Has some sets and a museum you can visit and walk through. It’s small but if you’re in Shodoshima you didn’t come for large scale things. This is a fun place to walk around. Super cheap admission price. Standard Japanese gift shop for you to shop at inside too.

Short and simple museum, but very good value as you get a complimentary bottle of soy sauce plus 100¥ discount for the shop. The soft serve soy sauce ice cream is really good. Worth walking up the road to the nearby sake brewery and bakery, they're really good.

We were disappointed in this museum. There is no interactivity at all, just exhibition items. We were hoping to be able to see the soy sauce production but there is nothing like that here. The soy sauce soft serve ice cream was tasty tho.

It is a beautiful place full of aroma and history. You need to pay a small fee to enter the museum but you’ll find plenty of informations on the soy sauce factory process inside. Worth a visit if you’re in the neighbourhood. The soft serve could be a tiny bit more flavourful ! If you visit when there is a tourist bus incoming, it can be crowded inside.

Nice to stop by if you are in the island - it’s interesting to know how soy sauce has been made in old days. Soy sauce ice cream is sold at the small shop next to the museum which seems to be more popular than the museum itself. Some souvenirs are also available. Free parking available and the whole area smells like soy sauce.

A great way to find out how soy sauce is made! In the museum there were English explanations under the Japanese, so even though I can read kanji fairly well I felt like I understood the process better 😉 We couldn’t tour the factory but we did see the vats of beans and malt percolating. And the smell was something else!!

A fine place to learn about how to make soy sauce. Visitors get to learn the history of soy sauce making on Shodoshima island. Small and historic place. Soy sauce ice cream is acceptable, worth a try. But not many will like it.

You can smell the soy fragrance in the air!! Make sure to visit the wooden barrel aging room and also of course the ice cream!

It's a beautiful beach with a small pier with rock pools and clear water. If you take a photo in the right place it looks like the canaries. This place also has the most majestic sunsets which are extremely beautiful. Only issue is some parts of the beach are quite dirty with lots of rubbish 😔. But it's not a large part so don't worry. For swimming id recommend you go May-September. you could go April but it's a little cold. Overall a 4/5 beach

May 19, 2025 A very ordinary local beach with not much to write home about. Since my friend and I had some spare time we dropped by to go northbound from the southern end of the island. Maybe it’s more spectacular during sunset since it’s on the west side of the island?

It's so beautiful ☺🥰 it's also free parking when i went there this Saturday in summer. The marbles are so pretty colorful and the scenery is just so beautiful. It's not sand but i really enjoyed it! 💛 very beautiful for sunset spot! 🌅 I will give 5 stars if there's a convenient store nearby or cafe or something but there's nothing. But they do have vending machines for drinks only. And small toilet to clean up. But there are cafe in a distance walk and hotels.

It's a pretty darn good beach. With the right conditions, there's a pretty good chance you'll catch a beautiful sunset. The sand is pretty coarse and a bit rough on bare feet though.

It’s good that they have shades in the pine forest! Parking is available ¥500-700 for a day. They have shower rooms but it costs ¥100 for 3 mins, and it’s not hot water :(

Nice beach with a big parking lot (700¥). There are pine trees that offer shade. The beach is many small pebbles which are fun to search through. Wear water shoes, crocs, or something like that.

Great place to unwind and enjoy the beach.

A real gem, toys from all over Japan and the world. Toys made in occupied Japan and sent to USA on display. Also handmade kites were outstanding. Special seasonal displays are a nice plus. 15 minute walk from the station through quiet neighborhood to get there.

We visited this toy museum during a day trip to Himeji while our cruise ship was docked at Kobe port and loved it! The town was so serene and peaceful and it was really novel and interesting to learn about history through toys. It was also really fun to play with some with some of them and explore the cute little gift shop. The staff were also really kind, gifting us with some origami as a parting gift and the owner even drove us back to the train station.

Amazing! I can't recommend this place enough. It's the collection of one person. We met him and he showed us how to use some of the toys. The price is very cheap and we got a memorable experience that felt honest, Interactive and personal and got to see an impressive collection of toys and dolls from all over the world. The museum shop is also cool and isn't too expensive. Go there if you have the time, definitely worth it.

Very happy that I chose to visit this museum. I was going to see other museums in the area but they were closed (maybe because of bad weather?). But the toy museum was open and was a fantastic display. They have areas where children can play with some classic japan toys. It was surprising to see some toys that made their way to the American market as well, transformers, furby, robo dog, and of course pokemon. More than toys they have exquisite dolls and handicraft on display. I think everyone will find something interesting here. Skip the nintendo museum and come here instead if you want real Japanese culture.

Fantastic medium sized museum of toys from around Japan and other countries as well. The focus is on handmade toys so fans of handicrafts will also enjoy the exhibits. Explanations are mostly limited to country of origin and are provided in Japanese and English. Photos are allowed. A variety of wooden toys are available to play with but most of the items are behind glass. Despite the name, the museum is a labor of love by one man who built the collection with donated items over the past 50 years! I worry about the future of this collection as he is now in his 80s. Visit soon! There's also a membership program to help with the upkeep. I came by car as it's a fair distance from Himeji or Kobe but it is possible to visit but public transportation if you have time to spare.

A beautiful museum showcasing toys from different eras of Japan and also from different parts of the world. Well worth a visit!

There is an international collection, a Japanese collection. Also the staff is very kind and helpful, we love it.

Such a fabulous place to visit on Awaji Island! Incredibly picturesque, with pond, flowering plants, multiple structures, tea ceremony. Tickets for tea ceremony. Large grounds. 2nd parking lot across the street. Kakurai kiosk with original tea ceremony ceramic work (near tea ceremony). Cafes across the street, beach 5 minutes away.

My friend said its the oldest temple in Japan and its belong to the caesar family. There is a very old japanese cedar tree that age over 900 years. Consist of many tree and now only left 2 trees. The shrine itself age almost 1500 years. Beside the history itself there is nothing to see here.

Said to be the oldest shrine in Japan (and the roots of the Japanese nation). But even if it’s not, it’s lovely here. Come and be inspired by nature, find peace and pray.

Afternoon few days before the equinoxes alone with the east west tori gates

Not crowded, you can also feed turtles

Historical shrine worth to come. Regrettably political poster beside.

For people interested in Japanese mythology, this is a must-see. It's a small shrine, doesn't take long to see, and there's a good atmosphere. It's a 30m drive from the highway, but it's a pleasant drive. Of you want to start your stamp collection there, their booklet is beautiful.

Lovely views from this ancient ruin. You can take the cheap shuttle bus between the station and the ruins. It only runs each hour. Be prepared for lots of steep walking. Allow a couple of hours minimum.

I left at 08:00 and arrived around 10:00. Beautiful sights, but didn’t get the sea of clouds. If you want to see them, get there at 06:00 to 06:30!

I’d recommend going to observation deck 1 on the opposite side of the castle instead. From there you can see a panoramic view of the castle surrounded by clouds. If you hike all the way to the top you can also see the sea of clouds over town in the early morning. You don’t need to come before sunrise to see this effect! Photos in this review are from observation deck 1.

Take a bus from Takeda station to the Takeda ruin stop and you have to take a 20mins hike up to the entrance of the ruins where you can purchase your ticket with a machines. Recommended that you bring 1000yen or coins for the bus rides, bigger notes are okay for the ticket but not the bus. Be prepared to walk alot up and also inside the ruins, to exit the ruins it’s using stairs but they are pretty steep. We came abit too early for the cherry blossom and too late timing for the clouds, so you can plan your trip for it but expected a crowd at those peak periods too.

Absolutely fantastic spot that reminds me of Machu Picchu on its ruins layout and perched atop a mountain. The bus from the visitor centre departs with quite a wide gap in timing so do time it well if you are visiting, else walking or taxi is the only option. The bus takes you near, but still an uphill walk for 900m is still required. As you walk uphill, there's a turn left where the signboard says not to enter from, and that is actually the exit point. Technically if you go through there, then it's free entry? As there is no ticket checks within the ruins itself. However, the ticket price is not at all hefty and I will recommend that we all do our part to preserve this fantastic monument. At the end of the monument, you can see a sweeping view of the Takeda town below.

A few days ago, I travelled with my family to visit the "Takeda Castle Ruins" in Asago-shi, Hyōgo-Prefecture-Japan. It's a bit of a drive from Kyoto, about 21/2 hours to be precise. There are a few options available on maps, and we opted for driving most of it through the countryside. Time-wise, it hardly made a difference. About halfway in, we stopped at an udon restaurant for lunch. Our first stop was high up on NR 163; it's a winding road to the top and easily accessible by car. On the top, there is a spot from where you can see Takeda Castle Ruins. The distance to the castle is just under 3.00 kilometres or 1.8 miles. I used a 70-200 telelens with a 2X extender. The weather was not at its best, with slight rain and dark clouds; still, it was a fun experience. Of course, the prime time to shoot a legendary picture is in late autumn when there is fog in the morning. There is a second spot that is very popular with photographers. Located on the opposite side of the castle, you'll need to hike up between 10 and 30 minutes. There are three observation spots, with number one the hot place and the highest. Because it was getting dark, I opted for the third observation spot. The shooting distance to the castle is just under 2.00 kilometres or 1.2 miles. There is a path, but it is steep and rugged. This area is famous for its clusters of cherry trees during the sakura season. I definitely would like to go back in autumn to see the castle in a sea of clouds.

Took the train from Osaka station, it was quite a long train journey but the views from Takeda castle ruins made me forget about it. A special memory, lots of green and beautiful views of the landscape. Very powerful spot for the spiritually aware. For the fit like me, you can run up it in 20mins. Great exercise & the beauty at the top will rewarding. Best time to visit I was told was really early morning spring, when the whole mountain is covered in mist.

Quite a big rnr stop, with wet market food, vegetables, food court and japanese restaurants. Nice outdoor seating area

Nice rest stop. Food court for quick food, I think there's also some restaurants. Souvenir shopping, bentos, lots of produce and bakery goods too. When I stopped by there were a couple stalls selling drinks and fresh corn outside as well.

An interesting highway stop that has a mini historic museum. The shop carries all sorts of goods like a supermarket.

Nice spacious parking lot, good option for for food and souvenirs. Has vending machines for hot and cold beverage. Clean toilets

Very clean toilets, nice variety of food. Fair prices.

If Hachís Kita ski resort would be a F1 motor race, and I would be an F1 car. Here I would pit stop for fueling

The roast beef sandwitch is only 550yen and provides great taste.

(Translated by Google) Visited for hiking. The situation is still the same as it was back then, and some parts are dangerous. It's impossible to go around the island in one day. Look at the map, decide where you want to go, and go around. Of course, the footing is not good, so wear sneakers. It is also a good idea to wear long sleeves even in hot weather to prevent insects. The building remains as it is, so it's scary to even enter. Don't miss the ferry home, Check the timetable. (Original) ハイキングのため訪れました。 当時の様子がそのままになっており、危ないところもあります。 1日じゃとても島を一周なんてできないです。 マップを見て行きたいところを決めて周りましょう。 もちろんのことですが、足場は良くないので、スニーカーで。 また虫対策に暑くても長袖が良いでしょう。 建物がそのままなので、立ち入るのも怖いくらいです。 帰りのフェリーには乗り遅れないよう、 時刻表をチェックです。

(Translated by Google) There are vending machines only around the pier. It seems like this is the only place where you can eat rice. If you bring your own lunch, you can find a nice place to eat anywhere with a nice view. Unfortunately, I often see garbage such as plastic bottles. It seems that many insane people have landed here. I didn't see any deer, but there seemed to be a lot of deer droppings. There are also many Formosan squirrels. A black squirrel is running around. The entire island is too large to be covered in one day. There are a lot of broken roads, so I think it's better to be prepared. If you're going to dive into the ruins of the 3rd battery, you'll need a flashlight. (Original) 桟橋周辺のみ自動販売機があります。 ごはんを食べることが出来るのもここだけみたいです。 ただ弁当持参であれば、何処でも食べる景色のいいところが見つかります。 残念なことに結構な頻度でペットボトルなどのゴミを見かけます。 非常識な人も多数上陸している様です。 鹿を見ることはありませんでしたが、大量の鹿の糞があり多いみたいです。 タイワンリスも多いです。 黒いリスが走り廻ってます。 島全部は1日では周りきれない大きさです。 瓦た道が多いのでそれなりの準備をしてた方がいいと思います。 第3砲台跡に潜るのなら懐中電灯必須です。

(Translated by Google) Friend Island is something I've always wanted to go to. The last two times my friend and I went to the Shima Kisen terminal, the flight was canceled due to high sea waves, so we looked at the wave height forecast on Yahoo the night before, decided on a date, and finally were able to go. I heard that the island is uninhabited, but is there a big beach house in front of the pier? There, you can buy drinks, food, and small daily necessities. This time I went halfway around the island, looking at the ocean on my right. There were brick buildings that reminded me of Laputa, the island in the sky, standing in a quiet manner, and everything had a very nice feel to it. There were hardly any people, so I was able to take my time and take photos. Although I went there in midsummer, it was quite cool in the shade of the trees and inside the building. However, the road is steeper than I expected, so I think it's best not to wear light clothing such as sandals. It has become one of the places I would like to visit again. (Original) ずっと行きたかった友が島。 過去2回友が島汽船の乗り場まで行ったら、海上の波が高いとの事で欠航だったので、前日の夜にＹａｈｏｏの波高さ予報を見て日を決めて、ようやく行くことが出来ました、 島は無人島と聞いていましたが、船着き場の前には大きな海の家？があって、飲み物や食べ物、ちょっとした日用品を買うことが出来ます。 今回は海を右に見ながら島を半周してきました。 天空の島ラピュタを彷彿させるレンガ作りの建物が静かな佇まいで立っていて、どこもとても良い感じでした。 人もほとんどいないのでゆっくり写真を撮ることが出来ました。 行ったのは真夏でしたが、木陰や建物の中はけっこう涼しくて気持ちよかったです。 ただ、道は思った以上に険しいので、サンダルなどの軽装は止めた方がいいと思います。 また訪れたい場所の一つになりました。

(Translated by Google) The weather was nice on the day I visited, and I could clearly see Tomogashima and Awajishima, making it very beautiful. (Original) 訪問した日は天気が良くて友ヶ島も淡路島まではっきり見えとても綺麗でした。

(Translated by Google) It is an island where you can feel the history as the scars of war are still preserved. This island is said to be the image of Laputa: Castle in the Sky. The great nature and old buildings from the early Showa period have a great atmosphere, and there are many spots that are perfect for photography enthusiasts. (Original) 戦争の爪痕がそのまま保存されており、歴史を感じることのできる島です。天空の城ラピュタのイメージは、この島だそうです。大自然と昭和初期の古い建築物は、雰囲気があり、写真好きにはたまらないスポットが沢山あります。

(Translated by Google) I visited during Golden Week in 2019. The capacity of the ferry is limited, so even if you arrive at the nearest station around 10:00, you may not be able to reach the island until after 1:00 pm. It was cool inside the building. It really felt like a deserted place. I was able to spend a relaxing time even by myself. (Original) 2019年のGWに訪れました。連絡船のキャパが少ないので、10:00頃に最寄り駅に着いても、島に行けるのは13:00過ぎなんてこともあります。 建築物の中はひんやりしていました。まさに荒廃した場所という感じでした。1人でもゆったり過ごすことができました。

(Translated by Google) It definitely has a Laputa vibe! You'll be walking a lot, so it's best to wear clothes that are easy to walk in, especially shoes. I think it will be fun for people who like cameras or are good at taking pictures. We went with two guys, and the guy we went with was the best! I took a really fun train from Wakayama City Station, arrived at Kada Station, and walked from the station to the port. Of course, it doesn't matter where you go, but the fun will be even more depending on who you go with! It's nice to be able to share the same things (^^) There are some remains of gun batteries, perhaps gunpowder storage? There are several points such as places like this and even a lighthouse. Since the auspicious train at Kada Station is so wonderful, I think that if Tomogashima were added some kind of entertainment, it would make this area even more exciting. (Original) たしかにラピュタの雰囲気！ かなり歩くので、服装や特に"くつ"は歩きやすいものがいいと思います。 カメラ好きや写真撮るのが上手な人は楽しいと思います。 僕たちは男2人で行きましたが、行った相手が最高！ 和歌山市駅からめっちゃ楽しい電車に乗って、加太駅に到着して、駅から港まで歩いて、 どこに行くかは、もちろんだけど、誰と行くかで楽しさはより増しますね！ 同じものを共有できるのがいい(^^) 砲台跡がいくつかあって、火薬庫？みたいなところや、灯台まで、ポイントがいくつかあります。 せっかく加太駅のめでたい電車があれだけ素晴らしいから、友ヶ島も何かエンタメ性を加えていくと、もっとこの地域は盛り上がると思います。

Has kids friendly restroom

large area with 7-11 and Starbucks plus various eateries and local produce/souvenirs/snacks

Very nice Starbucks, nice bathrooms as well. One of the better SA we have seen so far.

Has all you need in a rest stop. Clean toilets and food available for a quick bite.

Good stop midway between mizushima and Osaka

there was nothing place. but it was good sience! I donot think that want to go to there. AKAHUKU was very good food!

Good place for rest

Parking was free for 30 minutes. The guard would summon your purpose of visit before permission to entry. Relatively small scale shrine founded during the 4th century is known for the divine favour it confers on women, including recovery from illness, safe childbirth, and love fulfilment. The hall of worship is crammed full of dolls. Amazing unusual sight during the visit.

At the start of the Pacific Cycling Road, this shrine is an interesting experience. Surprises around every corner, it’s intriguing and a little spooky. If you are in the area it’s definitely worth spending time there. I went at 8am and there was nobody there.

Bit spooky but cute shrine. There’s a tree trunk you crawl through to make your wish come true. They hold ceremonies to appease the souls of dolls. Maybe Chucky and Annabelle should be brought here😅

📷: @albertogalca A very unique shrine that is worth visit

Super pretty Shrine is a very authentic village.

Very unique shrine with lots of Ningyo. It was quiet when I visited there. The only downside is that it is a bit far from the station.

Really special and rare place to visit in Wakayama, Osaka. There are plenty of dolls, lucky cats that make a holly sense

We visited Tojoko toy kingdom yesterday. It was very sunny and we enjoyed various kinds of attractions in the park. Here is a theme park specialized to toys. Therefore, the park is very suitable for young children and family. Since restaurant is designated in the park. We don't have to warry about lunch issue. And we can access here from JR Shin Sanda by free bus transportation. Without a car, we can enjoy it. Just a recommendable park for your daughters and sons. Please enjoy. PS Battle event of Bayblade burst was held in the park. It may be planned regularly in the park. If your children or you have any interest to the Bayblade burst, I recommend you to go here with your favorite Bayblade. In addition, please check the rule in advance. Good luck.

This is my second visit. My kid was 2 years during my first visit. Now, 4 years old. We had a great time. Depending on your kid's interest, you may decide to skip buying the unlimited pass. Worth a visit.

It is absolutely a wonderful place to take young kids (ages 2-11 or so). They will love the rides, and if you go on an off day (we went on a Monday) you can get the place practically to yourself. The employees are all fantastic, and so hospitable there. They do need to give the place a facelift, because it is showing its age.

Huge place plenty of attractions with a 2k ticket fee per adult. It has also a few stored where children can play with trains and cars. I just missed a bit of facility maintenance (wrecked walls and some dirty toy statues) but in general it is a very recommended park for your kids

Nice staff, but a tad run-down. Kids (3 and 4) had fun, though not much they could really do, ride wise. The play rooms kept them the busiest. All and all, just Okay.

The place is ok, you'll pay to get in then keep paying for any rides your want to get on. The water park is just big enough for the kids to have fun. Both places are not maintained and show their age.

I didn't go on any rides, mostly just let my daughter play with a bunch of toys. Its best to think of it as a way to try out today and see if you want to buy them for your little one. Wire pricey though

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Amazing Shopping Experience at Kobe-Sanda Premium Outlets! If you love shopping for great deals in a beautiful and relaxing setting, this is the place to go! Kobe-Sanda Premium Outlets offers a wide selection of both international and Japanese brands at discounted prices. The layout of the outlet is spacious, clean, and feels like a mini resort, making it enjoyable to walk around even if you're not planning to buy much. There are plenty of well-known brands like Nike, Adidas, Coach, Kate Spade, Onitsuka Tiger, and even luxury options like Prada and Gucci. I was especially happy to find great deals at Uniqlo and The North Face. The atmosphere is calm and not too crowded, even on weekends. The food court has many delicious options, and there are clean restrooms, helpful staff, and lockers for storage if needed. The views of the surrounding mountains also add to the relaxing vibe. Access from Kobe or Osaka is easy via bus or train, and there’s even a shuttle from Sanda Station. Highly recommended for tourists and locals alike! Be sure to come early and wear comfortable shoes — you'll want to spend hours here!

Easy access car parking, many shops. not much people & the food court is quite good. There is a park for kids

​I had a great time at this outlet! It's huge and has an awesome mix of well-known international brands and popular Japanese shops. The layout is really beautiful and relaxed. Pro-tip: head to the information center for a special coupon code to get an extra 5% off (bring your passport for tax free)

This is a large, outdoor outlet with a huge variety of goods and brands. The weekend can get a little crowded. Parking is free. If you like shopping, this is a great place for you, but be prepared for a lot of walking. There is also a very big Aeon mall right across the street, so you can easily spend the whole day in this area.

I decided to take a taxi from my hotel to Kobe Sanda Premium Outlets, which took about an hour. The outlets were spacious with no waiting lines and a great variety of stores to browse. I especially appreciated the lack of crowds, which made for a relaxed shopping experience. In terms of pricing, I wasn’t sure if there were significant savings compared to premium outlets in California, even with the tax credit. Language barriers were a slight challenge as many shop staff couldn’t assist in English, but Google Translate was helpful. The Moncler store stood out with its wide variety of items, clearly designed for Japan’s colder weather—much more diverse than what you’d find in California. Dining options were excellent. I had ramen with fried rice, and both were absolutely delicious. For the taxi ride back to the hotel, I learned you need to call for one at stop #4, and it usually arrives within 15 minutes. Overall, it’s a great outlet for stress-free shopping and tasty food, though some additional savings would have made it perfect!

🚶‍♀️ Step-by-Step Directions: 1. Inside JR Shin-Osaka Station, go through the Central Gate (中央改札口). This is the 3rd floor. 2. Take escalator to 2nd floor. Head toward Exit 4 3. After going out Exit 4, you’ll walk across a short pedestrian bridge. 4. At the end of the bridge, go down the stairs. Once you reach the bottom, make a slight right turn and continue walking straight. 5. In a minute or two, you’ll see a covered bus stop on your left with signs that say: 神戸三田プレミアム・アウトレット行き (Kobe-Sanda Premium Outlets)

There were definitely plenty of shops and the place looked very clean. The prices are not super low unless there is a sale, but it can be worth it if you find something you really like. All of the food spots and the outlets were packed, so expect a lot of people around.

Very convenient location between T1/T2 and they have great deals! You can choose room type, also 2 choices from 3 options(i.e. Shower, meals, or drinks) I used their shower, it was great service before the night flight. (minimum amenity and it's ok, there was mold though).

The place is clean, cozy and quiet perfect for relaxation and for those working or studying. Has different rooms that caters to different needs, they have area for sleeping, cubicles for those who are working. Had Spaghetti for breakfast and coffee from the vending machine. Staff are very welcoming and respectful.

This place together with the other three in Osaka most probably a rip-off. This place is only a shower better than Kongo. Our Osaka experience is exceptional and we will come back to the City of Osaka but not in Nodoka unless it will have a new management. Pray Priority Pass will read our review.

An option for a relaxing lounge outside the airport and security gates. Free hot and cold drinks included. Private room available for around 30000yen per person on a week day. Suitable for longer waits at airport as seating at departure section before security is almost non existing.

This is a review for the Narita airport 24hr Nodoka cafe. I landed quite early in the morning and had heaps of time before my hotel checkin, and found this cozy spot to freshen myself up before the long ride to the city so I don’t have to smell like recycled airplane air. Clean showers with spacious and quiet space so I got to do some work and admin like figuring out how to turn on my eSIM! Totally recommend to have a quick stop here and shower, get your thoughts together and adventure into Tokyo!!

Nice place to freshen up yourself before boarding. You can get to shower and have a meal. The beef curry is not bad, rice is nice and curry is good. There’s very little beef though.

The only reason I'm giving a 4 star rating is because the private lounges don't have a screen / curtain to cover the entrance. It was a bit awkward to see across into other private lounges. Otherwise it was clean and well maintained. I didn't really eat food here, so can't comment on it. It was ¥4,800 for a 6 hour private lounge. The toilets were clean, and had access to drinks machines for free.

Accidently deleted the castle photos. if you are a castle fan and I'm the area its a nice walk up to the top. You can see the entrance and stone walls and a museum at the top of the mountain showing the history of the castle. The main part of the castle is no longer there you can only see the ruins and a little temple. The view of sasayama is really nice. There is a nice walk going around the old castle location. Free parking is down along the river. If you cross the bridge and go down the little path away look to your left and there will be a big field near the river. you can park There for free and enjoy the walk I enjoyed it and if I was in the area again I would visit again.

Beautiful location set in the mountains! Well worth walking from the station if you have time some good sights along the way 😀 The town it self is nice too!

Although the majority of the buildings have not been rebuilt the information offered within that which has is undoubtedly worth the price of admission. Walking along the castle walls gives a clear view of the entirety of tamba-sasyama city and it's surrounding environs. Upon entering the rebuilt administration building you can see the history of the castle and its military importance many years ago. The only information available in English is the video history of the castle which has been subtitled in English, this gives a rather in-depth view into the castle's planning, construction, and importance historically. The other wing of the building consists of rooms decorated with traditional art and armor, and during my visit, a show of bonsai. I strongly recommend purchasing the ticket that will allow entry into all four historical sites in the surrounding area.

A good deal to get the package ticket for the four museums for 600 Yen. They are all close to each other, and individually quite small so can easily be covered in a few hours. Not very much to see here as most of it has been rebuilt. Acknowledging it is a former site of castle. And some nice views from the garden.

The rebuilt main building was nice to be able to walk through and understand how Japanese Daimyo lived in the 17th century. The video presentation was also helpful to understand how and why the castle was built. I recommend to anyone visiting the area to walk the entire outer moat and visit the shops along the way.

nice place but small. Just took me around 10 mins to finish

I entered from the back, on the old, large, grassy stairs. I thought about the people from back in the day who walked on these steps. We had to walk up the old stone steps as well! The steps are large and uneven, so please be careful. People worked hard to build those stairs, so appreciate every step. A lot of the castle is no longer standing, but you can see a replica of it in the museum. The is also a video that plays with English subtitles. I was able to learn a lot about the history of this castle! Walking through the museum and seeing the different types of rooms was nice. I imagined myself as someone who lived in the castle while walking. I appreciated the rooms and architecture of the building. Outside behind the museum, there is a shrine and overlook. Go outside and enjoy nature if you can.

Great oceanic view, chilly and windy. Close to premium outlets and restaurants.

Being a coastal town, Rinku boasts a number of parks scattered all around. This particular one, Rinku Park, is one of the most beautiful and serene park that one could envisage. Overlooking the sea towards Kansai airport as well as the bridge, the park has many amenities and different spots for you to enjoy the scenery. It is well kept and very clean, with lush greenery providing shades. A must visit if you ever stop by Rinku town!

Nice beautiful park! Great place to just take a minute, watch the planes land and takeoff, and see the sunset. It's never crowded, which adds to the calmness of the area.

It was amazing view. My three daughters and I fully enjoyed there. There is calm even though there is close to a couple of highways and a shopping mall.

Nice place to play with your kids or just relax .

Cosy oark and great sunset view

Good place to stay before fly everywhere.

Visited during off-peak so d shopping is leisure n comfy. Many big brands around n there r different bargains to attract. Visit for d bargains n not a specific brand/model, it beats shopping at d malls. There r 2 food courts which offer affordable food options JPY 1000-2000, including 7-11. Walkway between station n buildings aren't covered. Will need brolly during rainy season.

Parking is 3 hours free for 2000 yen spending. Lots of shops. International brands. Discount is around 30 percent. There is sea side strip to see the view. Pretty nice before heading to the airport l.

It is a very nice outlet with lots of shopping opportunities. I was able to shop nicely at furla, cosmetics company store, versace and swarowski. They had good deals on top of the sale prices. Would highly recommend.

20251031 - premium outlet mall that can be accessed by train or shuttle bus from the airport. Besides both local and discounted brands, there are also other normal stores nearby. Most shops offer good discount, and more with the discount voucher you can scan at the information counter. Managed to get some exclusive design bags that are only available in Rinku at good prices.

Rinku Town Premium Outlet is much bigger than I expected and such an easy place to shop. They have a good mix of popular labels and smaller niche brands, and the prices are quite reasonable — you can easily spend the whole day here without getting bored. The food court is also worth a stop. A simple rule works perfectly here: if you see a long line, the food is almost guaranteed to be good. I happened to visit during the Osaka Art Fireworks, and it made the experience even more memorable. The weather by the seaside was cool and refreshing, and the fireworks were stunning. If you’re lucky enough to catch the show while you’re here, don’t hesitate — it’s absolutely worth watching.

Rinku Preium outlet is a fantastic shopping destination near the Kansai International Airport. The outlet mall is huge and offers an impressive variety of stores from high end luxury brands to popular sports labels, along with shops selling kitchenware, household appliances, cosmetics. It’s an excellent place for shopping and casual browsing as well. The dinning options are varied and the view of Osaka Bay add a beautiful scenic touch to the shopping experience.

Premium Outlet shpping centre in Rinku town. 5 minute bus ride from Kansai (KIX) airport. There is a bus that leaves either way every hour and can be caught for 300 yen. About a 8 min walk from closest train station, passing through another outlet centre. Mall is spread over 2 levels and 2 buildings. Has alot of local and foreign branded stores. Has free wifi, small food court and another area containing several restaurants. Various discount vouchers can be obtained from their website. QR codes on posters throughout the centre can be scanned to access the website.

I went to during the summer festival in July. Had a nice home town feeling, lots of food, activities and beautiful lights set up in the shrine! Recommend coming to a special event like this, but

Nishinomiya Shrine is always a wonderful place to visit and well worth your time if you are traveling between Osaka and Kobe. It is only a short walk from Nishinomiya Station, making it easily accessible by foot. We visited during the 7-5-3 festivities, and many families were taking commemorative photos with their children dressed in formal attire, adding a beautiful cultural touch to the visit. The shrine grounds feature a pleasant walking path leading to the main shrine, while the garden and ponds create a soothing natural atmosphere. Overall, it’s a peaceful and refreshing place to visit. You can even enjoy a traditional snack by purchasing a dango and tea set, finding a bench, and taking in the tranquil surroundings.

Beautiful shrine that worships Ebisu (god of fortune). Definitely a power spot, you can feel it when you step into the shrine grounds. Do note that the shrine services close at 5pm.

Awesome place! It's a gorgeous shrine about a seven minute walk from the station. It's definitely worth the time to check out, especially at the end of September. The shrine has a huge festival and the portable shrine is taken out for a walk around Osaka.

The Nishinomiya shrine is known for the headquarters of Ebisu: the god of wealth as the enshrined deity that blesses prosperity. Its main event is the Tokaebisu held on 10th of Jan every year where men run to win the title of Fukuotoko (lucky man). It's a three days event where the surrounding streets are blocked off and stalls are set up around the shrine. During this time, people come to return their old lucky bamboo and get a new one to wish for prosperity in their business. Otherwise, it's an everyday local (but big) shrine. Also strongly recommend coming by train during the event as the parking lots around the area jack up their hourly rates during Tokaebisu (and they're not any cheaper normally either...).

A very peaceful and quiet place absorb Japanese culture and sit amongst the garden and pond. Entry is free and there are very little crowds. Watch the koi , feed the Koi and just contemplate the world or read a good book.

A lovely tranquil place to go and get out of the busyness of everyday life. A place to connect with nature and with God. Spacious, parking available and just a really nice oasis. Stop in!

Bought tickets off StubHub, had to get the QR code converted to a ticket at 7/11 but otherwise an easy and painless process. The stadium itself was remarkable, with a fervent crowd, fantastic food, and inexpensive prices. So glad we took the time to see a game here. The train lets you off steps from the stadium, absolutely worth adding a game to your itinerary if you can.

This was one of the best sporting events I’ve ever been to. Whether you’re into baseball or just love a good crowd and atmosphere, a Hanshin Tigers game is a must. The energy in the stadium is wild — nonstop chanting, singing, and support from both home and away fans. Everyone’s into it the whole game. You’ve got beer girls running around with mini kegs on their backs, noodle bowls, takoyaki, sushi, skewers — everything you could want for game snacks. We got lucky with seats behind home plate, in the shade, but we met a couple who were out in the outfield and had to bail halfway because of the heat. So if it’s a day game, just a heads up that shade makes a massive difference. The stadium’s super easy to get to — the train drops you right at the entrance, and there’s an official store right at the front (was way too packed when we went, line out the door). Still, there’s heaps of merch stands and fan gear inside the stadium and along the walk in. Overall, such a fun day. If you like sports even a little bit, definitely make this part of your Japan trip.

My family sat in the "Foreigner's" section and where both welcomed and blown away with the atmosphere, Team Chants as well as the attention to comfort and accessibility of the stadium. The food options were plentiful and diverse, my kids had a lot of fun trying different options from what they are used to at home in the San Fransisco Bay Area. We had a truly unique and awesome experience that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting from out of the country. Our ticket included a program, rally towel, bats for cheering (you clap them together during chants), and upon entry we got commemorative pins and a fan (for $59 a ticket!)

First time in Osaka. First time at a tigers game. What an unbelievable experience me and my son will cherish forever. The passion of the fans is simply amazing!

For any baseball fan, this is a must visit. The environment surpasses most stadiums in the US. The noise from the visitors section in the corner reminded me of soccer stadiums around the world. Never expected curry at a baseball stadium, but it was delicious. The beer girls were never far away for a refill. We also enjoyed the museum before the game, although you need a translator on your phone.

First off, Hanshin Koshien Stadium is a must-see on game day for any baseball fan and more so for a Tigers' fan. The energy is unlike anything you see back stateside with non-stop support to the players during the entire game with chants, singing, cheering, and the like. Plenty of great food and drink options. Just one warning, the rows to get to your seats are narrow so be careful and know you may not be getting up for food or bathroom breaks without risking a hazardous crossing from Indiana Jones (all in jest, but seriously).

Great time at the Stadium for a Tigers baseball game. As soon as we entered the place, the atmosphere was already loud and chants were happening in the stands even before the first pitch. The beers are served in the stand at a very good price, especially considering the pints are quite large. The food is good and also well priced. The outfield seats are quite uncomfortable, if you have a pillow of some sort you can definitely bring it. You can also bring food into the stadium so that is an option.

I was impressed visiting this mall for the first time. It’s so wide and huge. I can stay here for a day hopping different branded boutique, there’s also many choices of food in food court needless to say fine dining on the upper part of the building. There’s Izumiya department store inside, supermarket and cinemas. Great to spend a day with a family. I can have all I need in one stop.

The former Hankyu Braves baseball team's home ground, Nishinomiya Stadium, was located on the southeast corner of Nishinomiya Kitaguchi Station. The general commercial facility built at the end of 2008 is now Nishinomiya Gardens. Naturally, the site is vast at 753,474 square feet. It is the largest in western Japan and the third largest in Japan, and it is difficult to go around in one day. The core store is Nishinomiya Hankyu Department Store, Izumiya, Toho Cinema, but there are many other specialty stores, hospitals, walking paths, etc. A moving walk is also installed, which can be reached without an umbrella, possible spending a relaxing time. It is barrier-free and elevators for a wheelchair are prepared, suitable for couples and families, regardless of age.

The Good: Big mall with unique boutique stores and shops from clothings, home deco, sports wear to food categories that you don't see in malls around Osaka. There's even a rooftop garden where live performances are scheduled. To be improved: Takes about 5-10 minutes to walk from Nishinomiya hankyu train station. Would be more friendly for elderly and disabled if there was an on ground escalator.

Everything in one place. Food, clothes, electronics, toys, furniture; even a cinema! Very convenient. Also, they have a store for foreign foods on the 1st floor if you want to have a taste of home. Whatever you need to do, you should be able to find it at Nishinomiya gardens.

A wide variety of brand stores; The public areas are equipped with plenty of free sofas where people can relax; Most impressively some public areas remain open even at midnight.

Best place for enjoyable shopping. They are various kind of shops their. The top floor is best for relaxing.

Large scale shopping mall catering all comers. Big department store and supermarket at either end, great cinema, lots of specialist stores in between on each of the 5 floors.

Nice farmer's market. The restaurant had very good food. Another shop was selling excellent onigiri (rice balls).

Visited around lunch hours of a weekend in Oct. Need to queue up for parking. You can shop local produce including chestnut, sake, handicraft and snacks etc at the shop. The restaurant offered chestnut rice etc and other Japanese sets like udon, soba, katsu, etc. but again you needed to queue up by writing your name and no. Og guests at the entrance. I loved the katsu which was crispy outside. After the meal, I also tried the softserve with chestnut sauce. Yummy.

Public toilets available and a cafe with a local produce shop. Only stopped for a short break.

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With the weather this year, not so many fresh veg available this year...

Great farmers market for fresh veggies and local souvenirs

A place you should drop by. You can meet various kinds of local things there.

Stopped by on the way from Kyoto to Miyazu. The strawberry is sweet, lots of dessert that is a must-buy. Get some sake for enjoyment at night during the trip.

This michi-no-eki is at the same place as PA with separate parking. Many food options. Free wifi. After opening hours, there’s only one 24-hours toilet which is the accessible toilet.

Lovely service area with lots of shopping~

Drink, eat, shop, pee, rest. Drive. It has pretty much everything you would expect from a service area. Large parking lot.

Very good place to relax. Lots of food, drinks, and many more being sold here.

New & relaxing stop for highway driver, also with a dog playground

Interesting place for visitors to drop by. It sells not only snacks but local souvenirs.