Hyogo Prefecture occupies the heart of western Honshu, stretching from the rugged Sea of Japan coast to the warm Seto Inland Sea, anchored by the cosmopolitan port city of Kobe. It shelters Japan's most photogenic castle at Himeji, the ancient hot-spring village of Arima Onsen, the world-famous Kobe beef ranches of the Tajima highlands, and the island of Awaji, birthplace of Japanese mythology.
Luxury hotels
Five-star and palace properties.
Nishimuraya Honkan
Hyogo's most prestigious traditional ryokan — 140-year-old property with private kinsen onsen baths, kaiseki cuisine, and formal Japanese garden. Rates from ¥50,000/$335 per person including dinner and breakfast. Reservations at +81-796-32-2211 or www.nishimuraya.ne.jp
The Thousand Kobe
Kobe's flagship luxury hotel — rooftop pool, spa, and panoramic city and harbour views. Rooms from ¥35,000/$235 per night. Booking at www.thethousand.jp/kobe/
Arima Grand Hotel
Large upscale ryokan in Arima Onsen with both kinsen (gold) and ginsen (silver) private baths; kaiseki dinner included. Rates from ¥38,000/$255 per person. Booking at +81-78-904-0401
Fine dining
Michelin-starred and chef-driven restaurants.