8 Best Things to Do in Hyogo (Koube) in summer  (June to August)

“Hyogo Prefecture” is an area rich in beautiful nature and historical tourist spots. Especially in summer, there are many places where you can enjoy cool retreats, fireworks festivals, and cold sweets. This article introduces the attractions of summer in “Hyogo Prefecture”.

*Please note that the event dates mentioned may change. Please check the official website of the facilities for the most up-to-date information.

About Summer in “Hyogo Prefecture”

Characteristics and Attractions

The charm of summer in “Hyogo Prefecture” lies in its diverse natural environments and cultural events. The beautiful coastline of “Awaji Island”, the cool highlands of “Mt. Rokko”, and the urban atmosphere of “Kobe” blend together in this region. In summer, you can enjoy activities such as swimming, hiking, and fireworks festivals. Additionally, “Hyogo Prefecture” is rich in history and culture, with temples, shrines, and museums worth visiting.

Climate and Clothing

The summer in “Hyogo Prefecture” is relatively warm and humid. The average temperature ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, and it can get very hot during the day. It is advisable to choose lightweight and breathable clothing. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. Additionally, since it can cool down in the evening and at night, having a light jacket is convenient.

Cool Spots

There are many spots in “Hyogo Prefecture” where you can feel cool even in the hot summer. Relaxing in nature or cooling off in indoor facilities is recommended.

“Shiwagara Falls” (Mikata District)

“Shiwagara Falls” is a mystical waterfall that can be seen from inside a cave, with a drop of about 10 meters. You can enjoy the cool air inside the cave and the mystical scenery with sunlight streaming in. This waterfall is on an advanced course, but it is well worth the challenge. Escape the summer heat and experience nature’s air conditioner.

“Kobe Municipal Arboretum”

The “Kobe Municipal Arboretum” is a vast botanical garden with extensive natural surroundings. The shade in summer is cool, making it an ideal place to spend a leisurely time. The garden boasts a variety of blooming plants, allowing you to enjoy the seasonal scenery. Especially in summer, the greenery is abundant, and it’s a place where you can relax while enjoying a forest bath.

“átoa”

“átoa” is an aquarium with the concept of a theater that engages all five senses. The exhibits, which combine digital art and stage design, will cool your heart as well. Particularly worth seeing is the “Miracle Planet” on the third floor, which is highly photogenic. In the cool indoor environment, you can simultaneously enjoy the beauty of art and nature.

Popular Fireworks Festivals

In summer, various fireworks festivals are held in “Hyogo Prefecture”. The fireworks that light up the night sky are loved by many as a summer tradition.

“Himeji Minato Festival Fireworks Display”

The “Himeji Minato Festival Fireworks Display” is a large-scale fireworks festival held in “Himeji City”, “Hyogo Prefecture”. About 5,000 fireworks are launched one after another, and you can enjoy various fireworks such as water starmine and set fireworks. Since the fireworks are launched from a barge only 300 meters from the viewing area, you can see the spectacular fireworks up close.

“Minato HANABI”

This event is a decentralized fireworks event where you can enjoy the collaboration of “Kobe”‘s night view and fireworks. Held over five days, the highlight is the “music fireworks” synchronized with music. Against the backdrop of the “Port Tower” and the “Maritime Museum”, said to be a night view worth ten million dollars, dazzling fireworks are launched in sync with the music.

“Awaji Island Festival Fireworks Display”

The “Awaji Island Festival Fireworks Display” is a fireworks festival set against the beautiful coastline and vast sea. Colorful fireworks vividly light up the night sky of “Sumoto City”, and you can enjoy various fireworks such as the “water starmine”, which is one of the best diagonal fireworks in Japan. After a long hiatus, the 2024 event is sure to attract many tourists.

Cold Sweets

In the hot summer, cold sweets are indispensable. There are many shops in “Hyogo Prefecture” where you can enjoy cool sweets perfect for summer.

“Takarazuka Milk Takarazuka Minamiguchi Store” (“Takarazuka City”)

“Takarazuka Milk Takarazuka Minamiguchi Store” is a cafe where you can enjoy sweets made with fresh milk from a local farm. The most popular item is the rich soft serve ice cream made with low-temperature pasteurized milk. Since it uses fresh milk without additives or adjustments, you can enjoy a deep flavor. Loved even by the local “Takarazuka Revue” performers, this shop is a great place to enjoy cool summer sweets.

“Gelato Shop TETE” (“Ako City”)

“Gelato Shop TETE” is a gelato shop directly managed by “Maruo Farm” in “Ako City”. You can enjoy about 16 kinds of additive-free gelato made with fresh raw milk. Flavors using local ingredients such as strawberries, oranges, and “Ako”‘s specialty salt are particularly popular. Be sure to try the cool gelato to beat the summer heat.