5 Photogenic Buildings and Townscapes in Hyogo: Recommended Instagrammable Retro Architecture and Castles

Hyogo Prefecture, where history and exotic atmosphere intersect, is actually a treasure trove of "photogenic spots." From castle towns to port towns, photogenic buildings and townscapes are scattered throughout the prefecture. Here are five special places you'll want to visit with camera in hand.

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1. Himeji Castle (Himeji City)

Himeji Castle, affectionately known as the "White Heron Castle," has an overwhelmingly beautiful pure-white form. Set against a blue sky, the contrast stands out, making for a breathtaking shot. The soft morning light that makes the white walls glow is the golden photography hour. In spring, the collaboration with the cherry blossoms surrounding the castle is dreamily beautiful, and the Instagrammability is at its peak. Aiming for the front from the main street extending from the station completes a composition that frames the castle as if in a picture frame.

Access: About 20 minutes on foot from JR / Sanyo Himeji Station

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2. Kitano Ijinkan District (Chuo Ward, Kobe City)

Kobe's classic area lined with Western-style residences built in the Meiji and Taisho eras. The scenery of brick-colored and cream-colored Western houses continuing along the sloping streets is just like a European street corner. When the slanting evening light streams onto the buildings, shadows are created and you can take dramatic photos. A pulled-back composition incorporating the cobblestone road is recommended. The season when the autumn trees take on color also pairs wonderfully with the retro Western houses.

Access: About 20 to 25 minutes on foot from Sannomiya Station on the Hankyu, Hanshin, or JR lines

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3. Izushi Castle Ruins and Castle Town (Izushi-cho, Toyooka City)

Izushi, called the "Little Kyoto of Tajima," charms visitors with its townscape full of Edo atmosphere, where white-walled storehouses and cobblestones continue on. The vermilion torii of the Inari Shrine and the stone steps of the castle ruins make a picturesque spot. Visiting in the early morning when morning mist drifts wraps the place in a fantastical atmosphere, letting you aim for a one-of-a-kind shot. Be sure to also frame the old townscape seen looking down from the elevated castle ruins.

Access: About 20 minutes by Zentan Bus from JR Toyooka Station

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4. Former Guggenheim House (Tarumi Ward, Kobe City)

A snow-white Western house built in 1909, with a superb location overlooking the sea. The contrast between the classical exterior and the blue sea and sky is spectacular, letting you take photos full of an extraordinary feel. On a clear afternoon with a spreading blue sky, an angle that captures the building and the sea along a diagonal is the photogenic point. On event days you can sometimes go inside, so check in advance.

Access: About 7 minutes on foot from JR Maiko Station

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5. Tatsuno Castle Town (Tatsuno City)

Tatsuno, a castle town that flourished as a soy sauce production area, charms visitors with its calm townscape where samurai residences with white walls and black tiles line up. The retro alleys and warm-toned buildings also pair well with film-photo-style editing. Shooting under the soft light of an overcast sky brings out a moist, atmospheric mood. Shooting with a tunnel composition that makes use of the depth of the alleys creates a shot that makes you want to start walking.

Access: About 15 minutes on foot from Hon-Tatsuno Station on the JR Kishin Line

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Hyogo Prefecture has this many photogenic spots, each differing in era and atmosphere. Be sure to plan a weekend camera trip!

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