【2023年最新】関西（京都・大阪・兵庫・奈良）の紅葉スポット12選！

Japan in autumn colors. Here are some of the best places in Kansai to see the autumn leaves, by area, from once-in-a-lifetime viewing spots to hidden gems. Please refer to the fall tourism in 2023.   -INDEX- 【KYOTO】 〇Higashiyama Area Famous place：Eikando Little known good spot：Anrakuji 〇Arashiyama Area Famous place：Jojakko-ji Little known good spot：Takenotera-Jizoin 〇Other Area Famous place：Rurikoin Little known good spot：Komyo-ji 【OSAKA】 Famous place：Minoh Waterfall Little known good spot：Katsuo-ji 【KOBE】 Famous place：Kobe Municipal Arboretum Little known good spot：Rokko-Arima Ropeway 【Other Area】 Himeji：KOKO-EN Nara：Hasedera temple Eikando is the best place in Higashiyama to view the autumn leaves. About 3,000 maple trees cover the entire precincts of the temple. The sight of the tallest pagoda, Dabotou, enveloped by the autumn leaves is a fantastic sight. Japanese maples are planted around the Housho Pond, and the reflection of the Japanese maples and the Gokuraku Bridge in the water is a must-see. Normally closed to the public, this special temple is open to the public only during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Within walking distance is the Philosopher’s Path, which is tinted in autumn, so a walk along this path is recommended. Highlights include the scattered autumn leaves that turn the stone steps of the temple gate bright red and the beautiful garden with Nyoigatake in the background. This temple is located on Mt. Ogura, known for the Ogura Hyakunin Isshitsu. In autumn, the approach from the entrance gate to the Niomon Gate is covered in autumn leaves, creating a tunnel of foliage. The autumn leaves surrounding the 12-meter tall Dabotou (pagoda), which is located at the top of the stone steps, is a must-see. The precincts of the temple and the area around the pagoda also offer a panoramic view of Kyoto City. It is a well-known autumn foliage viewing spot for those in the know. The trees change color later than other places in Kyoto, and the autumn leaves can be enjoyed until mid-December. Surrounded by lush bamboo groves, the contrast between the green of the bamboo and the changing colors of the autumn leaves is magnificent. The heart-shaped window, Inome-mado, in the Hojo is also open to the public. The autumn leaves cut by the window are breathtakingly beautiful. Ruriko-in Temple is a popular spot in Rakuhoku Yase, and the spectacular view of the autumn leaves reflecting on the lacquered desk on the second floor is a sight to behold. Anyone can take pictures of this spectacular view by holding up a camera at the desk. It is open to the public only twice a year, in spring and fall. Please enjoy the wide-open view of the autumn leaves as they spread across your field of vision. Sohonzan Komyoji Temple is located at the foot of Nishiyama in Nagaokakyo City. Visitors can see the rich expression of nature in each of the four seasons. Every year from mid-November to early December, a special entrance to the temple is held for the autumn foliage. The maple approach to the temple, with its impressive lineup of about 250 old maple trees, is a superb photo spot. Minoh Great Falls is one of the best places in Osaka to view the autumn leaves. The contrast between the waterfall and the autumn leaves in the vast Minoh Park is spectacular. You can enjoy the autumn leaves everywhere along the 2.6 km route from Hankyu Minoh Station to the falls. If you come to Minoh, you must try the famous “Momiji no Tempura” (maple leaf tempura). It is a slightly sweet and crunchy snack made by carefully frying real maple leaves one by one. You can buy it at a store on Takimichi. Known since ancient times as a temple of good fortune, the precincts of Minoh’s Katsuo-ji Temple are decorated with brilliant autumn leaves in November. The tunnel of autumn leaves covering the approach to the temple is especially spectacular. The contrast between the green mountains in the background and the autumn leaves is like a painting. Katsuo-ji Temple is also known as the temple of “Kachi-Dharma”. Small Dharma dolls are laid everywhere, including on the stairs and stone walls. Please enjoy the adorable Dharma and beautiful nature. The park is divided into different regions of the world, such as North America and Europe, and different types of trees, so that visitors can learn about the diverse beauty of autumn leaves. The area around Hase Pond is a particularly beautiful spot for viewing the autumn colors in a water mirror. Let’s take a stroll through the vast park and enjoy the world tour of autumn leaves! The Rokko Arima Ropeway connects the top of Mt. Rokko and Arima Onsen in about 12 minutes. Visitors can enjoy the changing autumn leaves depending on the elevation. The view of the autumn foliage from the gondola’s large foot-high windows is spectacular. There are nine gardens of different styles with Himeji Castle, which is registered as a World Heritage site, in the background. Because of the atmosphere of the Edo period, the gardens are often used for filming movies and TV dramas. In the fall, the Autumn Foliage Festival is held from mid-November to early December. (November 18 – December 4, 2022) The best time to visit is during the “Momiji-kai” (autumn foliage viewing), when the leaves are illuminated for a fantastic view. You can enjoy a fantastic view that is different from that of daytime. Hasedera Temple, located in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, is known as the “Temple of Flowers”. The temple is open twice a year, in spring and fall, for a limited time for special visits. A must-see spot is the floor of the hall of worship. In autumn, visitors can enjoy the “Yuka-momiji” (floor maple leaves) that turn bright red. The view of the autumn leaves from the stage in front of the main hall is not to be missed. The five-story pagoda surrounded by autumn leaves is a magnificent sight. Be sure to visit Hasedera Temple, where the entire mountain is decorated with autumn leaves. Autumn in Japan is very vivid. There are so many places to see the autumn leaves that it is impossible to visit them all at once. Please find your favorite spot and enjoy the autumn foliage as you wish.

六甲ミーツ・アート芸術散歩2023 beyond | 大自然と現代アートを満喫

“ROKKO MEETS ART 2023 beyond” is a contemporary art festival held every autumn on Mt. We will tell you how to efficiently and satisfactorily view the artworks of the festival, including how to get to the top of the mountain, what to wear, and recommended spots.   -INDEX- 1. What is “ROKKO MEETS ART 2023 beyond”? 2. Access to Mt. Rokko and Ticket Deals 3. How to visit facilities on Mt. Rokko 4. Recommended Clothing and What to Bring 5. Recommended artworks and time required for each area (1) Rokko Cable Car (Rokko Cable Shita Station, Sanjo Station, and Tenran Observatory) (2) Hyogo Prefectural Mt. Rokko Visitor Center (Memorial Monument) (3) Rokkosan Silence Resort (Former Rokkosan Hotel) (4) Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE (5) Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden (6) Trail Area (7) Chapel of the Wind Area (8) Rokko Garden Terrace Area (9) Rokko-Arima Ropeway Sancho Station 6. Recommendations for places to eat (1) TENRAN CAFE (2) Sora no Dining (Rokkosan Silence Resort) (3) Mori no Cafe (Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE) (4) Cafe Edelweiss (Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden) (5) Rokko View Palace (Rokko Garden Terrace) (6) Food Terrace (Rokko Garden Terrace) (7) Rokkosan Genghis Khan Palace (Rokko Garden Terrace) (8) Granite Café (Rokko Garden Terrace) 7. Model route This is a contemporary art festival where visitors can enjoy art works exhibited at nine facilities on Mt. Rokko in Kobe while hiking around the area.   Since 2010, a total of more than 470 artists have participated. In 2023, for the 14th time, the event was reborn as “Rokko Meets Art 2023 beyond”. This year’s theme is “Beyond Representation”. Living in an age in which we cannot escape our close connection with a diverse world, we are asked what attitude we can adopt when we encounter different values, cultures, and methodologies. We aim to create an art festival that focuses on the works of artists who attempt to connect and coexist with society through the presentation and reinterpretation of new values, without being bound by existing values, and what lies beyond them.   Date : Sat., August 26 to Thu., November 23 (nat. hol.), 2023 Hours : 10:00-17:00 (Hours vary from venue to venue) *Open throughout the exhibition period. Only the Rokkosan Silence Resort will be closed on Mondays between August and October (except when Monday falls on a national holiday, in which case the museum is closed the following day). There are two major changes from this year. The first is a new outdoor area in the courtyard of the Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE. This is a limited-time event, but the four sculptures will remain on display for three years after the exhibition ends. The Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE will be open during the winter months, so visitors will be able to enjoy the works under various conditions, including snow and rain. The second point is the creation of a new trail area, with seven artworks scattered throughout the area. The trail passes through a villa area surrounded by forest, allowing visitors to feel the atmosphere of good old Rokko Mountain. Mt.Rokko is conveniently accessible from both Sannomiya, Kobe and Umeda, Osaka. Get off at either Hankyu Railway Rokko Station, JR Rokko-michi Station, or Hanshin Electric Railway Mikage Station, and take Kobe City Bus No. 16 or 106 from in front of the station to Rokko Cable Shita Station, the entrance to Mt. It takes only 10 minutes to the top of the mountain by Rokko Cable.   Passports for viewing artworks and special train tickets can be purchased at the Rokko Cable Shita Station. If you purchase an Artwork Appreciation Passport, you can enter the four paid facilities (Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE, Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, Chapel of the Wind Area, and Trail Area) for a discount compared to purchasing tickets at each facility. Passports for viewing artworks can also be purchased at the station on the mountain. Please note that there are no single tickets for the Trail Area films, and admission is not possible except with a Passport for Artwork Viewing. ●Adult (junior high school students and older) 3,000 yen ●Child (4 years old to elementary school students) 1,200 yen   On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from September 23 to November 23, a light-up event called “Hikari no Mori – Night Art Stroll” will be held at Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE and Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden. Prices with Night Pass are different. ●Adult (junior high school students and older) 4,000 yen ●Child (4 years old to elementary school students) 1,700 yen   We also recommend the Omote-Rokko Round Trip ticket, which includes both the Rokko Cable and the Rokko Sanjo Bus. Since you will need to get on and off the bus frequently to visit each facility, buying this ticket will allow you to get on and off the bus many times without the need for coins, and the fare is very economical. The ticket can be purchased only at the Rokko Cable Station, so be careful not to forget to buy it. ●Adult (junior high school students and older) 1,500 yen ●Child (4 years old to elementary school students) 750 yen Riku SUGAWARA’s “The neighbor has you” is on display at the Rokko Cable Lower Station. Go with plenty of time to spare and take pictures with the chimpanzees.   Rokko is located near Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s “Three Famous Hot Springs.” We recommend that you incorporate a visit to the hot springs before or after your visit to Mt. Rokko Arima Ropeway, one of the venues, is available for access. The Rokko Sanjo Bus operates between the various facilities on the mountain. Bus schedules are available at each bus stop and on the MAP distributed at the site. Some areas do not have many buses, so we recommend that you check the bus schedule and decide how long you will stay. If you have trouble figuring out bus times, please refer to the model course to get around the area.   IC cards are not accepted on the Rokko Sanjo Bus. If you are not comfortable with this, we recommend you purchase a “Rokko Sanjo Bus 1-DAY Ticket”. The ticket can be purchased at the Rokko Cable Sanjo Station. ●Adult (junior high school students and older) 500 yen ●Child (4 years old to elementary school students) 250 yen It is about 5 degrees cooler on top of Mt. Rokko. It is fine during the hot August to early September, but from mid-September onward, it is recommended to bring a piece of clothing that is easy to put on and take off, as the weather in the mountains is changeable. Also, please wear shoes that are easy to walk in, such as sneakers, etc., as the trail area is on forest roads and some of the paths in the facilities are hilly or difficult to walk on. A backpack or similar bag that allows you to keep both hands open is also recommended. The work that greets us at the Sanjo Station is “Pierrot” “roulette” by Masaomi TODOROKI. This work makes us feel a strong sense of discomfort. Also, don’t miss the wonderful view of the city of Kobe from Mt. Rokko seen from Tenran Observatory on top of Rokko Sanjo Station. In addition, TENRAN CAFE, which is attached to the station, offers Rokko Miso Gourmet, a thick soft-serve ice cream with Rokko Miso Caramel Sauce and Rokkosanroku Milk Jam. The crunchy nuts are a delicious accent.   Approximate viewing time: 20-30 minutes The works submitted to “Rokko Meets Art 2023 beyond” will be awarded on August 25, the day before the opening of the event. This year’s grand prix winner is Kaoru SOTOME’s “food landscape”. The five cows made of nets look as if they are really eating. Kaoru Gogetsujo said that visitors are encouraged to look out from behind the cows, enter the cows, and try to feel how the cows feel. *You can get close and take pictures only when the artist is there.   Approximate viewing time: 15-20 minutes The artwork is displayed in the restaurant “Sora no Dining” across the street from the main building. It is possible to enter the restaurant only to view the artworks, but since this is a special opportunity, we recommend that you dine in the space where the artworks are located.   Approximate viewing time: 10 minutes “Moon Plants” by YUGO KONISHI (Tama plant s) catches the eye as soon as you enter the outdoor area of the Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE. The most attractive thing about this work, which was created based on the assumption that plants were born here, is that visitors can experience the space inside themselves. We invite you to enter the space and experience it for yourself. This work is made of a material with fluorescent paint kneaded into it, so it emits light at night, making it very beautiful. The work shown here is “Princess Dorian” by Nobuo MITSUNASHI. The stone pavement beneath the work is made of paving stones from the Hanshin Electric Railway tracks. The paving stones are scheduled to remain after the closing of the exhibition, and we look forward to seeing how the work will be utilized long after Princess Dorian is gone. In addition to the artworks scattered throughout the museum, there are many other places to enjoy the nature of Mt. Rokko, such as hammock areas and tree houses. Lemonade with the label “Rokko Meets Art 2023 beyond” is available at the Mori no Café in the museum. The lemonade, made with natural water from Mt. Rokko, has a refreshing taste perfect for hot days.   Approximate viewing time: 90-120 minutes Single tickets: Adults 1,500 yen, Children 750 yen After walking a little further in the park, you will see Kazuya KITAURA’s “Picnic on Circle Circus” in the middle of the pond. The motifs are based on the three monuments associated with Mt. Rokko: the pheasant monument on the Tenran Observatory at the Sanjo station, the urinating boy in the alpine botanical garden, and the character on the signboard of the Mt. If you are a first-time visitor, look for the Pissing Little Boy in the Alpine Botanical Garden. This is “Camouflage Print” by Mao SHIBATA. The image of a beech tree on Mt. Rokko is used as the inspiration, and the actual size of the beech leaf is printed digitally on the canvas. Mr. Shibata said he created this work to blend in with the nature of Mt. Rokko, and he is looking forward to seeing how it will look in the future as the mountain changes color. This is “overflowing” by Miisa KATO. This work is made of about 700 highly transparent and strong water blocks. The impression changes completely depending on the weather and time of day, so it is fun to visit several times at different times. Also, observe the people and scenery reflected in the blocks.   Approximate viewing time: 60-90 minutes Single tickets: Adults 900 yen, Children 450 yen The new trail area is an area where visitors can walk and view the artworks on foot. Walk from Rokko Cable Yamagami Station or from Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE. Please note that there are steep slopes on the way, so please be careful if you are not confident with your legs. Although the official time estimate is 120 minutes, the minimum viewing time is 60 minutes. Tohru NAKAZAKI’s “Sunny Day Light/Haru & Teru” is a traveling installation utilizing an old mountain villa that has remained on Mt. Rokko since prewar times, and tells the story of two people, Hal and Tell, who visited the villa as a summer retreat.   Approximate viewing time: 60-120 minutes Single tickets: None One of the works you should not miss is Noboru TSUBAKI’s “Daisy Bell” at Tadao Ando’s “Chapel of the Wind”. The Chapel of the Wind is one of a trilogy of chapeles designed by architect Tadao Ando, along with the Chapel of Water and the Chapel of Light. The approach to the building is nice. A large air sculpture is installed inside the church building. Its size and the movement created by the air are overwhelming. The motif is a gorilla with daisy flowers. With this work, whose title is taken from the song “Daisy Bell,” which is believed to be the world’s first song sung by a computer, Tsubaki has presented “a fundamental question about homo sapiens running amok as a pawn of technology. You can push past the sculptures and walk deeper and deeper into the museum. Seven other works can be viewed at the nearby Rokkosan Art Center.   Approximate viewing time: 90-120 minutes The Rokko Garden Terrace area has three restaurants and one food terrace, making it a convenient base for lunch and souvenir shopping. On display on the terrace overlooking not only Kobe but also Osaka is Masayoshi TAKEDA’s “case”. It is named “case” because it is hollow inside. Although it is not included in the passport to view artworks, the Shidare Museum, a naturalistic observatory Rokko Shidare, is also a must-visit spot.   Nature Experience Observatory Rokko Shidare “Shidare Museum” ●Adult (junior high school students and older) 1,000 yen ●Child (4 years old to elementary school students) 500 yen Scattered throughout the area are NOSEREINA’s “PYONCOS”. She says that the discomfort and inexplicable feeling of discomfort between the photographs and the scenery, when shared with others, generates new discoveries and ideas about everyday life. Please talk with people in your neighborhood about what you find strange in the works.   Approximate viewing time: 30 minutes The Rokko-Arima Ropeway Sancho Station is about a 5-minute walk from the Rokko Garden Terrace area. On display on the first floor is “HIRAGANA CIRCUS” by Sayaka TSUCHIYA. The concept of this work is “46 poses of hiragana characters that you can’t help but want to imitate”. On display on the second floor is Miki WANIBUCHI’s “Beyond the FUKEI”. The concept of this work is the abstraction of landscapes, and although from a distance it looks like mere dots, up close you can feel the traces of manual work and the realism of objects. They are raising the issue that although we live in a world of convenience with the development of social networking and the Internet, they want us to look and think carefully.   Approximate viewing time: 15-20 minutes This relaxing mountain-top café is located on the Tenran Observatory, just a short walk from the Rokko Cable Sanjo Station. You can enjoy a meal using local ingredients while gazing at the cityscape of Kobe and Osaka spread out below. A recommended menu item is the “Yamamitsu Curry”. This mild curry is an original curry with seasonal vegetables, and the roux is flavored with honey from the Rokko Mountains (yamamitsu). This dining room overlooks Osaka and Kobe. Lunch is mainly courses, and is recommended for those who can take their time. It is also open until 8:00 p.m. (last entry at 7:00 p.m.), so it can be used as a dinner after sightseeing. Located inside the Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE, this café offers semi-self-service one-plate lunches and café menu items. There is also seating outside, so it is pleasant to eat on the terrace when the weather is nice. Other plans include a reservation plan with lunch for a private use of the park’s 360-degree transparent “SIKI Dome,” which is recommended for those who want to spend a relaxing time at the Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE. Click here for details of SHIKI Dome Reservation Plan There are two entrances to the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, and Café Edelweiss is located near the east entrance. We recommend the terrace seats overlooking the trees of the botanical garden. This semi-self-service restaurant offers a casual Western menu of curry rice, hamburgers, stews, and other dishes. Seats by the window overlook the cityscape of Kobe. This food court is perfect for those who are hungry for a bite to eat, offering not only udon and ramen, but also local delicacies such as Yamamitsu Curry Bread and Rokko Miso Dango. You can dine outdoors on the terrace. Many Japanese people probably associate Mt. Rokko with Genghis Khan. It has been a specialty of Mt. Rokko since ancient times. Enjoy the view from the mountain while eating Genghis Khan. This café offers chef’s special dishes and sweets made with seasonal ingredients. The view is perfect here, too.   There are not many places to eat, so all the restaurants are crowded during lunchtime on weekends and holidays. Try to eat well by staggering your meals or using take-out. Finally, for those who have trouble figuring out bus connections, or would like to go but access is a bottleneck, here is a model route on the mountain.   <START> Rokko Cable Sanjo Station (Departure: 10:35) ↓ Memorial Monument (10:38 arrival / 10:58 departure) ↓ Rokko Garden Terrace (11:04 arrival / 12:55 departure) Lunch is also available here. ↓ Alpine Botanical Garden (12:57 arrival / 13:17 departure) ↓ Museum mae (13:18 arrival / 14:58 departure) For those who are tired, we recommend spending a relaxing time at the Café or in a hammock. ↓ Rokko Cable Sanjo Station (15:00 arrival) Rokko Meets Art is an autumn-only event that can be enjoyed along with the beautiful nature of Mt. The artwork changes every year, so be sure to visit this annual autumn event.

あなたのまだ知らない宝塚！初心者向け宝塚大劇場での楽しい1日の過ごし方

Takarazuka Grand Theatre offers not only wonderful stages and performances, but also many other places that you should experience at least once.   -INDEX- 1.Hankyu Railway is recommended to Takarazuka Grand Theater. 2.Takarazuka Hotel is the closest hotel to Takarazuka Grand Theater 3.“Review Shop” where you can buy Takarazuka Grand Theatre exclusive it 4.Cafeteria “Fleur” in the Takarazuka Grand Theater 5.Takarazuka Revue Post Office 6.“Stage Studio” where you can look like a Takarazuka Revue star 7.Gelato Shop “Bonheur” where you can enjoy performance-themed menus. 8.Takarazuka Revue Hall of Fame, where you can learn more about the Takarazuka Revue. 9.Before viewing the Takarazuka Revue The first thing I would like to recommend is to take the Hankyu Railway to Takarazuka. Hankyu Takarazuka Station has many tricks here and there to give you a sense of the atmosphere of Takarazuka. Walk to the end of platform 4 and you will find a photo spot with a large feather painted on it. There is a brilliant spotlight that looks like a stage light, so you can feel like a top star if you go there dressed like a Takarazuka Revue performer and take a picture. There are many other posters and Takarazuka-style decorations inside Hankyu Takarazuka Station, and if you take a picture on the stairs just outside the station, you will feel as if you are on stage. In front of Takarazuka Station, there is a bronze statue of actors dancing glamorously. Please be sure to take pictures here as well. If you have time, stop by the Takarazuka Hotel, located on the west side of the Takarazuka Grand Theater.Takarazuka Hotel is decorated in an elegant Art Deco style. In addition to the gorgeous grand staircase and stylish chandeliers that are the symbol of Takarazuka, the hotel also displays famous paintings associated with Takarazuka. In the lobby, there is a lounge called “Renaissance” where you can enjoy afternoon tea, and the cakes and teas are delicious. If you are coming from far away, we recommend staying at the Takarazuka Hotel. Not only is the hotel conveniently located right next to the Takarazuka Grand Theater, but the guest rooms are equipped with a bathroom (the photo shows an en suite bathroom), an accessory box, a makeup mirror with a light (some rooms are not equipped with one), and a skin care set (available at the front desk upon request), you can enjoy feeling as if you were a princess. Some rooms also have a view of the Takarazuka Grand Theater through the window. Passing through the Hana-no-michi, you will arrive at the Takarazuka Grand Theatre. This place, hung with large posters announcing performance information, is a popular spot to take pictures with your favorite actors. The first thing that caught my eye as I entered the Grand Theater was the souvenir store”REVUE SHOP”, which mainly sells sweets. Even the product packaging is full of Takarazuka-style designs, and you can’t help but buy a lot of them just to have a beautiful box. Inside the store, you will find freshly baked Ningo-yaki(small cake baked in an iron mold and filled with sweet bean paste),a Takarazuka specialty! The sweet smell draws you in. You can observe the craftsmen at work through the glass. Ningyo-yaki is very popular and there is always a long line of people waiting before a performance. I bought a lot of sweets too. Many of them are limited editions, so they make great souvenirs for family and friends. When I go home and eat Takarazuka sweets with a cup of tea, I am reminded again of the exciting feeling I had when I saw the performance. Both cookies and rolled cookies are crispy and rich buttery in the mouth and go very well with tea. The picture of the baum is so cute that I hesitate to eat it. When the baum is neatly die-cut, only this pretty line dance remains. In addition to sweets, Takarazuka souvenirs include towels, cosmetics, bags, and other items that can be used for a long time. I recommend the towels of the actors carrying large feathers. Every time I use them, they bring back happy memories of the theater. Beyond the souvenir store is the cafeteria”Fleur”. The menu is extensive, offering not only regular dishes, but also limited-time-only meals and desserts related to the performance. All of them are so cute that you can’t help but get lost in them. This time, we ordered two kinds of desserts available only during the performance of “Oshidori Uta Gassen” by the Flower Trope.One was the Flower Trope’s pink Monaka, a heart-shaped bun filled with a sweet bean paste and cream. The other was a fruit milk pudding. The sweet and sour taste and smooth texture are perfect for summer. Both are decorated with gold leaf for a glamorous touch. The regular menu also has a wide variety of items. Ahhhh, it’s so hard to decide which one to order! If you come with friends or family, we recommend ordering a different gourmet dish for each person to share. A little further in, you will find the Takarazuka Revue Post Office! Not only can you buy Takarazuka original postcards, but you can also send them with a special postmark related to Takarazuka. Very cute! Next to the post office is the Takarazuka-themed “Salon de Takarazuka Stage Studio”. If you make a reservation in advance, you can get a glamorous makeover here and experience Takarazuka’s authentic stage makeup. In addition to costumes, wigs and accessories can be freely chosen. After the transformation, have a commemorative photo taken. There is also a Gelato Shop,”Bonheur”. It shines with its array of gorgeous ice creams. It is hard to decide which one to choose here as well! There are not only regular flavors, but also flavors limited to performances. The “Pineapple Battle” is themed around the Flower Troupe’s performance. The ice cream has a rich pineapple flavor and is nicely accented with chocolate and silver dragee toppings. The sourness of the pineapple fruit is also nice and refreshing. A small Japanese umbrella is stuck on it, adding to the atmosphere of the performance. Take a picture before eating. Next, we went to the second floor. This is the Takarazuka Revue Hall of Fame. Visitors can learn about the history of Takarazuka Revue’s development to date, as well as take a closer look at the costumes and tools used on stage. The shining jewels, pearls, and delicately crafted embroidery are brilliant and luminous, and everyone will be immersed in this splendor. The gorgeous, large feathers leave a lasting impression on everyone who sees Takarazuka Revue. They look as if they are being lifted lightly, but in fact they are much heavier than expected! According to the staff, some of them weigh as much as 10 to 20 kilograms. I wonder how much physical strength is required for the actors to dance with such large and heavy feathers on their backs. Handprints of top stars are displayed in the hallway. Why don’t you place your own hand on the handprint of your favorite actor? As expected of top stars, their fingers are long and thin. I felt their extraordinary efforts and kindness from their handprints. After filling up, buying souvenirs, and touring the exhibition halls, it was finally time to enter. The hall of the Takarazuka Grand Theater is a gorgeous place, like a palace of the royal family. The grand staircase is flanked on both sides by beautiful flowers and a piano, making it a perfect spot for commemorative photos. Wearing a beautiful skirt and climbing the elegantly arched staircase, I felt as if I were the hero of a fairy tale. I always feel this way when I come to Takarazuka Grand Theater. It is as if I am a princess and have come to a mysterious and beautiful land of illusion. Before you are seated, you may want to buy cocktails created for this performance. The cocktails vary in flavor according to the performance. The alcohol content is not so high, but for those who cannot drink alcohol, non-alcoholic drinks are also available. The heart-throbbing performances, the gorgeous stage, the meticulous costumes and lighting, it was like a dreamlike world. When I left the theater after the performance, I felt as if I had slowly awakened from a deep sleep dream and returned to my daily life again. However, the feeling is completely different from the one I had when I arrived here, and I am fully recharged on the way back! Seeing the Takarazuka Grand Theater bathed in sunlight, I am filled with anticipation for the next performance. I sincerely hope that I will be able to go back to see the dream again.

「ちいかわ×阪急電車」ちいかわたちと阪急沿線を楽しもう！

Hankyu Railway will operate decorated trains in collaboration with the popular character “Chiikawa” from August 4, 2023 (Friday) to March 28, 2024 (Thursday). “Chiikawago-go” train will run on the Kobe Line, Hachiware-go” train on the Takarazuka Line, and “Usagi-go” train on the Kyoto Line, and an oversized stuffed toy will accompany the train in the crew’s compartment. A special collaboration headmark will be displayed on the front of the train. The inside of the train will also be decorated with illustrations from the collaboration, and specially designed posters and stickers will also be displayed in the trains. In addition, Hankyu Bus will be running a wrapped bus, and photo spots will appear at Itami, Minoh, and Arashiyama stations. In addition, Hankyu Ekichika and Ekichika SHOP will sell collaboration foods only available at the stores. Don’t miss out on these cute gourmet foods only available here.  Chiikawa” is a Twitter-based manga by illustrator Nagano. The daily stories of the always hardworking Chiikawa and her friends Hachiware, Usagi, and other unique characters are popular. “Maroon-no-yoroi-san” will appear as a limited collaboration character. “Maroon-no-yoroi-san” is a character who loves Hankyu Railways and gently watches over your outings along the Hankyu line. Hankyu Railways has collaborated with various characters in the past. When you visit Kansai in the future, be sure to check out the collaboration trains.   Check here for more information! CHIIKAWA × HANKYU

関西の夏イベント・行事11選！体感して知る日本の伝統と風習

Praying with one’s feet in the river water and dancing in a circle! At first glance, Kansai’s summer events and rites may seem strange. Traditional events are filled with wisdom and ingenuity to keep you cool and comfortable during the hot summer.   Please enjoy your trip to Kansai with events and rites that can only be experienced in summer!   １．[Kyoto] Various places in Kyoto City / Gion Festival ２．[Kyoto] Matsuo-taisha Shrine / Wind-bell Prayer: Sound of Good Luck and Disaster Elimination ３．[Osaka] Mizunase Jingu Shrine / Wind of Invitation ４．[Kyoto] Shops along the Kamo River in Kyoto City / Kawayuka, Asayuka ５．[Osaka] Minoh Waterfall / Summer Festa Minoh Park 2023 ６．[Osaka] Umeda area / Umeda Yukata Matsuri (Yukata Festival) ７．[Nishinomiya, Hyogo] Nishinomiya Shrine / Summer Ebisu ８．[Kyoto] Shimogamo-jinja Shrine / Mitarashi Festival ９．[Osaka] Yodogawa riverside / The 35th Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival １０．[Kyoto] Various places in Kyoto City / Kyoto Gozan Okuribi (Bonfire on Five Mountains) １１．[Kobe] Meriken Park / Kobe Umi no Bon Dance 2023 Period: Saturday, July 1, 2023 – Monday, July 31, 2023   If you visit Kyoto in July, you cannot miss the Gion Festival! You will be overwhelmed by the gorgeous floats!   For more information, check out the article below! ＜Kyoto＞Gion Matsuri (July, 2023)｜Highlights of Japan’s Greatest Festival Period: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 – Sunday, September 3, 2023   Approximately 600 wind chimes will be displayed on the ceiling of the awarding ceremony hall and throughout the temple grounds. It is said that the tones of the wind chimes comfort the gods and purify sins and impurities. Write your wishes on strips of paper and deliver them to the gods. Period: Friday, July 1, 2023 – Friday, September 9, 2023   A wind-bell prayer will also be held at the Mizunase Jingu Shrine. Passing through the wind chimes, visitors can listen to the cool sound of the light chirping of the wind chimes. During the period, the shrine will also be decorated with kazaguruma, toys that rotate with the wind, and illuminated with lanterns. Period: May 1, 2023 – October 31, 2023 (period varies by store)   Kawayuka is one of the traditional cultures of Kyoto. It is a place to enjoy the cool air while dining on delicious food at outdoor terrace seats that jut out into the Kamo River. Visitors can enjoy a variety of gourmet foods at 87 restaurants ranging from Japanese cuisine to Italian and French cuisine. Among them, “B STORE 1st” opens from 8:00 a.m. as “Asayuka. Why not start your day with a kawadoko? Period: July 15 (earth) – August 27 (sun), 2023   Minoh Waterfalls and other famous spots in Minoh Park are illuminated in this popular event! On July 29, “Minoo Candle Road” will be held to light up the park with candles, and on July 29 and August 12, projection mapping of Ryuanji Temple will be held. Also, until October 29 (Sun.), “Kawayuka (riverbed)” will be held at riverside restaurants in Minoh Park, where you can enjoy kaiseki cuisine while enjoying the sounds of nature. Enjoy a quaint moment (reservations required). Main Content Dates: Saturday, July 22 and Sunday, July 23, 2023   This is a large-scale event held in the Umeda area of Osaka, where you can enjoy Japanese summer culture all at once! In addition to the traditional “Bon Odori” dance, “Uchimizu” (sprinkling water on the streets to cool off), and “Ennichi” (fair) stalls typical of summer festivals, stations and plazas in the area will be decorated with “Tenugui”, a flat woven cotton cloth used as a festival accessory. The entire town will be decorated in summer! Period: Friday, July 7, 2023 – Monday, July 31, 2023   Natsu Ebisu is an event that takes place mainly on July 10, and on Thursday, July 20, miko (shrine maidens) perform “Yutate Kagura,” in which they sprinkle visitors with bamboo branches submerged in boiling water, praying for the reprieve from the heat and for good health. At the “Ebisu Mandoro (Lantern Festival)” starting at 6:00 p.m., the precincts of the shrine are transformed into a fantastic world of light with lit andon (lanterns) and candles. Period: Friday, July 21, 2023 – Sunday, July 30, 2023   The Mitarashi Festival is an event to pray for good health by taking a knee-deep dip in the Mitarashi Pond within the shrine’s precincts to purify oneself of any illnesses. The participants hold candles in their hands and visit the Mitarashi-sha enshrined in the Mitarashi-ike pond. Date: Saturday, August 5, 2023   Fireworks festivals held in various locations are also a major annual summer event! Please come and see the delicate Japanese fireworks display! ▼Click here for more details▼ ＜2023＞5 fireworks shows in Kansai! This is how Japanese people enjoy fireworks! Date: Wednesday, August 16, 2023   This is a traditional summer event in Kyoto to return the spirits of ancestors who were welcomed during Obon to the underworld. A fire is lit on a pyre in the middle of the mountain, and the Chinese characters “Dai”, left “Dai”, “Myou”, and “Hou”, as well as the shape of a boat, float on the pyre. See the website below for the lighting time and viewing locations. https://kyoto.travel/en/ Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023   The Bon Odori Festival is held at Meriken Park, the port of Kobe. People dance in a circle to typical folk songs from all over Japan. The choreography of Bon Odori is simple! Let’s join in while watching everyone else dance! Summer events & activities are held mainly at night. Even if you have visited Japan many times, you may discover something new by participating in these limited-time events!

【有馬温泉】1日コース｜温泉、食べ歩き、自然を大満喫！

【灘五郷】1日コース｜阪神電車で灘五郷巡り

【神戸六甲】1日コース｜眺望×アウトドア×グルメ！六甲山で遊び尽くそう！

【難波～神戸】1日コース｜阪神電車で巡る大阪から神戸の旅！

【神戸】1日コース｜オシャレな港町神戸をたっぷり満喫！