Japan is home to many famous destinations—Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hokkaido.
Step beyond these classics and you’ll discover lesser-known regions and cultures with their own allure.
This time I visited Nishiwaki, Hyogo, a town celebrated as the birthplace of Banshu-ori textile weaving, where a distinct heritage and craftsmanship thrive alongside daily life.
In this article, I’ll share a hands-on trip through under-the-radar spots—from Banshu-ori workshops to museums, parks, and local cuisine.
Illustration by Kaori Akamatsu
Two Centuries of Banshu-ori: Tradition Woven in Color and Pattern
Banshu-ori is a cotton textile tradition centered in Nishiwaki, Hyogo, with a history spanning more than 200 years.
Its hallmark is yarn-dyed weaving: threads are dyed first and then woven, enabling vivid colors and finely detailed patterns.
Checks and stripes are especially abundant, and the craftsmanship is so highly regarded that fashion houses across the globe incorporate Banshu-ori into their collections.
Banshu-ori Factory Tour Guided by the Company President
At Ueyama Textiles, we were given a special tour of the factory by the company president. Being able to see the weaving process up close was a rare experience and gave us a real sense of how tradition continues to be carried on today.
During the visit, the president explained that clean water is essential for Banshu-ori.
In regions like China and Japan where water resources are abundant, textile industries have thrived.
In contrast, in places such as Africa and other areas where water is scarce, it has been more difficult for such industries to develop.
In particular, the Nishiwaki area benefited from the soft water of the Kakogawa, Sugiharagawa, and Nomagawa rivers, which provided the ideal conditions for dyeing. This natural environment became the foundation for the growth of Banshu-ori.
A Live Experience of Sound and Light Performed by Retired Looms
ヴィンテージ織機LIVE！
北はりま「もっぺん」周遊バスツアーで植山織物さんに訪問。
迫力ある織機の音と職人さんの実演に感動しました。
播州織の伝統と今を体感できるプログラムでした。#北はりま #もっぺん #織物 #伝統工芸https://t.co/4n3oLduaCJ pic.twitter.com/snubUi9Xhu— 秋山裕史 (@akihanshin) September 28, 2025
The machines produced a distinctive rhythmic sound, which a DJ layered with music, transforming the atmosphere into something like a lively clubhouse.
This fusion of traditional machinery with modern music offered a special experience that hinted at new possibilities for Banshu-ori.
The Unexpected Comfort of Joining a Group Bus Tour
I usually prefer traveling independently, but this time I joined a group bus tour for the first time. With inbound tourism growing in Japan, such tours are increasingly offered for overseas visitors.
Once on board, I quickly realized the benefits: transportation, meals, and access to sightseeing spots were all arranged in advance. There was no need to plan everything myself, and I could explore the region far more efficiently.
It felt refreshingly different from the freedom of solo travel—lighter, more relaxed, and surprisingly enjoyable. As a way to experience unfamiliar places efficiently, a bus tour turned out to be a pleasant discovery.
Where Art Meets Geography: “Okanoyama Art Museum” and “Japan’s Navel Park”
Okanoyama Art Museum
Located just steps from Japan Heso Park Station, Okanoyama Art Museum stands as a cultural landmark of this region.
Its exterior, marked by a linear yet distinctive design, draws the attention of architecture enthusiasts.
Inside, exhibitions focus on contemporary art, with a particular emphasis on the works of Tadanori Yokoo, a celebrated Japanese artist born in Nishiwaki.
Although I did not enter the museum this time, simply exploring its exterior and surroundings was rewarding in itself.
Address: 345-1 Kamihie-cho, Nishiwaki, Hyogo, Japan
Nihon Heso Park
Adjacent to the area lies Nihon Heso Park, a unique park built on the theme of being the “navel of Japan.”
Its central monument, with its eye-catching design, has become a favorite location for commemorative photos.
The grounds also feature walking paths and open lawns, making it an ideal space to relax and enjoy a leisurely time.
Location: 334-2 Kamihiecho, Nishiwaki, Hyogo
Local Flavors and Relaxation at “Michi-no-Eki Kitaharima Eco-Museum” and “Japan Heso Herb Garden”
During my journey, I stopped at the Michi-no-Eki Kitaharima Eco-Museum, where shelves were filled with fresh vegetables, processed goods, and regional specialties.
The selection reflected the everyday life of the community, making it an ideal place to pick up souvenirs.
Next to the facility, I enjoyed a glass of Tamba local beer—an excellent treat to cool down on a hot day.
Location: 517-1 Terauchi, Nishiwaki, Hyogo
Adjacent to the roadside station lies the Japan Heso Herb Garden, a tranquil space surrounded by greenery.
Admission is free, and visitors can stroll through vibrant seasonal flowers and fragrant herbs while enjoying the calming atmosphere.
It also offered plenty of photo opportunities, making it a refreshing stop during the trip.
A Perfect Ending: A Refreshing Bath at Chiyo-no-Yu Sento in Kakogawa
On the way back from Nishiwaki, I stopped by Chiyo-no-Yu, a public bathhouse in Kakogawa.
Unlike hot springs, sento are everyday facilities where locals come to bathe, and with an admission fee of just 490 yen, it felt like stepping into an authentic slice of Japanese daily culture.
Inside, the facilities were more impressive than expected.
The “waterfall bath,” where hot water cascades down with strong pressure, provided a deep massage for shoulders and back, while the jets at the feet delivered invigorating stimulation.
Immersed in the hot bath, I was able to ease the fatigue of the journey and share a relaxing moment alongside local residents—a truly memorable experience.
Location: 120-1 Mizonokuchi, Kakogawa-cho, Kakogawa, Hyogo 675-0064
Access Information
Nishiwaki City can be visited on a day trip from Osaka or Kobe.
If you are traveling by public transport, take the JR Kakogawa Line from JR Kakogawa Station and get off at either Nishiwakishi Station or Nihonheso-Koen Station.
However, trains on the Kakogawa Line are infrequent, so it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
By car, you can access the area via the Chugoku Expressway or the Bantan Renraku Road, allowing you to efficiently tour the local attractions.
From the Kansai region, the journey takes less than two hours one way, making it an excellent choice for a casual day trip.
For information on nearby hot springs, please refer to my site, the Destiny Resort Baito Blog(運命のリゾートバイトブログ), especially the page featuring detailed guides to hot springs in Hyogo.
Summary
Nishiwaki in Hyogo Prefecture is an area where you can experience the cultural heritage of Banshu-ori while also enjoying museums, parks, local cuisine, and even a visit to a traditional public bath—all in a single day. Compared to the major tourist destinations in big cities, it is far less crowded, making it especially appealing for those who prefer a calm and relaxing journey. Truly, it is a place where you can discover “a lesser-known Japan.”
Please note that factory tours of Banshu-ori differ depending on each facility’s policies.
If you wish to visit, be sure to check the latest information on the official website or contact the factory directly before making your plans.
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