Shiso City, Hyogo: A Hidden Gem in Japan for Sustainable Travel and Nature Tourism, All You Need To Know

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Shiso City has become a top tourist destination because it offers visitors authentic and sustainable travel experiences. Shiso City features 90% forested land, which provides visitors with natural activities, historic railway tours and traditional Japanese fermentation culture experiences. This hidden gem is quickly gaining popularity among nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and food lovers alike.

Shiso City’s abundant forests, coupled with a long-standing fermentation culture and the revival of a heritage railway, make it a fascinating destination for eco-conscious travellers. The city’s commitment to sustainable tourism ensures that visitors can engage with its rich natural landscapes and local traditions in a meaningful way.

A Forest Kingdom: Shiso’s Natural Beauty and Heritage Railway

Known as a “Forest Kingdom”, Shiso City is predominantly covered by forests, with nearly 90% of its landmass blanketed in dense woodland. The forests have not only supported the local economy for generations but have also become the backbone of Shiso City’s tourism. The forest railway, a vital transportation route in the past, has been restored by local communities to offer visitors a chance to journey through the city’s rich history. The restored heritage railway runs through the city’s picturesque valleys and offers a unique opportunity to physically connect with Shiso City’s past, allowing passengers to ride on a diesel locomotive that once served forestry-related projects.

The forest railway features a 678-metre track, offering a truly nostalgic experience. In addition to the railway, visitors can enjoy nearby hot spring baths and accommodations that offer a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration.

Forest Therapy: Wellness Amidst the Nature

Shiso City is home to one of the first Forest Therapy Bases in Hyogo Prefecture, with Akasai Gorge being a notable attraction. Referred to as the “Western Oirase Gorge”, Akasai Gorge offers stunning scenery reminiscent of the famous Oirase Stream in Aomori Prefecture. The area is dotted with waterfalls, clear streams, and towering trees, making it an ideal spot for nature walks and forest therapy.

As part of its efforts to promote sustainable travel, Shiso City has developed therapy trails through the forest, encouraging visitors to reconnect with nature. These trails offer a tranquil environment where visitors can enjoy the restorative power of the forest while experiencing the changing seasons throughout the year. Other notable scenic spots include Fukuchi Gorge and the Onzui area, both known for their natural beauty and historical significance, with remnants of former railway lines adding an extra layer of charm.

A Rich Tradition of Fermentation: Birthplace of Japanese Sake

Shiso City’s cultural richness is deeply intertwined with its fermentation heritage, particularly in the production of Japanese sake. The Harima Fudoki, Japan’s oldest surviving regional chronicle, records that sake was brewed at Niwata Shrine, marking Shiso City as one of the country’s key sake-brewing regions. The Yamazaki district is home to a historic sake brewery street, where two breweries continue to operate today, offering visitors the chance to explore the tradition of sake brewing through tours and tastings.

One long-established brewery, founded in 1768, also features a dining venue that focuses on fermented foods, providing an integrated experience of local cuisine, culture, and sake. For those seeking a deeper understanding of fermentation culture, Shiso City’s brewery tours offer an authentic look at the process behind one of Japan’s most revered beverages.

Shiso City’s Sustainable Tourism Model: A Perfect Blend of Nature and Tradition

Shiso City has developed a range of tourist itineraries designed to offer a deep and meaningful connection to the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Model itineraries incorporate activities such as forest therapy, walks along the picturesque gorges, heritage forest railway rides, and Japanese sake tasting tours. These experiences are flexible, offering options for day trips as well as overnight stays for those who wish to immerse themselves in the city’s unique blend of nature and culture.

As Shiso City celebrates the 20th anniversary of its municipal establishment in 2025, it continues to strengthen its outreach efforts, positioning itself as a sustainable tourism destination. Shiso City offers an alternative to mass tourism, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the region’s landscapes and traditions in a quiet, meaningful way. The city’s commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage ensures that these resources are available for future generations.

Shiso City: A Destination for the Mind, Body, and Soul

Shiso City in Hyogo Prefecture provides a sustainable travel experience which allows visitors to discover its natural beauty, historical sites and cultural heritage. The city provides visitors with three activities which will fulfil their physical needs and spiritual requirements through its forest therapy sessions, heritage railway, and traditional sake and fermented food offerings. Shiso City presents an exceptional combination of forest areas and deep cultural heritage and sustainable development practices, which provide an authentic Japanese regional experience for environmentally aware travellers.