Welcome to Ako, enjoy the treasures of the Seto Inland Sea!
Ako City is located in the southwestern part of Hyogo Prefecture bordering Okayama. It is a picturesque town from which you can admire the beauty of the archipelago of the Seto Inland Sea National Park and an expansive and inviting coastline.
Explore the districts of Ako with their unique features and histories. The Kariya district contains many historical sites related to the legendary tale of the 47 Ronin. In the Misaki district, the source of the Ako hot springs gushes from the depths of the earth, while the Sakoshi district retains the appeal of a historical area that prospered from the shipping industry.
Ako City brings together the rejuvenating power of nature with a rich historical atmosphere. Located between Osaka and Hiroshima, Ako is close to Himeji Castle a World Heritage Site, making it an ideal stopover for travelers.
The story of the 47 Ronin, about a group of samurai who plot and carry out revenge on behalf of their late lord, is a legendary tale of loyalty. It is based on an event that occurred 300 years ago during the Edo Period. The story of the 47 Ronin has become internationally famous as a depiction of samurai loyalty and bravery and has been retold in countless novels, plays, television dramas, and movies, including 2013’s “47 Ronin” starring Keanu Reeves.
Many of the popular historic sites related to the 47 Ronin are preserved in Ako City, including Ako Castle Ruins, Oishi Shrine, and Kagakuji Temple. Why not take a tour of the historical streets that retain the feel of the an old castle town, the same streets once traveled by the 47 Ronin?
Sakoshi, a historic port town surrounded by the natural beauty of the sea
Sakoshi is a port town that prospered from the Edo period due to the shipping industry. Its preserved townscape retains the feel of its heyday during the Edo times, full of historical intrigue, including the legend of Hata Kawakatsu, an important figure of Japanese folklore from the 6th century.
Age-old sake breweries stand shoulder-to-shoulder with modern cafes along the “Daido”, the main street running through the center of the city, attracting visitors and locals alike.
Just offshore, the island of Ikushima, a national natural monument topped with an unspoiled forest, seems to float on the calm bay of the Seto Inland Sea.
Sakoshi (Sakoshi-ura) has been recognized as an important Port of Call and Shipowner’s Village by the Japanese Heritage Agency for its role in Japanese history.
Ako Hot Springs
Ako Hot Springs
Ako Hot Springs
Ako Hot Springs
Ako Hot Springs
Ako Hot Springs
Relax in a hot spring with a spectacular view of the ocean
Ako Onsen (hot springs) is located on a hillside facing the sea, about a 10-minute drive east of the city center. It has been nicknamed the “reviving hot spring” because of its excellent quality of spring water. The silky feeling saline spring water has a heat-retaining effect which is said to be effective for curing various ailments such as neuralgia, muscle pain, and joint pain.
From your view soaking in the hot springs, the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea appear to stretch out endlessly. It is also a perfect spot to behold the beautiful sunset as you rejuvenate your body in the healing waters.
Many accommodations line the streets of the hot springs resort area where guests are treated to mouth-watering dishes made with fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea and the incredible hospitality you receive will set your mind at ease.
From the hot springs, the terrain slopes gently down toward the sea with a view reminiscent of Naples in the Mediterranean. The slope is lined with stores and cafes which, along with the hot springs, create a popular tourist spot.
Ako City’s Gourmet Salt: A Rich History of Salt Manufacturing
Historically, much of Ako’s industry is related to salt, a history now recognized as a Japanese heritage. Based on this saltmaking heritage, Ako City still uses locally produced salt in many of its dishes today.
The various styles of shio ramen made with Ako salt differ between restaurants, including the broth used as the base. When fresh sea bream is cooked for celebrations, it is coated in salt and steamed to make it tender and juicy.
The sweets made using Ako salt are also delicious. The elegant, sweet manju has a sweet and salty flavor and is served at tea ceremonies. Locally handmade ice cream and gelato come with a cool and refreshing salty flavor. Salt cookies, salt roll cakes, and salt pudding are also recommended as souvenirs, with their exquisite balance of sweet and salty flavors.
Ako City has many places that are ideal for having fun while taking measures against coronavirus infection. In public facilities such as restaurants, stores, lodging facilities, and tourist spots, wearing a mask and hand sanitizer are recommended. In some places, a non-contact thermometer may be used to take your body temperature before allowing you to enter.
Access to Ako City
Ako City is located between Osaka and Hiroshima. It is about a two-hour train ride from Osaka, or about 30 minutes by train from Himeji, famous for Himeji Castle, a World Heritage Site. On your visit to Japan, consider a stop in Ako City with its rich history and breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.
