Discover your perfect stay in Hyogo Prefecture.
Discover the most iconic attractions in Hyogo Prefecture
Find the perfect place to stay in Hyogo Prefecture





Discover curated hotel collections in Hyogo Prefecture












































































Aioi City in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, is a coastal gem renowned for its pearl cultivation heritage and Seto Inland Sea vistas. As the birthplace of Japan's pearl industry, it offers unique maritime culture blended with modern port facilities. The city's tranquil fishing villages and pearl workshops provide an authentic alternative to urban tourism.
Key features include:
Top attraction is the Aioi Pearl Museum showcasing century-old cultivation techniques. Wakamiya Fishing Port's morning market reveals local lifestyle, while summer boat tours explore surrounding islands. Don't miss sunset at Aioi Bay Bridge - considered Hyogo's finest - or panoramic views from Harimanada Park. Culture enthusiasts should visit 400-year-old Aioi Hachiman Shrine.
Must-try includes seafood rice bowls featuring daily catches like octopus and sea bream. Izakayas near Wakamiya serve traditional "tai meshi" (sea bream rice), while winter brings oyster hot pots. Unique snacks include pearl oyster dim sum and "Aioi yokan" (seaweed jelly).
City buses cover major attractions (3 main routes), with 1-day passes (¥800 recommended). Sightseeing loop buses depart every 30min from Aioi Station. Taxis charge ¥650 initial fare. Ferries to islands depart from Aioi Port (schedule varies). Note some fishing village roads are narrow for drivers.
Best visiting periods: May-Jun (pearl harvest) & Sep-Nov (oyster season) with mild weather. July-Aug offers water activities despite heat. Dec-Feb has unique fishing port atmosphere but limited services.
Language: Basic English understood, multilingual brochures available. Internet: Free WiFi at "Aioi_Free" hotspots. Payment: Cash preferred, cards accepted at major facilities. Emergency: Aioi City Hospital (0791-22-3111). Post: Central Post Office handles international mail (closes 17:00). Power: Standard 100V two-pin outlets. Tourist center at JR Aioi Station provides maps/lockers (09:00-18:00). Some businesses close during festivals - check ahead.