Ashiya Park stretches from National Route 43 along the left bank of the Ashiya River to near its mouth. About 420 black pine trees grow in the park; they have been there for more than 150 years.
Green Spaces and Nature Throughout the Year
Nakanonoike Green Space was established for observing nature. The grounds offer opportunities to encounter aquatic plants and animals, as well as a diverse range of wildlife, including birds and insects. In northern Ashiya, where the Rokko Mountains rise, you can experience nature in different seasons and go hiking. Nature observation and seasonal hikes offer distinct ways to spend time outdoors.
Hiking Trails with Different Destinations
One hiking route starts either at Hankyu Ashiyagawa Station or at the Takaza Waterfall Trailhead. It passes over the summit of Shiroyama and offers viewpoints looking east and west. Another route starts at the Takaza Waterfall Trailhead and passes through Ashiya Rock Garden, Fuki-iwa, Ame-ga-toge and Tsuchihiwari Pass before reaching the summit of Jatanikita-yama, Ashiya’s highest mountain. The Takaza Waterfall Trailhead is the common starting point for both routes; Hankyu Ashiyagawa Station is an alternative for the Shiroyama route. This gives you more flexibility in where to start the Shiroyama route, while the other route starts only at the waterfall trailhead.
The first route offers viewpoints looking east and west; the second leads to the city’s highest mountain. Ashiya Rock Garden is considered the birthplace of rock climbing and is used by hikers and rock climbers. Trail conditions can change. Check the latest information before setting out, including for any possible temporary closures.
Archaeology, Literature and Local History
The Egenoyama Ruins are the remains of a hilltop settlement discovered in 1954. They extend across the mountain and include the floor plans of pit dwellings, a place of worship and hearths. At the Tanizaki Jun’ichiro Memorial Museum in Ashiya, manuscripts, letters, books and everyday items illustrate the life and work of Tanizaki Jun’ichiro. A hilltop settlement is a settlement in an elevated location; in the case of the Egenoyama Ruins, the term refers to their location on the mountain. The archaeological classification therefore encompasses both the geographical setting and the traces of buildings and rituals.
The Ashiya City Museum of Art and History combines an art department and a history department and opened in 1991. It presents exhibitions, collects and preserves materials related to art and history, and offers research, lectures and study events. The two museums focus on different aspects of culture: the Tanizaki museum explores an author’s life and work, while the city museum brings together art and history through exhibitions and events.
Discover more destinations: Akashi, Toyooka, Akō, Aioi, Ono, Minami-Awaji, Yabu, Sumoto
For the regional travel overview: Hyōgo Prefecture.
