Source: Commons.Wikimedia
Located in Hyogo Prefecture of Japan, Takarazuka is renowned for its Takarazuka Revue, which is a female-only musical theater group. Muko River coursing through the center of downtown and the encompassing natural beauty of the lush green hills, Takarazuka offers a number of nature’s retreat to the tourists. Being famous worldwide for all-female dance revue, Takarazuka is likewise popular for its cultivation center and its creative strategies, furthermore for the acclaimed manga artist “Tezuka Osamu” who is called as the father of anime. It is additionally known for its hot springs which draw in travelers from all around the Japan. The following are some best things to do in Takarazuka.
1. Watch the Performance of Famous Takarazuka Revue
The Takarazuka Revue highlights only the female performers, which is opposite to conventional Kabuki, which is performed exclusively by men. From the first day of it start in 1914, the Takarazuka Revue Company has arranged musical spectacles to the utter joy of its endless and committed fans. The group is divided into 5 different groups namely Snow, Flower, Star, Moon, and Cosmos.The most celebrated on-screen characters are the ladies who assume male parts, and it is for them that the theater is so famous. It is world renowned and a must visit place in Takarazuka.
Information
- Name: Takarazuka Grand Theater
- Address: 1-1-57 Sakaemachi, Takarazuka
- Access: 10 Mintues walk from Takarazuka Station
- Book Ticket: https://kageki.hankyu.co.jp/english/ticket/index.html
- Phone : 0570-00-5100
- Timings: 10:00～17:00
- Closed: Wednesday
2. Visit the Famous Kiyoshi-kojin Seichoji Temple
Source: Hyougushi
Kiyoshi-kojin Seicho-ji Shrine is the most famous shrine here which was built by Lord Uda’s in the ninth century with the end goal of petitioning God for peace. Also known by the name of Kojinsan, this shrine is devoted to the divine force of the hearth and the lord of flame. Due to which donating fire chopsticks is a custom here. The key structure of the Kiyoshi-kojin Seichoji Temple is a Seated Buddha that is assigned as a Cultural Asset of the country.
Information
- Name: Kiyoshi-kojin Seichoji Temple
- Address: 1 Kiyoshi Maitani, Takarazuka
- Access: 15 Mintes Walk from Hankyu Kiyoshi-kojin Station
3. Attend Takarazuka Gala Fireworks Festival
Source: Hideyuki KAMON
Many firecracker shows are held each year all over Japan, principally amid the late spring occasions in July and August, which draws a huge number of spectators. One of the oldest and most famous firecrackers celebrations in Japan, the Takarazuka Gala Fireworks Festival is a yearly highlight of the city’s festivals. The staggering firecrackers show happens at the Mukogawa River near Kanko Dam. Enjoying firecrackers in summer with local individuals wearing yukata will turn into an extraordinary memory in your life.
4. Hike Old Abandoned Railway
Source: commons.wikimedia.org
If you are a nature lover and loves adventure then head to Old Abandoned railway track. The hike is around 6 kilometers in length and takes around 2 hours. Along the way, you will run over with cherry blooms, spectacular river scenes, red and yellow leaves in Autumn and more. Ensure you bring good pair trekking shoes and a torch light. You can’t stroll through the passages without an electric lamp. You will need to stroll through 6 old train burrows and that is the thing that makes this climb so interesting.There are additionally decent places beside the waterway for the picnic.
5. Visit The Museum of Anime
Source: Hideyuki KAMON
For all anime lovers, this museum is a must-visit destination in Japan. This historical center highlights the works of the well-known manga artist, Tezuka Osamu, who is also known as the Father of Anime. Some of his famous works are the Kimba the White Lion and Astro Boy. The gallery highlights about his works, fine art, screenings and about the personal life of the artist. His adoration for nature and his confidence in the holiness of life can be specifically associated with the years he spent growing up in Takarazuka .
Information
- Name: Tezuka Osamu Manga Museum
- Address: 7-65, Mukogawa-cho, Takarazuka
- Access: 10 Minute Walk from JR Takarazuka Station
- Price: 500 Yen
- Closed: Wednesday
- Timings: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m
6. Unwind and Relax at Hot Spring
Bathing in hot spring is an unwinding experience. The warm water used in the hot spring is from Takarazuka Hot Spring which is about 700-year-old. Since the Kamakura Period, Takarazuka Spa is prevalent in this region. The spa is located in downtown Takarazuka . Situated on the banks of the Muko River, it is additionally feasible for guests to see the encompassing mountains. Guests can likewise go for Takedao Spa which is in existence since the Edo period. Encompassed by lush green mountains and covered up inside a valley, Takedao gives a relaxing and peaceful experience.
Information
- Name: Takarazuka Hot Spring
- Address: Yumoto-cho, Takarazuka
- Access: 5 Minute Wakl from JR Takarazuka Station
7. Cherry Blossom at Sakura no Sono
Source: Hideyuki KAMON
It is home to the beautiful mountain cherry trees which was an experimental forest began by Professor Shintaro Sasabe who dedicated his life to the conservation of these trees that go back to the historic time of Japan. Sakura no Sono was opened to public as a nature park in April 1999. During the summer season of cherry bloom, this place seems to be of another world. A must visit place for cherry blossom lovers.
Information
- Name: Sakura no Sono
- Address: Nagaoyama Kirihata,Takarazuka
- Access: 10 Minutes Walk from JR Takedao Station
8. Enjoy Horse Racing at JRA Hanshin Race Course
Source: Ogiyoshisan
One of the most famous race course in Japan, JRA Hanshin Race Course is known for the Cherry Blossom Cup which is held in April denote the opening of the season and is a major attraction for horse race lovers. In the month of June, the Takarazuka Kinen race which is the grand Prix horse race is held here which attracts a number of visitors from nearby regions. A great place for family, this place additionally incorporates a recreation center for youngsters to play in, and also a zone to experience horseback riding.
Information
- Name: JRA Hanshin Race Course
- Address: 1-1 Komano-cho,Takarazuka
- Access: 5 Mintue Walk from Hankyu Nigawa Station
9. Hike Mount Nakayama
Source: osakaosaka
It is the highest peak in the mountain range of Nakayama is located on the western side of Takarazuka in Hyogo Prefecture.The trek to the mountain starts at the Nakayama Temple. The mountain raises to the height of about 478 meters only , however this mountain is exceptionally well known for hikers from close-by areas. From the top of the peak, you can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding areas. This mountain additionally has great connectivity with the railroad stations.
10. Stroll Along the Hana no Michi
Source: 663highland
It is wonderful hoisted promenade that runs along the famous Takarazuka Grand Theater for about 300 meters. Have a stroll along the Hana no Michi road when it’s the season for cherry blooms. The whole road is lined on both sides with cherry bloom trees and the low hanging branches wrap guests in a delicate blind of pink along the complete 100m walk.
Takarazuka is a must visit place for anime lovers where you will discover the art , work, and philosophies of the father of Anime, Tezuka Osamu. A performance at Takarazuka Revue is also a must-visit destination for every tourist visiting Takarazuka.
Have a good trip and travel!
