Wakayama: Japan's Spiritual Heartland
From the Kumano Sanzan route to the mountain temples of Koyasan
From the Kumano Sanzan route to the
the mountain temples of Koyasan

Ako City's Salt - - Banshu Ako, pioneer region of the fine salt in Japan Ako City's Salt - Banshu Ako, pioneer region of the fine salt in Japan

Shake it up in Ako City, Hyogo, and discover Japan's salt-producing region; let's go on a culinary journey using the finest Ako salt.

AboutAko City

Slip back in time to feudal Japan by visiting Ako. This city boasts the best salt in Japan and is home to the tale of the 47 ronin. But Ako is more the salt and vengeance; discover ancient ruins in the north, explore the once-prosperous central castle town, and dine on succulent fish from the port.

Once you make your way to Ako and experience its easy paced lifestyle, you'll come to understand why it's becoming a must-see for visitors craving a hands-on trip to authentic Japan.

Ako in pictures
A Seaside Retreat
シーサイド

A Seaside Retreat

Nestling on the peaceful shores of the Seto Inland Sea, Ako is a small city with a rich history, rising to prominence from the 17th century as one of the country’s prime salt-producing areas.

Farm to table
ファームトゥテーブル

From Farm to Table

One of the highlights of any visit to Ako is sampling the abundance of fresh, locally grown produce and excellent seafood which the city is famous for. The mild climate and fertile soil create a wonderful selection of fruits and vegetables, and the shallow waters of the Seto Inland Sea are known for their oysters and other excellent seafood.

Cityscape & History
都市の景観と歴史

Cityscape & History

Located in the far southwest corner of Hyogo Prefecture, Ako is a small city nestled on the shores of the Seto Inland Sea. It rose to prominence during the Edo period (1603–1867) as one of the country’s prime salt-producing areas, especially after the development of new techniques led to increased productivity and efficiency.

Sel de la vie
セルドゥラヴィ

Sel de la vie

The French proverb ‘sel de la vie’ (literally meaning ‘the salt of life’) perfectly sums up the essence of Ako, a famous salt-producing city in western Hyogo Prefecture, nestling on the shores of the Seto Inland Sea.

Access to Ako City

Are you ready for your Ako adventure? Find out how to get to Ako City, in Hyogo prefecture, from other parts of Japan.

From Himeji (Hyogo)

  • Car: Approx 45min
  • Railway: Approx 30min

From Hiroshima

  • Car: Approx 2hr 40min
  • Railway: Approx 2hr

From Osaka

  • Car: Approx 1hr 40min
  • Railway: Approx 2hrs

From Tokyo

  • Car: Approx 8hrs
  • Railway: Approx 3hr 45min
Map of Japan

Learn more about Ako

An excursion to Ako is an experience unlike any other. Find out what makes this small city such a wondrous place to visit.

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Map of Japan