Kounotori Express Train

The Kounotori Express Train offers the fastest and most direct rail link between Osaka and northern Hyogo Prefecture. Named after the kounotori (Oriental White Stork), the train connects Shin-Osaka with Fukuchiyama in Kyoto Prefecture. It continues through the rural Tamba region to Toyooka and Kinosaki Onsen. With comfortable seating and large windows, it is the main access route for travelers heading to Hyogo’s northern coast.

Highlights along the Kounotori Express Train

Photo by: PIXTA/ のりえもん

The Kounotori Express departs from Shin-Osaka and Osaka Station before passing through Amagasaki and heading into the countryside of Tamba-Sasayama. The urban skyline quickly gives way to rice fields as the train continues north toward Kinosaki Onsen. The route offers a gentle shift from city travel to mountain scenery, making the Kounotori an easy and relaxing way to reach northern Hyogo Prefecture. Key destinations on the Kounotori Express Train include: 

Kinosaki Onsen

Photo by: iStock/ YUSHENG HSU

Kinosaki Onsen is one of Japan’s most atmospheric hot spring towns, known for its seven tattoo-friendly public baths and traditional inns. In addition to the baths, the Kinosaki Ropeway offers views over the Maruyama River and the Sea of Japan, with Onsenji Temple located at the midpoint of the climb. Winter brings seasonal specialties like Matsuba crab, while Tajima beef and onsen manju are year-round favorites.

Toyooka

Photo by: iStock/ Takatoshi

Toyooka is a castle town famous for its local crafts and access to northern Hyogo’s coast and mountains. The Hyogo Park of the Oriental White Stork is a conservation center in town that is dedicated to restoring the native stork that once disappeared from the area. The town is a hub for bag manufacturing, with the Toyooka Kaban brand, workshops and boutique stores lining the compact streets. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, stroll through quiet shopping areas, or use Toyooka as a base for exploring beaches in summer and ski fields in winter.

Tamba-Sasayama

Photo by: iStock/ Seiichi Tanaka

Tamba-Sasayama is a rural region known for its farming traditions and historic castle-town atmosphere. The area is famous for Tamba black soybeans, chestnuts and Tamba beef. Visitors can wander the streets around Sasayama Castle, explore old samurai quarters or join the town’s famous Autumn harvest events.

Fukuchiyama

Photo by: iStock/ MasaoTaira

Fukuchiyama sits just across the Hyogo–Kyoto border and serves as a convenient stop on certain Kounotori services. Its highlight is Fukuchiyama Castle, rebuilt on a hilltop with sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains. The Fukuchiyama Railway Museum showcases steam engines and the history of regional trains. At the same time, Sandanike Park offers spacious grounds, a children’s science museum and family-friendly attractions.