・Directions to MONZEN

Get off at JR / Sanyo Himeji Station and walk about 10 minutes.

On March 1, 2026, the tourist information center “MONZEN” opened in front of Himeji Station. Its prime location—just a one-minute walk from the station—makes it a convenient spot to stop by on your way to Himeji Castle.

・A hub for tourism in Hyogo and Himeji

“MONZEN” features four main areas: “Travel Concierge,” “Gallery,” “Store,” and “Food Stand.” It serves as a “regional showcase” where visitors can discover the diverse charms of Hyogo Prefecture, including Himeji, through experiences that let you “touch, feel, and connect.”

The biggest highlight is the resident “Travel Concierge,” who not only provides tourist information but also offers luggage storage, unique experience programs not found in guidebooks, and suggested itineraries. Acting as a travel planner—and sometimes as a guide who shares the appeal of items sold in the adjacent “Store” and the stories behind the producers—they provide thoughtful assistance.

In particular, the ability to store large luggage that won’t fit in a locker is a must-see feature for tourists. It’s also a reliable resource when you want to venture out to the suburbs from Himeji Station with a light load.

■ Luggage Storage Service

*Prices and benefits are subject to change depending on the season, so please check the official website for the latest information. Click here for the official website >>

・A Food stand featuring soups and drinks

At the “Food Stand” on the first floor, soups and drinks made with local ingredients are ready to serve. Some of the items sold in the adjacent “Store” are also used and served here, so you can purchase your favorites right on the spot—a real highlight.

There are about eight two-person tables. The custom-made chairs, crafted by “TENON”—a workshop nestled in the mountains of Sayo Town—feature seats upholstered in natural-colored leather from “Sanyo Leather,” a Himeji-based leather manufacturer with over 100 years of history.The floor is adorned with tiles from “Koyo Seigawa,” Himeji’s sole producer of smoked roof tiles, and the ceiling features intricate craftsmanship reminiscent of the decorative latticework at Shosha-zan Enkyo-ji Temple—evidence of the local spirit woven throughout the space.

All items are available for both dine-in and takeout. We recommend popping in while waiting for a bus or train and enjoying your meal wherever you like.

The soup lineup features three varieties: “Awaji Island Onion Potage,” “Japanese-Style Dashi Soup with Ginger-Scented Root Vegetables,” and “Minestrone with Plenty of Vegetables and Soybeans” (780 yen each). All are made with local ingredients and finished with a base of salted rice malt (koji) and dashi, resulting in a gentle, wholesome flavor.

『Japanese-Style Root Vegetable Soup with Ginger (Drink Set)』1,300 yen

The “Japanese-Style Root Vegetable Soup with a Hint of Ginger” features a deep, rich flavor where the umami of root vegetables and dried shiitake mushrooms melds with a Japanese-style dashi broth made from chicken and kelp. The aroma of ginger adds another layer, further enhancing the distinct flavors of each ingredient.

Made with glutinous barley from Fukusaki Town, this soup is filling, and the textures of the shiitake mushrooms and root vegetables add a delightful touch. The refined flavor soothes the body and warms the soul.

Several toppings are available to change up the flavor. In particular, adding “Yui Shichimi” releases the subtle aroma of aosa seaweed and chili peppers, providing a pleasant accent.

The drink menu—an essential companion for travel and sightseeing—features about 15 varieties, including both hot and iced options. In addition to classic coffee, you’ll find items like “Senrei-cha Sencha” from Kamikawa Town (600 yen) and “MOTO Grape Juice (Muscat Berry A)” from Kamigori Town (800 yen). Starting with “Hatoya” craft beer, the alcohol menu is set to expand in the future.

『Mori Fruit Farm’s 100% Awaji Satsuma Mandarin Juice』750 yen

One drink you simply must try is “Mori Orchard’s 100% Awaji Satsuma Mandarin Juice.” This is a pure juice made entirely from Satsuma mandarins grown at “Mori Orchard,” which cultivates the original variety of daidai (bitter orange) discovered on Awaji Island 300 years ago. The flavor—with a rich sweetness followed by a pleasant tartness—has a nostalgic quality and makes for a refreshing, invigorating drink.

If you’re captivated by this flavor, you can expand your enjoyment by purchasing bottles at the “Store” or participating in a harvest experience tour where you can meet the producers.

・A selection of Hyogo’s finest

Don’t miss the “Store,” featuring a selection of premium items handpicked by buyers who traveled to Hyogo to discover them! From everyday food and household goods to traditional crafts you rarely encounter, the store offers a lineup of approximately 100 items from about 30 businesses.

■Himeji Leather

Himeji is famous for “Himeji Leather.” This store carries products from “TAANNERR,” produced by “Sanyo Leather.” The appeal lies in the supple texture, beautiful colors, and exquisite craftsmanship that can only be achieved by skilled artisans. The collection focuses on simple items like pen cases and wallets, making them perfect for gifts.

Additionally, for those who have made advance reservations, “MONZEN” will be accepting custom orders for “TAANNERR” products right in the store. If you’re interested, be sure to check it out! Click here for details >>

■ Senrei-cha

“Senrei-cha” is not only available to enjoy at the “Food Stand,” but the tea leaves are also sold at the “Store.” These tea leaves are a rare, historic variety that has been cultivated in Kamikawa Town for about 300 years. They are grown using “natural cultivation” methods that rely on the power of nature, without the use of pesticides or fertilizers. Take your time to savor its gentle sweetness, mellow mouthfeel, and rich aroma that slowly unfolds.

■Sake Cups

We also carry guinomi (sake cups) from “NAKAGO,” a tinware craftsman based in Kato City—a region renowned for its cultivation of the sake rice variety “Yamada Nishiki.” Born in a land long known as a center of sake production, these cups enhance the appeal of Japanese sake. They offer the soft mouthfeel unique to tin and a smooth texture that fits comfortably in your hand.

With features designed to enhance your stay—such as the second-floor gallery, which hosts occasional events, and the benches outside the shop—there’s plenty to enjoy. Why not stop by “MONZEN,” a place you’ll want to visit whether you’re just starting your journey or taking a stroll through town, and experience the charm of Hyogo?

■Information